Steve Backshall to return to Longleat in Wiltshire in 2025

Steve Backshall <i>(Image: Steve Backshall)</i>
Steve Backshall (Image: Steve Backshall)
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Steve Backshall Live is set to return to Longleat in 2025.

The popular naturalist and TV presenter, who captivated audiences at the Wiltshire estate in 2024, will be back with another exclusive animal live show during the May half-term, from May 24 to June 1.

He said: "I'm incredibly excited to announce I'll be back with Steve Backshall Live at Longleat.

"Last year was so much fun, and I can't wait to be here again.

"My family and I had a fantastic time."

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He added: "I'll be getting up close to a range of animals and birds of prey and sharing with you some fascinating insights into their speed, stamina, survival tactics and more."

Visitors with a Longleat day ticket can book a seat for Backshall's exclusive show for a £1 booking fee, with all proceeds going to Tusk, an animal conservation organisation working in Africa.

Last year, this initiative helped raise more than £25,000 for their crucial work.

Backshall's return to Longleat coincides with the release of tickets for April 5 to August 31, which include a range of activities throughout the year, from a special Mother’s Day offer to events planned for Easter and summer.

Scott Ashman, head of operations at Longleat, said: "We’re delighted to be welcoming Steve back to the estate.

"We know just how much loved his show was by children and adults alike from the feedback we received from guests.

"This year we are sure will be extremely popular so would advise people to book their tickets early."

In addition to Backshall's show, the Cellars Café below Longleat House is reopening in April, with afternoon tea available to pre-book.

Self-guided tours of the stately home are included in the day ticket, subject to availability.

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Longleat’s sister site, Cheddar Gorge & Caves, has also unveiled its plans for 2025, with tickets now on sale.

This includes bringing some lanterns from Longleat’s festive showcase, The Festival of Light, to dazzle visitors as they tour the caves during April and May.

The display will feature glowing eggs and illuminated animals from ancient times.

Fenia Vitali, Cheddar’s general manager, said: "We’re delighted to have an exciting line-up of events at Cheddar for 2025, from an illuminated cave for Easter to an illuminated trail from late April to June.

"In the summer, we will have live demonstrations showcasing how our prehistoric ancestors lived."

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