good safari parks uk

12 BEST Safari Parks in the UK

From guided tours and drive through safaris, to wallaby walkthroughs and big cats roaming, here are the best safari parks in the uk..

Forget going to the zoo, this post is all about going on safari in the UK!

Did you know that the UK offers some of the best safari park experiences in Europe? It’s true! And it means you don’t need to spend big bucks when seeing the big 5.

Whether you’re looking for a drive through experience or to get up close and personal with the animals, we’ve compiled a list of the best safari parks in the UK. These are the best ones in England , Scotland and Wales .

From drive-through experiences at Longleat, to walkthrough experiences such as the foot safari at Woburn Safari Park, there are so many options to choose from. And all of them are guaranteed good days out!

If you prefer a guided tour with zoo experts, West Midland Safari Park offers fantastic mini bus tours. Or maybe you’d prefer to walk with the wallabies at Manor Wildlife Park? 

We absolutely love watching the monkeys climb on top of the cars at Blair Drummond – be warned because they are very cheeky! Will you choose to sleep with the animals, ride a safari, or hand feed parakeets?

Find out all of this and more in our list of the best UK safari parks.

Best Safari Parks in the UK

Longleat safari park.

Check out the UK’s Number 1 safari park at Longleat, Wiltshire! Discover big cats, elephants, wolves and more at the drive-through safari experience.

Wind up your windows for the safari of a lifetime as you pass through Tiger Territory, Cheetah Kingdom and The Big Game Park, where you can see a herd of Southern white rhinos.

Don’t forget to check out our favourite part – Monkey Mayhem. The troupe of macaques are known for causing mischief (just watch out for your windscreen wipers!)

Jump out at the African Village and Walking Safari as you journey across the African reserve and discover giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and ostriches. 

• Address: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
• Website: https://www.longleat.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Longleat tickets here

West Midland Safari Park

Whether you’re driving yourself or jumping on a guided minibus tour, the safari experience at West Midland Safari Park can be enjoyed by everyone.

Animal fanatics can book onto a guided minibus safari tour where the knowledgeable staff will teach you all about the different animals. Can you spot the rhinos, lions, camels and elephants across the 5 different zones? You can even take your own car if you’d prefer to experience the safari at your own pace.

View the animals up close on the African Walking Trail. Watch out for the elephants roaming their new habitat, or the giraffes grazing on the trees.

• Address: West Midland Safari Park. Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF
• Website: https://www.wmsp.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your WMSP tickets here

Chessington Safari Resort

For a unique type of safari experience, check out Chessington Safari Resort. With a range of themed rooms, you can see animals whilst you sleep.

Choose between exquisitely themed rooms with views over the enclosures of your favourite animals. The giraffe room, tiger room, penguin room and monkey mayhem room overlook the Wanyama reserve.

Many of the rooms include access to the savannah splash pool and hotel entertainment. To finish off your trip, check Chessington World of Adventure for a day full of thrill rides and zoo fun. 

• Address: Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Rd, Chessington. KT9 2NE
• Website: https://www.chessington.com/
• Tickets: Get your Chessington World of Adventures tickets here

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Whipsnade Zoo is one of the biggest zoos in England with over 10,000 animals. As part of the Zoological Society London , Whipsnade is dedicated to conservation, sustainability, and science. 

Whipsnade Zoo has many incredible animals you won’t see elsewhere, like brown bears and wolverines. This year an endangered baby Asian elephant was born at the zoo! Grab tickets for the Elephant Cafe where you will be able to see mum and baby.

Why not try one of the many experiences at the zoo? Become a keeper for the day and you can work with the rhinos, giraffes and elephants. 

• Address: Whipsnade, Dunstable. LU6 2LF
• Website: https://www.zsl.org/zsl-whipsnade-zoo
• Tickets: Get your Whipsnade tickets here

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Scottish readers are definitely going to want to visit Blair Drummond Park to get their animal fix. From lions and macaques, to deer and antelope, there’s so much to see. 

Venture through the African animals, Asian animals, the lions and the macaque reserve in your own car for a day of family fun. Will you spot the rhino in the grass or hear the lion roar? The cheeky monkeys love to jump on cars as they pass so don’t forget to lock your doors!

Once you’ve had your drive-through fun you can check out the 300 species at Blair Drummond. I’m a big fan of the wallabies!

• Address: Blair Drummond, Stirling. FK9 4UR
• Website: https://www.blairdrummond.com/
• Tickets: Get your Blair Drummond tickets here

Manor Wildlife Park

If you like to get up close and personal with the wildlife, Manor Wildlife Park in Wales is the safari park for you. With several walkthrough safari experiences, there are so many animals to spot.

Start off your day in the Wallaby Walkthrough, where visitors can see young Joey’s hop into their mother’s pouch. I love to look for my favourite animal, the red panda, through the forest canopy. 

Don’t forget to visit the Lemurs in their Madagascan home where you can watch them jump and climb. If you’re lucky they might even sit next to you!

• Address: Manor Wildlife Park, St Florence, Tenby. SA70 8RJ
• Website: https://www.manorwildlifepark.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Manor Wildlife Park tickets here

Port Lympne Safari Park

Come face to face with rare and endangered animals at Port Lympne Safari Park. Head to Kent to experience hundreds of acres of savannah. 

Port Lympne offers three unique safari experiences for you to choose from. On the AAA safari, an expert ranger takes you on a guided tour to see Savannah animals, like the giraffe, zebra, ostrich and wildebeest. Can you spot the black rhino?

Perhaps you’d prefer to jump on the rhino and giraffe safari, or the rangers tour, where you’ll journey through the Asian and African exhibits. 

• Address: Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe. CT21 4LR
• Website: https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/
• Tickets: Get your Pork Lympne tickets here

Knowsley Safari Park

Did you know that Knowsley Safari Park is actually the biggest safari park in the UK?

This 550 acre safari park is home to animals from across the globe. Journey through Eastern and Southern Asia, where you can see yaks and deer, or check out the African Savannah zone which is home to one of the largest white rhinos in the UK. Hop on the baboon bus for a car-friendly view of the baboons as they swing off the ropes.

Finish off your day with a walk through the Amur Tiger trail where you can get nose to nose with the two tigers.

• Address: Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot. L34 4AN
• Website: https://www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Knowsley Safari Park tickets here

Woburn Safari Park

Check out over 300 acres of drive-through safari nestled amongst the Bedfordshire landscape at Woburn Safari Park. You can have a whole day of fun with the drive-through and walk-through safari experiences.

Drive through the vast nature reserves to spot the animals lurking within. From bison and rhinos, to bears and tigers, there are so many incredible animals across 5 zones. I’d recommend the Kingdom of the Carnivores, where you can see tigers, lions, bears and wolves!

End your experience with the foot safari, where you can explore small mammals and birds. With lemurs, penguins, birds of prey, otters, wallabies, and more, this is not one to be missed.

• Address: Woburn Safari Park, Crawley Rd, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford. MK43 0TU
• Website: https://www.woburnsafari.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Woburn Safari Park tickets here

Knepp Wildlife Safari

If you’re looking for something different, check out the safari experiences at Knepp Safari. Encounter local wildlife, such as ponies, deer, and pigs, on one of the many vehicle and walking safaris at Knepp.

Hop on the all terrain vehicle and enjoy the half-day safari to discover British wildlife. You will see free-roaming herds of cattle, ponies, pigs and deer on your journey.

You’ll get to stop at the wildlife ‘refugia’ and spot small animals, such as grass snakes, toads and voles. There’s even a cafe stop so you can enjoy delicious local brownies.

Why not try a themed safari, such as the autumn safari, where you can spot red deer stags, or the bats and moths safari, where you can see nocturnal creatures.

• Address: Knepp Wildland Safaris, New Barn Farm, Swallows Ln, Dial Post, Horsham. RH13 8NN
• Website: https://www.kneppsafaris.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Knepp Wildlife Safari tickets here

South Lakes Safari Zoo

Home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered species across the globe, South Lakes Safari Zoo is the perfect place to get up close and personal with the animals.

From Africa and Madagascar, to Australia and South America, there’s so much to see. Check out the jaguars and snow leopards or head to the lemurs and arctic wolves. South Lakes Safari Zoo is committed to conservation so you can view the animals in their natural environment. 

Why not book an animal encounter to learn all about your favourite animal? I’d love to prepare Stanley the sloth his favourite snacks!

• Address: South Lakes Safari Zoo, Melton Ter, Lindal in Furness, Ulverston. LA12 0LU
• Website: https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/
• Tickets: Get your South Lakes Safari Zoo tickets here

Peak Wildlife Park

Peak Wildlife Park offers fantastic walk through experiences for all the family. Whether you decide to explore the African village or walk with the penguins, there’s something for everyone.

Have you ever wanted to walk with the lemurs or wallabies? I certainly have! Watch the lemurs leap through the canopies and listen to their distinct calls, or check out wallaby wonderland where the friendly animals will munch on branches out of your hands.

Head to the African village where you can spot meerkats, chickens, and Pygmy goats. Don’t forget to give their horns a good scratch!

• Address: Peak Wildlife Park, Winkhill, Leek. ST13 7QR
• Website: https://www.peakwildlifepark.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your Peak Wildlife Park tickets here

Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo prides itself on being at the heart of conservation. With several walkthrough enclosures and a brand new The Gruffalo Discovery Land, this is a fantastic choice for little ones. 

Walk among the flutters of colourful wings in the Butterfly Paradise or hand feed the birds at Lorikeet Landing. Head to the goat walkthrough where your little ones (and the biggest members of the family!) can stroke the farmyard animals. 

Check out the lemurs as they weave in and out of your feet. You can even watch the tigers roam above you in the glass visitor tunnel. 

• Address: Twycross Zoo, East Midland Zoological Society, Burton Rd, Atherstone. CV9 3PX
• Website: https://twycrosszoo.org/
• Tickets: Get your Twycross Zoo tickets here

That concludes our list of the best UK safari parks. Which one will you be visiting on your next day out with the family? If you have any questions at all, you can let us know in the comments below!

If you’re looking for other fun days out, then check out our guide to the best theme parks in the UK . Again, this is perfect for the whole family!

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The best safari parks in the uk.

Though nothing can beat seeing animals in their natural habitat, safari parks can be a great substitute when time, money and other circumstances get in the way of your dream trip. Visiting a safari park in the UK can also be a good introduction to safaris for children and other first-timers, as well as a more ethical choice of day out for animal lovers than the zoo.

In this post, we explore the UK’s best safari parks to help you support conservation from the comfort of home. 

The UK’s Best Safari Parks

Longleat safari park.

Set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, Longleat Safari Park is a really family-friendly day out. In the main park, you can walk past enclosures housing everything from creepy crawlies to wild cats and primates. 

At certain times of the day, you can join a jungle cruise out onto the estate’s huge lake where, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a pair of hippos in the shallows and the silverback lowland gorilla and his family on the island in the centre. Keep your eyes peeled! As part of the trip, you’ll also have the chance to feed the resident sea lions who splash and swim alongside the boat in hopes of gobbling down some fish. 

Of course, the highlight of any trip to Longleat is the self-drive safari. Yes, Wiltshire’s plains are home to 3 of the big 5: lions, rhino and Anne the elephant, as well as cheetah, wolves, tigers and deer. As long as you drive safely and keep your windows closed, the animals are well accustomed to vehicles and can treat you to some incredible encounters. 

Other experiences available at Longleat include giraffe feeding, a lemur walk-through and monkey mayhem, where the rhesus macaques are free to clamber all over your vehicle and remove whatever takes their fancy! You might decide to take the safari bus for this exact reason… 

Longleat is committed to conservation right across the world. From breeding programmes to help restore populations of wild dogs and black rhinos in Tanzania to funding the conservation work of the Red Panda Network in Nepal, Longleat relies on donations and purchases from its visitors to support this critical work. By visiting, you’ll be doing a world of good!

Port Lympne

My personal favourite safari park in the UK is Port Lympne in Kent. This game reserve is the closest you’ll get to Africa in the UK, thanks to its safari drives and various lodge-style accommodation to stay overnight in for the ultimate experience. 

There are enclosures in the main park, housing beautiful animals like lynxes, gorillas and brown bears, as well as lions, tigers and cheetahs in larger pens. You can visit each of these areas on foot, and I recommend timing your visits alongside the programme of ranger talks. These give you the opportunity to hear more about the incredible animals and ask any questions you can think of!

Like Longleat, there are wide open plains that are home to giraffes, zebra and antelope, but the only way to see them is by joining one of the tours, where an experienced guide takes you and a group of others out into the wild on a safari canter. You’ll be lucky enough to see these animals roaming free (or as free as is possible in the Kent countryside), as well as rhinos, elephants, wild dogs and other rare species behind fences.

What makes this place really special is the Aspinall Foundation’s link to conservation efforts in Africa and beyond. Port Lympne has a hugely successful breeding programme that has returned various animals to the wild, including five eastern black rhinos, two cheetahs and over 60 gorillas.

At each enclosure, you’ll be able to read whether the animals inside are candidates for reintroduction, and there are dedicated teams at the park who will be more than willing to tell you more when you visit.

Woburn Safari Park

Over 80 rare and endangered species call Bedfordshire home, and you’ll be able to see them all at Woburn Safari Park. 

Much like other UK safari parks, your visit may begin with a drive-through safari that will take you on a journey across the globe. From the comfort of your own car, you will drive across plains and through grassland to see rare horses, bison, wildebeest, camels, southern white rhino, buffalo, giraffe, monkeys and zebra. 

Of course, my favourite area at Woburn Safari Park is the Kingdom of the Carnivores. Here, you could see Amur tigers, timberwolves, black bears and lions, each species separated into their own enclosures large enough that you’d still need to be lucky to spot them.

Once you have completed your 60-minute loop of the self-drive, your visit will be far from over, as your foot safari treats you to sightings of the smaller animals. Think parrots, meerkats, wallabies, otters, lemurs, sea lions, penguins, squirrel monkeys, red pandas and far too many more to mention.

By purchasing a ticket to Woburn Safari Park, you’ll be helping the team to sustain the population of animals kept onsite, as well as funding the critical conservation work they help to fund around the world. Various projects they support include the International Elephant Foundation, the Wildcats Conservation Alliance and Helping Rhinos. All very worthy causes, I’m sure you’ll agree! 

Knowsley Safari Park

Knowsley Safari Park near Prescot in Merseyside boasts the UK’s longest safari drive over 550 acres. 

Here you’ll have close encounters with African lions, white rhinos and bison from the comfort of your own car. Though if you’re nervous about damage to your vehicle in the baboon enclosure, book a spot on the baboon bus, which is kitted out with climbing ropes and ladders for the baboons to roam free on. You can’t get much closer than that! 

There’s even more to see on the foot safari, including Amur tigers, giraffes, meerkats, bush dogs, birds of prey, sea lions and tapir too. What a treat! There are animal talks and shows scheduled throughout the day, so make sure you plan in advance to see everything you want to.

Knowsley has a dedicated conservation team tasked with educating visitors and the wider public about their critical projects. They also work on the ground with endangered species, including monitoring, anti-poaching activities and fixing fences to reduce human conflict in their natural habitats. 

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

This safari park in the heart of the Midlands makes a great day out or a holiday in and of itself. A stay in any of the luxury safari lodges promises an incredible encounter with animals including tigers, rhinos and elephants; but with a drive-through safari and village walk also on offer, you’ll have just as good a time without the expensive short break.

The safari drive can be done in your own car or as part of a guided minibus tour, where you’ll see African lions, giraffes, zebra, wild dogs, cheetahs and antelope. There’s also a Wild Asia area housing Indian rhino, swamp deer and blackbucks too.

There is arguably more to see here once you’re out of your car, including lemurs, ostriches, red pandas, hippos, meerkats, penguins, sea lions and… dinosaurs. Yes, really! Animatronic replicas of T-rexes, velociraptors and more growl and roar through the bushes in the Land of the Living Dinosaurs. There really is plenty to see and do here!

You’ll notice ‘Leisure Park’ has been appended to the name, meaning there’s more here than the animals. Virtual reality experiences, rollercoasters, log flumes and more can be found in the Adventure Theme Park, where rides are available for an additional fee. 

As perhaps the most theme park-like safari park in the UK, you’d be forgiven for believing this makes conservation less of a priority for West Midland. But that’s far from the truth. From research projects to breeding programmes, your entrance fee and other purchases will be supporting endangered species and biodiversity across the world. 

Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

Located just outside Stirling, Blair Drummond is easily one of the best safari parks in the UK, let alone in Scotland! 

As well as the famous safari animals like lions and rhinos in the drive-through area, Blair Drummond is also home to a huge variety of rare and fascinating species. Over 300 animals including Highland cattle, red ruffed lemur and llamas can be found on foot, making for a packed and wild day out. 

