safari zoo in england

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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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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5-mile safari drive

The uk's longest safari drive.

Our 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 our Foot Safari - both experiences are included in your ticket!

Your adventure begins in Eastern Asia where you’ll meet our herd of Bactrian Camels whose coat sheds throughout the year, and lots of Yaks, Eastern Kiang and Père David’s Deer roaming around. In the Southern Asia area, you’ll find the Axis Deer and Eld’s Deer as well as Nilgai and Blackbuck. 

Our African Savannah zone is home to one of the largest White Rhino crashes in the UK. Watch out for the world’s largest bird too, the Ostrich, as they love to come over and say hello! Can you spot the distinct markings on the Roan Antelope or the short pointed horns of the Waterbuck? Whilst driving through the African woodland, keep your eyes peeled for the Sitatunga too.

Dare to enter the monkey jungle? The most anticipated area of the Safari Drive. Hold on to your seatbelts as our Baboons steal the show. They’ll come right up to your car so, if you’d prefer, our car-friendly route will allow you to watch from afar. If you still want the full mischievous experience, why not book the Baboon Bus?

African Lions

Our Safari Drive takes you through Lion Country, allowing you to watch the pride without a fence between them and your vehicle!

White Rhino

White Rhino are one of the most endangered animals on the planet. They are often hunted for their horn.

European Bison

Bison can be found in North America and Northern Europe. The European Bison were once extinct in the wild.

In the wild, a Baboon troop can number between 20 and 100! Their ranges vary considerably depending on food availability.

A real highlight of the Safari Drive is meeting the Pride of Knowsley in the lion enclosure where our pride of African Lions roam around. See for yourself!

The beauty of the Safari Drive is that it's different every time you drive through and the best part is, you can go around as many times as you like!

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Find out all the exciting info on our awe-inspiring animals and exciting activities.

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Animal talks & displays.

Dare to get up close to a bird of prey or get splashed by a sea lion?

After you’ve finished the Safari Drive, why not go round again or explore the Foot Safari? See the Sea Lions up close, watch displays of our Birds of Prey and so much more. Both are included in your ticket so why not make the most of your wild adventure?

Warning infographic incase of a breakdown

It's important to us that our guests and animals stay safe so we ask all guests to follow our rules of entry. Our animals behave as close to the wild as possible and can be unpredictable, so you should stay inside your car at all times. If you break down while on the safari drive it is important that all passengers stay within the car, you should sound your horn and wait for a patrol vehicle to come to your assistance.

Our safari drive is full of wild animals who can act unpredictably at times and we are not able to accept any responsibility for damage caused by our baboons within their enclosure. If you would prefer not to take this risk then why not take our car-friendly route or even hop on our Baboon Bus.

Guests are strictly prohibited from feeding the animals – that’s our job! If you are seen feeding the animals from your vehicle you will be asked to leave.

Dogs are not allowed in any areas of Knowsley Safari. This includes both the Safari Drive and also the pedestrian areas of the Foot Safari.

We do however provide basic accommodation for your dog should you wish to bring them on your trip.

Our kennels provide basic accommodation for your pet. Drinking water is available but we do not provide water bowls or blankets. Please feel free to bring with you any items that will make your pet as comfortable as possible. A £5.00 refundable padlock is available at reception on arrival.

We are famous for our drive-through Baboon enclosure but did you know that you can watch their antics from a safe distance if you’re not quite brave enough to venture in? You can take our car-friendly route which still gives you fantastic views of our cheeky residents.

If you fancy the thrill of the Baboons without any of the risk then try our baboon bus. You can book your seats online and you’ll be driven the whole way round the safari as well as through the baboon enclosure.

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Your big day out starts here!

Book your tickets

Annual Pass

Our NEW Annual Pass offers the best value days out to two of Kent's most popular animal parks.

Day visit tickets

Come face-to-face with hundreds of rare and endangered animals in the Kent countryside

A unique family adventure like no other!

Get ready to see over 800 rare and endangered animals, go on safari to see our 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!

