An unmissable event for all the family this October half term

Wondrous wetland creatures will light up the night on a Mystical Marsh Lantern Experience at WWT Slimbridge. Encounter larger-than-life birds, mammals, fungi & luminous bugs. 

As the sun sets, get ready to experience nature in a whole new light.
An enchanted family-friendly experience. This October, escape the ghouls and goblins and experience a wildlife-packed lantern trail that will leave nature fans of all ages spellbound. The Mystical Marsh Lantern Experience is a magical must-do.

Dates and times:
Friday 16th, Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th October 2026
Friday 23rd October - Sunday 1st November 2026 (Half term)
From 5.45pm - 7.30pm, with time slots every 15 minutes
Booked a later time slot? Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere - enjoy themed street food in the Kingfisher Kitchen or craft your own lantern* to light the way along the trail.
Twilight SEND sessions:
Friday 16th, Saturday 17th, Sunday 18th, Friday 23rd and Saturday 24th October at 5.45pm and 6.00pm.
These sessions are specifically designed to be more accessible and comfortable for individuals who may be sensitive to intense sensory experiences.
The key differences in these sessions include:
Twilight Timing - take place before it gets too dark, during twilight, so the lighting is softer and less overwhelming.
The background music played throughout the trail is toned down to a lower volume and the actors involved in the event will adopt a more relaxed approach.

Ready to glow wild?

• Meet our friendly marsh witch who will send you on your mystical adventure.
• Keep your eyes peeled for our swooping kingfisher puppet and our NEW leaping hare, waterlily, water vole and white-tailed eagle lanterns.
• Spot enormous insects glowing in the dark, luminous fungi, mystical mammals and even a giant hovering dragonfly.
• Find our darting bat puppet and the bat professor will help you listen out for these elusive wild creatures with his detector.
• There's even more to enjoy... Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere - treat yourself to street food at the Kingfisher Kitchen (served until 8pm) and create your own lantern* to carry along the trail. Don't forget to pause at the firepit to toast marshmallows* and add a warm, delicious moment to your magical evening.

* Additional charges: Lantern making £3.50 and s'mores kits for marshmallow toasting £3.50

Click here to book your tickets to the Mystical Marsh Lantern Experience

Cost:
Early bird tickets: £12.95 (discount of £2 per ticket available for bookings made before 1 September 2025).
Tickets purchased after 1 September: £14.95
Under 3s: Free
Carer: Free with a paying customer.