A SPACE-THEMED light trail will be illuminating Hampton Court Palace this December as part of a tantalising menu of Christmas events at the palace - with the popular ice skating and Christmas Festive Fayre also set to return.

Visitors to the royal site near Bushy Park will be swept up in a "whimsical world of planets and stars" in a new installation inspired by the palace's astronomical clock.

Guests are invited to "lose track of time" in the cosmic trail that will illuminate the palace's historic cobbled courtyards and gardens.

Illuminations, lanterns and projections will be placed around the palace, bringing to life the clock and promising to reveal the meaning behind the strange symbols on this dial.

The evening trail will take in a flickering moonlit ball in the East Front Gardens and transport visitors to another planet in the deepest depths of the Wilderness, once home to King Charles II's formal pleasure garden.

Guests can also indulge in seasonal food and drink, as they experience the palace gardens after-hours - as it's never been seen before.

Find out more about the 'Palace of Stardust' light trail

Other Christmas events making a welcome return to the palace include the Festive Fayre, which runs from 3-5 December in the palace courtyard.

The Fayre promises a selection of stalls with gourmet treats for foodies and unique Christmas gifts for the relatives.

Guests can indulge in delicious street food with warming festive drinks while classic Christmas songs play from the bandstand.

Tickets are now on sale and can be booked here.

Last but definitely not least is the Hampton Court Ice Rink which is back next week!

The open-air skating rink offers scenic views of the palace which is especially atmospheric when lit up in the evening.

Novice and expert skaters alike are invited to experience the thrill of going out onto the ice in the ultimate festive winter activity.

Those who'd rather watch can chill out in the Ice Rink Café and Bar and enjoy a sweet or festive drink.

Pre-booking is essential, however, due to the popularity of the skating.

Learn more HERE