Christmas trail at Belton House says it with willow – Lincoln-based willow artist Alison Walling is creating a series of bespoke installations for the new light trail Christmas at Belton.
Running from November 28 to December 30, visitors can follow a magical mile-long trail within the National Trust Gardens of Belton House, Lincolnshire.
Walling is creating a total of 12 sculptures, based the popular Christmas carol, Twelve Days of Christmas, woven from willow which has been grown locally in Lincolnshire. 
Each piece will be two metres high and tower above visitors as they wander along the after-dark illuminated trail.
Alongside beautiful illuminations will be soundscapes programmed to create a multi-sensory experience for visitors.
“When people ask me which sculpture I have enjoyed making most, I always reply, ‘the next one’ as I get great inspiration from working out how to build new pieces. I also really enjoy making birds, so this commission is perfect!” said Alison.
“I have been inspired by old Christmas card illustrations and willow illuminates so beautifully. It is partly transparent and casts wonderful shadows of intricate patterns, so the lighting will add a very dynamic and creative element to the sculptures,” she added.
Admission: Advanced from: Adult £17.50, Child £12, Family £56, Under 3’s & carers free.
Website: www.christmasatbelton.com
Cared for by the National Trust, Belton House is within the top 100 most visited attractions in the country. Built for Sir John Brownlow in the 1680s, Belton House has all the design features of a classic English country home. It sits in a 1300 acre deer park. The estate also includes a café, indoor play area, gift and second-hand book shops, and Lincolnshire’s largest outdoor adventure playground.
Explore more at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/beltonhouse
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