Wild Lights at Bristol Zoo Project
Visitors follow an illuminated outdoor trail along winding pathways and through towering trees brought to life by light and sound displays. The experience features bright spectacles, interactive installations, and festive food and drinks such as black forest hot chocolates, burgers, and sausage rolls. Zoo animals are kept tucked away in bed and off show for their welfare.
What to Expect
Immersive winter light and sound trail through towering trees and pathways.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Bristol Zoological Society
Food & Drink
Festive food and drinks are available to purchase, including black forest hot chocolates, burgers and sausage rolls, with vegetarian and vegan options.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and friends seeking a festive outdoor outing
Vibe
Immersive and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: First entrance slot: 4.30pm. Relaxed sessions: 4.30pm to 6pm. The event finishes 1.5 hours after the end of the last time slot.
- Accessibility: The trail is fully accessible, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to borrow free of charge with advance booking.
- Pets: Only assistance dogs are allowed on site.
Tips & Advice
- Pre-book a timeslot to guarantee entry, as capacity is limited, and arrive no more than 15 minutes before your slot.
- Wear suitable shoes and waterproofs; the outdoor paths can be uneven and muddy, and the event goes ahead in wet weather.
- Book a wheelchair or mobility scooter in advance if needed; mobility scooters require a refundable deposit.
- Choose a relaxed session if a lower guest capacity would suit your visit, and book that session in advance because places are limited.
- Book a separate daytime zoo ticket if you want to see the animals, as they are off show during the lights trail.
Special Events & Promotions
- Bristol Zoological Society members receive a discount on the first three nights only.
- Group booking discounts are available on selected nights, subject to availability.
- Relaxed sessions with fewer guests run on 10 and 17 December.
- Wild Lights is brand new for 2026.
- Children under two enter free; their ticket must be booked in advance.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wild Lights suitable for children and visitors with sensory needs?
It is described as suitable for all ages and guests with sensory needs. Relaxed sessions have fewer visitors, and sound and light are set with the natural site in mind.
Do Wild Lights tickets include a daytime visit to see the animals?
No. The trail and daytime zoo visits are separate experiences; animals are off show during Wild Lights, so seeing them requires a separate day ticket.
What food and drink is available on the trail?
Festive snacks, treats, full meals and warming drinks are available to buy, including veggie and vegan options.
Is the trail accessible for wheelchair users?
The trail is fully wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be borrowed free with advance booking; a refundable deposit is required for scooters.
Are pets allowed at Wild Lights?
Only assistance dogs are allowed on site. Do not leave animals in cars.
More Christmas Events near Bristol
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