Conservation is an important aspect of Blair Drummond’s work. Since 2014, the park has given over £192k worth of funding to conservation projects, with that money contributing to the salaries of anti-poaching teams, their equipment and fighting deforestation. 

So there you have it: The UK’s best safari parks from every corner of the county. Which one will you discover first?

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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Top 10 Safari Parks in the UK! (Our best guide to see animals from your car!)

You just got front row seats to the animal kingdom. Ready to come face to face with magnificent lion prides? Want to discover what mischievous monkeys will do to your car? Crane your neck up trying to stare at giraffes and elephants?

All these animal and more are waiting for you! But if you’re torn about where to see them, here’s a guide! Welcome to Campfire Magazine! Today, we’re bringing you the top 10 safari parks in the UK!

Longleat Safari Park

“Wind up your windows. Hide all the sandwiches. You’re going on a safari tour that’s wilder, furrier, and growlier than you ever dared imagine” is the iconic motto Longleat Safari Park goes by. 

Located in the South West of England, this top-tier park is a memorable experience. An entire animal kingdom awaits you: a wolf pack, herds of rhinos, prowling cheetahs, territorial tigers, frolicking lions, a rescued circus elephant, and more!

Longleat Safari Park is most known for its famous Elizabethan house, an adventure castle, hedge maze, and of course-- what all visitors rave about-- a magnificent gorilla colony

https://www.longleat.co.uk/

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Home to more than 350 animals, most of them roaming freely, Blair Drummond Safari Park is an unforgettable attraction.

Here’s a sneak peek inside: lions, elephants, giraffes, meerkats are just a few of the majestic residents. Are you ready to take your chances with “the cheeky monkeys in the park’s famous Macque Drive-thru, walk with free roaming lemurs in Lemur Land, catch the popular sea lion and bird of prey shows, and take a boat ride to Chimp Island,” as the park advertises?

Since this safari opened its doors in 1970, it’s been one of the top parks in the UK as it takes visitors through a picturesque look at thriving wildlife populations. Lions, lemurs, and chimps aren’t the only animals here. Antelopes, camels, zebras, rhinos, and more will happily greet you.  

https://www.blairdrummond.com/

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

Ready to safely come face to face with one of Africa’s ferocious “big five?” Then look no further than Port Lympne Wild Animal Park in Lympne in Hythe. Here, more than 700 animals, over 90 species are thriving across 600 giant acres. 

You’ll find the single largest herd of black rhinos, which are critically endangered species. Kent’s only giraffe lives here as well. But if you have your eyes out on a larger adventure, then the Dinosaur Forest may catch your attention. It will feel like you’re strolling through Jurassic Park.  

https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/

Knowsley Safari Park

UK’s longest safari drive is right here at Knowsley Safari Park, clocking in at a whopping five miles stretch. 

What are some to die for attractions here? The stars of the park live in the Amur Tiger Trail-- two tigers by the names of Bira and Sinda. However, there is no shortage of things to see. Knowsley Safari Park stands out by its plethora of peculiar animals such as ratites, bats, and rodents.

There is also an incredibly magnificent wet safari on the park’s boating lake, which will take you rowing and allow you to see all the amazing species that call Knowsley Safari Park their home. As you explore, you’ll see everything from cheeky meerkats, formidable buffaloes, graceful wildebeest and zebra, to the majestic lion pride. If you’re lucky enough that your trip coincides with the school holidays, the park offers a Baboon Bus.

Woburn Safari Park

Want to step out of the car and the “Baboon Bus” as the previous park offered? At Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire, your adventure is on foot. And you can do more than walking on the wild side of nature, you can ride the “Great Woburn Railway” or take a ride in one of their swan boats.

It will feel like you have left the UK and stepped into the Savannah Grasslands. Visit the African Forest, the Northern Plains, the Kingdom of the Carnivores, and the Giraffe Junction to observe monkeys, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, bison, and lions in their natural habitat. On foot, you can witness first hand the magnificence and the grandeur of giant elephants walking in front of you, as well as walk among deers, wave back to meerkats, and feed the sea lions.

Right from the comfort of your car, start by viewing bison and zebras grazing at the Northern Plains, then drive to the Savannah Grasslands and see rhinos living the good life, head to the African Forest to laugh at the antics of the energetic monkeys who are known to be mischievous in the woodlands, and finally, see tigers prowl in the Kingdom of the Carnivores.

https://www.woburnsafari.co.uk/

Cotswold Wildlife Park

We have one word for you...ostriches!

At Cotswold Wildlife Park, located in Oxfordshire, you’ll get a front row to see ostriches roaming freely, but that’s not all you should focus on. Every day, the park hosts penguin talks. And every month, you’ll find plenty of monthly events. Offering no shortage of activities, the park offers annual competitions.

Dive deep enough in the park and you’ll find their mischievous lion pride, lazing around in the sun. Just like your average cat, only a lot bigger and more ferocious.

https://www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk/

Knepp Wildland Safari

Spread out across an impressive 3,500 acres of Sussex, Knepp Wildland Safari, one of the largest rewilding projects in lowland Europe is one unforgettable experience. 

Herds of animals, birds, mammals, butterflies, reptiles, and beetles, and even entire gardens of plants and fungi await. Whether you’re there to take courses on photography, looking to check out the animals, want to do some tree reading, or to take a boat that will take you on a scenic ride

https://www.kneppsafaris.co.uk/

Wingham Wildlife Park

Wingham Wildlife Park offers anything from raccoons to dinosaurs , and it’s right here in the UK for all to see. What can you expect to see? A long way from its opening in 1986 when the park just had a small collection of aviary birds, waterfowl, and a tea room, today, there are hundreds of species roaming around.

Now, you’ll find a big cat row, where the likes of pumas, jaguars, cheetahs, caracals, and unique, smaller species of cat such as Scottish wildcats roam. Here for the tigers? You’ll find them a little deeper in the tiger enclosure.

When you have your fill of watching majestic cats, head to the wolf enclosure, or is the Chimp House more your taste? Other attractions include the Reptile House where you can view the likes of rhinoceros iguanas or check out the Penguin Pool, which speaks for itself.

Animals aren’t the only guests here after hours-- you can be too! Wingham offers a unique experience where you can be a keeper for a day. There are VIP tours where keepers walk you through the park and take you through each animal’s history, arrival, and relationships.

https://winghamwildlifepark.co.uk/

Shepreth Wildlife Park

Ever fed a ring-tailed lemur by hands? Came face to face with a tiger? Pet an alpaca? 

In 1984, Shepreth Wildlife Park opened its doors as a much needed refuge for injured and orphaned animals. Now, there are more than 100 species thriving there. From alpacas to lemurs, Shepreth Wildlife Park has them!

The natural grounds offer warm tropical exhibits, animal encounter sessions, outdoor play zones, demonstrations, and keeper talks. Throughout the day, you won’t be able to go through the large number of talks the park offers, each focusing on a different animal. Throughout the month, keep up with their superb events such as hedgehog day. And if you’re looking to take something home from the park, stop by the gift shop or talk to one of the keepers about the animals available for adoption!

https://sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk/

West Midland Safari Park

Located in Bewdley, Worcestershire, West Midland Safari Park roared its way into becoming one of the leading safari parks in all of the UK. This is the spot to head to when you’re looking to stand face to face with some of the world’s most famous elusive animals.

The Safari Drive-Through will strap you in and take you on a wild ride across the African Plains, Wild Asia, Elephant Valley, and the Carnivores section where you’ll gasp at seeing goliath elephants, herds of zebras, amazing lions, powerful buffaloes, and more. The drive-through isn’t the only attraction. The park offers a myriad of discovery trails, a theme park, and plenty of fun areas. Check out adorable penguins at the Discovery Trail, marvel at the beauty of the sea creatures that call West Midland Safari Park home, check out the reptiles and arachnids exhibits, and finally, stop by the Sea Lion Theatre to round off your amazing experience with some wholesome sea lions.

https://www.wmsp.co.uk/

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Ready For A Wild Day Out? 6 Of The Best Safari Parks In The UK

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Looking for something a little different to do this weekend or in the upcoming school holidays ?

Once in a while, you may be craving an escape from the capital.

Whether that’s a fun day out or a staycation, there are some fantastic safari parks in the UK, many of them near London , accessible by train, coach and car.

What are Safari Parks?

Safari parks are drive-through attractions rather than traditional zoo experiences. They mimic that of a wild safari in exotic destinations like Africa.

At some parks, you drive your car around the safari; some have trucks provided for you, and others have larger vehicles with a driver where you can sit back, relax and enjoy the safari.

Often, it’s best to bring your car because many UK safari parks are drive-around only. Many UK safari parks also have on-site accommodation if you’re travelling further afield.

We’ve taken the kids to a few over the years and we find a day trip to a safari park a great way to blend education and entertainment.

Best Safari Parks: UK

Safari parks in the UK are some of the best available in Europe . You can be near to animals you wouldn’t usually see in the UK.

The animals may get up close to your car window rather than you viewing them from a viewing area.

Here’s the roundup of the best safari parks in the UK:

1. Woburn Safari Park

Location: Crawley Rd, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford MK43 0TU

Distance from Central London: 48.7 miles

Woburn Safari Park is an excellent option for a day trip from London.

Enjoy being together as a family as you enjoy repeat circuits of the Woburn safari drive.

The driving section is ONLY accessible in your vehicle, and you won’t be allowed to enter on foot.

See animals like the Przewalski’s horse, North American bison, and Bactrian camel. Continue to the Savannah Grasslands to see the Southern white rhinos and Ankole cattle.

There is also a foot safari area. There are walk-through enclosures and close encounters with meerkats, elephants, and more, as well as daily keeper talks.

For children of 10 and up (and a minimum of 1.4m tall), try the Go Ape high ropes challenge. Let loose in the treetops and see animals roaming below.

Look out for special school holiday events – Peppa Pig, Hey Duggee and Bluey often visit the safari park.

How to Get There:

• Driving: 1 hour, 25 minutes from central London.
• Nearest Train Station: Flitwick

2. Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Location: Surrey, KT9 2NE

Distance from Central London: 17.3 miles

Chessington Safari Resort is part of the larger Chessington World of Adventures theme park, zoo, aquarium and safari park all rolled into one. There are over 1,000 animals to spot and over 40 rides.

The safari attraction is the ZUFARI ride into Africa. You can have a giraffe feeding experience from a safari truck.

This experience is for kids aged 5+ and can be booked for groups of two to eight (and shared with other guests). You will also need to purchase an entry ticket on top of this experience.

Chessington World of Adventures also has the on-site Azteca and Safari Hotel and the explorer glamping experience. Staying overnight will give you 20% off VIP animal experiences like the Giraffe Safari.

Driving: 1 hour, 6 minutes from central London

Nearest Train Station: Chessington South

3. Port Lympne Safari Park

Location: Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR

Distance from Central London: 65.8 miles

Port Lympne Safari Park is huge. You’ll have the chance to spot over 650 animals across 600 acres and learn about conservation efforts like the breeding programmes.

Safaris are included in your entry ticket. You can go on a truck safari or book a ranger-led encounter.

If you upgrade to the ranger encounter, you will go offroad and have the opportunity to hand-feed some animals, like rhinos and giraffes.

Every visit supports The Aspinall Foundation’s global conservation efforts.

If you need a weekend away, the stay options include the lavish Lion Lodge and the Pinewood Pods.

• Driving Time: 1 hour, 43 minutes
• Nearest Train Station: Ashford International

The Best Safari Parks in the UK: Further Afield

Whether you’re after thrills, education, or a bit of both, the UK’s safari parks offer it all.

All that’s left is to pack a picnic, hit the road, and embark on your wild English adventure!

4. Longleat Safari Park

Location: Longleat, Warminster BA12 7NW

Distance from Central London: 125 miles

From the roars of lions to the calls of tropical birds, Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire is an extraordinary experience beyond the typical day out.

The first drive-through safari in the UK introduces you to various animals, including monkeys and cheetahs.

Main attractions include the deer park, the woolf wood, the African village and the big game park. Other attractions on site include a giant hedge maze and jungle boat rides.

You can upgrade your visit with a VIP tour, such as the tiger feeding experience or the immersive private safari.

Combine this with a visit to the on-site Longleat House, and you have a day full of wonders.

• Driving Time: 2 hours, 47 minutes
• Nearest Train Station: Frome

5. West Midlands Safari Park

Location: Spring Grove, Bewdley DY12 1LF

Distance from Central London: 130 miles

West Midlands Safari Park has a fantastic 4-mile drive-through experience, which will introduce the kids to magnificent creatures.

There are also walk-through areas like the reptile house, penguin cove, and twilight cove. You can self-drive around the safari or book a guided minibus tour.

Walk-through sections are also at the park. Enjoy the giraffe viewpoint on the African walking trail.

Younger kids will love Giggly Park, an exciting children’s play zone. Your admission also grants you a feast of daily shows, from Sea Lion spectacles to lemur talks.

Book a stay at award-winning Safari Lodges for a fantastic UK staycation, which combines luxury with unmatched animal views.

Your escape to the wild awaits!

• Driving Time: 3 hours, 5 minutes
• Nearest Train Station: Kidderminster

6. Knowsley Safari Experience

Location: Prescot L34 4AN

Distance from Central London: 208 Miles

Spanning 550 acres and home to 700 animals, Knowsley is a safari of wonders. The park offers the UK’s longest safari drive at 5 miles long.

Whether you self-drive or hop on the park’s Baboon Bus, you’re in for a treat.

Don’t miss the thee monkey jungle, with its cheeky baboons, which promises laughs and delightful interactions.

But the experience continues after the drive. The Foot Safari beckons next.

Walk through woodlands and encounter mischievous meerkats, tall giraffes, and cheeky Sea Lions.

Challenge yourself with the ‘Dinner Dash’ sprint game and see if you can outrun an Amur Tiger!

• Driving Time: 4 hours
• Nearest Train Station: Prescot

Map of the Best UK Safari Parks

Final Words

Whether you’re looking for the perfect day trip from London or a short break away from the city, these are some of the best safari parks in the UK to visit.

Kids will have an unforgettable experience observing lions, watching the mischievous antics of baboons and having a closeup experience that’s different to what you might find at a zoo.

Now, all that is left is to plan your trip.

If you’re looking for more animal experiences in and around London, read our guide to the best farms and zoos in London or discover more of the best day trips from London or kids’ days out in London .

Have you visited any of these UK safari parks recently?

Let us know your experiences in the comments below!

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The Best Safari Parks in the UK

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If you are looking for the best safari parks in the UK to visit, look no further!

Safari parks are a great way to see animals in a habitat that provides them with a more natural environment than traditional cages in a zoo. They are fun, educational and more ethical than many zoos . So what are you waiting for? All you need to do is decide which safari park in the UK to visit…

What is a safari park?

#1 knowsley safari park, #2 longleat safari park, #3 blair drummond safari park, the best safari parks in the uk.

In a similar way to a zoo, a safari park is somewhere you can go to see large animals that would usually be in the wild. Safari parks tend to be larger than zoos. However, they are smaller than a game reserve.

The best safari parks in the UK and beyond will have a wide range of animals from different continents. Animals tend to roam freely, and many will come right up to your car window to say hello – this is why it is vital that guests follow the park guidelines when visiting.

Safari parks are a drive-through wildlife attraction . Depending on the location, guests will either drive their own car through the park or ride larger vehicles provided by the facility. These are likely to be jeep-style cars, or minibuses.

Often, safari parks will have ‘walk around’ areas too. These sections are more like a zoo. Animals which are considered to be too dangerous (or too small!) to roam freely will be located in safe enclosures that guests can walk up to. You’ll find cafés, toilets, play areas and shops in the walk around areas of a safari park.

Many of the best safari parks in the UK (and elsewhere) have conservation programmes too. This ensures the animals are protected as well as being bred so the species does not become extinct. Entrance fees go towards these programmes. On top of this, many safari parks have other tourist attractions combined. This might be a golf course, theme park, cable cars, hotels or something else entirely!

The UK is home to eight safari parks. These are:

• South Lakes Wild Animal Park, Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria
• Knowsley Safari Park, Knowsley, Merseyside
• West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley, West Mids
• Whipsnade Zoo and Safari Park, Dunstable, Bedfordshire
• Woburn Safari Park, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire 
• Howletts Wild Animal Park, Canterbury, Kent
• Longleat Safari Park, Warminster, Wiltshire 
• Blair Drummond Safari Park, Stirling, Stirlingshire 

With seven safari parks in England and one in Scotland, there is a variety to choose from when looking for the best safari parks in the UK. Below you will find a breakdown of three of the best parks. Whether you want to cruise with the crocodiles or zip past some zebras, a trip to a safari park is a great day out!

