REVIEW: The Festival Of Light at Longleat

The Festival Of Light at Longleat Safari Park is a breathtaking and enchanting experience that truly lives up to its reputation as one of the most spectacular light festivals in the world. This year's event exceeded all expectations, creating a magical atmosphere that captivated visitors of all ages.

The festival's main draw is undoubtedly the mesmerising light displays that adorn the large grounds of Longleat. As night falls, the estate is transformed into a kaleidoscope of colours, with intricate and imaginative light installations illuminating the landscape. From larger-than-life animals to mythical creatures and dazzling geometric patterns, each display is a work of art.

It's a multisensory experience as they incorporate music, sound effects, and interactive elements into the displays. The carefully curated soundtrack enhances the magical ambiance, syncing seamlessly with the changing lights and creating a truly immersive experience.

We experienced the three distinct trails - The Garden Trail and Narnia, Animal Trail, The Enchanted Forest and North Pole Trail, at this extraordinary lantern festival you can immerse yourself in the enchantment of 1,500 stunning lanterns that bring to life the pages of the most cherished stories, reimagined in a magical display.

The Animal Trail gave us glimpses of meerkats, porcupines, anteaters, red pandas, Cuban crocodiles, koala bears, pigs, and sloths, as well as butterflies and gorillas. We had the opportunity to stroll through the meerkat enclosure for an up-close view. 

The Enchanted Forest & North Pole Trail presented us with radiant lanterns featuring characters from Cinderella, Rapunzel, Peter Pan, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Wind in the Willows, Winnie the Pooh, Snow White, and the North Pole. As you stroll along this brilliantly illuminated and colourful trail, the narrative of each tale unfolds.

The Festival Of Light also offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From festive food stalls serving delicious treats, with our favourites being the freshly baked hot sugared donuts and the warm waffle with a scoop of cookie dough ice cream, The Enchanted Christmas Tree Show to Santa's Train and their impressive Winter Safari, there is something for everyone. 

We experienced the unmissable Longleat House Light Display and the brand-new Fountain Show on Half Mile Pond. As the afternoons and evenings grow darker, it provides the perfect setting for a dazzling light spectacle at Longleat House, expertly synchronised to festive music. 

The revitalised magic on Half Mile Pond is breathtaking with a 60-meter fountain display, now more magnificent than ever, adorned with a captivating array of dazzling lights.

The Festival Of Light 2023 is a must-see event, the combination of stunning visual displays, immersive experiences, and a festive atmosphere makes it a memorable and enchanting outing for anyone seeking a magical winter adventure.

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