Wildlights Lantern Trail at RSPB Old Moor
Illuminated wildlife trail and family autumn campfires.
Posted on 29th August 2026
The popular Wildlights Lantern Trail returns to RSPB Old Moor nature reserve in the Dearne Valley this October, bringing giant illuminated wildlife sculptures, friendly puppets, and community art to life after dark.
Designed for families and nature lovers, the atmospheric evening trail guides visitors along reserve paths lined with glowing art installations. Alongside the main trail, families can get hands-on in creative workshops leading up to the main event.
The main Wildlights event takes place across three Saturdays in October: Saturday 10th, Saturday 17th, and Saturday 24th October 2026. The trail opens each night at 6:00pm and closes at 8:00pm. All lanterns remain safely ground-based throughout the reserve as an art installation.
Preceding Lantern-Making Workshops ✂️🎨
In the lead-up to the trail, on 26th and 27th September, RSPB Old Moor hosts 2.5-hour Nature Lantern Making Workshops on selected dates in September and October. Guided by the creative team, families use willow frames, tissue paper, and PVA glue to build their own animal-themed lanterns (such as hedgehogs or mice).
Finished lanterns are left with the reserve team to dry and be installed along the trail for the October event nights. As a bonus, booking a workshop ticket includes a 20% discount on main Wildlights trail tickets for attending families, and lanterns can be collected to take home after the final event on 24th October.
What's Happening at Wildlights 🦉🔥
Highlights and features included across the three main evening trail dates:
- Giant Illuminated Wildlife Sculptures: Large-scale glowing sculptures depicting native birds and animals placed along the reserve walk.
- Handmade Workshop Lanterns: Displays of smaller lanterns crafted by local families and community groups.
- Friendly Wildlife Puppets: Interactive costumed performers moving through the reserve paths.
- Campfire Hot Chocolates & Crafts: Open fire pit areas for relaxing with warm drinks, alongside included children's craft activities.
- Late-Opening Shop & Café: The reserve shop (open 5:00pm–6:30pm) and visitor centre café (open 5:30pm–7:30pm) provide hot food, drinks, and gifts.
Photo Gallery - coming soon
Plan Your Visit 📅
Practical information for booking and attending the Wildlights trail:
Tickets & Booking
ADVANCE BOOKING ESSENTIALTrail tickets and workshop slots must be booked online in advance via the official RSPB Old Moor Events portal. Children under 5 are free (no ticket required).
Trail Dates & Times
Saturday 10th, Saturday 17th & Saturday 24th October 2026
• Trail Open: 6:00pm – 8:00pm
• Café Hours: 5:30pm – 7:30pm
What to Bring
A handheld torch or headlamp is essential for walking between illuminated zones. Warm clothing and outdoor footwear or wellies are recommended.
Accessibility & Dogs
Main reserve paths are wheelchair and pushchair friendly. Dogs are not permitted on the trail or wider reserve (assistance dogs excepted).
Visitor Tip
Workshop attendees receive 20% off their main trail tickets. Tickets are date-specific and non-transferable without contacting the reserve in advance.
Getting There 🗺️
📍 Reserve Address:
RSPB Old Moor, Old Moor Lane, Wombwell, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, S73 0YF
🚆 By Train & Public Transport
The nearest railway station is Wombwell (approx. 1.5 miles away). Local buses connect Barnsley and Doncaster along the nearby main roads, and the reserve sits on the Trans-Pennine Trail.
🚗 Driving & Parking
Easily accessible off the A633 between Barnsley and Rotherham. On-site parking is free and included with event admission.
