Best Safari Parks in the UK for Families and Animal Lovers
Published: 7 Apr 2026
Looking for the best safari parks in the UK for families? You’re in the right place. With so many options from drive-through wildlife parks to safari lodges, it can be hard to know which ones are actually worth visiting.
This guide makes it simple. We’ve rounded up the top safari parks in the UK for animal lovers, focusing on family-friendly experiences, must-see highlights and real visitor tips.
Whether you’re planning a day out with kids or a unique wildlife stay, this list will help you choose the right park.
Best Safari Parks in the UK for Families: Drive-Through Safaris & Overnight Lodges
Before we dive into the details, here’s a quick comparison of the best safari parks in the UK to help you choose faster.
| Park | Location | Type | Accommodation | Unique Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Longleat Safari Park | Wiltshire, South West | Drive-through & Walk-through | ✅ Lodges | Free-roaming lions & monkeys; Longleat Safari Lodges for overnight stay; ideal for families and first-time visitors |
| West Midlands Safari Park | Bewdley, West Midlands | Primarily Drive-through | ❌ No overnight | Adventure rides + small walk-through areas; day visits only; great for families and thrill-seekers |
| Woburn Safari Park | Bedfordshire, South East | Drive-through & Walk-through | ✅ Lodges | Close encounters with rhinos & tigers; Woburn Safari Lodges for overnight stay; perfect for families and kids |
| Port Lympne Safari Park | Kent, South East | Drive-through & Walk-through | ✅ Lodges | Safari lodges UK with luxury glamping; rare species collection; ideal for families and luxury stays |
| Knowsley Safari Park | Merseyside, North West | Drive-through & Walk-through | ❌ No overnight | Interactive animal experiences; day visits only; good for families and couples |
| Blair Drummond Safari Park | Stirling, Scotland | Drive-through & Walk-through | ❌ No overnight | Car safari + adventure park; day visits only; ideal for families visiting Scotland |
While safari parks offer drive-through adventures, traditional zoos are great for walking experiences. Check out my full list of the Largest zoos in the UK for more ideas.
Best Safari Parks in the UK (Detailed Guide)
Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the top safari parks in the UK, including highlights, tips and what to expect.
Longleat Safari Park – Wiltshire, England
Based in Wiltshire, Longleat Safari Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for a true safari experience in the UK. Opened in 1966, it was the first drive-through safari outside Africa and remains one of the most popular safari parks in the country. Nestled within the historic Longleat Estate, the park spans thousands of acres and offers wildlife encounters both from your car and on foot.
Why Visit Longleat Safari Park
- Drive-Through Safari: Take a self-drive tour lasting around 2–3 hours and meet lions, tigers, rhinos, giraffes and wolves just like a mini African safari.
- Walking Safari & Attractions: Explore Animal Adventure, Koala Creek, Jungle Kingdom and over 120 animal species on foot.
- All-Day Activities: From hedge mazes and family rides to seasonal events and farmyard experiences, there’s something for everyone.
Best For
Families, wildlife lovers, first-time safari seekers, and anyone looking to combine a drive-through adventure with on-foot attractions.
Key Highlights
- Watch lions and Amur tigers roam in natural-style reserves.
- See elephants, giraffes, wolves and spotted hyenas on the Drive-Through Safari.
- Walk through rainforest birds, meerkats, otters and even pandas up close.
- Enjoy extra attractions such as the Longleat Railway, adventure play areas, boat safaris and interactive feeding sessions.
Insider Tips
- Set aside 2–5 hours to enjoy everything, the Drive-Through alone takes about 2 hours, while attractions can take half a day.
- Check seasonal drive-through last entry times before visiting.
- Keep car doors and windows closed, especially in Monkey Mayhem areas where curious rhesus macaques love to explore.
Visiting Longleat Safari Park offers a full day of adventure that combines iconic wildlife encounters with family-friendly activities, making it a top pick among UK safari parks.
