Chinese lantern trail returns to Edinburgh Zoo after six years

A trail of more than 600 giant Chinese lanterns is set to return to Edinburgh Zoo for the first time in six years.

The event features an aquatic twist this winter, with illuminated sea creatures standing up to 20ft tall.

The family-friendly event will run on 60 nights between 14 November and 22 February.

A special team have installed the lanterns, which include a giant crab and a whale that visitors can walk through, along a 1.3km (0.8 miles) route at the zoo in western Edinburgh.

Standard adult tickets are £21.50 while child tickets are £16.

It opens on select evenings from 16:45 until 21:00 and organisers say it’s recommended to set aside at least an hour to enjoy the display.

Food and drink will be available throughout the event, but it will not be possible to see the zoo’s animals.

Lindsay Ross, events and experiences manager at Edinburgh Zoo, said it was a “thrill” to see the return of the Giant Lanterns trail.

“This year’s aquatic theme promises to take our visitors on a magical journey into the deep, exploring the world of underwater wildlife, alongside marine myths and legends,” she said.

“We hope this immersive experience helps connect people with nature and raise awareness of the importance of protecting wildlife and their habitats, from coral reefs to sea birds and everything in between.

“Every visit helps support our charity’s vital wildlife conservation work in Scotland and around the world.”