Flash Sale!

15% off April stays at the Treehouses, plus 25% off animal experiences at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in Kent! T&Cs apply.

The BIG day out

Babydoll's wood fired pizza.

Set in beautiful landscaped gardens, at the heart of Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, Babydoll’s Wood Fired Pizza is sure to delight lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. 

The stylish and modern restaurant,  was   named after the much loved gorilla, Babydoll, who at the grand old age of 57, was the last surviving original Howletts gorilla   before   she sadly passed away in 2018.   She was brought up from an infant in the cottage at Howletts and was adored by the Aspinall family and her dedicated keepers.

Open  f rom 12pm daily , you can enjoy a selection of antipasti, before tucking in to a freshly prepared and baked wood fired oven pizza or a satisfying bowl of pasta. All our seasonal vegetables and herbs used at Babydoll’s are sourced directly from our own kitchen garden and we also offer gluten friendly pizzas too.  A selection of fine wines and prosecco, alongside non alcoholic and hot drinks is also available.

Meet the animals

We’re home to over 900 animals, including the largest herd of black rhino in the UK, western lowland gorillas, giraffes, tigers, lions, leopards, bears and so much more! With regular animal births and new species coming in every year, there’s always something different to see. Meet all of our lovely animals here.

There's lots to explore on your day out

From a safari ride to some Kentish woodland walks, there are 600 acres of Port Lympne to keep you entertained throughout your day.  As well as all the amazing animals, you'll find play parks, our BIG attraction  Dinosaur Forest , the Port Lympne Hotel gardens and more. You can also join in our  FREE animal talks. 

The weather won’t ruin your visit to Howletts Wild Animal Park or Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve: We offer a rainy day guarantee at both Parks for all  day visitors who have booked in advance !

Enjoy a coffee and a snack at Basecamp Café, then jump on board one of our safari trucks and journey out to the South American, Asian and African Experiences, or take a stroll between the rhino paddocks to begin your walking route. Later you'll continue your adventure to Carnivore Territory, home to mighty dinosaurs, big cats, small cats and more.

South American Experience

Journey to South America on our safari trucks to see Brazilian tapirs, Tommy and Che.  Spot capybara as they graze with the vicugna and look out for Kent’s only spectacled bear pair – Oberon and Rina, as they scale the heights of their grassy home to get a better view.

African Experience

Continue your safari truck journey through the stunning Kent countryside and prepare yourself to encounter free roaming herds of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. You will be amazed at how close you get to the animals!

Asian Experience

Your safari journey continues into the Asian Experience where water buffalo wallow and herds of deer roam the plains.

Carnivore Territory

Steel your nerves as you enter Carnivore Territory and come face to face with majestic big cats and elusive small cats. Curl up on the comfy sofas and armchairs on the veranda at Babydoll's Wood Fired Pizza with a glass of prosecco and a selection of antipasti, before tucking in to a freshly prepared wood fired pizza or pasta dish.  Now you're prepared to enter Dinosaur Forest...  

Dinosaur Forest

Step into a Jurassic world when you visit Dinosaur Forest, the largest collection of life size dinosaurs in Europe at Kent’s biggest wild animal park!  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!

Primate Trail

Explore the wooded pathways to discover many species of endangered primates and visit The Palace of the Apes, home to our family of Western lowland gorillas.

Visit Port Lympne Reserve this Easter holiday from Saturday 1st to Sunday 16th April 2023, to enjoy ‘eggstraordinary’ big days out! Join us for an authentic safari in the Kent countryside and come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, rhinos, ostriches and many more incredible species at the Kent's BIGGEST wildlife park.

How to get here

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

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South Lakes Safari Zoo

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South Lakes Safari Zoo - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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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.

The 17 Best Zoos in the UK + Safari Parks (2024)

If you’re looking for an exciting day out with the family, why not visit one of the best zoos in the UK? From safari parks to wildlife reserves, there’s something to suit every age and taste. Here are 17 of the best zoos in the UK.