West Midlands Safari Park – Worcestershire
Located in Bewdley, Worcestershire, West Midlands Safari Park is one of the UK’s most popular safari parks in the West Midlands. Spanning around 80 hectares, it combines a Drive‑Through Safari, walk-around animal exhibits, adventure rides and even overnight safari lodges for a complete wildlife experience. Opened in 1973, the park is home to over 100 species, from majestic lions and tigers to playful red pandas and exotic birds.
Why Visit West Midlands Safari Park
- Drive-Through Safari: Take a self-drive tour through free-roaming animals including elephants, giraffes, rhinos, lions, and tigers. The four-mile Safari Drive usually takes 1.5–2 hours.
- Safari Walk & Discovery Trail: Explore Red Panda Retreat, Penguin Cove, Reptile World, Lorikeet Landing, Twilight Cave bats, and other walk-around exhibits.
- Adventure Rides & Family Fun: Over 20 rides cater to all ages, from gentle attractions for toddlers to thrilling rides for older kids and adults.
- Overnight Safari Lodges: Sleep just steps from lions, elephants and giraffes, with meals included and panoramic animal views right outside your window.
Best For
Families, wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone wanting a full-day safari experience in the West Midlands.
Key Highlights
- Enjoy the self-drive Safari with easy-to-spot big cats and gentle giants.
- Walk among exotic animals on themed trails and interactive exhibits.
- Experience rides and adventure zones beyond the wildlife for a mixed-activity day.
- Stay overnight in luxury safari lodges for an unforgettable immersive experience.
Insider Tips
- Book in advance: The Drive-Through Safari requires pre-booked time slots, especially on busy weekends.
- Plan 3–5 hours for a full visit, longer if including rides or a lodge stay.
- Check seasonal hours: Theme park rides mainly operate in summer, winter visits may have reduced attractions.
- Tickets: Include both Drive-Through Safari and Safari Walk, ride wristbands are optional. Annual passes provide unlimited access and perks like food and retail discounts.
Visiting West Midlands Safari Park gives you a full mix of wildlife encounters and family adventure, making it one of the top choices among UK safari parks.
Woburn Safari Park – Bedfordshire
Set within the historic Duke of Bedford’s estate in Woburn, Bedfordshire, Woburn Safari Park offers a classic UK safari experience for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Spread across 360 acres, the park combines a self-drive Road Safari, walk-around exhibits and fun play areas, making it a top choice for a full-day adventure.
Why Visit Woburn Safari Park
- Road Safari: Drive through habitats where zebras, rhinos, lions, tigers, wolves and bears roam in natural-style reserves. The Safari Drive typically takes 1.5–2 hours, depending on how busy it is.
- Foot Safari & Exhibits: Get up close with smaller animals on the Foot Safari, from playful meerkats and penguins to curious lemurs and otters, while enjoying daily keeper talks and interactive animal demonstrations.
- Family Fun: Indoor soft play, outdoor playgrounds and the miniature Great Woburn Railway add extra excitement for kids of all ages.
Best For
Families, wildlife lovers, first-time safari visitors, and anyone looking to combine a scenic drive with interactive animal experiences.
Key Highlights
- Enjoy unlimited circuits of the Road Safari with both big cats and gentle giants.
- Walk among penguins, lemurs and otters in engaging exhibits.
- Play, learn, and explore with fun trails, rides and adventure areas for all ages.
Nearby Lodges & Accommodation
While there aren’t any on-site lodges at Woburn Safari Park, there are plenty of great places to stay nearby. Hotels, cozy inns, and family-friendly B&Bs often offer packages that include park tickets, letting you enjoy a multi-day safari experience. Options like The Woburn Hotel and other Woburn village accommodations are perfect for families wanting to make the most of their visit.
Insider Tips
- Plan 3–5 hours to fully experience the Road Safari, Foot Safari and play areas.
