Visiting Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

A Wild Day Out in the Cotswolds: Exploring Cotswold Wildlife Park

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and bear to the village of Burford, Cotswold Wildlife Park promises a thrilling adventure for animal lovers of all ages. With over 260 species roaming across 160 acres of beautiful parkland, it’s a place where you can get up close to exotic creatures, learn about conservation efforts, and have fantastic day out with friends and family.

How to Get There

The park is conveniently located just 2 miles south of Burford, Oxfordshire, on the A361.

By train: The nearest train station is Oxford, with regular connections from major cities. Taxis or buses can then take you to the park entrance.
By car: The drive from London takes about 1.5 hours, while Birmingham is roughly a 1-hour journey. Ample free parking is available on-site.

Planning Your Visit

Opening times: The park is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (with last admission at 3:00 pm) during winter (October to March). Summer hours are slightly longer, with the park closing at dusk. Be sure to check their website for any seasonal variations.

Tickets: Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This saves you time at the entrance and allows you to take advantage of online discounts. Adult tickets start from £19.50, while children’s tickets are priced at £14.50. Family passes and group rates are also available.

Must-See Animal Encounters

Roar with the lions: Witness the majestic Asiatic lions lazing in their spacious enclosure or catch their feeding time for a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Giraffes at eye level: Take a stroll along the elevated Giraffe Walkway and come face-to-face with these gentle giants. You might even get a chance to feed them a leafy treat!

Penguin Parade: Watch these adorable Humboldt penguins waddle around their enclosure during the daily penguin talks and feeds.

Southern white rhinos: The most common subspecies of rhino today. Currently, the park has a crash (a group of rhinos) of around 10 individuals, including both adults and calves.

Beyond the Animals

Beautiful gardens: Take a break from the animal encounters and wander through the stunning landscaped gardens, bursting with colorful blooms and tranquil water features.

Delicious dining: Refuel after your adventures at one of the park’s cafe, offering a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and refreshments.

Keeper talks and demonstrations: Learn fascinating facts about the animals and their conservation through informative talks and feeding demonstrations hosted by the park’s knowledgeable keepers.

Souvenir shopping: Pick up a cuddly toy, a unique piece of jewelry, or a book about your favorite animals at the park’s gift shop.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April-May): Witness the arrival of adorable baby animals and enjoy the vibrant spring blooms in the gardens.
Summer (June-August): Longer opening hours and warmer weather make it the perfect time for picnics and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September-October): Soak in the stunning fall foliage and enjoy smaller crowds before the winter season sets in.
Winter (November-March): Experience a quieter atmosphere and see the animals bundled up in their winter coats.

Tips for Your Trip

Wear comfortable shoes as there’s a lot of walking involved.
Bring sunscreen and a hat if visiting during the summer months.
Pack a raincoat or umbrella, as the weather in the Cotswolds can be unpredictable.
Take advantage of the park’s picnic areas and enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the beautiful scenery.
Don’t forget your camera to capture all the amazing memories you’ll make at Cotswold Wildlife Park.

Cotswold Wildlife Park is more than just a zoo; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the natural world and learn about the importance of conservation. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready for a wild day out in the Cotswolds!