There’s a host of exciting brand new features, events and exhibitions set to open at Longleat this year.
Alongside the hugely popular Safari Park, rides and attractions, the Wiltshire estate is unveiling three brand new experiences celebrating the great outdoors and the natural world.
From art installations inspired by Longleat’s rich heritage and beautiful gardens and parkland, to giant recreations of the estate’s extraordinary native nocturnal wildlife, visitors will have the chance to enjoy a different side of the UK’s most popular safari park.
Plus there’s classic movies, the welcome return of both the hot air balloon Drive-in Night Glow and the festive Land of Light illuminations.
Tales of the Garden (28th May – 12th September)
Nine specially-commissioned art installations capturing the story of Longleat dotted throughout its historic formal gardens.
Using a variety of materials and crafting methods, and designed and curated by UK-based artists, they will bring some of Longleat’s favourite stories to life in a unique way.
The artworks include children playing around a fountain in the centre of the Love Maze, a tribute to the Estate’s generations of gardeners, peacocks strutting through the Secret Garden and a pair of horses in the historic Stable Yard.
Other artworks tell the story of the oak tree reputed to have been planted by King George III as well as some of the exotic animals that roamed the Park – including kangaroos from the 18th century – alongside a tribute to the Thynne family’s favourite household pets.
Under the Moon (19th June – 12th September)
Discover Longleat’s incredible nocturnal wildlife in the shape of over-sized straw sculptures; from the beloved badger to the fantastic fox, from enigmatic owls to marvellous moles.
As well as the new outdoor attractions, Longleat’s Longhouse will be playing host to Museum of the Moon.
An astounding astronomical work of art by UK artist, Luke Jerram, featuring a six-metre suspended replica of the lunar landscape. It has been created using detailed NASA imagery to map its undulating surface with complete accuracy.
Alongside the levitating lunar artwork, there will be a fascinating display of flora and fauna which feature illuminating adaptations like bioluminescence and the ability to glow under UV light such as moon jellyfish and emperor scorpions.
Drive-in Night Glow (10th – 12th September)*
Longleat’s popular drive-in night glow event returns with up to 38 hot air balloons lit up against the stunning backdrop of its Elizabethan stately home.
Balloons in a series of unusual shapes and sizes including a koala, panther, lion, wolf, and guinea pig will light their burners as part of a dramatic musical showcase, which visitors can enjoy from their own vehicles.
This is a separately ticketed event that has already sold out.
The Luna Cinema at Longleat (23rd – 26th September)*
Brought to Longleat by The Luna Cinema, visitors can enjoy classic movies including Star Wars, Dirty Dancing, The Greatest Showman and, of course, The Lion King on the big screen under the stars in a beautiful lake-side setting on the Longleat Estate.
With historic Longleat House in the background this will be an unforgettable big-screen experience. There’ll be great food and The Luna Bar, serving a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as well as hot and soft drinks.
Land of Light – (5th November – 8th January 2022)
Specially created for Longleat, Land of Light features thousands of spectacular light sources, illuminating seven themed areas across the Wiltshire estate.
The event’s mix of technology, art and interactive installations provides a stunning and unique alternative to the much-loved winter lantern spectacular; the Festival of Light.
See sensational projections light up Longleat House, magical water features and animated light displays across the ornate grounds and gardens, Half Mile Lake and The Longhouse.
All visitors will need to pre-book online prior to arrival. Places will be available on a first come, first-served basis.
Lionel Richie Live at Longleat (15th June, 2022)*
Grammy award-winning singing legend Lionel Richie will be performing a spectacular open-air concert in the grounds of Longleat as part of a brand new concert series staged by Senbla.
Lionel Richie is the first artist announced as part of Live at Longleat and the show will form part of his 2022 UK tour.
Longleat has a rich history of hosting live music events, from the 60s advent of pop with the likes of Billy J Kramer and The Rolling Stones who performed to 16,000 people, through to more modern times with Elton John performing in 2016.
