Rainbows for the NHS, Mary Poppins and the natural world are among this year’s new Christmas display themes at Brimsmore Gardens in Yeovil, Castle Gardens in Sherborne and Poundbury Gardens near Dorchester.

Having been in the planning since January and constructed behind closed doors throughout September, these magical Christmas displays are now open to the public seven days a week until Christmas Eve. 

With hundreds of glass baubles, paper decorations and wooden ornaments on show, along with twinkly LED lights, visitors can escape the daily routine to wander through magical autumnal woodland scenes, enjoy a trip on safari and venture under the sea.

Taking people and planet into consideration, the displays have been constructed using repurposed and recycled materials, such as timber, fabric and cardboard.

Many of the decorations have also been sourced from small scale makers and fair-trade businesses, with the hope that they last a lifetime and are passed down through families. 

Covid-safety measures, such as hand sanitising points, one-way systems and more space to allow for social distancing are all still in place at each of the Christmas displays to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.