- Drive safely: Certain carnivore zones have vehicle restrictions and all guests must stay in their cars during the Safari Drive.
- Check seasonal hours: Peak season opens around 10 am with last entry between 5–6 pm, winter hours are shorter.
- Nearby stays: Booking a hotel or lodge close to the park is the easiest way to extend your visit into a multi-day adventure.
Visiting Woburn Safari Park combines exciting safari drives, interactive animal experiences, and family-friendly fun, making it a standout destination among UK safari parks.
Port Lympne Safari Park – Kent, England
Located in Kent, Port Lympne Safari Park is one of the UK’s most immersive wildlife destinations. Covering around 600 acres, it combines safari adventures, conservation-focused animal encounters, and on-site accommodations for a unique multi-day experience. It’s ideal for families, wildlife enthusiasts and anyone wanting to sleep steps away from exotic animals.
Why Visit Port Lympne Safari Park
- Guided Safari Tours: Explore the park on a truck safari and see giraffes, zebras, lions, tigers, gorillas, and many more species in naturalistic habitats. Tours usually last around 45 minutes.
- Walking Trails & Exhibits: Enjoy themed paths, interactive feeding sessions, and educational talks about the animals.
- Family & Leisure Activities: Adventure play areas and animal-focused experiences keep kids engaged while adults enjoy the wildlife.
Best For
Families, animal lovers, first-time safari-goers and anyone looking for an overnight safari experience in the UK.
Key Highlights
- Witness lions, tigers, elephants, and other exotic animals roaming large enclosures.
- Participate in keeper talks and feeding demonstrations for a more hands-on experience.
- Explore walking trails, play areas and seasonal events for a full-day adventure.
Port Lympne Safari Lodges & Overnight Stays
A standout feature of a visit is staying in one of the Port Lympne safari lodges, offering a true overnight safari experience. Options include Lion Lodge, Giraffe Lodge, Bear Lodge, and luxury shepherd’s huts each providing close-up views of wildlife and the park’s scenic landscapes. Overnight stays include meals and priority access to animal encounters, making it one of the most immersive UK safari lodge experiences.
Insider Tips
- Book early: Safari lodges fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and summer months.
- Plan 1–2 days to enjoy both safari tours, walking trails, and lodge experiences.
- Check seasonal openings: Some animal encounters and guided safaris are only available during peak season.
- Family packages: Many lodge stays include safari tours and meals, ideal for multi-day family adventures.
Visiting Port Lympne Safari Park isn’t just a day trip, it’s an adventure where wildlife, comfort and conservation come together for an unforgettable UK overnight safari experience.
Knowsley Safari Park – Merseyside
Located in Prescot, Merseyside, Knowsley Safari Park is one of the largest and most exciting safari parks in the North West of England. Spread across 550 acres, it’s home to over 750 animals from around the world, making it a must-visit for families and anyone seeking an immersive safari day out.
Why Visit Knowsley Safari Park
- Safari Drive: The park’s highlight is the five-mile drive-through safari, where you can spot lions, rhinos, camels, ostriches, and deer roaming in large naturalistic habitats. Repeat circuits are included with your ticket, so you can take your time exploring.
- Foot Safari & Exhibits: After the drive, head to the walk-around areas to see meerkats, sea lions, Amur tigers and other smaller species. Daily animal talks and demonstrations make this a fun, educational experience.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Adventure play zones, themed trails and picnic areas ensure there’s plenty to do beyond the safari.
Best For
Families, animal lovers, first-time safari visitors, and anyone looking for a full-day wildlife adventure in the North West of the UK.
Key Highlights
- Enjoy big cats, rhinos, and zebras in expansive drive-through reserves.
- Participate in keeper talks and feeding demonstrations for an interactive experience.
- Explore themed play areas and walking trails to keep children entertained.
- Access restaurants, picnic spots and on-site facilities for a comfortable day out.
