One of Wiltshire’s best-known attractions is getting ready for a milestone year, with Longleat set to celebrate 60 years since the opening of its Safari Park in 2026.
First welcoming visitors in 1966, Longleat became the world’s first drive-through safari park outside Africa – a bold idea that transformed the way people experienced wildlife in the UK. Six decades on, the anniversary will be marked with events and activities running throughout the year.
Now home to more than 120 species, Longleat continues to place conservation at the centre of its work. Many of the animals cared for at the estate are classed as endangered or critically endangered, and the attraction remains in the same family that has lived at Longleat since the 16th century.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on a unique legacy.
“It was a visionary decision by the 6th Marquess to create a safari park in the Wiltshire countryside, and it’s something generations of families have grown up enjoying,” he said. “From being the only place in Europe where guests can see southern koalas, to hearing the world-famous lions, Longleat continues to create memories people hold on to.
“We now offer three different safari experiences – on foot, by boat and by car – alongside a programme of major events. From spring, guests will be able to explore displays charting key moments from the past 60 years.”
A wide-ranging events programme has been planned for 2026, all included within the standard day ticket. Highlights range from established favourites to brand-new additions, with something planned for every season.
Among the first major events of the year is LEGO® Brick Week, running from 14 to 22 February, where families can take part in creative building sessions during the half-term break. Visitors will be invited to add their own creations to a large-scale Brick Safari, while also learning about nature through hands-on activities linked to Longleat’s Acorn Project.
Mother’s Day will be marked over the weekend of 14 and 15 March, followed by Easter at Longleat from 28 March to 19 April, featuring a family trail designed to spark imagination and storytelling.
The anniversary itself will be celebrated in style with a 60th Anniversary Garden Party on 11 and 12 April, promising a weekend of themed activities and birthday celebrations. May half term then brings another family-focused programme from 23 to 31 May.
Summer highlights include Father’s Day weekend on 20 and 21 June, followed closely by the new Motor Show Weekender on 27 and 28 June. The event will showcase decades of motoring history, from early classics to modern supercars, alongside the backdrop of the Safari Park.
Autumn sees the return of popular favourites, including Icons of the Sky from 11 to 13 September, an aviation event combining hot air balloons and aircraft displays, and The Great British Autumn during October half term.
The year will conclude with The Festival of Light, running from 7 November 2026 to 10 January 2027. The festive programme will include the lantern trail, the Enchanted Christmas Tree Show and the Santa Train, with a new Sensory Day planned for 8 November to offer a calmer experience.
Guests are encouraged to book tickets in advance to save money, with all 2026 events now available to book. Tickets for The Festival of Light can also be secured at 2025 prices until 11 January.
More information can be found at www.longleat.co.uk, with updates shared via Instagram and TikTok @longleatofficial and Facebook @longleat.
