19 first-look pictures as Tong Garden Centre is beginning to look a lot like Christmas

It may still be autumn, but one of West Yorkshire’s favourite festive destinations is already bringing December magic to life.

Tong Garden Centre has officially launched its annual Christmas department. Famous across the region for its elaborate seasonal themes, the site is being turned into a winter wonderland filled with glowing displays, towering trees, model railways, and thousands of ornaments.

For Managing Director Mark Farnsworth, preparing for the festive rush is almost a year-round operation.

"We start buying for Christmas in the November before the next Christmas," Mark explains. "Physically on the ground in store, build-up starts at the end of August and takes us about six weeks to get ready. We have to clear all the garden furniture and barbecues away and turn it into the winter wonderland you see today."

And for those who think October is a bit too early to talk tinsel? Mark says customer demand speaks for itself.

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"Everybody always asks if it's too early!" he laughs. "We completely recognise that for some people it is, but as soon as the kids go back to school in September, our phones start ringing with people asking when the displays open and when grotto tickets go on sale. There's a heck of a lot of people who are very ready for it."

The festivities will expand further in the coming weeks. Tong’s Winter Food Market returns on October 28, following a hugely successful debut last year.

Across the group’s other sites - including Tingley - families can look forward to ice rinks, illuminated light trails, grottos, Breakfast with Santa, and a brand-new addition for 2026: 'Santa Paws', where dog owners can bring their four-legged friends for a festive meet-and-greet.

"More than just a shop, it’s an experience," Mark adds. "People come to take pictures, marvel at what the team has created, and soak in that nostalgic start to Christmas."

Here are 19 first-look pictures inside Tong Garden Centre as the magic gets underway