Located in Knowsley, Merseyside, this is one of the best safari parks in the UK.

Knowsley Safari Park opened in 1971, and has a land area of 550 acres. There are over 700 animals here. With links to Liverpool, Chester and Manchester universities as well as great conservation projects, the safari park contributes a lot.

Knowsley Safari Park offers  self-driven experience, and the 5-mile safari drive is the longest in the UK. Broken up into 11 different zones, you’ll be able to spot lions, rhino, camels, bison and so much more. The zones are:

• Zones 1 and 11: Eastern Asia, home to Père David’s deer, Kiang, Yak and Bactrian camel.
• Zones 2 and 8: Southern Asia, home to Nilgai, Chital, Eld’s deer, Barasingha and Blackbuck.
• Zones 3, 4 and 6: the African Savannah, home to Southern White Rhino, Wildebeest, Eland, Roan antelope, Lechwe, African Forest Buffalo, ostrich, waterbuck and Plains Zebra .
• Zone 5 – the African Woodland, home to Bongo and Blesbok.
• Zone 7 – the African Savannah, home to the Olive baboons only.
• Zone 9 – Eurasia, home to Fallow deer, European Moose and European bison.
• Zone 10 – the African Savannah, home to the lions and the Somali wild ass.

The tour gives you the option to skip section 7: the baboons. This is because some guests don’t want to risk any damage their vehicles, as these clever and curious animals have been known to pull wing mirrors off, open roof boxes and more!

With tickets starting at £13.50 and free entry for under 3s as well as an annual pass option, Knowsley Safari Park is a great day out in Merseyside. It is easily one of the biggest and best safari parks in the UK, too.

Located in Wiltshire, Longleat was the first drive-through safari experience outside of Africa.

The safari park opened in 1966. The safari park is situated in the grounds of Longleat House, a stately home. With an area of 9000 acres, Longleat is one of the best safari parks in the UK. It is split into different sections which you can drive through in your own car – or book a VIP experience to jump into a jeep, feed the lions and more!

The route goes something like this: first you’ll drive through Bongo Pass and then see some Eland Deer, before driving through African Village. You can get out here to access the East African Viewing Platform as well as toilets, shops and refreshment areas. Get back in your car and continue the drive to see giraffes, wildebeest, zebras and vultures. You can also choose whether or not to go through the monkey drive-through section!

Carry on to see elephants at Anne’s Haven, then go round to Big Game Park where you’ll see camels and other game animals. Next you’ll see more deer at Deer Park, before heading round to Tiger Territory. Then it’s on to Lion County, Cheetah Kingdom and Hyena Hideout. The last stop is Wolf Wood. Then you’ll come to the end of your Longleat drive-through safari route.

There are so many animals to see here. They are well looked after and a joy to experience. With a range of price points on offer, an annual pass option and various group booking options too, Longleat is a popular day out in this part of the UK. You can even get married here!

Longleat has its own miniature railway, which is well-loved by visitors and famous within the train community. It is one of the busiest in the country, and well worth riding while you’re there. The 2 km journey takes you through beautiful scenic woodland as well as along the edge of Half Mile Lake.

The only safari experience in Scotland is also one of the best safari parks in the UK. Located in Stirling, it is set across 120 acres. Blair Drummond is easily accessible from around the UK and there are convenient trains from London to Stirling .

The park is home to over 350 animals, and is open from mid March until the end of October annually. Opened in 1970 with the help of Jimmy Chipperfield (who opened Longleat, too) it was one of the UK’s early safari parks.

There is a safari bus option or you can take your own car as you venture through the different areas of Blair Drummond Safari Park. There are four reserves here:

• The African Reserve, home to non-carnivorous native African species. These include Grant’s zebra, guineafowl, Kudu, Ankole-Watusi cattle, Lechwe and Southern white rhinoceros. 
• The Lion Reserve, home to African lions and African lions only. This section is part of a European breeding programme.
• Barbary Macaque Reserve, home to the monkeys – specifically Barbary macaques, re-homed from Gibraltar in 2014. This section is optional, so guests who want to ensure their car is protected can skip this area.
• The Asian Reserve, home to herbivores Asian species. These include Bactrian camels, Eld’s deer, Axis deer, Nilgai and Père David’s deer. 

There is also a walk around area at Blair Drummond . Head over a bridge to Lemur Land to see a whole variety of lemurs: ring-tailed, brown, black and black-and-white ruffled lemurs live here. They roam free here. With feeding tables around the walkway, you can get up close and personal with these lovely lemurs. You’ll also spot some Somali sheep, two African spurred tortoises and some red river hogs here too!

Hop onto the boat safari to see Chimp Island, and say hi to Gondola the African elephant while you walk around the park. You can also watch bird of prey displays, and visit the farm. Here you’ll be able to see, feed and pet various animals. These include pygmy goats, llamas, horses, ponies, pigs and many more – with exotic animals like Humboldt penguins and common dwarf mongooses too…

This is certainly one of the best safari parks in the UK for breeding and conservation. In 2016, the park welcomed two Pére David’s deer in the world – they are now extinct in the wild. Similarly, the rhinos here are part of a breeding program as are the lions. The rhinos have had five calves, and two of the current female lions were born here too.

So there you have it- the 3 best safari parks in the UK. Not convenient to visit any of these? Well, there are 8 in total, so you should be able to reach at least one without too much difficulty. If you’re in London, then don’t forget to visit these 4 exciting London attractions for animal lovers too! During times when you can’t see these animals in their native homelands or if you are embracing a staycation , a visit to the best safari parks in the UK can make a fantastic addition to any travel itinerary!

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Exploring the Wild: The Best Safari Parks in England

England, with its diverse landscapes and commitment to wildlife conservation, offers some remarkable safari parks that allow you to get up close and personal with a variety of magnificent animals. In this article, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the best safari parks in England, where you can embark on an adventure to witness the wonders of the animal kingdom.

Longleat Safari Park, Wiltshire

In the stunning Longleat Estate in Wiltshire, Longleat Safari Park is one of the most iconic safari experiences in England. Established in 1966, it was the first drive-through safari park outside of Africa. Visitors can embark on a self-guided safari tour through the park’s expansive grounds, encountering lions, tigers, elephants, and other majestic creatures along the way. In addition to the safari drive, Longleat offers a wide range of attractions, including the enchanting Longleat House, Hedge Maze, and the Jungle Kingdom, making it a fantastic family destination.

Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire

Woburn Safari Park, located on the picturesque grounds of Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. This safari park boasts an impressive array of animals, from cheeky monkeys to graceful giraffes. The ‘Road Safari’ provides an immersive experience as you journey through different enclosures filled with exotic species. After the drive, explore the foot safari area, where you can get even closer to the animals and enjoy activities such as talks and demonstrations.

Knowsley Safari Park, Merseyside

Set in a sprawling 2,500-acre estate in Merseyside, Knowsley Safari Park is a captivating destination for those seeking a safari adventure. This park is renowned for its drive-through safari experience, which allows you to observe a diverse range of animals, including rhinos, camels, and baboons, from the comfort of your car. Knowledgeable rangers provide fascinating insights into the animals’ behavior during the safari tour. After the drive, take a stroll through the amusement park, where you can encounter sea lions, meerkats, and birds of prey up close.

West Midland Safari Park, Worcestershire

Nestled in the heart of Worcestershire, the West Midland Safari Park offers a thrilling safari experience combined with an amusement park and adventure activities. The drive-through safari takes you on a journey through different zones, each teeming with unique animal species. Highlights include the African Plains, where you can spot graceful giraffes and majestic rhinos, and the Wild Woods, home to playful lemurs and mischievous macaques. Additionally, the park boasts an array of rides and attractions suitable for visitors of all ages.

Port Lympne Reserve, Kent

Port Lympne Reserve in Kent is not just a safari park; it’s a conservation success story. This 600-acre reserve is part of the Aspinall Foundation’s efforts to protect endangered species. Visitors can explore the reserve via a guided safari experience, getting close to animals like gorillas, tigers, and black rhinos. The park also offers luxury accommodations, allowing you to stay overnight in the heart of the reserve and hear the sounds of the wild as you drift off to sleep.

While England may not have the sprawling savannas of Africa, it offers its own unique and captivating safari experiences. The country’s best safari parks provide an opportunity to witness a wide range of animals in a controlled and educational setting. From the historic Longleat Safari Park to the conservation-focused Port Lympne Reserve, there’s a safari park in England to suit every wildlife enthusiast’s taste. So, pack your camera, hop in your car, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the best safari parks in England, where the wild is closer than you think.

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5 of the Best Safari Parks in the UK

April 25, 2022, written by shayle follows, koalas, lions, tigers, and giraffes, oh my we love visiting a safari park. here are 5 of the best safari parks in the uk. we have visited all 5, and they do not disappoint..

We love to witness wildlife running freely and learn about them. Nothing is worse than visiting a safari park where the animals aren’t cared for and the facilities are not great. To avoid disappointment, here are 5 safari parks in the UK we highly recommend you visit.

1. Longleat Safari Park

I hope I’m not the only person who grew up racing home from school to watch Animal Park. As a child, I longed to visit Longleat Safari Park ; as an adult, when I finally got the chance to go, it did not disappoint! I’ve visited it countless times since and in my opinion, it’s the best UK safari park. Here, you will explore various species of animals worldwide, including lions, tigers, wolves, koalas, porcupines and even sea lions.

First of all, it’s excellent value for money. Ticket prices change depending on the date you plan to visit. Your ticket isn’t just for the safari park; it includes a walk-through and on-foot animal attractions like Koala Creek, Jungle Cruise and Family Farmyard. Your ticket includes Main Square attractions, including Adventure Castle, Rockin’ Rhino, Jungle Cruise and the Hedge Maze. If that was not enough…Longleat grounds, gardens and special seasonal park events are also included.

They also offer VIP experiences and lovely once-in-a-lifetime opportunities designed to give you the best behind-the-scenes access and interaction with their wildlife. They are perfect if you’re celebrating something special or just a great treat for yourself.

You can book tickets here.

Conservation

Longleat Safari Park supports several conservation projects based all over the world and locally. They share their expertise, raise awareness and fund vital fieldwork. In Asia, they work to support red pandas and other wildlife that share their habitat. In Australia, they work to support the southern koala and assist with bushfire recovery. They keep a wide range of species in Africa, but all are coordinated through their conservation partner, TUSK.

Click here to learn more about field conservation projects, breeding programmes, and research Longleat Safari Park support.

2. West Midland Safari Park

Have you ever fancied feeding a Giraffe? Well, you can do just that at West Midland Safari Park and many other animals. This is probably one of the most hands-on safari parks we have ever visited and certainly one of the best safari parks in the UK.

The safari will take you on an adventure through African Plains, Wild Asia, Carnivores, The Borderlands and finally, elephants. You will spot southern white rhino, giraffe, zebra, prized Ankole cattle, ellipsen waterbuck, Congo buffalo, swamp-loving red lechwe, eland, armoured Indian rhino, lions, tigers, cheetahs, African painted dogs and many more species.

This safari park is also fantastic value for money; prices are subject to change throughout the year. Admission-only tickets include the safari, Red Panda Retreat, Ice Age, Land of the Living Dinosaurs, Boj’s Giggly Park, Lorikeet Landing, the Sea Lion Show, Reptile World, Penguin Cove, African Village, Hippo Lakes, Aquarium, Creepy Crawlies, Twilight Cave, Meerkat Mayhem, Lemur Woods, daily feeds, talks and animal encounters. You can buy wristbands for the rides separately. You can book tickets here.

West Midland Safari Park supports research projects from an annually revised internal priority projects list. They collaborate on projects initiated by external researchers from endangered species breeding programmes, other parks, national and international conservation bodies and universities.

Click here to learn more about field conservation projects, breeding programmes, and research West Midlands Safari Park support.

3. Knowsley Safari Park

Fancy a trip to the UK’s longest safari drive-through? It’s at Knowsley Safari Park and is a five-mile stretch. So, rain or shine, you’ll likely get a great glimpse of the park’s wildlife. The safari drive-through is set out in different zones, and you receive a free map and stickers to mark the animals you see along the way. This is a fantastic learning exercise for kids. You’ll spot rhinos, wildebeest, forest buffalo, lions, wolves, camels, and many more species.

Day tickets also include a wander around their foot safari; here, you can enjoy sea lion displays, a tiger trail, play areas, amusement rides, and many more animals. You can also take the family on a rowing boat on Mizzy Lake or a woodland walk through their Wild Trail. There is so much for the family to do here. You can book tickets here.

The team at Knowsley Safari Park are very passionate about conservation. They have a conservation team that develops conservation partnerships and highlights conservation programs for guests to learn about and maintain conservation goals. They raise awareness within local and global communities.

Click here to learn more about field conservation projects, breeding programmes and research Knowsley Safari Park support.

If you can’t decide between Knowsley Safari Park and West Midlands Safari Park, we have compared the two in this blog post. When choosing between the two parks, it’s essential to consider the differences that may sway your decision. For instance, Knowsley Safari Park boasts a more extensive collection of animals, while West Midland Safari Park offers a broader range of attractions and experiences. If you prefer a more hands-on experience, The West Midland Safari Park allows you to feed many animals. However, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective day out, especially with a group, Knowsley Safari Park may be the better option.

4. Woburn Safari Park

Featuring a road safari and a foot safari, Woburn Safari Park is a brilliant choice for a fun and educational day out. This expansive wild animal park is home to over 80 species of animals living in 360 acres of parkland. The road safari takes 60-90 minutes and guides you through beautiful parkland, where you can witness animals running freely.

We love that you can repeat the drive-through safari as many times as you like. Each time you go around, you will have a different experience! You will finish at the foot safari, where you can wander amongst smaller animals, watch keeper talks and explore the leisure area. You can book tickets here.

Woburn Safari Park is on a mission to help protect the long-term future of many vulnerable animal species. They make a direct contribution to in-situ and ex-situ conservation projects. They raise funds for animal charities, educate visitors and raise awareness of conservation issues and involvement in endangered animal breeding programmes.

Click here to learn more about field conservation projects, breeding programmes, and research Woburn Safari Park support.

5. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park is home to over 300 animals; you can visit them all on foot, too. The park features raised viewing platforms, meaning you can get up close and personal with giraffes, lions, and tigers. There is a lovely pet corner for those who prefer smaller animals. On the safari, you will see rhinos, antelope, camels and the majestic lion pride, all from the comfort of your car.

When you finish your safari, there is much more to do at this park. There is a prehistoric forest for you to explore and walk among life-size dinosaurs, a sea lion show, keeper talks, chimps on their private island, a giant play fort, a pirate ship, rope swings and a sandpit; the adventure play park is a fantastic way for kids to run off their energy. You can book tickets here.

This is one of the UK’s leading zoos, and they care for the animal’s welfare here to an exceptional standard. They collaborate with other zoos and charities to help educate people and work together to preserve some of the world’s most endangered species. They support conservation projects around the globe.

Click here to learn more about field conservation projects, breeding programmes, and research Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park support.

These are our top 5 picks as the best safari parks in the UK. Safari parks are a great way to please the entire family and enjoy a day out, making memories while learning about Earth’s precious animals and wildlife.

We love to make a weekend adventure and travel to try different ones. Let us know your favourite UK safari park in the comments.

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Best Safari Parks in the UK

Mini travellers.

Updated on: 2nd August 2023

Whilst many dream of a Safari Holiday , Safari parks in the UK are an amazing alternative and a fabulous introduction to not only some wonderful animals but the conservation of those animals too.

The UK offers some of the best safari park experiences in Europe, from drive-through experiences at Longleat, to walkthrough experiences like the foot safari at Woburn Safari Park, there are so many options to choose from. And all of them are guaranteed good days out!

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The UK’s Best Safari Parks

Knowsley safari park – best safari in england.

This is our local safari park. Knowsley Safari Park located in Merseyside offers the longest safari drive in the UK, covering over 550 acres of land. Visitors can enjoy up-close experiences with African lions, white rhinos, and bison from the comfort of their own cars. For those who are hesitant about driving through the baboon enclosure, the baboon bus offers a safe alternative. On the foot safari, guests can see a range of animals, including Amur tigers, giraffes, meerkats, bush dogs, birds of prey, sea lions, and tapirs. The park also offers daily animal talks and shows.

Knowsley Safari Park has a dedicated conservation team that works on educating visitors and the wider public about their critical projects. The team also actively works with endangered species, such as monitoring and anti-poaching activities, and fixing fences to reduce human conflict in their natural habitats. By visiting Knowsley Safari Park, guests can support these important conservation efforts.

You can read our review of Knowsley Safari Park here.