Insider Tips
- Book online: Tickets must be purchased in advance; it’s especially important during school holidays.
- Plan 3–5 hours to fully enjoy the Safari Drive and walk-around exhibits.
- Vehicle rules: Stay in your car on the safari drive and keep windows and doors closed in carnivore areas for safety.
- Extra experiences: VIP tours and close-up animal encounters can be booked ahead for a more immersive visit.
Visiting Knowsley Safari Park delivers a full day of thrilling Knowsley safari experiences, interactive animal encounters, and family-friendly fun, making it one of the top destinations among safari parks in the North West UK.
If you’re interested in more wildlife experiences, don’t miss my guide to the Biggest zoos in the UK, where you can explore even more animal encounters beyond safari parks.
Blair Drummond Safari Park – Scotland
Located just outside Stirling, Scotland, Blair Drummond Safari Park is one of the top destinations for families and wildlife lovers looking for a full-day adventure. Covering around 120 acres, the park combines a drive-through safari, walk-around exhibits, and interactive experiences, making it one of the best safari parks in Scotland.
Why Visit Blair Drummond Safari Park
- Drive-Through Safari: Explore large naturalistic reserves from your car, spotting rhinos, giraffes, lions, camels, and other majestic animals. The drive typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on traffic.
- Walk-Around & Animal Encounters: Get closer to lemurs, meerkats, penguins, and chimps, and enjoy keeper talks and interactive experiences for a hands-on wildlife adventure.
- Family Fun & Attractions: Children can enjoy the adventure playground, the dinosaur-themed trail, and scheduled bird-of-prey flying demonstrations.
Best For
Families, wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari-goers and anyone seeking a full-day Scottish safari experience.
Key Highlights
- Drive among lions, rhinos, and giraffes in large, free-roaming enclosures.
- Participate in daily keeper talks and feeding demonstrations.
- Enjoy themed trails like the Dinosaur Forest and interactive play zones for kids.
- Access food and picnic areas, plus on-site restaurants and kiosks.
Insider Tips
- Book ahead: Tickets are online only and can sell out during school holidays and peak season.
- Plan 3–5 hours to see both the drive-through safari and walk-around exhibits.
- Vehicle rules: Soft-top cars can enter some areas, but all guests must remain in their vehicles in carnivore zones.
- Accessibility: Free parking is available, assistance dogs are welcome, but pets are not allowed.
Visiting Blair Drummond Safari Park offers a mix of thrilling Blair Drummond safari experiences, up-close animal encounters, and family-friendly fun, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the best safari parks in Scotland.
FAQs About Best Safari Parks in the UK
There are over 20 safari parks and wildlife attractions across the UK, ranging from small drive-through parks to large multi-day reserves. The six most popular include Longleat, West Midlands, Woburn, Port Lympne, Blair Drummond, and Knowsley Safari Park.
The “best” safari park depends on what you’re looking for. For immersive drive-through safaris and big cats, Longleat Safari Park is iconic. For overnight wildlife experiences, Port Lympne Safari Park offers safari lodges. Families in the North West may prefer Knowsley Safari Park, while Blair Drummond is ideal for Scottish visitors.
Yes! UK safari parks are designed with safety in mind. Children must stay in cars during drive-through zones with big cats or dangerous animals. Walk-around areas are carefully monitored, with fences, platforms, and staff supervision ensuring a safe experience for all ages.
Ticket prices vary, but Woburn Safari Park and Blair Drummond Safari Park often offer some of the most affordable family packages, especially if booked online in advance or combined with multi-attraction deals.
Yes, a few UK safari parks offer overnight stays. Port Lympne Safari Park is the most famous, with luxury safari lodges like Lion Lodge, Bear Lodge, and Giraffe Lodge for an immersive multi-day experience. Some nearby hotels around Woburn or Longleat also offer family safari packages, even if the park itself doesn’t have lodges.
