Longleat%E2%80%99s 50th anniversary%3A Elton John to play live

Elton John will perform at Longleat next summer as part of the safari park’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

He will perform an open-air concert at the Wiltshire estate on Sunday 12th June, against the backdrop of Longleat House. The show will be part of a series of UK dates being played next year.

The show will coincide with Longleat Safari Park’s 50th birthday, celebrating the time in 1966 when Longleat hit headlines around the world for becoming the first drive-through safari park outside of Africa.

Ceawiln Thynn, Viscount Weymouth, expressed his excitement. “We are delighted to welcome Sir Elton John to Longleat to help celebrate our 50th anniversary” he explained.

“For over half a century we have worked hard to thrill millions of visitors, and having one of the most inspiring musicians lead our celebrations will ensure we continue to do this into the future.

“Events such as this demonstrate our commitment to provide the very best entertainment since the first major performance at Longleat by the Rolling Stones in 1964.

“Sir Elton’s participation will certainly make it a night to remember.” he added.

Elton John has sold over 300 million records during his five-decade career and has had more than 50 Top 40 hits.

Having given over 4,000 performances in more than fifty years, Elton explained his reasoning behind his new season of intimate performances, “The simple truth is I want to spend more time with my family, and I am only too aware of just how precious the time ahead is.

“My sons are growing up so quickly; their early years are just flying by and I want to be there with them. So these concerts will give me the chance to thank the British audiences who have been so faithful to me over these many decades.

“We cannot get to everyone but I am going to try and get back to people who love music but get so few concerts.

“When I was told that Longleat was interested, I leapt at the chance.”

Tickets go on sale Friday 4th December.

For more information visit www.longleat.co.uk.