The Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, located in Burford, Oxfordshire, is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. The park, which covers 160 acres of stunning Cotswold countryside, is home to over 260 species of animals and offers a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of wildlife up close.
Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed by an impressive collection of exotic birds, including macaws, flamingos, and toucans. Moving further into the park, visitors can observe a variety of primates, such as gibbons, lemurs, and marmosets, as they swing and play in their natural habitats.
One of the park’s main attractions is its collection of big cats, including lions and leopards who roam around in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. Visitors can also see rare and endangered animals like the red panda, African hunting dog and white rhinos. In 2022 a white rhino was born at the park and was named Queenie in honour of Her Majesty.
The park also houses an extensive collection of reptiles, including pythons, lizards, and tortoises, offering visitors an educational experience about the world of cold-blooded creatures.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens boasts beautiful gardens that visitors can explore. The park’s walled garden is a particular highlight, with its stunning array of flowers and plants, water features, and winding pathways that lead to hidden nooks and crannies. There is also a tropical house that houses an array of exotic plants and waterfalls, providing visitors with a taste of the rainforest.
The park offers several activities for children, including a train ride and adventure playground. There are also plenty of places to eat and drink, with a café/restaurant and picnic areas scattered throughout the park.
While there are plenty of exhibits to explore and animals to see, visitors should be sure to check out the range of activities that run daily throughout the year. These activities are a great way to learn more about the animals at the park and to get up close and personal with some of the most fascinating species. One of the most popular activities at the park is the penguin feeding, which takes place every day at 11am and 3pm. Visitors can watch as the Humboldt penguins are fed and learn more about these fascinating birds from one of the park’s knowledgeable keepers. The feeding is a highlight for many visitors and provides a great opportunity to see these incredible animals up close. Another must-see activity at the park is the lemur feeding talk, which takes place every day at 12 noon. Visitors can learn more about these fascinating primates and watch as they enjoy a meal. The park’s keepers will provide information about the different species of lemurs at the park and share some of their favourite stories about working with these amazing animals.
A visit to the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and observe some of the world’s most amazing creatures. With its stunning gardens, impressive animal collection, and fun activities for all ages, the park is the perfect day out for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.
