What's On at Williamson Park
Williamson Park After Dark
This Light Up Lancaster weekend, come and explore our wonderful park when the lights go out. Families, history buffs and art enthusiasts all welcome - there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Thursday 5th, Friday 6th & Saturday 7th November 2026
FREE Shuttle Buses will be running each day between 5pm - 10pm. Pick up point from Dalton Square, Lancaster City Centre, dropping off at Wyresdale Road Car Park, Williamson Park and vice versa.
There will be hot and cold food & drinks available from the Food & Drink Huts throughout the night, located at the bottom of the Ashton Memorial steps.
Night at the Zoo
6pm - 6.45pm
6.45pm - 7.30pm
7.30pm - 8.15pm
Adult £9
Children £5
Family of 4 £25
*Just 15 places per tour
Please arrive 5–10 minutes early for your ticketed session. Under 16s must be accompanied by a responsible paying adult
Experience the zoo in a whole new light and discover what happens when our animals settle in for the evening...
Your adventure will begin along our illuminated woodland trail, where you'll encounter a selection of lights and lanterns. From there, you'll explore the cave, home to a variety of insects, frogs and fish, before visiting the butterfly house. You’ll be given a red torch to use during the tour - helping us see where we’re going while keeping disturbance to the animals to a minimum.
A magical evening experience, perfect for curious explorers of all ages. Book early to avoid disappointment. Pre-booking essential. Book your Night at the Zoo tickets Here
Guided Historical Tours with Gregory Wright
Williamson Park by Night: From Quarry to Community Space
5.30pm - 6.30pm
7pm - 8pm
8.30pm - 9.30pm
Adult £8
Children £6
All children under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible paying adult.
Take a nocturnal stroll through one of Lancaster's most remarkable landmarks as the city lights up for Light Up Lancaster.
As darkness falls, Williamson Park takes on a whole new character. Follow the lantern-lit paths and discover how a working quarry became a Victorian pleasure ground, and thanks to the ambition of one of Lancaster's most influential industrialists grew into the beloved green space it is today.
Along the way you'll hear tales of witchcraft, philanthropy, grand designs and the community who've shaped this hilltop for generations, taking in the glow of the Ashton Memorial rising above the treetops.
Organised in partnership with Lancaster City Council, the walks are lead by award-winning guide Gregory Wright of Lancaster Walks, Talks & Tours. Gregory is an Institute of Tourist Guiding Blue Badge Guide for Lancashire & The North West.
Whilst sticking mainly to established roads, the nature of Williamson Park means the walk route will involve some hills and inclines. Please wear appropriate clothing and footwear. The walking tours last approximately one hour, starting and finishing at the bottom of the Ashton Memorial steps. For guests using what3words, we will be somewhere around ///forever.desks.calenders
Pre-booking is essential. Book your Guided Historical Tour tickets here
FREE Paper Lantern making
5pm - 10pm
Free activity for children and families located at the bottom of Ashton Memorial steps near to the food and drink huts, supported by Friends of Williamson Park. Drop-in, no need to book!
Light Up Lancaster - Garden of Shadows
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by Jony Easterby
Thursday 5th, Friday 6th & Saturday 7th November, 5pm - 10pm
Free
A collection of works featuring animated landscapes sourced from grassland and forest, hedgerows, bonsai trees given the gift of scale, woodland sprites and slomo flying creatures. The audience is invited to follow a trail of installations that fill the park with a series of ethereal electronic animated encounters with the natural world.
For Jony Easterby, the contrast of darkness and light is the very essence of life and creativity. Ruled by brightness and shadows: day and night, winter and summer, sunshine and clouds. His work reflects not only his passion for the natural world alongside his anxiety for its uncertain ecological future.
Find out more via the official Light Up Lancaster website
