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18 September 2025

Wallace & Gromit in front of Buckingham Palace gates

Longleat has today unveiled new images for its flagship event, The Festival of Light.

This year’s theme is in association with Aardman, as The Festival of Light presents British Icons with Wallace & Gromit and friends.

We're marking less than 100 days until Christmas Day by releasing new images of intricate illuminated lanterns, depicting family favourite characters, Wallace, Gromit, Shaun the Sheep and Feathers McGraw.

The classic characters can be seen with icons of British culture, including the gates of Buckingham Palace, a red telephone box and a scone.

Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said “Preparation for The Festival of Light 2025 is well underway, and it’s been fantastic to see these characters brought to life.

“Seeing these classic Aardman stories woven together with British landmarks, locations and legends has been fascinating, and we can’t wait for guests to enjoy these incredible scenes.”

The 2.5km trail will take guests on a tour around Britain, with stops at Stonehenge, Giants Causeway, Blackpool as well as through the streets of London, under Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland and marvelling at the Welsh Dragon. Not only will Aardman characters be at home in their own worlds, including Mossy Bottom Farm and West Wallaby Street, but they will also make appearances in real life scenes, including helping Morph decide which way is best to serve scones, a great British debate!

Molly Van Den Brink, Senior Attractions & Live Experiences Manager at Aardman said “Working with Longleat to interpret our iconic characters and best loved moments in lantern form for the very first time has been truly inspiring, and we are proud to present this first look at the lanterns. The attention to detail, passion and meticulous craft behind the process really mirrors Aardman’s, and we are excited for our fans to experience this for themselves at the Festival of Light this Christmas!”

Traditional favourites including the Santa Train and singing Christmas Tree will also feature in The Festival of Light which runs on selected dates from 8 November to 11 January 2026.

 

Tickets are on sale now