Finding engaging and affordable activities for the school half term can be a real challenge, especially with a family spanning teenagers to toddlers. Recently, I discovered something truly special that delighted my two teenage stepsons and my one-year-old daughter alike – Twycross Zoo’s enchanting new light trail, Lanterns of the Wild.
Located just 30 minutes from Birmingham, Twycross Zoo offers more than just daytime wildlife encounters. After hours, the zoo transforms into a stunning landscape of light. Stretching over a mile, the Lanterns of the Wild trail features over 2,000 illuminated lanterns across ten immersive zones, including North American Wilds, Desert Sands, and Tropical Reef.
The experience begins with a giant globe that showcases the Earth’s continents and its diverse animal inhabitants, immediately setting the tone for a magical journey. One of the highlights is the world’s first-ever Gruffalo lantern experience, complete with all your favorite characters like the Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake, and Gruffalo’s Child. Having enjoyed the Gruffalo Discovery Land during the day, the lantern experience added a whole new layer of wonder.
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As we ventured further, the trail unveiled breathtaking scenes – from North American wildlife alongside a glowing Mount Rushmore to moving penguins inside an illuminated igloo within the Polar Realms. My particular favorite was the Tropical Reef zone, where vibrant fish and sea creatures shimmered in vivid colors. The adventure culminated in the African Savannah parade featuring elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions.
The Lanterns of the Wild trail isn’t just a family walk – it’s an unforgettable evening of wonder and awe. Watching my little one’s eyes light up as she took in the magical lanterns was priceless.
Lanterns of the Wild runs at Twycross Zoo throughout February half term until Sunday, February 22. Tickets start at £19.95 for adults and £13.95 for children when booked for the light trail alone. Alternatively, combine the trail with daytime zoo access for £32 per adult and £26 per child. Note that there is a gap between zoo closing time and the lantern trail’s opening, but some food outlets and the zoo’s soft play area remain open during this period.
Parking charges do apply. For full details and to book tickets, visit the Twycross Zoo website.
Twycross Zoo is located off Burton Road, Atherstone, CV9 3PX.
This visit was gifted for the purpose of review, but all opinions expressed are my own.