Written in the Trees

Written in the Trees is a new immersive sculpture trail and storytelling experience coming to The Town Gardens in Swindon this December. It's part of the wider Christmas in South Swindon programme, and it runs over two weekends: Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th, then Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th, from 12:00 to 16:00 each day.

The trail itself is built around the trees in the gardens, with the storytelling exploring their folklore, diversity and culture. Children follow the history and identity of Swindon led by interactive actors, and there are special characters to meet along the way. It was created in collaboration with Swindon Culture Collective, children's author Kate Claxton and Prime Theatre. South Swindon Parish Council called the 2025 event a major success, and they're expanding on it this year with more immersive installations.

There's plenty more to the day than just the trail. At the Bowl, you'll find Mrs Claus' Checklist, a separate performance that costs £2. Walkabout entertainers, including Santa Claus, will be moving through the crowd, and there's a bubble artist, fairground rides, stilt walkers and circus skills to keep things lively. The music comes from a few different sources: the Swindon Hindu Temple, Rhythmix Goa, Swindon Brass and the Wroughton Silver Band.

Admission and parking are free, so you only pay for the bits you want to do. The trail and the rest of the day's entertainment run from 12:00 to 16:00 on the two weekends, Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th and Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th December, at The Town Gardens.