13th November 2025 - 3rd January 2026
Lanterns & Light
Pricing from £12.00
The must-see light experience - the zoo is transformed with magical light and enchanting sound
LocationChester Zoo
Typical Visit Time2-3 Hours
Suitable ForAll Ages & All Group Sizes
Typical Visit Time2-3 Hours
LocationChester Zoo
Suitable ForAll Ages & All Group Sizes
What to Expect...
This winter, Chester Zoo will transform after dark into a glowing winter wonderland of light, colour, and sound.
So much more than just a Christmas light trail, Lanterns & Light is an outdoor light experience that will amaze and delight you at every turn.
Interact with playful puppets, drift through the Ribbon Tunnel, gaze at kaleidoscope stars, and explore the Laser Garden - plus, discover new installations for 2025, including Airquarium, Bubble Walk, and Submergence.
Enjoy seasonal street food, warming drinks and make magical Christmas memories with loved ones.
Set in the heart of Cheshire, and just a short journey from Liverpool, Manchester and North Wales, it’s one of the region’s most spectacular festive events.
Whether it’s a first visit or a cherished tradition, there’s always something new to discover on this glow trail experience.
And every visit supports vital conservation, helping nature thrive, here in Chester and worldwide.
Event Highlights
Playful, interactive puppet lanterns
As you step into the magical world of light at the zoo this Winter, you'll also encounter playful interactive puppet lanterns along your way. Inspired by the animals we care for, the puppet lanterns are not only beautiful and a highlight of the experience, but are also a reminder that, as a conservation charity, every visit helps nature thrive, here in Chester and worldwide.
Partnered with Sony Music, enchanting soundscapes turn-up the magic
At every turn, path, and light installation, carefully crafted soundscapes will immerse you in the magic.
Kids can enjoy festive fairground rides
Swings, classic carousels, and hook-a-duck fun - there's lots of activities to add even more fun to your family night!
Book Your Tickets Now
Prices range depending on off-peak to peak time slots. Select your date and then select your time. Know the date you'd like to visit, but not sure what time you want to arrive on that night? Book an 'Anytime ticket' for £40 peak adult, £35 for off-peak adult
Prices range depending on off-peak to peak time slots. Select your date and then select your time. Know the date you'd like to visit, but not sure what time you want to arrive on that night? Book an 'Anytime ticket' for £30 peak child, £25 for off-peak child
Prices range depending on off-peak to peak time slots. Select your date and then select your time.
Under 12 months go free to Lanterns & Light
Opening Times
16.30 - 20.00
Location Details
Full Address:
Chester Zoo, Upton by Chester Chester, CH2 1LH
Get DirectionsBy Train
Chester Zoo is a couple of miles from Chester Station and Bache Station.
By Bus
You can take the Stagecoach 1 & X1 Service from Chester to Liverpool, as well as the PR3 and 5 buses, which run seven days a week.
By Car
Chester Zoo is not far from the M56 or Chester city centre. Follow the motorway signs to Chester, then follow the brown tourist zoo signs.
Once on the A41, stay on that road until you reach a roundabout with signs for Chester Zoo. Don’t turn down Flag Lane North; it’s a dead end.
