A ZOO has turned into a magical wonderland of lights as its sparkling festive event has returned. 

Glow Marwell is back with double the sparkle and more than half a million lights, snow and new illuminations.

The event, held at Marwell Zoo, in Colden Common, sees the attraction open after hours to allow visitors to wander around 1.7km route on the 140-acre site. 

It is a popular event and has been held at the zoo for the past few years, but this year’s event is more interactive, more magical and more immersive than ever before.

Hampshire Chronicle: Marwell Glow

Nicky Cole, senior event manager, said: “We’ve worked incredibly hard to bring all the magic and wonder of the festive season to this year’s Glow Marwell event and we’re excited to be sharing it with guests for a second year.

“We’re delighted to be welcoming Father Christmas’s grotto back for the first time since the pandemic and we know he and his helpers will be doing everything they can to spread some cheer.

“All of our lights are themed around enchanted nature this year so let your imaginations run wild and enjoy experiencing Marwell in a different light.”

There are stepping stones that change colour,  light walls that create shadow shapes, a rainbow road, an enchanted tree, a 36-metre multi-coloured light tunnel and woodland projections.

There are illuminated seesaws and moon chairs, as well as plenty of photo opportunities including illuminated wings, nutcracker guard huts, shadow play and light arches, as well as falling snow, Christmas trees and marshmallow toasting.

Hampshire Chronicle: Marwell Glow

There is a magical wishing tree inside the gift shop and Father Christmas will also be in his grotto on selected dates.

For those hoping to indulge their tastebuds as well as their eyes, there are a variety of food options ranging from festive buns and snacks at Café Graze to candyfloss, doughnuts and German sausages courtesy of Freemans Amusements.

Premium nights will have an added dash of magic in the form of our fabulous roaming acts.

This year’s event promises double the sparkle with more than half a million LED bulbs, the UK’s first glowing seesaws and hundreds of gently glowing flowers.

Lasers, projections, uplighters and firepits complete an ambience of tranquil wonder, magic and fantasy for all ages. 

Hampshire Chronicle: Marwell Glow

Marwell Glow events run from 4pm until 8pm, with last entry at 6pm. Premium tickets cost £19 per adult, £17 per child with under threes free. Standard tickets codey £19 for adults, £15 for children with under threes free. It runs until December 30. 

Father Christmas grotto tickets cost £10 per child. Check the website for the dates. 

For more information, menus and ticket information go to marwell.org.uk/

Click the top image to see pictures from the event's opening on Thursday, November 23.