• Address: Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot. L34 4AN
• Website:  https://www.knowsleysafariexperience.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your  Knowsley Safari Park tickets  here

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park – Safari Parks in the UK

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park safari park offers an unforgettable experience that can be enjoyed as a day trip or a longer getaway. While the luxurious safari lodges provide an incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with animals such as tigers, rhinos and elephants, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy too, including a drive-through safari and village walk .

Whether you opt to drive your own car or join a guided minibus tour, the safari drive will take you on a thrilling journey through habitats filled with African lions, giraffes, zebras, wild dogs, cheetahs, and antelopes. Additionally, the Wild Asia area offers a chance to see Indian rhinos, swamp deer, and blackbucks.

The  safari  park is split into two different parts, a safari area and a walk around zoo type area which also includes theme park rides. We began our day in the walk-through part of the safari. This part of the park is home to penguins, bats, creepy crawlies, sealions, snakes, meerkats, lemurs, fish and hippos.   

The safari park now includes an Adventure Theme Park . Along with the animal attractions , visitors can also enjoy a variety of rides and attractions such as virtual reality experiences, rollercoasters, and log flumes, among others. However, please note that these rides require an additional fee.

Click here for our review of West Midland Safari Park

• Address: West Midland Safari Park . Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF
• Website:  https://www.wmsp.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your  WMSP tickets  here

Longleat Safari Park – UK Best Safari Park?

Longleat Safari Park , nestled in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside, is an ideal destination for a family-friendly day out. As you stroll through the main park, you’ll come across various enclosures housing an array of creatures, from creepy crawlies to wild cats and primates.

At specific times during the day, you can board a jungle cruise and venture out onto the vast lake on the estate. If you’re fortunate enough, you might catch a glimpse of hippos in the shallow waters or the silverback lowland gorilla and his family residing on the island in the center. Keep your eyes peeled! Additionally, the boat ride provides an opportunity to feed the resident sea lions, who swim and frolic beside the vessel, hoping to snag a fish.

Naturally, the highlight of your visit to Longleat is the self-drive safari. The Wiltshire plains are home to three of the big five: lions, rhinos, and Anne the elephant, as well as cheetahs, wolves, tigers, and deer. Provided you drive responsibly and keep your windows closed, the animals are familiar with vehicles and can offer some extraordinary encounters.

Longleat also offers additional experiences

Such as giraffe feeding, a lemur walkthrough, and monkey mayhem. Also during the latter, the rhesus macaques have free reign to clamber all over your vehicle and take whatever piques their interest! You may opt to ride the safari bus for this reason.

Longleat Safari Park is dedicated to conservation efforts on a global scale. Whether it’s breeding programs aimed at restoring the populations of wild dogs and black rhinos in Tanzania or supporting the conservation work of the Red Panda Network in Nepal, Longleat depends on contributions and purchases from its guests to aid in these vital endeavors. When you visit Longleat, you’ll be making a significant contribution towards these efforts.

• Address: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW
• Website:  https://www.longleat.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your  Longleat tickets  here

You can read Mummy Travel’s review of Koala Creek at Longleat Safari Park , Wiltshire here.

Port Lympne – Best Safari Parks in the UK

One of the most impressive safari parks in the UK is Port Lympne, situated in Kent . This game reserve offers the nearest experience to Africa in the UK, complete with safari drives and a range of lodge-style accommodations for an ultimate overnight stay.

On foot, you can explore various enclosures within the main park that are home to magnificent animals like lynxes, gorillas, and brown bears. While larger pens house lions, tigers, and cheetahs. You can also plan your visit alongside the ranger talk schedule for a chance to learn more about these incredible creatures and have any queries addressed!

Similar to Longleat, the park features vast open plains where giraffes, zebras, and antelopes reside. However, the only way to observe them is by joining a tour led by a knowledgeable guide who will take you and a group of others out into the wilderness on a safari canter. You’ll have the good fortune of seeing these animals in their natural habitats (or as close to it as possible in the Kent countryside), as well as rhinos, elephants, wild dogs, and other uncommon species fenced in.

What makes this place really special is the Aspinall Foundation’s link to conservation efforts in Africa and beyond. Thus Port Lympne has a hugely successful breeding programme that has returned various animals to the wild, including five eastern black rhinos, two cheetahs and over 60 gorillas. At each enclosure, you’ll be able to read whether the animals inside are candidates for reintroduction, and there are dedicated teams at the park who will be more than willing to tell you more when you visit.

You can also stay at Rhino Lodge, Port Lympne animal reserve .

• Address: Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe. CT21 4LR
• Website:  https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/
• Tickets: Get your  Pork Lympne tickets  here

Woburn Safari Park – Safari Parks in the UK

At Woburn Safari Park, you can witness over 80 rare and endangered species in their Bedfordshire home. Similar to other safari parks in the UK, your adventure may begin with a drive-through safari, allowing you to explore different regions of the world from the comfort of your own car. Here, you can see rare horses, bison, wildebeest, camels, southern white rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, monkeys and zebras.

The Kingdom of the Carnivores is a must-visit area at Woburn Safari Park, where you can catch a glimpse of Amur tigers, timberwolves, black bears, and lions, each residing in their spacious enclosures. The self-drive safari loop takes around 60 minutes to complete, and the adventure doesn’t end there. You can explore the foot safari and spot smaller animals such as parrots, meerkats, wallabies, otters, lemurs, sea lions, penguins, squirrel monkeys, red pandas, and many more.

When you purchase a ticket to Woburn Safari Park, you’re supporting the team’s efforts to sustain the animal population on-site, as well as their involvement in critical conservation work around the world. The park supports various projects, including the International Elephant Foundation, the Wildcats Conservation Alliance, and Helping Rhinos. By visiting the park, you’re contributing to these worthy causes.

You can read our review of Woburn Safari Park here and one from Mummy Travel’s of a family day out at Woburn Safari Park here.

• Address: Woburn Safari Park, Crawley Rd, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford. MK43 0TU
• Website:  https://www.woburnsafari.co.uk/
• Tickets: Get your  Woburn Safari Park tickets  here

Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park – Safari Parks in Scotland

Blair Drummond, situated near Stirling, is undoubtedly one of the finest safari parks in Scotland, and even in the entire UK. Apart from the well-known safari animals such as lions and rhinos that can be spotted on the drive-through section, the park is home to an extensive range of intriguing and endangered species. With over 300 animals, including Highland cattle, red ruffed lemurs, and llamas, the foot safari promises an exciting and jam-packed day out.

Blair Drummond places great emphasis on conservation efforts. Since 2014, the park has provided more than £192k in funding to conservation projects, which has helped to cover the costs of anti-poaching teams, their equipment, and the fight against deforestation.

You can read a review of Blair Drummond safari park at Halloween here.

• Address: Blair Drummond, Stirling. FK9 4UR
• Website:  https://www.blairdrummond.com/
• Tickets: Get your  Blair Drummond  tickets here

Chessington Safari Resort – Safari Park to stay in

For a unique type of safari experience, check out Chessington Safari Resort. With a range of themed rooms, you can see animals whilst you sleep.

Choose between exquisitely themed rooms with views over the enclosures of your favourite animals. The giraffe room, tiger room, penguin room and monkey mayhem room overlook the Wanyama reserve.

You can also do Explorer Glamping at Chessington too.

• Address: Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Rd, Chessington. KT9 2NE
• Website:  https://www.chessington.com/
• Tickets: Get your Chessington World of Adventures tickets here

Karen Beddow founded Mini Travellers in 2014 while doing what she loves most...going on holiday!

Mini Travellers is for parents looking for holiday ideas, destination reviews, days out and things to do with the kids. We also have family travel tips, activity ideas and all other things family holiday related. Take a look at some of our latest reviews for holidays and day trips in the UK.

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WOBURN SAFARI PARK: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

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Outdoors Family Adventures

Best UK Safari Parks For You To Explore

There are some amazing UK Safari Parks for you to visit, each UK Safari Park offers a unique experience for you to get up close and personal with animals, you normally wouldn’t get a chance to, but which is the Best UK Safari Parks to visit, read on and make your mind which is the one you’d like to visit.

Best Safari Parks in the UK To Visit

Blair drummond safari park.

Location : Stirling, Scotland, FK9 4UR

Blair Drummond offers two experiences, a drive-thru safari and a walking safari.

Safari drive-thru A wild adventure, all from the safety of your car. You’ll see rhinos, antelope, camels and the magnificent lion pride. And don’t forget all those cheeky monkeys in the macaque section too.

There are a few safety rules to follow. Make sure all your windows are shut. Soft tops are not permitted in the lion and macaque reserves!

Explore on foot – There are over 300 animals at Blair Drummond, and you can visit them all on foot.

Raised viewing platforms mean exciting eye-to-eye views of the giraffes, lions and tigers, or why not say hello to the friendly animals in Pets Farm?

Watch out for Lemur Land too, where all the cheeky lemurs are free-roaming!

For all the latest information check out their facebook page

For further information CLICK HERE

Knowsley Safari Park

Location : Prescot L34 4AN

The 550-acre Safari Drive is home to many animals from around the world. From Bactrian Camels and White Rhino to Baboons and African Lions, you can see them all as you drive around the grounds.

The route is split into different continental zones where you’ll drive through many habitats and see our collection of animals along the way. Once you’ve finished your roar-some experience, you can head down to the Foot Safari – both experiences are included in your ticket!

Knowsley Foot Safari offers everything you need for a wild day out! With walking trails through woodlands and Tiger enclosures, animal habitats, rides and amusements for every age, and play areas and animal displays to keep the little ones entertained all day long.

You can take a walk through the Amur Tiger Trail, full of viewing spots where you can come nose-to-nose with Miron, test your speed in the ‘Dinner Dash’ sprint game – can you outrun an Amur Tiger?!

Meet the mischievous Meerkats, giant Giraffes and smiling Sea Lions all in one Foot Safari. Add to your adventure a peaceful woodland walk which leads you past the beautiful waterfall. A perfect day out near Liverpool for teenagers and toddlers alike.

Knepp Wildlife Safari

Location : New Barn Farm, Swallows Ln, Dial Post, Horsham RH13 8NN

The expert safari guides take you into the heart of the Knepp Wildland Project, 3,500 acres of stunning natural habitat, heaving with wildlife.

Safaris are either vehicle-based in an open-sided Austrian Pinzgauer or guided on foot.

On a walking safari you’ll need a level of fitness that enables you to walk at a gentle pace on uneven ground for 2-3 hours.

On vehicle safaris there will be plenty of opportunities to stop at sites of interest and walk around

Longleat Safari Park

Location : Warminster BA12 7NW

Wind up your windows. Hide all the sandwiches. You’re going on a safari tour that’s wilder, furrier and growlier than you ever dared imagine.

Don’t forget to download the award-winning  Longleat App ! It’s the perfect, pocket-sized guide to the Drive Through Safari. Including exclusive audio commentary by Animal Park’s Kate Humble to guide you through the incredible animals, triggered by your location as you drive.

Then put your walking shoes on, it’s time to meet furry, scaly and feathery friends on foot.

From snoozing Southern koalas to snapping Cuban crocodiles, see how many animals you can spot on the Walking Safari.

Port Lympne Safari Park

Location : Aldington Rd, Lympne, Hythe CT21 4LR

Visit Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for an unforgettable safari experience set against hundreds of acres of stunning Kentish savannah.

Get ready to see over 800 rare and endangered animals, go on safari to see the free-roaming giraffes, see Kent’s only spectacled bears, the UK’s largest dinosaur collection and MUCH MUCH more…

Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve offers a unique family adventure like no other zoo!

Set in over 600 acres, you’ll see big cats, small cats, primates, gorillas and many more animals before discovering life sized prehistoric creatures in Dinosaur Forest!

Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

Location : Watlington Rd, King’s Lynn PE33 0RG

Watatunga is an award-winning wildlife reserve offering a unique opportunity to experience a safari in Norfolk.

Dedicated to the conservation of endangered deer, antelope and birds, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve allows you to learn about the animals and stunning scenery from your electric buggy, which you drive on the guided tours.

The animals roam free in the reserve without restrictive cages and pens – meaning that they choose when to be seen and when to hide up with their young.

It can’t be guaranteed what you’ll see each time but you can be sure that whatever does make an appearance is in the most natural element that can be created for it.

Grazing on the rich grasslands, drinking at the lakeside or even concealing themselves amidst the ferns and the woodland floor.

West Midlands Safari Park

Location : Spring Grove, Bewdley DY12 1LF

West Midland Safari Park is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered animal species.

You can either do a drive-thru with your own vehicle or take a Minibus Safari Tour. This is a great experience for the whole family, where the knowledgeable minibus drivers take you around the Safari Drive-through!

They’ll have special tales to tell you and provide great entertainment for adults and children alike!

Are you ready to go on Safari and get up close to incredible animals from around the world?

Woburn Safari Park

Location : Crawley Rd, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford MK43 0TU

Start your adventure with a Road Safari drive through sweeping parkland reserves, where you’ll see wonderful wild animals with the freedom to roam in acres and acres of beautiful countryside.

You can repeat circuits as many times as you like because each trip around is a different experience. You’ll see the wonderful animal residents; they might be a windscreens width away or a little more distant, enjoying their vast spacious home.

The Road Safari takes approximately 60-90 minutes and each circuit is a new experience and a new opportunity to get up close to some of the most endangered animals on the planet!

The route finishes up in the Foot Safari where you can walk around and visit smaller mammals and watch fascinating keeper talks and demonstrations.

Check out other animal experiences

Related Posts

The Best Safari Parks in the UK

If you are at a loose end and looking for ideas of things to do with the kids in the UK you really are spoilt for choice. Days out with the kids can be as simple as a trip to the park, a stroll through the Gruffalo woods or a full on day of planned fun day in London . If you find yourself with some time off as a family, then why not visit one of the best Safari Parks in the UK or a zoo will always be an all-round pleaser for all ages.

Table of Contents

Are there Safari Parks in the UK?

In a word, yes. OK, so it’s not the African plains but the UK has a lot of safari parks to visit including some drive-through safaris. Visitors to the safari parks in the UK can drive through the animal exhibits, which contain species such as rhino, elephants, tigers, lions and wolves. Beware of the cheeky monkeys who will often jump onto your car bonnet and play with the windscreen wipers!

READ: If you want to go on a real safari, read our ‘ Ultimate Guide to Kenya with Kids ‘

How Many Safari Parks are there in the UK?

In total there are six main safari parks in the UK plus 48 zoos and a number of other wildlife centres. In our opinion this leaves you spoilt for choice with so many zoos in the UK when looking for a place to see wildlife and exotic animals in the UK.

What is the Most Beautiful Safari Park in Britain?

Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire is one of the premier safari parks in the UK and one of the oldest. It is also famous for its stunning Elizabethan house and grounds – with the biggest maze in the country alongside a drive-through safari park.

MORE READING: Check out this African Safari in Kenya

What is the Biggest Safari Park in the UK?

Knowsley Safari has a 5-mile safari drive which is the longest in the UK. Broken up into 11 different zones, this 550-acre drive-through safari is home to many animals from around the world in as close to natural conditions as possible.

What is a Drive through Safari?

Some safari parks in the UK have a drive through. A drive through-safari means that you can drive your own family car through the animal exhibits. You will have a route, rules and a speed limit to follow but it means that you can get up close to some of nature’s finest beasts. Some zoos also offer a safari style experience where you can be driven through in a special safari bus or vehicle.

Best Safari Parks in the UK

Safari parks in wiltshire, longleat safari park.

Longleat, Wiltshire

Longleat Safari Park s in the UK is bursting with adventure where tigers roam, sea lions splash and koalas hang out. There is so much to do at Longleat including a beach, Jungle Cruise, Longleat railway and a drive through safari. There are also VIP experiences where you can feed tigers! Nestled within the Wiltshire countryside you will see lions, tigers, wolves, koalas and porcupines. There is a farmyard, maze, Adventure Castle, Rockin’ Rhino and vast grounds and gardens.

Prices: Adult (16 +) £36.95; Child (3-15) £27.70; under 2s free.

Open daily from 10.00am closing times vary throughout the year. Pre-booking tickets online in advance is essential.

Drive through safari: Yes

Safari Parks in Bedford

Woburn safari park.

Ridgmont, Bedford

Woburn Safari Park s in the UK is a UK drive-through safari park nestled in over 300 acres of beautiful Bedfordshire parkland. Throughout the holidays they often have themed events for children that include Peppa Peg and Hey Duggee. The Road Safari drive takes approximately 60-90 minutes and there is a Foot Safari and Leisure Area, where you’ll find animal enclosures with exotic and aquatic species and plenty of fun outdoor activities for the whole family. Woburn Safari Park is home to more than 80 species of exotic and endangered animals including elephants, lions, tigers, giraffes, monkeys and many more.

Online prices: Adult £28.99; Child (3-15) £20.99; under 3s free.

