Arrival & Tickets
When should I arrive?
The time shown on your ticket is your allocated time to arrive on site. Please arrive as close to this time as possible as arrival times are staggered for your safety.
Do I need to bring a printed ticket?
No, you can just show us the QR code on your phone and we will be able to scan that.
How do we get there?
Please note, other than Blue Badge, there will be no parking available on site, and we will be encouraging the use of public transport, or walking to the event.
Getting here on foot
All ticket holders should enter the park through the main gate on Dean Road, Kilmarnock. Your tickets will be scanned at this point.
Getting here by bus
Dean Castle Country Park is a 15 minute walk from Kilmarnock train station and main bus terminal or a 5 minute walk from the X76 Kilmarnock-Glasgow bus route. Alight on Glasgow Road, Kilmarnock, then follow Dean Road to the Country Park.
Getting here by taxi / drop offs
All taxis should follow the event signage and one-way system in place to our Drop Off Area. Pickups will be from the same location.
Getting here by car
If you are planning to drive, there are surrounding car parks that we encourage you to park in below. Please note, there are limited parking spaces so this is on a first come first serve basis.
St Josephs Campus Grassyards Road
Parking only available on Thursday / Fridays only until 9.30pm – please note the car parks will be locked at 9.45pm. Please note at weekends this car park will be locked at 5pm.
Ayrshire College
Parking is available after 4.30pm each day only.
St Mathews RC Church, Grassyards Rd, Kilmarnock, KA3 7SH
A small donation on arrival to these locations would be gratefully received.
Other Parking
Please do park responsibly and respectfully when visiting Starry Nights. Please take care not to block driveways, or accessways and work with our marshalls and their parking directions. Thank you.
The Experience
Is it hardstanding?
Yes, the entire route is hardstanding and suitable for wheelchair users, buggies and people with mobility issues.
Are there toilets?
Yes, there will be toilets on site – including accessible toilets.
Can we walk the trail again?
Are dogs allowed?
Is alcohol permitted?
No. Please do not bring any alcohol to site as this will be confiscated. There will be opportunity to purchase alcohol including mulled wine at our food and drink vendors once you are in!
Can we take pictures?
Of course! We just ask that you don’t block the trail. Be sure to use the hashtag #DeanChristmasWonderland when sharing online.
What is the photography and videography policy?
When you enter Christmas Wonderland, you enter into a festive world and one where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. Our terms and conditions state that by entering into the grounds, you consent to this. Please click here to read full terms and conditions for further information.
Can I use a drone?
No, drones are not permitted on site.
What should I bring and wear?
Dress for the Scottish weather! Sensible winter footwear is recommended, as well as gloves and waterproofs depending on the weather. Please do not bring umbrellas!
Is there somewhere I can leave my belongings?
No, unfortunately there aren’t any facilities to store belongings.
Can I bring an umbrella?
Will I see Santa Claus?
Santa Claus will be at the event every night at Santa’s Grotto. Please ensure you pre-purchase tickets for the Grotto when purchasing your experience tickets. Once you select the tickets you want to buy, click add to basket and Santa’s Grotto experience tickets can be purchased over and above.
Is there any other entertainment?
Cancellation
What happens if the event is cancelled?
In the unlikely event that a date is cancelled due to extreme weather, we would endeavour to transfer your booking to another appropriate date at no extra cost.