Know Before You Glow

It’s the most magical time of the year, and Marwell has once again transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland. We can’t wait to welcome you under the stars to this year’s reimagined Glow Marwell light trail, an after-dark adventure bursting with colour, creativity and Christmas spirit.

Before you arrive, here are a few handy Know Before You Glow tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Arriving at Glow Marwell

All parking at Marwell Zoo is complimentary, with dedicated accessible spaces for Blue Badge holders. Please park considerately and take care as light can be limited when walking to the entrance.

A free day at the zoo

Your Glow Marwell ticket includes free entry to the zoo from 10am until 4pm, so you’ll be able to escape to nature, explore 140 acres of beautiful parkland and see your favourite animals. Visit Cherry, the red panda settling into her new habitat opposite Wild Explorers, spot Porcini, the adorable potoroo joey or admire the snow leopards, Zaya and Warjun in their mountain-inspired habitat.

Please note, last admission to the zoo during the day is 2.30pm and our animal houses begin to close from around 3.15pm.

A warm festive welcome

From 3.30pm, soak up the festive atmosphere in the plaza. Browse homemade fudge, local gin and artisan delights at the traditional Christmas Market, tick off your gift list in Marwell Stores or savour a seasonal treat in The Keeper’s Kitchen.

We’re ready to Glow…

The Glow Marwell trail opens from 5pm and your recommended entry time is detailed on your booking confirmation. Start your journey at the dazzling Glow Marwell letters where our friendly team will check you in as swiftly as possible so please have your confirmation to hand.

Discover a reimagined trail

This year’s Glow has been reimagined by world-renowned trail designers Culture Creative. Step into a tunnel woven from hundreds of UV-lit neon strands, gaze up at striking sculptures of endangered animals crafted from recycled metal, and lose yourself in a dreamscape of lasers, light and atmospheric fog.

Dress for the weather

The event will ‘glow on’ in wet weather, and will only be cancelled if conditions are unsafe such as high winds or severe weather. Wrap up warm, wear sturdy footwear suitable for walking, and come prepared for the Great British weather. The trail is fully wheelchair and pushchair accessible, though our train will not be running. You can pre-book wheelchairs or buggies ahead of your visit.

Tasty treats

At Marwell, we’re passionate about great food – and this festive season, you’ll find a tempting selection of delicious meals, hot drinks and tasty treats throughout the zoo. Will you choose freshly-made pizza from The Keeper’s Kitchen, mouth-watering loaded fries at Café Graze, or a classic bratwurst from Marwell Hall drive? With our two cafes and plenty of Christmas cabins along the route, there really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

If you’re craving something sweet, gather the family around our firepits to toast marshmallows and s’mores, or warm up with a delicious crumble pot from Café Graze.

A wide range of hot and cold drinks will also be available, including mulled wine, rich hot chocolate and festive lattes to keep you cosy throughout your visit.

Meet Father Christmas

Our enchanting family grotto experience is open on selected dates and a dedicated timeslot must be booked in advance. Please allow 30 minutes to walk to the historic Grade I listed Marwell Hall, where our elves will welcome you. Enjoy a magical journey through a 45-minute wonderland of storytelling, craft activities and of course, a chance to meet Father Christmas. The grotto is a group experience so you’ll share the magic with other families along the way, including your visit to Father Christmas.

Capture the magic

Glow is designed to dazzle – and to be photographed! Strike a pose at Glow Crackers, burst bubbles on Candy Cane Lane, say cheese on our illuminated see-saws or gather the family for the perfect snap outside the beautifully-lit Marwell Hall.

We love looking at all your snaps, so don’t forget to share your favourites and tag us on our social media channels #GlowMarwell.

Discover the wonders of the wild

Meet polar bears, reindeer and arctic foxes up close as our state-of-the-art Virtual Reality headset transports you to winter landscapes. Facing Winter, a special Glow Marwell virtual reality experience, will take place in Wild Explorers Picnic Hut from 11.30am until 3pm and 5.30pm until 7pm (additional charge applies).

Glow gifts and souvenirs

Before you head home, stop by our gift shop, Marwell Stores to pick up the perfect Christmas gift or Glow keepsake. Our memberships, adoptions and experiences make the perfect present to treat your loved ones.

Thank you from all of us

We’re a conservation charity and your visit helps us care for your favourite animals here at the zoo, and support our global conservation projects, so a huge thank you and Merry Christmas from all of us. If you have any questions during your visit, our team is always happy to help. We hope you leave with treasured Christmas memories.