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Table of Contents

How Many Zoos are there in the UK?

There are 48 zoos in the UK, some of which are considered the best in the world. All of them preserve endangered animal species and exotic creatures. 

MAP of the Best Zoos in the UK (+Safari Parks)

Best Zoos in the UK + Safari Parks

From spotting lions in the wild to admiring majestic birds of prey, a trip to a safari park or zoo can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Let’s get started!

#1 Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo many people consider the best zoo in Britain. It is a non-profit organization that aims not only for visitors but also to participate in serious research projects. 

The zoo and a conservation centre are actively working in the following areas: rare breeds and endangered species, research in the field of ethology (animal behaviour), and active participation in various wildlife conservation programs worldwide.

The first penguins appeared here in 1914. The first king penguin chick was hatched at the zoo in 1919, the first ever captive penguin chick. One of the most colourful and popular events of the day is the penguin parade.

Besides all the animals of popular types, here you can see Asiatic lions, sun bears, and giant pandas, precisely, the two giant pandas, Tian Tian and Yang Guang. 

If you’re visiting Edinburgh, make sure you read about the best places to stay in Edinburgh !

#2 Chester Zoo

Chester zoo is one of the best zoos in the UK. On the site, optimal animal conditions have been created – from a rain jungle for elephants to a vast indoor hangar for primates.

The zoo is home to more than 27000 animals, about 400 species. They live free here in a natural habitat. 

For the conservation of endangered species was created a special program. Here you can see black rhinos, painted dogs, Asian elephants, Sumatran orangutans, and birds ─ Malayan Kalao, crowned cranes, etc. 

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#3 Paignton Zoo

Paignton zoo is one of the best zoos in England and the best zoo in Devon. It was founded in 1923 by millionaire Herbert Whitley. The Wild Planet Trust, a wildlife conservation and education charity, own it. Since 2001, the park has been reconstructed, and now the entire infrastructure of the zoo meets European standards.  

On an area of 32.5 hectares, 2.5 thousand animals live in natural conditions, divided by habitat zones. Endangered black rhinos, ostriches, and cheetahs live in the Savannah; various birds live in the Desert House; gibbons, lions, Sumatran tigers, etc., live in the forest thicket. Red pandas, baboons, a giant tortoise and many others live in the Primley zone.  

#4 ZSL London Zoo

London Zoo is one of the best zoos in the UK and the biggest zoo in London. It was founded for scientific research and only later opened to the public.

ZSL London zoo is the world’s oldest scientific zoo. About 17000 incredible animals of 755 species make up the largest British zoological collection. The first African hippopotamus and elephant were brought in England to this zoo.  

The territory of one of the oldest zoos in the world is divided into habitats of different representatives of the fauna. Also, it has the best reptile zoo UK, namely, a reptile house with the largest lizard in the world! Here you will find western lowland gorillas, the huge penguin pool and the home of the monitor lizard from Komodo Island, a butterfly forest, and an insect house. Note the zoo offers free adult tickets for special holidays.

#5 ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is located next to Dunstable, Bedfordshire. Whipsnade Zoo is the biggest zoo in the UK. It is formerly known as Whipsnade Wild Animal Park. The Zoological Society of London owns this zoo. ZSL is a charity organization committed to the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.

Make sure to dedicate at least half a day to the visit. Here you can see an endangered red panda, wild horses, and even an aquarium with sea creatures. You can move around the territory of Whipsnade Zoo between the paddocks by car or by the narrow-gauge railway ─ Jumbo Express.

#6 Longleat safari park

Longleat safari park was opened in 1966 and became the world’s first safari park outside of Africa. It is located on the territory of the historic estate of Longleat. During a trip through the park, tourists are invited to observe the natural behaviour of such wild individuals as wolves, lions, giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, leopards, and tigers. 

Longleat safari theme park is home to 500 species of animals – giant otters, Cuban crocodiles, porcupines, cockatoos, iguanas, armadillos, cheeky monkeys, etc. 

