The Festival of Light promises to be even more extraordinary than ever, as you’re invited to step into The Wondrous Worlds of Roald Dahl as the lantern festival returns

This winter, The Festival of Light at Longleat will bring Roald Dahl’s much-loved stories to life.

Launching on November 5th and running throughout the festive holidays until January 8th. The Wondrous Worlds of Roald Dahl features a host of the acclaimed author’s most iconic characters. Including The BFG, Willy Wonka, Matilda and Fantastic Mr Fox.

Working in partnership with The Roald Dahl Story Company, Longleat is creating 23 stunning lantern scenes. These will narrate his much-loved stories as part of the Wiltshire attraction’s renowned The Festival of Light.

This year’s fantastical festival is the biggest and most ambitious to date. With over 800 individual lanterns, some more than 15-metres tall. Set against the historic backdrop of Longleat House, formal gardens and ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped parkland.

Visitors can wander through Giant Country, see Sophie in the BFG’s Cave, and accompany them on their visit to Buckingham Palace.

What to expect

Step inside the gates of Willie Wonka’s Chocolate Factory to meet Charlie, Mike TeeVee, Violet, Veruca, Augustus Gloop, and the Oompa Loompas.

Head over to Half Mile Pond to watch James set sail for New York, on the Giant Peach and brave shark-infested seas. Accompany Matilda to Crunchem Hall to meet the fearsome Miss Trunchbull. Finally, join Bruno, as he comes face to face with the wicked Witches.

The illuminated outdoor trail also features key scenes from Esio Trot, The Twits, Fantastic Mr Fox, George’s Marvellous Medicine, The Enormous Crocodile, and The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me.

Other highlights include a three-metre-tall book tunnel, The BFG Flight Tunnel and a giant stack of Roald Dahl’s books in Main Square.

The festive fun continues with Longleat’s famous 15-metre Enchanted Christmas Tree Show and Santa Train – separate booking needed.

Tickets to The Festival of Light include the Winter Safari Drive-Through, Enchanted Christmas Tree Show. On-foot animal attractions including Koala Creek, Jungle Cruise and Family Farmyard, Adventure Castle, Rockin’ Rhino, Jungle Cruise and the Hedge Maze.