Open daily until 13th November 2022 from 9.30am last entry 4.45pm

Safari Parks in Worcestershire

West midlands safari park.

Bewdley, Worcestershire

West Midland Safari Park s in the UK is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered animal species. It includes a safari drive-through, theme park and also luxury lodges. You will see southern white rhino and elegant giraffes. Wonder at zebras, Ankole cattle, ellipsen waterbuck, Congo buffalo, red lechwe and the eland, largest of all antelope species.

The park is also home to many majestic big cats as well as African elephants. The Adventure Theme Park is open daily from 19th February 2022 – 30th October 2022. Your little ones will love Boj’s Giggly Park, the multi-sensory play area where kids can explore and play in the five interactive zones, designed specifically for younger visitors.

Prices: Adult  £25.00; Child (3-15) £20.00;  Student £22.00; under 3s free,

Open daily from 9.30am – last entry 5.00pm; rides open at 11.00am and close at 6.00pm.

Safari Parks in Merseyside

Knowsley safari.

Prescot, Merseyside

Knowsley Safari has an impressive 5-mile wild animal safari drive, which is the longest in the UK, and is currently home to over 750 animals. The drive is broken up into different zones where you will drive through and see animals in as close to natural conditions as we can achieve. You’ll see lions, rhino with wildebeest and forest buffalo, not to mention camels, nilgai and kiang and bison.  There are things to explore and wild rides.

To enjoy the rides you can either buy a wristband at the information centre that will give you unlimited access all day or buy tokens for just one or two of your favourites.

Online Prices: Adults, £18.50; Children (3-15 years) £15.00; under 3s free; Concessions (60+) £15.00

Open daily from 10.00am – 6.30pm

Safari Parks in Kent

Port lympne safari park.

Hythe, Kent

Visit Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for an unforgettable safari experience set against hundreds of acres of the Kent countryside. With an Indian rhino to meet and family-favourite kids’ characters the kids will be thoroughly entertained. The 600 acre reserve has endangered animals, walks with stunning views and historic landscaped gardens.

There is also a Dinosaur Forest, you’ll also find some of the fiercest creatures that ever roamed the earth lurking amongst the undergrowth. Expert rangers can guide you as part of a small group on a unique safari to meet one of Africa’s Big Five, the black rhino and the critically endangered Rothschild giraffes.

Online prices: Adult £27.00 – £29 ; Child £24.00 – £26 ; Adult Concession, £24.55.

Open 9.30am to 5pm. Closed Christmas Day.

Drive through safari: Yes, but it is guided and in one of their vehicles.

Safari Parks in Scotland

Blair drummond safari park.

Stirling, Scotland

Located on a flat 160-acre estate just outside Stirling, Blair Drummond is Central Scotland’s most exciting animal park. There are over 300 animals and you can visit them all on foot. Raised viewing platforms mean exciting views of the giraffes, lions and tigers and there is also a pets corner.

On the safari drive-through you will see rhinos, antelope, camels and the pride of lions. Behind huge Jurassic Park-style gates lies a prehistoric forest for you to explore. It’s home to over twenty moving, stomping, screeching, life-size dinosaurs.

Prices: Adults £18.50; Child (3-15) £14.00; Senior (60 +) £14.00; under 3s free.

Open 9.30am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 7pm on selected Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer.

Safari Parks in Cumbria

South lakes safari zoo.

Ulverston, Cumbria

South Lakes Safari Zoo is home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals in unique natural environments which enable you to get as close as physically possible. Wander amongst kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Be amazed by free-flying macaws and participate in animal feeding experiences or be a zookeeper for a day. You could join the Penguin Keepers to learn more about the resident Humboldt Penguins.

Prices: Adults £19.99; Child 15.99; under 3s free

Open daily from 10.00am

Safari Parks in Sussex

Knepp wildland safaris.

Horsham, Sussex

Encounter herds of wild ponies, cattle, deer and pigs as they roam 3,500 acres of Sussex. Knepp Wildland Safaris offer vehicle-based safaris or guided walking tours where you will see birds, mammals, butterflies, beetles, reptiles, plants and fungi in a setting that feels as wild and dynamic as the African bush.You could stay in a treehouse, shepherd’s hut, tents or yurts, or simply pitch your own in our exclusive Wildland campsite.

Visit the website for prices and details of wild tours

Safari Parks and Zoos in Scotland

Edinburgh zoo.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh Zoo , formerly the Scottish National Zoological Park, is an 82-acre non-profit zoological park inEdinburgh. Set in over 82 acres of wooded hillside, Edinburgh Zoo is home to over 2,500 amazing and endangered animals. Edinburgh Zoo was the first zoo in the world to house and to breed penguins. It is also the only zoo in Britain to house Queensland koalas and giant pandas.

Prices: Adults £21.95; Child (3-15) £13.95; under 3s free

Open daily from 10.00am closed Christmas and Boxing Day

Located on a flat 160-acre estate just outside Stirling, Blair Drummond is Central Scotland’s most exciting animal park. There are over 300 animals and you can visit them all on foot. Raised viewing platforms mean exciting views of the giraffes, lions and tigers and there is also a pets corner. On the safari drive-through you will see rhinos, antelope, camels and the pride of lions.

Behind huge Jurassic Park-style gates lies a prehistoric forest for you to explore. It’s home to over twenty moving, stomping, screeching, life-size dinosaurs.

Highland Wildlife Park

Kingussie, Scotland

The Highland Wildlife Park is a 105-hectare safari park and zoo near Kingussie in the Scottish Highlands. The park is located within the Cairngorms National Park. Discover Scottish wildlife and endangered animals of the world’s mountains and tundra in this spectacular setting. Explore the drive through reserve in your own car and then investigate the walk-round area on foot.

The park has a wide and diverse range of animals, from native species such as the Scottish wildcat to those from further afield such as the amur tiger and polar bear.

Prices: Adult £18.50; Child (3-15) £13.95; under 3s free

Open daily from 10.00am except for Christmas Day

Safari Parks and Zoos in Wales

Welsh mountain zoo.

Colwyn Bay, Wales

The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a zoological garden located near the town of Colwyn Bay in Wales. The zoo covers an area of 37 acres. Set on one of the most picturesque and unique landscapes for any UK Zoo, the site overlooks the Colwyn Bay coastline and the Carneddau mountains in North Wales. With around 100 species housed in this wonderful collection, you could become a Zoo keeper for the day!

Prices: Adults from £16.70; Child (3-15) from £12.55; Seniors (60+) from £14.75

READ: Looking for somewhere to stay near Welsh Mountain Zoo, take a look at Away Resorts Golden Sands in Rhyl 

Manor Wildlife Park

Tenby, Pembrokeshire

Manor House Wildlife Park is a 52-acre zoo located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. It was bought in 2008 by television presenter Anna Ryder Richardson and Colin MacDougall. There is an undercover play area. You can see the red panda sisters and enjoy the most lovely wallaby walkthrough in the UK! See the young Joeys and watch them hop in and out of their mothers’ pouches. Come and meet a friendly group of lemurs in their Madagascan home nestled in the beautiful Welsh countryside.

Prices: Adult  £17.95; Child (2-16) £15.95; Senior (over 65)  £15.95; infants free.Open daily from 10.00am – 6.00pm

Drive-Through Safaris in the UK

West midland safari park, worcestershire.

Take a drive through the West Midland Safari Park and you’ll soon feel like you’ve been transported to the Savannah. There are rhinos and giraffes, buffalo, blackbuck, and deer all grazing together. From the safety of your car you will see lions and tigers and don’t forget to pay a visit to Elephant Valley. There’s a dinosaur park and ice age experience that kids of all ages can enjoy.

Woburn Safari Park, Buckinghamshire

Start by meeting the meerkats in Desert Springs before heading onto Penguin World and Sea Lion Cove.On the safari drive through you will see a herd of buffalo on the Northern Plains and a pride of lions in the Kingdom of the Carnivores. Drive through Giraffe Junction and spot monkeys in the African Forest.

Knowsley Safari, Merseyside

Visitors can travel Knowsley’s 5-mile route as many times as they like in a day and it takes about an hour to complete one drive-through. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals including lions and baboons. Once you have completed the safari the whole family can enjoy some rides and attractions.

Longleat Safari Park, Wiltshire

At Longleat Safari Park you will pass through Wolf Wood, Tiger Territory, Cheetah Kingdom and Lion Country. You will also see the white rhinos in Big Game Park, an Elephant and the giraffes and zebras in the African Village. There is also a  double-decker Safari Bus if you don’t have your own vehicle.

READ: Why not stay at the Woolley Grange Hotel when visiting Longleat!

Safari Park Hotels

West midland safari park.

Drive 6.5km through West Midland Safari Park near Birmingham, which is home to zebras, Congo buffalo, Indian rhino and Bactrian camels.You can stay over in one of the park’s eight safari lodges. Six of the lodges have large windows and an outdoor deck overlooking the pool.  The two-storey lodges feature thatched roofs, wooden floors, woven rugs and straw lampshades. The two other lodges overlook the cheetahs’ lair, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedrooms providing a perfect view of cheetahs.

Sandwiched between Bath and Salisbury, the reserve is huge. Visitors can drive in their own vehicle or hop on a safari bus to see tigers, white rhinos and lions. Alternatively, you can join a walking safari to see lemurs. For a close up of the zebras and giraffes, however, book a night in a cottage. There are three to choose from: East Lodge, which includes a guided tour of the grounds, and Keeper’s House and Keeper’s Cottage, both of which include a guided safari tour in a 4×4.

Swap Kenya for Kent on a safari at Port Lympne Safari Park. For an intimate experience, stay overnight and see the animals. The estate is home to wigwams, shepherds’ huts, a treehouse hotel and an igloo-style bubble. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you might be able to observe Amur leopards from Leopard Creek or watch TV side by side with lions from an enormous window in Lion Lodge.

ZSL London Zoo

The Land of the Lions enclosure is modelled after the Gir national park, complete with railway tracks and a crumbling temple. Visitors stroll on raised boardwalks over the lions to a viewing area. You can also spend the night in one of nine cabins in Gir Lion Lodge. A stay includes three tours that take place once the zoo is closed to the public.

READ: Things to do in London with a Toddler  or why not stay in one of London’s family friendly hotels

Chessington Safari Resort Hotel

https://www.chessingtonholidays.co.uk/hotels/safari-resort-hotel.html

Situated next to the Theme Park, the Chessington Safari Hotel is in the ideal location for an African adventure. There are animal themed rooms such as the Tiger room which sleeps up to four people with a separate children’s sleeping area and a Wanyama View – views across Wanyama Reserve differ in every room depending on which themed room you have chosen.

Best Zoo’s in the UK

Zoos in bedfordshire, zsl whipsnade zoo.

Dunstable, Bedfordshire

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is the UK’s biggest zoo which has helped to establish the world’s zoo populations of Southern white rhinos. It is home to more than 2,500 animals from over 200 different species. They have the only sloth bear in the UK, Colombo plus there is a new outdoor play adventure with over 7,800 square metres of themed play including bridges, swings, climbing frames, sit-on crocodiles, tunnels, boats, mini safari jeeps and so much more.

Prices: Adults: £24,00; Child (3-15) £16.00; Seniors (60+) £22.00; under 3s free.

READ: Glamping in Bedfordshire

 Zoos in Bristol

Bristol zoo gardens.

Clifton, Bristol

Bristol Zoo’s stated mission is to “maintain and defend biodiversity through breeding endangered species, conserving threatened species and habitats and promoting a wider understanding of the natural world.” rity, which runs and operates Bristol Zoo Gardens and the Wild Place Project. Bristol Zoo Gardens is the fifth oldest zoo in the world and first opened its doors to the public on Monday 11 July 1836. Animals include lions, gorillas and red pandas. There is an adventure playground and Zooropia, an adventure ropes course that gives you a unique opportunity to swing alongside some of our most popular animals at the Zoo – our gorillas, gibbons and lemurs.

Prices: Adult £21.95; Child (2 – 14) £15.95; under 2s free.

Open daily 10.00am – 5.30pm (except Christmas Day).

Zoos in Wales

Folly farm adventure park and zoo.

Kilgetty, Wales

You can visit over 750 animals at Folly Farm Zoo , and get up close to furry and feathery farmyard friends in the barn. Choose from 17 different rides in the vintage fairground, or enjoy eight adventure play areas. Animals include lions, rhinos, giraffes and penguins. At Folly Farm zoo, you’ll see the only giraffes in Wales, and can look them straight in the eye from the Giraffe Heights walkway. You can also see Bactrian camels, bongos, lemurs, meerkats, tapirs, Barbary macaques, squirrel monkeys…the list goes on.

Prices: Adult £21.95; Child (3-15) £19.95; Toddler £13.95; under 2s free.

Usually open from 10.00am. Please check online first

Zoos in London

Regents Park, London

London Zoo aka ZSL London Zoo or London Zoological Gardens is the world’s oldest scientific zoo which is packed full of wild adventures. Kids will love discovering the thousands of animals at the Zoo and the whole family can get up close to our animals in amazing walk-through exhibits and underwater penguin viewing!

Don’t miss talks throughout the day from ZSL experts to learn more about our amazing animals and enjoy lunch in one of the cafes and have fun in one of the adventure play areas.

Prices: Adults £32.00; Child (3-15) £21.00; Senior (65+) £29.00; under 3s free.

ZSL London Zoo is normally open every day except Christmas Day, and closing times vary throughout the year.

Zoos in Essex

Colchester zoo.

Colchester, Essex

Colchester Zoo is a zoological garden in Essex. The zoo opened in 1963 and is home to many rare and endangered species, including big cats, primates and birds as well as many invertebrates and fish species. The kids can enjoy the Jungle Tumble and you can see many different habitats and see animals from around the world, from the humid habitat of our Komodo dragons to the African plain, home to White rhino, giraffes, ostrich, zebra and kudu.

Online prices: Adults  £21.99; Child (3-15yrs) £17.99; Senior (60+), £20.99;under 3s free.

Open daily from 9.30am except Christmas day.

MORE READING: Days out in Essex

Zoos in Suffolk

Africa alive.

Lowestoft, Suffolk

Set in 100 acres of Suffolk countryside, Africa Alive Zoological Reserve, run by the Zoological Society of East Anglia is a national conservation hub committed to preserving wild futures. Visit the lions from the Lookout Lodge or up close from their den area. Walk through the ring-tailed lemur’s enclosure. Get hands on with reptiles, invertebrates and smaller mammals.

Prices: Adults £23.00; Child (3-15) £17.00; under 2s £2.00.

Open daily from 9.30am

MORE READING: Stay at The Ickworth when visiting Africa Alive

Zoos in Hampshire

Marwell zoo.

Winchester, Hampshire

Marwell Zoo is a 140-acre zoo situated near Winchester, in the English county of Hampshire. The zoo is home to 1,208 animals of 149 species. With plenty of outdoor space, and a whole host of animals and activities, Marwell Zoo is a great family day out in Hampshire. All guests must pre book tickets online for the correct day before arrival. You will see giraffes, tigers, leopards, meerkats, penguins and more plus there are five adventure playgrounds and cafes and a gift shop.

Prices: Adult £22.48; Child (3-16) £18.88; Seniors (over 60) £20.23.

Zoos in Surrey

Chessington world of adventures.

Chessington, Surrey (Greater London)

Chessington World of Adventures Resort is a theme park, zoo and hotel complex in Chessington, Greater London. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable animal experience and get up close to some of the most impressive animals at the Resort, from Southern White rhinos to Rothschild’s giraffes. There are over 1,000 incredible animals, including lions, tigers, gorillas, monkeys, penguins and underwater creatures in the Sea Life centre. Tickets include entry to Theme Park, Zoo & SEA LIFE Centre

See online for current deals and prices

Zoos in Chester

Chester zoo.

Upton, Chester

Chester Zoo is a zoo at Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire. It is one of the UK’s largest zoos at 51 hectares. There are over 20,000 animals and 128 acres of zoological gardens to explore. There are plenty of games and activities for you to take part in. The number of animals at the zoo is the highest recorded since the zoo opened in 1931 and is broken down to 1,268 mammals, 1,880 birds, 349 reptiles, 728 amphibians, 7,616 fish and 9,473 insects.

Prices: Adults £29.08; Child £22.72; under 2s free

Best Wildlife Parks in the UK

Wildlife parks in wales, wildlife parks in hertfordshire.

Paradise Wildlife Park

Broxbourne, Hertfordshire

Paradise Wildlife Park is set in the beautiful surroundings of Broxbourne Woods in the heart of the Hertfordshire Countryside. They offer 30 different pre-booked exotic animal experiences from Feeding the Big Cats, Shadowing a Keeper, Meeting the Meerkats, Tickling a Tapir to name a few. Attractions include the World of Dinosaurs,

Tumble Jungle, Paradise Lagoon Splash Pool, National Speedway Museum, Safari Adventure Golf, Play Areas and Feeds, talks and shows.