In the best safari park UK, you can test your orienteering skills in the UK’s largest hedge maze of sheared yew trees. 

#7 Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwy

Welsh mountain zoo is a wonderful zoological garden near Colwyn Bay in Conwy, Wales. Wildlife lover and naturalist Robert Jackson opened the zoo on May 18, 1963. The zoo covers an area of 37 acres. It hosts sea lions, otters, snow leopards, owls, chimps, flamingos, and many more. Additionally, the conservating zoo provides fantastic views of the area. Due to the steep hills, it is not very convenient to visit the zoo with toddlers, but if you have older children, it is a great place to spend the whole day. Don’t worry about the food, it has a nice café onsite.

#8 Colchester Zoo

Colchester zoo is one of the top zoos in the UK. It is the best in Europe. The animals at the zoo are treated well and have good homes. The zoo staff make sure to create the appropriate conditions for each animal based on its needs and wishes. After all, when the animals are happy, it is pleasant to watch them. 

Colchester Zoo is in the southeast of England. It was founded in 1963 on 24 hectares of land with hills, ponds and thickets, and 250 species of animals. 

Rare and endangered species of animals live in Colchester Zoo. Among them are white rhinos, Amur tigers, anteaters and even spider monkeys. The pride of the Colchester Zoo is its 24m long underwater tunnel, one of the largest in Europe! The zoo has a lot of land and marine animals (sea lions, penguins, turtles).

#9 Howletts wild animal park

Howletts Wild Animal Park is the best zoo near London. In 1957 it was a private zoo founded by John Aspinall, an animal fan, and only in 1975 it open to the public.

Howletts wildlife park is known for breeding rare and endangered species. It has been owned by The John Aspinall Foundation since 1984. John Aspinall was buried in the park near the main entrance to the family mansion, opposite the corral with bison. Next to the grave is a memorial with a mention of the zoo’s founder.

The zoo is home to the largest breeding herd of African elephants in the UK. It also contains one of the world’s largest populations of the lion-tailed macaque. But the park rightfully received its celebrity for the world’s largest family group of western plains gorillas.

#10 Marwell Zoo

Marwell animal park, a good zoo in the UK, hosts lots of exotic and endangered animals. The territory of Marwell zoo covers 140 acres of beautiful land and is owned by the global conservation charity Marwell Wildlife. 

The tropical house of Marwell zoo has many beautiful birds and butterflies. You can see adorable snow leopards, red pandas, white rhinos, Rothchild’s giraffes, and Amur tigers. The zoo also has an interesting Lego dinosaur model display which is especially loved by kids. For the convenience of visitors, there is a small tractor train, which has an additional cost, but the money goes for animals’ care.

#11 Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Yorkshire wildlife park is a unique wildlife park that opened in 2009 in South Yorkshire. This popular zoo was founded as a centre for protecting animals and animal welfare from conserving biodiversity. It is one of the best zoos in Yorkshire.

Yorkshire wildlife park has more than 400 animals (about 70 species) of the most amazing animals on the planet. Here you can see polar bears, lemurs, giraffes, tigers, etc. The cherry on the pie for kids is a great Dino Park! Educational courses for children, and great animal shows, are held here. 

#12 Cotswold wildlife park

The Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of England’s most popular wildlife parks with natural beauty.

The park is divided into four climatic zones representing certain habitat conditions. During its existence in the nature reserve, it was possible to collect and preserve a huge collection of endangered plants and animals. There are more than 200 species of animals, more than 130 species of birds and several thousand plants in the park. Therefore, the entire territory is called Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens Burford. 

For the convenience of visiting the park, a light train is provided, which slowly moves along the monorail and allows you to see everything to the maximum. The fauna here is collected from all over the world and is replete with exotic species. There are many herbivores in the park, such as giraffes and camels. 

#13 Belfast Zoo

Belfast zoo is located on the northeastern slope of Mount Cavehill, which offers an incredible view of the city.

