Howletts Wild Animal Park
Postcode: CT4 5EL
Official WebsiteExperience the thrill of the wild at Howletts Wild Animal Park, where conservation meets adventure in the heart of Kent.
Visitor Information: Howletts Wild Animal Park
Howletts Wild Animal Park
DescriptionHowletts Wild Animal Park is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts. Located in Kent, just a short drive from Canterbury, the park is home to a wide range of exotic and endangered animals from around the world.
Visitors to Howletts can explore the park’s many habitats, which include large enclosures and naturalistic environments that provide a safe and comfortable home for the animals. The park is renowned for its conservation efforts, and many of the species that are housed here are part of breeding programs aimed at preserving endangered populations.
One of the highlights of the park is the gorilla exhibit, which is one of the largest in the world. Visitors can watch as these majestic animals interact with each other and their environment, providing a unique insight into their natural behaviour and social dynamics.
The park also has a range of other exhibits, including tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys. Visitors can see these animals up close and learn about their unique behaviours and characteristics from the park’s knowledgeable staff.
In addition to its animal exhibits, Howletts Wild Animal Park also has a range of other attractions and amenities, including a children’s play area, picnic areas, and a gift shop. There are also several food and beverage options, including a cafe and a restaurant that serves locally sourced, organic produce.
For those interested in conservation and animal welfare, Howletts Wild Animal Park offers a range of educational programs and experiences, including behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and talks from the park’s conservation experts.
Overall, a visit to Howletts Wild Animal Park is an unforgettable experience that provides a unique opportunity to see some of the world’s most incredible animals up close and learn about their conservation needs. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Howletts is a destination that should not be missed.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Kent, be sure to add Howletts Wild Animal Park to your itinerary and experience the wonder and beauty of these incredible animals for yourself.
Highlights
Not to be missed when visitingGorillas: The park is home to the largest family group of Western Lowland Gorillas in the UK.
African Elephants: You can watch these magnificent creatures in one of the largest elephant herds in the UK.
Tigers: Discover the beautiful Amur tigers, one of the most endangered big cats in the world.
Leopards: The park houses both Amur and clouded leopards.
Lions: Observe the majestic African lions in their environment.
Primates: Various species including langurs, gibbons, and lemurs.
The Walking with Lemurs experience: This unique experience lets you get up close with these fascinating primates.
The Giant Anteater: One of the more unusual residents of the park.
Black Rhinoceros: One of the world’s most endangered species.
Educational Talks and Animal Feeds: The park organizes educational talks and feeding sessions which provide fascinating insights into the animals and the park’s conservation work.
Animal Adventure Challenge: An obstacle course that lets children test their skills against some of the world’s most athletic animals.
Treetop Challenge: An exhilarating high ropes course for the adventurous visitors.
FAQs
What are the opening hours for Howletts Wild Animal Park?
The park typically opens daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours can vary depending on the season. It’s always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Can I purchase tickets at the gate?
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the gate, but buying them online in advance can save you time and money.
Is there parking available at Howletts Wild Animal Park?
Yes, the park offers free parking for visitors.
Are there any experiences that allow close interaction with the animals?
Yes, the Walking with Lemurs experience offers an opportunity to interact closely with lemurs. However, remember that all such experiences require advance booking.
Are there disabled facilities at the park?
Yes, the park offers wheelchair hire and accessible restrooms. However, some areas might be challenging for wheelchair users due to steep gradients.
What other attractions are nearby?
Nearby attractions to Howletts Wild Animal Park include:
Canterbury Cathedral: This world-famous historic cathedral is the mother church of the Anglican Communion and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Dover Castle: One of the largest castles in England, Dover Castle offers stunning views and a deep history.
Canterbury Roman Museum: A fascinating museum revealing the history of Roman Canterbury.
St. Augustine’s Abbey: The abbey is part of the Canterbury World Heritage Site, along with the cathedral and St. Martin’s Church.
The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge: An impressive museum, library, and art gallery situated in the heart of Canterbury.
Whitefriars Shopping Centre: A modern shopping centre with a range of high street stores and eateries.