Gilbert White's House & Gardens penguin-themed light trail

Gilbert White’s House & Gardens is inviting families to embark on Museum By Moonlight: A Penguin Light Trail. <i>(Image: Gilbert White’s House & Gardens)</i>
Gilbert White’s House & Gardens is inviting families to embark on Museum By Moonlight: A Penguin Light Trail. (Image: Gilbert White’s House & Gardens)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A Hampshire museum is inviting families on a polar adventure with a new light trail.

Gilbert White's House & Gardens is launching Museum By Moonlight: A Penguin Light Trail, promising an enchanting exploration of Antarctica.

The trail, inspired by penguins, starry skies and tales of polar expeditions, will feature a glowing moon, lit-up garden penguins and constellation projections.

Young explorers can also engage in a range of activities, including Christmas crafts, dressing up as a polar explorer and stepping inside a real Antarctic tent.

Gilbert White’s House & Gardens is inviting families to embark on Museum By Moonlight: A Penguin Light Trail. (Image: Gilbert White’s House & Gardens)

The experience draws on the museum's rich polar connections.

Visitors can explore the Oates Gallery, which narrates the story of Lawrence Oates and his role in the ill-fated Scott expedition, and the winter exhibition on Emperor Penguins.

The exhibition is packed with interesting facts and activities like waddling with a penguin egg on your feet.

The evenings will also feature festive food and drinks at the café, including mulled wine and penguin biscuits.

The museum gardens will be illuminated with festive lights and glowing arches.

Gilbert White's House & Gardens aims to offer a unique Christmas light trail experience, with a focus on environmental sustainability.

The outdoor lighting has been designed to avoid wildlife disruption, and part of the experience takes place indoors, including light tunnels and exploring historic rooms by torchlight.

This ensures a memorable adventure for families, regardless of the weather.

A museum spokesperson said: "Whether you have a budding explorer at home, a penguin enthusiast in the family or simply want to enjoy a memorable festive outing, Museum By Moonlight promises an adventure for curious minds of all ages."

The event is scheduled to run on selected dates in December.

On Thursdays, tickets are priced at £13.50 for adults and £9.50 for children.

On all other days, the prices rise to £15 for adults and £10 for children.

Tickets can be booked online.

For more information, visit gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk//events/museum-by-moonlight-penguin-trail.

The event will be held on December 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, and from December 17 to December 22.

It will be open from 4pm to 8.30pm, with entry in time slots.

The event is set to provide an unforgettable experience for families looking to celebrate the festive season in a unique way.

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos