Newsroom
Visitors are flocking to what some call Britain’s most festive pub to marvel at its latest seasonal spectacle—a massive 26-foot snowman crafted from 2,500 empty wine bottles.
The Queen Victoria Inn, located in Somerset, England, has been transforming itself into a holiday wonderland for over a decade. This annual tradition not only spreads festive cheer but also raises money for charitable causes.
This year, the pub is adorned with a colossal wreath on its exterior and features a two-story structure illuminated by an impressive array of 55,000 white lights, which stretch over nine miles when fully extended. The centerpiece, a towering snowman, is built on a sturdy steel frame and decorated with empty wine bottles collected locally.
The pub’s owner, Mark Walton, expressed pride in how the displays bring people together. “We’re just a small, out-of-the-way pub, but this really puts us on the map. Visitors come from all over to see it, and their reactions are incredible,” he said.
The lights are switched on daily at 4 p.m. and remain lit until 9 p.m. throughout the holiday season, ending on New Year’s Eve. Despite the extensive setup, Walton ensures that the energy costs remain manageable by using energy-efficient bulbs for all the displays.
Over the years, the pub has spent a significant sum on the decorations, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. The festive displays have raised more than £25,000 (about $31,000) for a local children’s hospice, and this year Walton hopes to collect an additional £5,000.
“It’s a time to remember those who may be facing challenges during the holidays. The hospice provides vital support to families and children, and we’re proud to contribute to their efforts,” Walton said.
In addition to on-site donation boxes, supporters can contribute online through a fundraising page. The pub also hosts annual events like a festive Santa run, adding even more holiday spirit to its charitable mission.
With information from Somerset Live.