Prices: Adults £24.00; Child £22.00; Seniors (60 +) £20.00; under 2s free.

Open daily from 9.30am – closes at 5:30pm (April to September) and 4:30pm (October to March)

Shepreth Wildlife Park

Royston, Hertfordshire

Shepreth is a zoo and wildlife conservation charity with creatures from hedgehogs to owls, meerkats and a lynx. Their key interest lies in conservation, both native and global and they have funded a charity and the SWCC Hedgehog Hospital programme. There is lots going on including a tropical house, discovery centre, an outside play area, tortoise house, Ringo’s cafe and Play Barn and a safari train.

Prices: Adult £13.50; Child £11.50 on arrival there is no need to pre-book

Open daily from 10.00am – 5.00pm

Wildlife Parks in Oxfordshire

Cotswold wildlife park.

Burford, Oxfordshire

The Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens exhibits over 260 different species of animals. The park is set in 160 acres of landscaped parkland and gardens. As well as plenty of seasonal events, Cotswold Wildlife Park also has a range of activities that run daily throughout the year. Penguin feeding takes place every day at 11.00am and 3.00pm in the Walled Garden. There is a “Madagascar” walk-through with lemurs. Beautiful big cats and a children’s farmyard.  The narrow-gauge railway runs from April to October. There is also a ‘Skymaze’ that has interconnecting treehouses with jungle bridges and slides, climbing to a bird’s eye view of the Park over 20 feet high!

Prices; Adult £17.50; Child (3-16) £12.00; Senior (over 65) £12.00; under 2s free.

Open: Summer 10.00am – 6.00pm; Winter 10.00am – 4.00pm

Wildlife Parks in Kent

Wingham wildlife park.

Canterbury, Kent

Wingham Wildlife Park is a medium-sized wildlife park situated near Wingham in Kent. There are over 200 species covering fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and birds. Indoor animal houses include the tropical house, chimp house, bug house and the giraffe and orangutan building. The dinosaurs have returned, from the fearsome T-Rex to the Diplodocus, visitors to the park will get the chance to see over 20 different dinosaurs in the dinosaur area.

Prices: Adults £20.00; Child (2-15) £17.00; Seniors £17.00; under 2s free.

Open daily apart from Chrostmas Day. Winter (October – March) 9:00 am – 4:00 pm;

Summer (April – September) 09:00 am – 6:00 pm

Wildlife Parks in Hampshire

New forest wildlife park.

Southampton, Hampshire

The New Forest Wildlife Park is located on the edge of The New Forest in Hampshire. The park specialises in native and past-native wildlife of Britain and otters and owls from around the globe. Many of their animals, such as the giant otter, are on the IUCN endangered species Red List and you can also see wolves and a lynx whilst you are there.

Prices: Adults £13.50; Child £10.25; family £40.50

Tickets can only be purchased at the gate on the day of visit. Pre-booking is not required.

Open daily from 10.00am – 5.30pm

Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Wildlife Parks in Cumbria

Lakeland wildlife oasis.

Milnthorpe, Cumbria

With over 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and invertebrates, the Lakeland Wildlife Oasis is a unique and exciting blend of wildlife and interactive hands-on displays. The zoo is home to lush indoor tropical halls, walkthrough enclosures and picturesque outdoor spaces – making the zoo great fun no matter the weather.

Prices: Adult £10.95; Child (3-15) £8.25; family from £32.45

Open daily from 10.00am – 5.00pm except Christmas and Boxing Day

Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park near Canterbury in Kent, was established as a private zoo in 1957 by John Aspinall. As a dedicated animal conservation charity, your visit directly helps us to protect wildlife. You can meet your favourite animals up close such as the African elephants and Western lowland gorillas, Northern Chinese leopards, snow leopards, clouded leopards, giant anteaters, Sumatran tigers and Kent’s only Gelada baboons. There are play areas and cafes onsite too.

Prices: Adult, £22.27 –  £24.50; Child (3-15 yrs) £18.18 – £20.00; Infant (0- 3) free

Open from 9.30am to 5.00pm. Last admission 3.30pm.

Wildlife Parks in Yorkshire

Flamingo land.

Malton, Yorkshire

Flamingo Land Resort in Yorkshire boasts more than 50 rides and attractions for adults and children of all ages. It’s one of the UK’s most visited zoos, with four shows and over 140 species and more than 1000 animals. Youngsters will love Children’s Planet, an interactive play area where they can climb, jump and tunnel amongst some of the furry friends. Take a trip on the Lost River Ride which takes you on a tour of African plains where the lions, rhinos, giraffes, hippos and zebras live side by side.

Prices: Standard admission £49.00; Senior £35.00; under 3s free. Check online for savings.

Open daily from 10.00am – 6.00pm

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Best Safari Parks in the UK for families

Looking to experience an African safari in the UK,? We have rounded up our favourite UK safari’s that all of the family will love visiting.

West Midland Safari Park, Worcestershire

As soon as you drive through the gates of West Midlands Safari Park you feel that you have been transported from Worcestershire onto the African Plains at one of the county’s leading safari parks.

West Midlands Safari Park is a great option for families not only because it has a world class safari but it also boasts a theme park and the UK’s largest animatronic dinosaur attraction.

The safari here offers visitors a chance to spot giraffe and rhino on the African plains, watch the elephants at elephant valley and see the buffalo and deer at Wild Asia.

Where : West Midland Safari Park, Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF, Web : West Midlands Safari Park

Blair Drummond Safari Park, Stirling

We really like Blair Drummond Safari Park in the stunning countryside of Stirlingshire, which is Scotland’s only drive through safari park.  Home to over 350 animals, you will see rhinos, African lions, monkeys and Scotland’s only giraffe tower.

During your visit take the boat tour to explore Chimp island and watch the sea lion show which is great fun and kids will love the large adventure play park.

Where : Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park, By Stirling, FK9 4UR Web : Blair Drummond Safari Park

Longleat Safari Park, Wiltshire

This was the first drive-through safari park outside of Africa and its our personal favourite.  Stop off first at the giraffe enclosure where you can get our of your car and get up close and feed the giraffes before the safari starts.  One of our favourite parts of the safari is feeding the deer out of the car window (£1 per cup).

Other parts you will experience on your safari include tiger and lion territory, wolf wood and monkey mayhem and the camels and rhinos are fantastic.  If you are lucky you might catch a glimpse of Ann the elephant if she leaves her 994m² purpose-built heated home.

After the safari see the koalas at the creek before taking the jungle cruise to see the gorillas.  Kids will love the huge hedge maze, rockin rhino and the play areas in the adventure castle.  Don’t forget to explore the stunning Elizabethan Longleat house and formal gardens.

Where : Longleat Safari and Adventure Park, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW Web : Longleat Safari Park

Manor Wildlife Park, Tenby

We loved our visit here and a highlight in particular for visitors is the wallaby walk where you get up close to these beautiful animals.

Where : Manor Wildlife Park St Florence Tenby Pembrokeshire SA70 8RJ Web : Manor Wildlife Park

Knowsley Safari Park, Merseyside

If you want to experience the longest drive through safari in the UK, then head to Knowsley Safari Park.  Along the 5 mile route you will see everything from lions, zebra and buffalo to meerkats and wildebeest.  If you want to see the baboons and don’t want to risk your car the park offers a baboon bus which takes you on the safari. Another interesting feature of this park is their wet safari on the boating lake, where you can row around and see the wildlife on the lake.

Where : Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, Merseyside, L34 4AN Web : Knowsley Safari Park

Woburn Safari Park, Bedfordshire

There are two safaris on offer at Woburn spanning over 300 acres of beautiful Bedfordshire countryside , a road safari and a walk through safari.  Start your safari at the Northern Plains home to wildebeest and camel before arriving at the Savannah Grasslands where you could see southern white rhino, zebra and antelope.

One of our favourites when on a safari is spotting the lions, tigers, wolves and bears and you can do that here in the Kingdom of Carnivores.  Giraffe Junction is another favourite, home to a herd of the beautiful Rothchild’s giraffe.  The foot safari provides a unique experience to see meerkats, red panda, otters, sea lions and birds of prey.

Kids will also love the play area here and for older kids and adults there is a Go Ape course on-site.

Where: Woburn Safari Park, Crawley Road, Woburn, Ridgmont, Bedford MK43 0TU Web : Woburn Safari Park

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Kent

This is a unique safari experience where you can explore over 600 acres of parkland with over 700 animals and 88 species to view.  You can board the safari truck to explore the park and really get close to the animals.

Here you will find the UK’s largest herd of black rhinos as well as gorillas, lions, tapirs, monkeys and many more endangered animals.

Kids will love exploring the Dinosaur Forest where they will come face to face with prehistoric life-sized creatures in the UK’s largest dinosaur forest!

You can also  make your day out extra special when you book additional activities, including bespoke safaris, animal encounters and keeper for a day experiences.

Where: Port Lympne Reserve, Lympne (Nr Hythe), Kent, United Kingdom, CT21 4PD Web : Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

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Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

Book Now Tickets + Safaris

Explore 600 acres of Kentish Savannah

A truly incredible safari experience.

Visit Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for an unforgettable safari experience set against hundreds of acres of stunning Kentish savannah. 

There's never been a better time to visit Port Lympne. Bring your family to meet our family!

Glamping Sale!

30% off magical getaways with award-winning accommodation, exotic wildlife, good food and spectacular views, right on your doorstep!

Book Day Tickets

Book a visit to Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve and come face-to-face with hundreds of rare and endangered animals in the Kent countryside

Spring Safari Staycations

Join us on our stunning Kentish savannah this spring and enjoy a magical getaway with award-winning accommodation, exotic wildlife, good food and spectacular views, right on your doorstep!

Sunday Roast at The Garden Room

One of the finest English traditions, a leisurely Sunday roast can be enjoyed in the Garden Room.

Bear Lodge Restaurant

Informal family dining overlooking the spectacled bear habitat, with a spectacular view across the reserve and to the Kent coastline.

How Your Visit Helps

Dinosaur forest, eat and drink.

Don't forget to book your seats aboard a safari truck and see how many magnificent animals you can spot on your way!

We’re home to over 900 animals across 75 species, including Kent's only spectacled bears as well as giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers, gorillas, monkeys and more! Find out more about our incredible animals here .

Your ticket will help to fund not only the care of the animals here at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve but will also support our overseas projects. Thanks to the generosity of visitors like you, we - in conjunction with The Aspinall Foundation (charity number 326567) - have released more than 75 gorillas back to the wild and our released gorillas have had over 35 wild births! In Indonesia, we have released 41 Javan gibbons, 14 Javan grizzled langurs and 125 Javan ebony langurs. The Indonesian primates have over 35 wild births. We have also transferred 8 black rhino from our Kent parks to Africa, who have produced 25 offspring between them. Find out more about our conservation work around the world.

Steel your nerves and discover the forest that time forgot as you explore the UK’s largest outdoor dinosaur exhibition, Dinosaur Forest , featuring all your favourite beasts.

We serve home cooked food made with fresh, locally sourced produce at our restaurants and cafes . You'll find family favourites at Basecamp Cafe, Italian inspired dishes at Babydoll's Wood Fired Pizza or dine in style at The Garden Room Restaurant & Bar.

Relax, unwind, and recharge with an overnight stay in one of our unique accommodations .

The BIG day out

Annual pass.

Go wild and enjoy the best value days out to two of Kent's most popular animal parks with our new Annual Pass.  Visit Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve as many times as you like in a year! 

Your next adventure awaits

Enjoy unforgettable short breaks with friends, family and loved ones. Stay as long as you like and even pick a different accommodation for each night! Choose additional experiences or just soak up the peace and quiet, recharge and reconnect.

Stay in our multi award-winning accommodation

There are so many amazing ways to stay at Port Lympne. Our award winning short breaks range from glamping to a luxurious 4* hotel , or a unique Treehouse stay . Set in this unique coastal location, with amazing views, surrounded by wildlife, it’s a short break you’ll never forget.

What’s more, all profits from the parks and short breaks go back into the conservation work of our partner charity, The Aspinall Foundation. So you can enjoy your stay, knowing that you are directly helping our conservation work.

Luxury Stays

Immerse yourself in the lives of the lion pride at Lion Lodge and explore the rest of the Reserve on your private golf buggy.

Tiger Lodge

Wake up in a tiger’s world, then head out in your own personal golf buggy to meet the rest of the animals in the 600 acre reserve.

Be part of the pack and watch our wolves from your private viewing window. Then discover over 700 animals as you explore the reserve on your golf buggy.

Rhino Lodge

Make friends with your wild neighbours and explore the reserve in your own personal golf buggy.

Enjoy stunning views from your award winning self-catering treehouse suite and explore the 600 acre reserve on your own personal golf buggy.

Mansion Hotel

Get away from it all with a stay at our 4* boutique hotel.

Giraffe Cottage

A classic country retreat with a guided safari and a private chef!

The Treetop Bubble

Immerse yourself in a luxury romantic retreat amongst the treetops, with 180 degree panoramic views. Includes your own personal golf buggy.

Forest Hideaway

Exclusive hidden forest dens, for the ultimate romantic retreat. Includes a golf buggy to explore the reserve at your leisure.

Hog Deer Creek

Stay in the wilds of Kent in your cosy shepherd’s hut. Explore the 600 acre reserve on your own private golf buggy.

Glamping Stays

Unforgettable glamping getaway overlooking the spectacled bear habitat. Camp out under the stars and immerse yourself in an exciting safari experience.

Giraffe Lodge

Camp out under the stars and immerse yourself in an exciting safari experience - right here in Kent!

Put the fun back into camping without the need to pitch a tent at Pinewood, where you can sleep within roaring distance of lions!

Pinewood - Shepherds Hut

Camp in style and comfort at Pinewood's Shepherd's Hut and fall asleep to the sound of the roaring lions!

There's so much more to Port Lympne...

We’re not just an award-winning wild day out and we’re not just a charity with conservation at our heart. We take good care of our animals and good care of our guests, too! There’s nowhere in the world quite like Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve.

• Book activities including animal encounters, keeper days and safari park tours
• Have a party or host your next conference or event 
• Book your next getaway
• Get married at our award-winning wedding venue
• Eat and drink

What's on

Experiences

Explore: dinosaur forest.

Steel your nerves as you journey through Dinosaur Forest !  Marvel at the tremendous T-Rex, stare at the Stegosaurus, feel the terror of the Pterodactyl, and delight at the sheer size of the diplodocus! Come face to face with prehistoric life-sized creatures in the UK’s largest dinosaur forest!

We’re not a zoo

• Port Lympne Reserve is a breeding sanctuary for rare and endangered animals and wherever possible we aim to send animals born here to protected areas of their natural habitat where they can live free – just as they should be.
• We always make sure that the animals come first, from enclosure design to diet, no expense is spared. We grow our own herbs and vegetables and source our meat from trustworthy suppliers.
• We design our enclosures with the animals in mind, so there’s lots of natural foliage and furniture to provide shelter and camouflage.
• We never lock our animals into viewing areas, so, just like in the wild, it may take some time to spot certain animals.
• We do our best to provide a fantastic visitor experience, whilst not forgetting the primary reason we’re here – to ensure the survival of endangered animals.

TRIPADVISOR Wonderful Day Out An excellent place to visit - see the animals close up and enjoy excellent food at Baby Dolls restaurant. Friendly helpful staff everywhere around the huge park. The Safari ride is a must do. A great day out at a great price. Ken S. Written August 26, 2021

TRIPADVISOR Super Safari The reserve is large and offers a lovely day out. I highly recommend booking the safari as this was the best part of our visit. Amy Rogers. Written August 6, 2021

TRIPADVISOR An unbelievable experience We were all amazed at just how good this place is. We stayed in the hotel for two nights so got two full days in the park. Everything is so well organised and the safari drives are brilliant. You get to see so many animals close up. We have been to a South African safari and we saw more animals here than we did there. We were very luck with the weather which added to the experience. You have to give this place a try, you will love it and the kids will too. Gary F. Written October 6, 2020

How to get here

Port Lympne Reserve, Lympne (Nr Hythe), Kent, United Kingdom, CT21 4PD

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Opening times, annual pass, how to find us, our offers....

Adult & Pre-Schooler

Take advantage of our new Adult & Pre-Schooler offer, where you and your little one (0-4yrs) can come and have a fantastic midweek day out for  just £20!

<p class="text-center">Take advantage of our new Adult &amp; Pre-Schooler offer, where you and your little one (0-4yrs)&nbsp;can come and have a fantastic midweek day out for&nbsp;<strong>just £20!</strong></p>

Combi Ticket

Visit both West Midlands Safari Park AND Drayton Manor Resort with our Combi Ticket and get two family days out for just £45 – that’s our biggest ever saving of over 45% .