The total area of Belfast Zoo is 22 hectares. About 300,000 visitors, both locals and tourists, come to the zoo every year. The area has steep hills, so make sure to take comfortable shoes. In 2011, a cub of the southern pudu was born here – the tiniest deer, up to 43 cm tall and weighing up to 13 kg. There are four such deer in Belfast. At the moment, only 70 pudu are kept in zoos around the world.

#14 Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne Reserve is located in Hythe, a wildlife sanctuary with a safari-themed hotel complex. The reserve is divided into two sections: a park safari for truck rides in such zones as “Africa”, “Asia”, and “South America”; and a park with enclosures for hiking.

The park’s collection includes such animals as Siberian tigers, Malayan tapirs, African hunting dogs, giraffes, etc. You can visit the gorillarium (“Monkey Palace”) and the “Forest of Dinosaurs”, where the exhibits of the latter are collected in full size. Also, there is a souvenir shop with amazing things and different cafes which offer snacks and drinks. 

#15 Dudley Zoo

Dudley zoo is one of the most interesting zoos in the UK. It is located next to the ruins of 11th-century Dudley Castle. The zoo hosts many endangered animals, exotic creatures, big cats, and a reptile house. The hill can be reached by cable car or train. Both are included in the entrance price. Besides the great variety of animals, there is a fun activity called a ghost walk. You can be part of the group for a small tour where you will hear ghost stories about the castle. If you visit the zoo in good weather, there are plenty of nice places for a picnic for all the family. 

#16 Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

Folly Farm Adventure Park is considered the best family holiday destination in the UK for many people. Founded in 1988 by farmer Glyn Williams and his wife, Ann. A little later, their children joined the development of the zoo. The family is actively involved in the park’s development and sets high educational and entertainment goals.

A tour of the farm will be not only interesting but also very informative. On site, you can study in detail a combine harvester, a tractor and a milking system for cows. In the zoo, you can meet friendly farmyard animals such as donkeys, sheep, pigs, horses, chickens and many others.

Folly Farm Adventure Park is fun for the whole family, both indoors and outdoor play areas. For children, there is a huge indoor children’s attraction, its own racetrack. Pirate Park invites all fans to dream up. This attraction is for you if you want to be the old pirate Jolly Roger. There is Dragon Park with slides, swings, and funny carousels for the youngest visitors.

#17 Blair Drummond Safari Park, Stirling

Blair Drummond Safari Park is located near the city of Stirling and is the only place in the country where you can see elephants and giraffes. Many animals from Asia and Africa live on its territory, including rare endangered species.

The Safari Park was built in 1970 and currently occupies an area of 49 hectares. It consists of 3 animal reserves and 2 children’s recreation areas with various attractions. In addition to wild animals, you can also see farm animals such as goats, sheep, llamas, Vietnamese pigs and miniature wallabies in the park.

Best Zoos in the UK – FAQs

The UK’s largest zoo, Whipsnade, is located on 243 hectares of beautiful parkland in the Chiltern Hills, north of London. More than 2,500 animals live here, many of which are endangered in the wild.

Chester Zoo, the best zoo in the UK, is located on Moston Rd, Upton, in Chester. There are unique botanical gardens with 500 species and more than 15,000 individuals of the most exotic and endangered animals.

London Zoo is considered one of the oldest and most visited in the world. The area of the zoo is more than 146,000 square meters. It has over 16,800 animals of 755 different species. It is also the first zoo in the world that is engaged in scientific activities.

Whipsnade Zoo, the biggest zoo in England, is located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire. It covers an area of 600 acres and is home to more than 3,500 animals. The zoo is divided into several geographical zones, each containing different wildlife. It also has several interactive attractions for visitors.

There are 8 great safari parks in the UK. The first safari park appeared in Wiltshire after World War II. So, it is not necessary to travel to Africa to see wild exotic animals. You can have this experience in the UK. 

Longleat Safari Park is one of the most famous safari parks in Britain. It is the first safari park outside of Africa, which offered the opportunity to go on a car safari; opened in 1966 in Wiltshire. 

