Set across a plot of 160 acres (65 hectares), Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the premier family-friendly attractions in the Cotswolds. Make your way through the park’s four distinctive sections, get up close to exotic animal species and admire the gardens.
The park was originally founded in 1970 and has since grown in scale to be one of the largest zoological collections in the U.K. As well as its spacious animal enclosures, the park also has lots of other additional attractions, including a miniature train, a children’s farmyard and an adventure playground.
Wander around the park and encounter some of the 131 species of birds currently housed there. Ostriches, penguins, Chilean flamingos, white-faced owls and macaws can all be seen. Get close to large mammals including giant anteaters, giraffes and camels. Primates are also well represented and include endangered species such as bamboo lemurs and crowned sifakas. Head to the reptile house to examine scaly species, including anacondas, crocodiles and lizards.
More dangerous predators, including lions and leopards, also have their own enclosures here. For a more hands-on experience, book in for an animal encounter. These keeper-led experiences include the chance to meet the giraffes, giant tortoise, lemurs or farmyard animals. You can also help to feed the bats, penguins or tapirs and capybaras. Visitors can also sign up for “Keeper for a Day” experiences, which allow them to get involved in the day-to-day running of the park.
Gardening enthusiasts will enjoy the park just as much as animal aficionados, with a wide range of planting styles to be found in and around the animal exhibits. Many of the plants here have been specifically chosen to take advantage of the park’s microclimates.
For a fascinating insight into life for some of the animals in the park, check out the zoo’s meerkat and penguin webcams. Watch the animals play, feed, sleep and swim in real time.
Cotswold Wildlife Park is located 2 miles (3 kilometers) south of Burford. The park is open daily, except for Christmas Day. There is a fee for entry.