00:00Imagine walking beneath a life-sized blue whale, exploring a lost underwater city and coming face to face with dragons,
00:09giants and mythical creatures, all brought to life through thousands of lights.
00:15That's the experience being offered at Longleat in Wiltshire, where the annual festival of light has transformed the estate into
00:22an illuminated world of mythology, magic and adventure.
00:26More than 1,000 lanterns light a trail stretching two and a half kilometres through the grounds, with displays drawing
00:34on stories and legends from around the world.
00:37One of the featured attractions is a spectacular recreation of the lost city of Atlantis.
00:44Visitors can explore an underwater-themed display and even walk underneath a life-sized blue whale.
00:49Other parts of the trail bring together familiar characters and stories, including the Knights of the Round Table and the
00:56World of the Zodiac.
00:58There are also displays by Norse, Greek, African and Asian mythology.
01:02Visitors can see Thor battling the world serpent, Poseidon ruling over the seas and the Trojan horse advancing to victory.
01:11The wider collection includes colossal giants, dragons, phoenixes, forest fairies and other magical creatures, creating a route that moves between
01:20different legendary worlds and traditions.
01:23But the lantern trail is only one part of the seasonal experience.
01:27Longleat's also offering a Santa train, which takes visitors past Half Mile Pond before arriving at North Pole Halt, described
01:36as a snow-covered winter wonderland.
01:38From there, visitors can meet Father Christmas in his grotto and share their Christmas wishes.
01:43Those looking for other festive activities that are market huts, a winter safari and a festive workshop.
01:49The workshop offers seasonal crafts, stories and activities.
01:53Visitors can make their own decorations in a gingerbread-themed craft kitchen, take part in games in the play zone
01:59and enjoy time together with a story.
02:01There's also the opportunity to explore Longleat House, which has been decorated for the festive season.
02:07Guided tours take visitors through the ground and first floors of the house, with expert guides sharing stories, historical details
02:14and some of the building's hidden secrets.
02:17Longleat says at the Festival of Light Routes, facilities and attractions have been designed with accessibility in mind,
02:23while its guest services team is available throughout visits to provide assistance where needed.
02:27The event runs until the 17th of January, giving visitors an extended opportunity to experience the displays and seasonal attractions.
02:36For Longleat, the Festival of Light brings together illuminated storytelling, mythology and traditional Christmas activities in one place.
02:43And whether you're drawn by the scale of lantern displays, the legendary characters or the chance to meet the big
02:50man himself,
02:51the attraction offers several different ways to explore the estate during the festive season.