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Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

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Whipsnade Zoo

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Explore a world of wildlife like never before at Whipsnade Zoo, the largest zoo in the UK. Enjoy a full day of adventure making incredible memories. Experience thousands of amazing animals and learn how, as a ZSL conservation zoo, we're protecting their future.

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Why visitors love Whipsnade Zoo

It was lovely to have somewhere to go where all the family are happy on a bank holiday and it was great to see that the animals had so much space in their enclosures. ZSL do such good conservation work to help endagered species that we were happy to take out membership and plan to visit often. The talks given by zoo staff were informative, interactive and enjoyable.

We regularly visit the Zoo, having now become a ZSL member and just love taking our Grandson there. There is plenty to see and many children's activities, including play areas. The staff are very dedicated and informative, always willing to give you the time to ask questions or just pass the time of day.

We had a wonderful day seeing so many different animals in settings as near to their natural habitats as possible. We saw 3 cheetahs, 2 lazing around, the third trying to persuade them to play, we saw the 2 wolverines chasing each other round and round their magnificent enclosure, we saw the chimps strolling together in their huge area which had climbing apparatus and trees for more energetic days.

When you visit Whipsnade Zoo, you’re doing great things with your great day out. We are more than just a zoo – we are part of ZSL (Zoological Society of London) a global conservation charity. Our teams of conservationists, scientists, technicians and community specialists are active in over 70 countries - and every visit to Whipsnade Zoo helps fund their vital work to restore habitats and protect wildlife.

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South Lakes Safari Zoo

Postcode: LA12 0LU

Step into the wonders of South Lakes Safari Zoo, where the wilderness of the world awaits in Cumbria's heart. Experience the thrill of free-roaming animals, discover rare species, and journey through thoughtfully crafted habitats. Beyond mere observation, here, you'll dive deep into global conservation efforts and the majestic dance of nature.

Visitor information: south lakes safari zoo.

South Lakes Safari Zoo, nestled in Cumbria’s scenic landscapes, offers an immersive experience into the world of exotic wildlife.

This innovative zoo, spanning over 51 acres, champions a unique approach where many animals roam freely, providing visitors with the opportunity to get up close and personal with species from around the globe.

From kangaroos hopping beside pathways to free-flying birds overhead, it’s a truly interactive experience. The zoo is home to a myriad of animals, including big cats, primates, and rare birds.

Each habitat is thoughtfully designed to replicate natural environments, ensuring the animals’ well-being while educating visitors about wildlife conservation.

Did you know?

South Lakes Safari Zoo is heavily involved in global conservation efforts, having supported over 40 conservation projects and contributed to the protection of 750,000 hectares of vital wildlife habitat globally.

Free-Roaming Animals: Experience the unique thrill of kangaroos, lemurs, and other creatures roaming freely around the zoo.

Big Cat Encounters: Marvel at the majesty of tigers, lions, and cheetahs in expansive habitats.

Exotic Bird Display: Witness free-flying birds from around the world showcasing their aerial prowess in live displays.

Interactive Feeding Times: Participate in scheduled feeding sessions, learning about animal diets and behaviours.

Conservation Efforts: Dive into the zoo’s dedicated conservation projects, understanding the importance of wildlife protection.

Educational Workshops: Attend informative sessions that delve into animal habits, characteristics, and the ecosystems they inhabit.

Adventure Play Area: Let the little ones burn off energy in the themed play zones, designed to entertain and educate.

Rare Species Showcase: Discover animals you may never have heard of, emphasizing the diversity of our planet.

Picturesque Landscapes: The zoo, set in Cumbria’s beautiful surroundings, offers panoramic views and scenic spots perfect for relaxation.

Themed Events: Throughout the year, the zoo hosts special events, from Halloween haunts to festive celebrations, enhancing the visitor experience.

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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.

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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.

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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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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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LUXURY ACCOMMODATION WITH AN UNFORGETTABLE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE

Introducing the award-winning Safari Lodges at West Midlands Safari Park. A mixture of beautiful lodges and premium cottages, designed to give you an up-close and immersive overnight wildlife experience like no other.