<p class="text-center">Visit both West Midlands Safari Park AND Drayton Manor Resort with our Combi Ticket and get two family days out for just £45 – that’s our biggest ever saving of <strong>over 45%</strong>.</p>

OVER 35% OFF

Book your tickets in advance and you can save over 35% compared to on-the-gate prices! 

The earlier you book, the more you can save!

<p class="text-center">Book your tickets in advance and you can save over 35% compared to on-the-gate prices!&nbsp;</p> <p class="text-center">The earlier you book, the more you can save!</p>

See below for our forthcoming events at the Safari Park!

Explorers' Weekends

Character Week

Safari Showreel

Want to stay the night?

Latest news

Safari Park Needs Help Naming Mini Monkeys

Safari Park to Host Quiet Morning and Announces Inclusivity Plans

Egg-cellent Easter Egg Hunt for Lemurs

Cracking Easter in Store at Safari Park

20 Reasons to Visit in 2024

West Midlands Safari Park reveals new look

Meet Bluey at West Midlands Safari Park this half term

Watch the moment a rare baby rhino is born on cctv.

Bookings Open For Safari Park's Wild New Lodges

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What Our Visitors Think

Little piece of heaven in the west midlands.

Loved our visit. Happy animals, very polite and helpful staff, venue was very clean and well maintained, food was tasty and all reasonably priced.

TripAdvisor

Great day out

This was a real interactive and memorable day. The whole experience created laughs and memories which will last a long time. Such value for money! Would definitely recommend.

Great experience

Lovely Safari Park, I think is the best one so far. I will definitely go again and recommend to friends. 

Simply the best value for money day out!

This has to be one of the best attractions for a perfect day that is packed with so many things to do and enjoy... and, at such a great price, coupled with a free return visit. Awesome!

Best family day out

Love it!! Plenty to do and see for all ages, clean and tidy. All staff pleasent and friendly, been going at least once a year for over 30 years and still love going.

Fabulous place Great staff. Spotlessly clean

I have an annual pass so use WMSP a lot. It never fails to impress. Today we did the minibus safari tour with Clive, our tour guide and driver. He was so knowledgeable and helpful. It was a lovely experience.

Great day had by all

Lots of close ups with the animals. There was plenty to do and see. Lots of information available regarding the animals.

Zoos, wildlife and safari parks

After taking in the wealth of city sights, enjoy a touch of life on the farm. City farms offer an oasis of calm in an urban environment. Children are encouraged to say hello to pigs, cows and honking geese. The adults can enjoy an organic ice-cream while the kids are distracted. If domesticated animals are too tame there are always the zoos in England which provide a safe haven for some of the world's rarest beasts. Or experience the joy of having your car jumped on by inquisitive monkeys while on a tour in one of the safari parks in England. Attractions are preparing to reopen following the COVID-19 lockdown, please check with the attraction's website for up-to-date information on opening times and restrictions before travelling.

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Take the whole family to Chester Zoo

Venture to tantalising tropical islands in the heart of Cheshire with innovative exhibits at the UK’s most popular zoo.

Location: Upton near Chester, Cheshire

Sleep in the treetops on an overnight safari in Kent

Get in touch with your wild side in Kent this spring with a true African experience that the whole family will rave about.

Location: Lympne, Kent

Go wild on safari at Chessington World of Adventures

Climb aboard the safari truck and head off to Chessington World of Adventures in search of flamingos, giraffes and white rhinos.

Location: Chessington, Surrey

Go glamping at Lookout Lodge inside ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Enjoy the ultimate overnight experience and camp next door to the animals of ZSL Whipsnade Zoo.

Location: Dunstable, Bedfordshire

Go on an exotic adventure at Woburn Safari Park

Explore the habitats of lions, zebras, giraffes and much more at this family-friendly, conservation-focused safari park.

Location: Woburn, Bedfordshire

Get up close with the farm animals at Staunton Country Park

Come and meet friendly farm animals, have a rainforest experience in Victorian glasshouses or get lost in the maze.

Location: Havant, Hampshire

Go bananas for Trentham Monkey Forest

Pay a visit to the only place in Britain where you can walk among 140 Barbary macaques roaming free in 60 acres of forest.

Location: Trentham , Staffordshire

Fairytale Farm: a farm park with a difference

A sensory and learning wonderland, Fairytale Farm will delight the whole family.

Location: Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire

Family fun at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens

The appeal of Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens goes way beyond its remarkable wildlife collection to breeding programmes and exuberant gardens.

Location: Burford, Oxfordshire

Get closer to the animals at Paradise Wildlife Park

Venture to Hertfordshire for an exciting day out with the family at this award-winning zoo; see a range of exotic animals and enjoy a whole host of experiences and attractions.

Location: Broxbourne, Hertfordshire

Animal antics at Down at the Farm

Down at the Farm is one of Sunderland's most popular farms, home to a wide range of rare breed animals including giant tortoises, alpacas, raccoons, donkeys and red deer.

Location: Sunderland, Tyne and Wear

Find yourself on a farm in the heart of Nottingham

Stonebridge City Farm is a slice of the countryside in the heart of a city centre.

Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

Make friends at Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre

Home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates, this sanctuary lets you get up close and personal with all kinds of monkeys, gorillas and apes.

Location: Wareham, Dorset

Go under the sea at The Deep Aquarium

Get out of the rain and head... into the water? This underwater world features Europe's deepest viewing tunnel, offering unparalleled views of exotic fish, sharks and other sea creatures.

Location: Hull, East Riding of Yorkshire

Feel calmer whilst walking a llama

Go walkies South American-style with National Forest Llama Treks, an unusual “let’s-do-something-different” trekking experience.

Location: Barton-under-Needwood, Staffordshire

Explore the UK's first safari park at Longleat

Feed giraffes by hand and walk on the wildside with lemurs at this popular safari park, found in the picturesque grounds of historic Longleat House.

Location: Longleat, Wiltshire

Say hello to pampered pups in Skegness

Visit Natureland to see how washed-up seal pups are nursed back to health and prepared for a life back in the wild.

Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire

Dive into the deep blue sea at Oceanarium

Bournemouth's Oceanarium is a great indoor attraction that allows you to discover the secrets of the deep.

Location: Bournemouth, Dorset

Learn, enjoy and discover at Blackpool Zoo

There’s something here to tickle everyone’s creepy crawly fancy, from crocodiles and rattlesnakes, to sea lions and emus.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Rainy Day Activities: Enter an underwater world at Sea Life London

Step out of the rain and head underwater at Sea Life London Aquarium, and discover a whole world of aquatic life.

Location: Southbank, London

Be a big cat keeper for a day at Dartmoor Zoo

Join the Big Cat Keepers at Dartmoor Zoo for this hard work, hands on, all day experience.

Location: Plymouth, Devon

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• United Kingdom
• 6 Safari Parks In The...

Safari Parks in the UK to Visit With Your Family

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Safari parks are a fantastic way to spend a day out with the kids as they allow you to get up close and personal with animals you wouldn’t normally see on this side of the Atlantic. From the likes of Blair Drummond up in Scotland to Port Lympne in Kent, here are some of the best safari parks in the UK to visit with your family, all of which are within easy reach of most major cities.

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West Midland Safari Park

Just under an hour’s drive from central Birmingham is West Midland Safari Park – one of the country’s leading safari parks in the UK and one of the best places to get up close to exotic animals. Their Safari Drive-through takes you across the ‘African Plains’ and ‘Wild Asia’ where you and the family can spot zebras, elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalos and so much more. When you’re finished with the drive-through, there are plenty of other discovery trails, fun areas and a theme park on-site to keep the kids entertained.

With both a road safari and foot safari at Woburn in Milton Keynes, the kids are sure to be entertained for the day. While you can see the rare continental animals from the comfort of your car, take the foot safari through designated areas featuring meerkats, elephants, sea lions, penguins and so much more. There’s also a play area for the younger kids and the popular high ropes course Go Ape for the teens (and adults who want to monkey around too!).

Knowsley Safari

This Merseyside safari park is sure to be a hit with the entire family. Situated in Knowsley, near St Helens, visitors can experience this safari whether in their own car or by hopping on the park’s Baboon Bus. Away from the normal road and foot safaris that most parks offer, Knowsley also has a wet safari on its boating lake, which you can row around and see all the wildlife that calls it home.

Longleat Safari Park

More than just a safari park, Longleat is one of the premier visitor attractions in the UK. Famed for its stunning Elizabethan house and grounds – with the biggest maze in the country – Longleat Safari Park is definitely worth the trip to Wiltshire. Proudly the very first drive-through safari park outside of Africa, visitors to Longleat can expect to get up close and personal with some of the most endangered animals in the world.

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Situated near the central Scottish city of Stirling , Blair Drummond is a 120-acre adventure and safari park packed with activities to keep the whole family busy. With a large drive-through exotic animal reserve, sea lion presentations and bird of prey displays, we guarantee that the kids won’t get bored. For something a little different, take a boat trip to Chimp Island or take on the Flying Fox, a zip wire that goes across the river with the stunning Blair Drummond House as your backdrop.

Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne is a conservation charity in Kent dedicated to protecting wildlife with one clear mission: commitment to conservaation. At Port Lympne , visitors can explore over 600 acres of parkland and wildlife, with a number of exotic and endangered animals on show, all of which have been rescued to protect the species’ future. A true safari experience, all animals at Port Lympne are in a ‘wild’ environment rather than in viewing areas or cages, giving them the best possible lives before being reintroduced back into the wild. Port Lympne also offers a number of brilliant experiences, including animal encounters, private safaris and keeper days.

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27 Best UK Zoos, Wildlife and Safari Parks

The UK is the perfect place to visit a wide variety of fantastic zoos, wildlife parks, and safari parks, as well as bird parks, insectariums, aquariums, and unique animal parks that combine the charm of theme parks with the wonder of zoos. Here's a guide to 27 of the best places across the UK to get up close and personal with wildlife.

Best UK Zoos

Blackpool zoo (blackpool, england).

Blackpool Zoo is a family-friendly attraction located in Blackpool, England. It is home to over 1,000 animals, with specially enriched environments that resemble their natural habitats. Some of the most surprising areas in the Zoo are the Big Cat Habitat, with 2 Amur Tigers and 4 lions to observe up close, and unusual animals that are not easy to find in other zoos, like red pandas, aardvarks, and wallabies. Visitors can also enjoy a range of experiences, such as being a keeper for a day, animal feedings, educational talks and VIP tours.  Take a look at all you can do and see at Blackpool Zoo here .

General admission tickets: Adults £24.99, Children £19.99

Address: East Park Drive, Blackpool FY3 8PP

Special animal experiences: Daily educational talks throughout the zoo, animal interactions in their habitats, keeper courses for all ages and feeding sessions with different species.

London Zoo (London, England)

London Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world and displays a total of over 650 species. The most impressive species include the Asiatic lions, Sumatran tigers, and Humboldt penguins. The zoo also offers various interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and meeting the meerkats. 

General admission tickets: Adults £31, Children £21.70

Outer Circle, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY

Special animal experiences: Baby sensory stories, giraffe keeper experience, Komodo Dragon experience.

 Chester Zoo (Cheshire, England)

Chester Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the UK and includes over 21,000 animals, including elephants, tigers, and orangutans. The zoo also has beautiful gardens, a monorail, and a water bus. Visitors can take part in interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and meeting the aardvarks. 

Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1LH

Special animal experiences: Bird photography experience, chameleon experience, Secret life of the zoo and regional sectors.

Edinburgh Zoo (Edinburgh, Scotland)

Edinburgh Zoo is the only zoo in the UK with giant pandas, as well as koalas, penguins, and tigers. This wildlife centre offers several animal experiences, including panda viewing, penguin feeding, and magic moments, where visitors can meet and feed some of the zoo's smaller animals. 

General admission tickets: Adults £24.75, Children £15.70

134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS

Special animal experiences: Keeper experiences, birthday parties and team-building events, and dinosaurs!

Marwell Zoo (Hampshire, England)

Marwell Zoo is set in 140 acres of beautiful parkland where hundreds of animals live, including Amur tigers, snow leopards, and white rhinos. At Marwell, visitors can enjoy different kinds of experiences, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and junior zookeeper activities. 

General admission tickets: Adults £26, Children £22

Marwell Zoo, Thompson's Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, SO21 1JH

Special animal experiences: Savannah experience, behind-the-scenes tours, and animal feedings, including penguins and giraffes.

Whipsnade Zoo (Bedfordshire, England)

Whipsnade Zoo is the UK's largest zoo and holds over 3,500 animals, including elephants, lions, and cheetahs. At this zoo, visitors can participate in feeding the elephants, meeting the lions, and being a keeper for a day, among many other experiences. 

General admission tickets: Adults £31.40, Children £21.90

Whipsnade Zoo, Whipsnade, Dunstable, LU6 2LF

Special animal experiences: steam engine train rides, meet the elephants and meet the hippos experiences.

Welsh Mountain Zoo (Colwyn Bay, Wales)

Welsh Mountain Zoo is set in 37 acres of wooded parkland with snow leopards, red pandas, and chimpanzees. The zoo also offers a range of experiences, including animal encounters and junior zookeeper experiences. 

General admission tickets: Adults £18.23, Children £13.73

Welsh Mountain Zoo, Old Highway, Colwyn Bay, LL28 5UY

Special animal experiences: Wild photography courses and summer zoo club for participating in care tasks within the zoo.

Twycross Zoo (Leicestershire, England)

Twycross Zoo is known for its wide variety of primates, including chimpanzees, gorillas, and bonobos. The zoo also houses other animals, including elephants, giraffes, and snow leopards. Visitors can observe not only the animals from afar, but also participate in different animal encounters.

General admission tickets: Adults £22.50, Children £17.10

Twycross Zoo, Burton Road, Atherstone, CV9 3PX

Special animal experiences: Big cats tour and encounters, great ape tour and zoo keeper for a day.

Best UK Wildlife and Safari Parks

Yorkshire wildlife park (doncaster, england).

Over 400 animals live in the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, including Amur leopards, polar bears, and baboons. Here, visitors can experience different activities, including ranger experiences, animal encounters, and VIP tours. 

General admission tickets: Adults £24.99, Children £20.99

Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Hurst Lane, Auckley, Doncaster, DN9 3HQ

Special animal experiences: Red panda experience, regional tours and a Jurassic walk.

Longleat Safari Park (Warminster, England)

Longleat Safari Park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. Visitors can drive through the safari park and get up close to the animals or take a boat trip on the lake to see the sea lions and hippos. Being a wildlife park set in an antique stately home, the park includes animal encounters with different species as well as historical tours around the house and its majestic gardens.

General admission tickets: Adults £39.95, Children £29.95

Longleat Safari Park, Longleat, Warminster, BA12 7NW

Special animal experiences: tiger feedings, Longleat Library and House tours.

Blair Drummond Safari (Stirling, Scotland)

Blair Drummond Safari houses all kinds of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. Visitors can also find special animal experiences, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and VIP experiences. 

General admission tickets: Adults £21, Children £15

Blair Drummond Safari, Blair Drummond, Stirling, FK9 4UR

Special animal experiences: Junior keeper experience, lemur and meerkat encounters.

Knowsley Safari Park (Prescot, England)

Knowsley Safari Park includes lots of different types of animals, including baboons, lions, and rhinos. Visitors can drive through the safari park and get up close to the animals or take a ride on the baboon bus. Feeding the sea lions, meeting the meerkats, and being a keeper for a day are some of the experiences available. 

General admission tickets: Adults £22.50, Children £19.50

Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, L34 4AN

Special animal experiences: Birds of Prey and Rhino experiences, 4×4 Safari.

Port Lympne Reserve (Kent, England)

Port Lympne Reserve displays over 700 animals, including lions, tigers, and gorillas. The reserve also offers a range of experiences, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and safari experiences. 

General admission tickets: Adults £29, Children £26

Port Lympne Reserve, Aldington Road, Lympne, Hythe, CT21 4LR

Special animal experiences: Glamping stays, Dinosaur forest, Afternoon Tea in the middle of the reserve.

Manor Wildlife Park (St Florence, Wales)

Manor Wildlife Park specializes in walkthrough animal observation, which implies walking into their habitats to come into close contact with them. They also have tigers, rhinos, and different species of monkeys to watch from afar.

General admission tickets: Adults £19.95, Children £17.95

Manor Wildlife Park, St Florence, Tenby, SA70 8RJ

Special animal experiences: Look a Rhino in the Eye, keeper courses and gibbon encounters.

