6 best zoos and wildlife parks Kent U.K [ Family award 2024]

Welcome to Funky Fresh Travels!

If you’re looking for a wild day out in Kent, UK, you’re in for a treat. Kent is home to some of the best zoos and wildlife parks in the country, offering unique experiences for the whole family. From endangered species to thrilling safari rides, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best zoos in Kent and what makes them must-visit destinations. 

For the families out there , find my selection of the best zoos in Kent U,K , and as you will spend your day outside, a sum up of the weather you can encounter in South East England !

Best Zoos in Kent, UK: A Wild Adventure Awaits!

1-) Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park, located in Bekesbourne, Canterbury, is a gem for animal lovers. Managed by the Aspinall Foundation, this park is dedicated to the conservation, breeding, and reintroduction of rare and endangered animals. With over 390 animals, including the largest herd of African elephants in the UK, Howletts offers a fun-packed, wild day out for the whole family.

Highlights:

– Endangered Species : Witness the awe-inspiring beauty of rare and endangered animals, including gorillas, black rhinos, and giant anteaters.

– Animal Encounters : Choose unforgettable experiences like feeding elephants, going behind the scenes with gorillas, or hand-feeding anteaters, with prices starting at £15.

– Conservation Efforts : By visiting Howletts, you’re supporting ground-breaking conservation programmes that make a huge difference to countless endangered animals worldwide.

– Entry Fee : Prices start at £15 for special animal encounters.

– Opening Hours : Open every day, 10am – 4pm throughout the half term holiday.

Check their website HERE

2-) Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne Reserve, near Hythe, offers an unforgettable safari experience across 600 acres of Kentish Savannah. Home to over 900 animals across 75 species, this reserve is perfect for those looking to see exotic animals like rhinos, giraffes, lions, and tigers up close.

Highlights:

– Safari Park : Enjoy a thrilling safari ride where you can see animals in a natural habitat, making it a great day out for the whole family.

– Conservation Work : Port Lympne is a breeding sanctuary for rare and endangered animals, contributing to conservation efforts worldwide.

– Unique Stays : Extend your adventure by staying at the Port Lympne Hotel or opting for unique accommodations like glamping or treehouse stays.

– Entry Fee : Prices vary depending on the experience, with annual passes available for unlimited entry.

– Opening Hours : Open daily, with safari rides and other activities scheduled throughout the day.

Check their website HERE

3-) Wingham Wildlife Park

Wingham Wildlife Park is another fantastic destination for animal enthusiasts. Located near Canterbury, this park is perfect if you want to see more exotic animals such as tigers, lions, and bears.

Highlights:

– Exotic Animals : From big cats to bears, Wingham Wildlife Park offers a diverse range of animals to marvel at.

– Family-Friendly : With outdoor play areas and interactive exhibits, it’s a great place for a family day out.

– Entry Fee : Check the park’s website for the latest prices and special offers.

– Opening Hours : Open daily, with seasonal variations in opening times.

Check their website HERE

4-) Wildwood Trust

Set in 40 acres of ancient woodland, Wildwood Trust offers visitors a chance to see more than 200 British animals in a natural setting. This park is perfect for nature lovers and those interested in British wildlife.

Highlights:

– British Wildlife : See animals like wild boar, red squirrels, and hazel dormice in their natural habitat.

– Conservation Focus : Wildwood Trust is dedicated to the conservation of British wildlife, making it an educational and inspiring visit.

– Entry Fee : Check the park’s website for the latest prices and special offers.

– Opening Hours : Open daily, with seasonal variations in opening times.

Check their website HERE

5-) Eagle Heights Wildlife Park

Eagle Heights Wildlife Park in Dartford is a not-for-profit organization with an extensive conservation and breeding program. It’s a great place to see birds of prey and other amazing animals.

Highlights:

– Birds of Prey : Watch majestic birds of prey take flight and learn about their conservation.

– Conservation Efforts : Eagle Heights is committed to breeding and conserving endangered species, making your visit impactful.

– Entry Fee : Check the park’s website for the latest prices and special offers ( can change, so better check the online rates )

– Opening Hours : Open daily, with seasonal variations in opening times.

Check their website HERE

6-) Drusillas Park

Drusillas Park in East Sussex, though not in Kent, is worth mentioning for its reputation as the best small zoo in Europe. Home to over 100 different animal species, including red pandas and meerkats, Drusillas offers a fun day out for all ages.

Highlights:

– Diverse Species : From red pandas to sloths, Drusillas Park has a wide variety of animals to see.

– Family Fun : With adventure playgrounds and interactive exhibits, it’s a perfect place for a family day out.

– Entry Fee : Check the park’s website for the latest prices and special offers ( subject to change, hence why I didn’t put here )

– Opening Hours : Open daily, with seasonal variations in opening times.

Check their website HERE

What about the weather in Kent all year long ?

If you are travelling with your family and you are not living in England, you should know that rain can happen at any time, so you better take some warm spare clothes for your kids and rain coats if necessary

The weather in Kent can vary throughout the year, with distinct seasons :

1. Spring (March to May) :

– Spring in Kent is usually mild with temperatures gradually warming up.

– Average temperatures range from around 8°C (46°F) in March to 16°C (61°F) in May.

– Spring can be quite wet with occasional showers.

2. Summer (June to August) :

– Summers in Kent are generally warm, with temperatures sometimes reaching the high 20s°C (70s-80s°F).

– Average temperatures range from around 18°C (64°F) in June to 21°C (70°F) in August.

– Summer days are long with plenty of daylight.

3. Autumn (September to November) :

– Autumn in Kent sees temperatures cooling down gradually.

– Average temperatures range from around 16°C (61°F) in September to 8°C (46°F) in November.

– Autumn can be quite windy, and rain is common.

4. Winter (December to February) :

– Winters in Kent are generally cold, but not extremely severe.

– Average temperatures range from around 6°C (43°F) in December to 3°C (37°F) in February.

– Snow is rare, but frost and occasional snowfall can occur.

Conclusion

Kent is a treasure trove of wildlife experiences, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to see endangered species, enjoy a safari ride, or have a fun family day out, the zoos and wildlife parks in Kent have it all. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for a wild adventure in the Garden of England !

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.