Safari Lodges short breaks include dinner and breakfast, spectacular views of the animals, admission to the Park during the day and Theme Park ride wristbands*.

*Summer season only. Generally from mid-February to end of October. Please see wmsp.co.uk for exact dates.

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Eight exclusive, luxury lodges, designed to give you an up-close and personal overnight wildlife experience like no other.

They will be integrated into the newly-updated reserves, with spectacular views overlooking the elephant and cheetah habitats.

Nestled into their own secluded area, there will be six lodges offering the only overnight accommodation experience with African elephants in the UK.

Two more lodges will offer incredible views of our majestic cheetahs.

Watch the wildlife as night falls over the reserves, whilst you enjoy a sumptuous evening meal, freshly-prepared by our chefs.

Wake up with views of elephants or cheetahs enjoying their morning feed while you feast on a delicious breakfast.

Safari Lodges short breaks include exclusive views of the animals, admission to the Park during the day and Theme Park wristbands*.

*Summer Season only.

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VIP ULTIMATE TOUR – EXTRA INFO 

What’s included:

• A half day experience
• Tour of the Safari in one of our jeeps
• A chance to feed a number of our animals
• Pictures from your day on a memory stick, taken by your guide

Important Info:

• Minimum age for participants is 6 years. Children aged 6-15 years must be accompanied by a full-paying adult.
• VIP Experiences can be booked for a specific date. Whilst we will always try to accommodate changes in date, this is subject to availability and cannot always be guaranteed.
• Once an experience has been purchased refunds will not be considered.

VIP LION FEED – EXTRA INFO 

• A 45-minute experience
• Meeting and feeding our lions
• Minimum age for participants is 6 years.
• Children aged 6-15 years must be accompanied by a full paying adult

VIP RHINO KEEPER EXPERIENCE – EXTRA INFO

• A half-day experience
• Meeting, feeding and looking after our Indian rhino
• A keeper for the Day Certificate
• Minimum age for participants is 16 years.
• Only available during our Summer Season.

VIP GIRAFFE FEED – EXTRA INFO

• A 30-minute experience
• Meeting and feeding our herd of giraffes
• Children aged 6-15 years must be accompanied by a full paying adult.

VIP JUNIOR KEEPER EXPERIENCE – EXTRA INFO

• Meeting, feeding and helping to care for animals like rhinos, lemurs, meerkats and more.
• A certificate
• Suitable for children between the ages of 10-15 years.
• Maximum two children per day.

VIP GUIDED TOUR – EXTRA INFO 

• A 90-minute experience
• A guided tour of the Safari Drive-through in one of our jeeps
• Minimum age for participants is 3 years. Children aged 6-15 years must be accompanied by a full-paying adult.

VIP STAR OF THE SEA LION SHOW – EXTRA INFO

• Meeting and feeding our sea lions during a Sea Lion Show
• Certificate
• A picture from your day
• Minimum age for participants is 5 years.
• Only one ‘Star’ per Sea Lion Show.

LION LODGE – OPENING SOON

We will be offering luxury overnight stays with lions in early summer 2023! The accommodation will be authentically integrated into the brand-new lion habitat, located past our African Village. Guests will experience an immersive and unforgettable overnight wildlife encounter, like no other.

The Lion Lodges will feature open-plan living and luxury interiors, with breathtaking views from every room into the new lion habitat, through floor-to-ceiling windows.

More details will be announced soon. To be the first to hear about updates, sign up to our e-Newsletter! Click Here .

TIGER LODGE

We will be offering luxury overnight stays with Sumatran tigers in autumn 2022! The accommodation will be authentically integrated into the newly built tiger habitat, giving guests an immersive and unforgettable overnight wildlife encounter, like no other.

The tiger lodges will feature open plan living and luxury interiors, with breathtaking views from every room into the new tiger habitat through floor to ceiling windows.