Woburn Safari Park (Bedfordshire, England)

Woburn Safari Park is home to all types of animals, including lions, tigers, and elephants. Visitors can drive through the safari park and get up close to the animals or take a walk through the foot safari. They can also experience animal encounters, including feeding the giraffes, meeting the sea lions, and being a keeper for a day.

General admission tickets: Adults £29.99, Children £21.99

Woburn Safari Park, Woburn Park, Bedford, MK17 9QN

Special animal experiences: road and foot safaris, VIP off-road adventure, and up-close encounters with lions, tigers and smaller animals.

Best UK Aviaries and Bird Parks

Birdland park and gardens (gloucestershire, england).

At Birdland Park and Gardens, visitors can observe over 500 birds, such as flamingos, pelicans, and penguins, and also participate in special tours and feedings.

General admission tickets: Adults £11.95, Children £8.95

Birdland Park and Gardens, Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water, GL54 2BN

Special animal experiences: Penguin feedings and Jurassic journey.

Liberty’s Falconry (Ringwood, England)

Liberty’s Falconry is home to a wide variety of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and owls. At the centre, visitors can enjoy several activities, including a bird of prey flying experiences, owl encounters, and falconry courses. This falconry is well known for its flying demonstrations.

General admission tickets: Adults £14.95, Children £6.50

Liberty’s Falconry, Crow Lane, Ringwood, BH24 3EA

Special animal experiences: Owl and Bird of Prey experiences, and photographic experiences.

Eagle Heights (Dartford, England)

The Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation specializes in birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, and vultures, but also has other types of animals too. The centre also offers a range of experiences, including bird of prey flying experiences, owl encounters, and falconry courses.

General admission tickets: Adults £12.95, Children £8.95

Eagle Heights, Lullingstone Lane, Eynsford, Dartford, DA4 0JB)

Special animal experiences: Alpaca trekkings, meerkat experience and afternoon tea.

Best UK Insectariums

Butterfly farm (stratford-upon-avon, england).

The Butterfly Farm in Stratford-upon-Avon is a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of beautiful butterflies and a variety of fascinating insects. Visitors can walk among the free-flying butterflies, observe their life cycle in the caterpillar room, and discover other creatures, such as tarantulas, scorpions, and giant millipedes. The farm also features a mini-beast metropolis where you can observe ants, beetles, and other insects at work. Educational talks and feeding demonstrations are available throughout the day, making it an educational and interactive experience for all ages.

 General admission tickets: Adults £8.95, Children £7.95

Butterfly Farm, Swan's Nest Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, CV37 7LS

Special animal experiences: Meet the mini-beast tour, Discover the Maya, and Life-cycle of a Butterfly.

The Bug Farm (Pembrokeshire, Wales)

The Bug Farm offers a journey into the tiny world of insects and invertebrates, including beetles, spiders, and millipedes. The farm also offers unique bug experiences, including bug encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and bug workshops.

 General admission tickets: Adults £8, Children £5.50

The Bug Farm, St Davids, Haverfordwest, SA62 6DB

Special animal experiences: Pollinator trail, including artistic gallery in the way, bug-based food tastings, and up-close Meet the Bug sessions.

Best UK Aquariums

Blue planet aquarium (ellesmere port, england).

Blue Planet Aquarium is home to a wide range of aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and octopuses. The aquarium also offers a variety of experiences, including shark encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and junior aquarist experiences.

 General admission tickets: Adults £25.25, Children £18.25

Blue Planet Aquarium, Cheshire Oaks, Ellesmere Port, CH65 9LF

Special animal experiences: Junior and adult shark dives

SEA LIFE London Aquarium (Birmingham, England)

At SEA LIFE London Aquarium, you can observe and even swim with aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish. Visitors of the aquarium can also participate in feeding the rays and turtles, and behind-the-scenes tours.

 General admission tickets: Adults £40, Children £37

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB

Special animal experiences: Virtual reality experience, Snorkel with the sharks and behind-the-scenes tour.

Oceanarium (Bournemouth, England)

Oceanarium houses a wide range of aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and turtles. Visitors of the aquarium can also experience other activities aside from observation, including feeding experiences, behind-the-scenes tours, and junior aquarist experiences.

 General admission tickets: Adults £15.99, Children £10.95

Oceanarium, Pier Approach, Bournemouth, BH2 5AA

Special animal experiences: Acquarist of the day, reef shark, turtle and stingray feedings, and otter enrichment experiences.

Deep Sea World (North Queensferry, Scotland)

Deep Sea World is Scotland’s national aquarium and houses a great variety of aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and seals, and a series of reptiles and amphibians. The aquarium also offers a range of experiences in and out of the water.

 General admission tickets: Adults £17.50, Children £12.75

Deep Sea World, Battery Quarry, North Queensferry, KY11 1JR

Special animal experiences: Shark dives, animal feedings and daily educational talks.

Best UK Special Zoos

Chessington world of adventures (chessington, england).

Chessington World of Adventures is a unique theme park that combines the excitement of rides with a fantastic zoo and sea life centre, with 1,000 animals, including some of the world's most exotic and endangered species such as Amur tigers, Rothschild's giraffes, and Humboldt penguins. The park also offers interactive experiences, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the animals, feed them, and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts. For thrill-seekers, there are plenty of rides and attractions to choose from, making it a fun-filled day out for the entire family. 

General admission tickets: £64

Chessington World of Adventures, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, KT9 2NE

Special animal experiences: After-hours park tour, morning African animals trail, giraffe safari and skunk walks.

Flamingo Land (North Yorkshire, England)

Flamingo Land is a popular amusement park, zoo, and resort located in North Yorkshire. It displays more than 140 species of animals, including flamingos, red pandas, and white rhinos. The zoo is divided into different sections, each dedicated to a particular group of animals, such as the African Savannah, the South American Rainforest, and the Australian Outback. Visitors can watch animal shows, participate in keeper talks, and even adopt an animal. Besides the zoo, Flamingo Land also features a variety of thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment shows, ensuring a memorable visit for visitors of all ages.

 General admission tickets: £52.50

Flamingo Land, Kirby Misperton, Malton, North Yorkshire, YO17 6UX

Special animal experiences: Summer workshops for kids and teenagers, keeper talks, animal encounters.

Dudley Zoo (Dudley, England)

Dudley Zoo and Castle is situated in the historic town of Dudley and houses a total of over 1,000 animals, including some of the world's rarest and most endangered species. The zoo is set around an 11th-century castle and covers 40 acres of wooded hillside, providing a unique and picturesque setting for a day out. Visitors can explore the various animal enclosures, participate in animal feeding sessions, and attend talks and demonstrations by the zookeepers. The zoo is also actively involved in conservation efforts and participates in breeding programs for endangered species. 

General admission tickets: Adult: £20.50, Children: £14.50

Dudley Zoo, Castle Hill, Dudley, DY1 4QF

Special animal experiences: Tickle a tapir, feed the sea lions, meet the orangutans.

What to consider when choosing a zoo to visit

When choosing a zoo to visit, there are several factors to consider:

Variety and diversity of animal species: Check the variety and diversity of animals present in the zoo. Some zoos specialize in certain types of animals, such as birds or reptiles, while others have a wide range of species.

Educational and interactive experiences: Look for zoos that offer educational and interactive experiences, such as animal encounters, feeding experiences, and behind-the-scenes tours. Keep in mind that each of them may have different animals available for encounters and pertinent regulations.

Seasonal availability: Some zoos and animal parks may be seasonal and only open during certain times of the year, so be sure to check before planning your visit.

Visitor amenities: Consider the amenities available at the zoo, such as restaurants, gift shops, and play areas for children.

Exclusive activities: While all zoos offer some typical experiences, some others offer special types of interactions or activities. For example, some parks are a mix between a zoo and an amusement park, while others are home to unusual species you may not find in other places.

Importance of visiting zoos and wildlife parks

Visiting zoos and wildlife parks is not only a fun and educational activity for the whole family, but it also has several other benefits:

Benefits for mental wellbeing: Spending time in nature and around animals has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental wellbeing.

Educational opportunity: Zoos and wildlife parks provide an opportunity to learn about different species of animals, their habitats, and conservation efforts.

Lasting family memories: Visiting a zoo or wildlife park is a great way to create lasting memories with your family.

The UK has a wide variety of zoos, wildlife parks, and aquariums to choose from, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to learn about the animal kingdom. Whether you are interested in birds, reptiles, aquatic animals, or mammals, there is something for everyone. Don't forget to check the prices, availability, and any special experiences on offer before planning your visit. Get tickets to start your zoo journey at Blackpool Zoo here !

Sarah Riches | 04 May 2021

5 of the uk’s best safari lodges.

If you had your hopes pinned on a safari this year you needn’t miss out – as you can still get up close to elephants, cheetahs and lions in wildlife lodges across the UK

1. West Midland Safari Park

Cheetahs at West Midland Safari Park (West Midland Safari Park)

Tanzania might not be an option this year but you can still drive 6.5km through West Midland Safari Park near Birmingham, which is home to zebras, Congo buffalo, Indian rhino and critically endangered Bactrian camels.

To see some of the animals at night – after most visitors have left for the day – you can now stay over in one of the park’s eight new safari lodges.

As well as the lodges, the animals’ habitats have also been renovated, so the park’s three African elephants now have access to an outdoor paddock and drinking pool 24 hours a day. Six of the lodges have large windows and an outdoor deck overlooking the pool, so you can observe Latabe, Five and Sutton as they drink. The two-storey lodges blend in with the paddock as they feature thatched roofs, wooden floors, woven rugs and straw lampshades. The two other lodges overlook the cheetahs’ lair, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedrooms providing a perfect view of cheetahs Azrael and Bappe. A Red Panda Cottage is also due to open in spring 2021.

For more information visit West Midland Safari Park .

2. Longleat

A white rhino (Shutterstock)

Once the grounds of a 16th century manor house, Longleat opened as a safari park in 1966. Sandwiched between Bath and Salisbury, the reserve is four times the size of London’s Richmond Park, and home to game more at home on the plains of Zimbabwe.

Visitors can drive in their own vehicle or hop on a safari bus to see tigers, white rhinos and lions. Alternatively, you can join a walking safari to see lemurs, African tortoises and the black-headed Somali sheep.

For a close up of the zebras and giraffes, however, book a night in a cottage. There are three to choose from: East Lodge, which includes a guided tour of the grounds, and Keeper’s House and Keeper’s Cottage, both of which include a guided safari tour in a 4x4.

For more information visit Longleat .

3. Port Lympne Safari Park

Friendly giraffes (Shutterstock)

Swap Kenya for Kent on a safari at Port Lympne Safari Park on the edge of the Kent Downs. Covid rules permitting, you can choose one of three ranger-led safaris, during which you will see black rhino, wildebeest, ostriches and critically endangered Rothschild giraffes.

For a more intimate experience, stay overnight and see the animals once most guests have gone home. The 243-hectare estate is home to wigwams, shepherds’ huts, a treehouse hotel and an igloo-style ‘bubble’ designed for stargazers. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you might be able to observe Amur leopards from Leopard Creek or watch TV side by side with Adras, Oudrika and their offspring on the other side of an enormous window in Lion Lodge.

For more information visit Port Lympne Safari Park .

4. Camp Baboon

Okapi (Shutterstock)

Set within the Wild Place Project, this camp on the outskirts of Bristol is home to lemurs, pygmy goats, eland and okapi, which is endemic to the Congo.

The site has 10 wishbone-shaped cabins for overnight guests, who can help feed some of the animals on a morning tour before the site opens to the public. You can also join an evening tour and rangers’ workshops to learn bush craft skills under a canopy in the woods and around a firepit. As well as entry to Wild Place Project, overnight guests can visit Bristol Zoo Gardens for free, too.

For more information visit Camp Baboon . 

5. ZSL London Zoo

An Asiatic lion (Shutterstock)

There are only 520 Asiatic lions left in Gir National Park in Gujarati in the north west of India. While you may not be able to travel there at the moment, you can see a pride of the endangered animals in Land of the Lions, a breeding centre inside ZSL London Zoo.

The London enclosure is modelled after the national park, complete with railway tracks, a corrugated roof, train station ticket hall and a crumbling temple. Visitors stroll on raised boardwalks over the lions to a viewing area. You can also spend the night in one of nine cabins in Gir Lion Lodge. A stay includes three tours that take place once the zoo is closed to the public.

For more information visit ZSL London Zoo . 

Read more about safaris: 

First-time travel: safari with kids, how to stay safe and healthy on safari, what to pack when you're... going on safari, 20 top tips for going on safari by wanderlust readers, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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5 of Uganda’s most magnificent national parks

Few African nations can match Uganda in terms of the wide variety of parks and reserves to explore. From action-packed 4WD safari adventures to breathtaking mountain hikes, these five national parks offer memorable experiences to set your heart racing.

In Uganda’s national parks, there’s an adventure at every turn. This supremely fertile and biodiverse equatorial nation may be famous for its great apes, but it's also a prime destination for those looking to spot lions, monkeys and giraffes. Uganda is also home to over 1,000 bird species, from long-faced shoebills and delicate warblers to dazzling turacos and bush-shrikes. With tangled rainforests, steamy papyrus swamps, soaring mountains and layer upon layer of cultural heritage including three world heritage sites (two of which are national parks), this is a nation to explore in detail, one park at a time.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Best for: trekking with mountain gorillas  

Some of Uganda’s most thrilling safari experiences require you to set out on foot. Hiking in Bwindi Forest National Park tops many adventurers’ wish lists, as this is one of the few locations in the world where tourists can track and encounter mountain gorillas. Alongside expert guides, visitors can navigate the steep and abundant rainforest in the hope of spending a precious hour in the company of a family of gorillas. While watching them respectfully from a distance, you can see them forage, groom and go about their daily lives.

While gorilla trekking is utterly unforgettable, it’s not the only way to explore this protected forest. Join a guided birdwatching or plant-spotting walk, and you’ll hear and see a host of fascinating species. Additionally, Batwa cultural performers, whose ancestors lived among the trees, run organised events on the forest fringes to share their rich heritage.

2. Rwenzori Mountains National Park

Best for: rare, high-altitude flora and fauna

Uganda’s spectacular Rwenzori Mountains National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 — contains Africa’s third-highest mountain, Margherita Peak on Mount Stanley (5,109m). Ecologically, geologically and culturally, the park is hugely significant, containing the highest and most permanent sources of the River Nile and a bounty of endemic plants, including giant heathers, groundsels, lobelias and medicinal herbs.

Make no mistake, this national park is challenging to explore. But for resilient hikers and climbers, the Rwenzoris’ striking alpine scenery has masses of rugged appeal, with snowy glaciers, fast-flowing rivers, lakes and waterfalls. Birds are plentiful, and with luck, you can also spot forest elephants, L’Hoest’s monkeys and Rwenzori black-fronted duikers.

3. Kidepo Valley National Park

Best for: semi-arid savannah, giraffes and cheetahs  

Is there any creature more graceful than a giraffe in full gallop? They look as if they’re travelling in slow motion, even when they’re topping 34 miles per hour. One of the best places to see these natural athletes is Kidepo Valley National Park : its picturesque savannahs are a stronghold of the rare and endangered Rothschild’s giraffes — a subspecies of the Northern giraffe.

Kidepo is the least known of Uganda’s vast protected grasslands. Named after the seasonal Kidepo River, it’s tucked away in Uganda’s remote northern reaches, over 10 hours by road from the capital Kampala. Make an effort to visit, and you’ll be richly rewarded — in addition to giraffes, you could spot cheetahs, ostriches, bat-eared foxes, and other aridity-adapted species found nowhere else in Uganda.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Best for: the Victoria Nile, hippos and elephants  

The Nile, a river of legends, surges through Uganda with youthful vigour. One of its most spectacular cascades lies at the heart of Uganda’s largest protected area, Murchison Falls National Park . Here, water flowing between Lake Victoria and Lake Albert tumbles through a rocky gorge, just seven to ten metres wide, at around 300 cubic metres per second. For energising views, visit the Top of the Falls Viewpoint or follow the gorge’s hiking trails.

Below the falls, the banks are richly vegetated, and the waters serene. Take a leisurely afternoon boat trip along the Victoria Nile from Paraa, and you’ll see hippos, elephants, crocodiles and dozens of birds among the Borassus palms and papyrus stalks.

5. Mount Elgon National Park

Best for: budget-friendly mountain adventures Mount Elgon National Park , Africa’s eighth-highest massif, can only be explored on foot. Located on the Ugandan-Kenyan border, it’s far quieter than other major East African mountain destinations such as Kilimanjaro, Mount Kenya and the Rwenzoris. Mount Elgon is an excellent option for hikers and climbers seeking a peaceful, good-value adventure. The three main trailheads are accessible by road, and park entrance and guiding fees are affordably priced.

For Hungry Minds

Related topics.

• NATIONAL PARKS

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