Paradise Wildlife Park
Latest Reviews
I had a meet the Meerkats experience bought for me for a landmark birthday. A point to remember is that these vouchers are only valid for 10 months, so don't forget to book a date!
On our arrival it was raining but showing signs of brightening up so we went first to Sam's Place for something to eat and drink before starting. Although the sandwiches were rather pricey they were fresh. The other point about this place is be careful where you sit if it is raining as there were numerous leaks with water coming through.
When we visited there were large areas of the park cordoned off for adding new attractions so the place was not as attractive as it could be. That said, we enjoyed the park and at the appointed time headed for the centre for the briefing about the meeting experience.
I was escorted into the enclosure by the Keeper, Shona, who I could not praise highly enough. The Meerkats are friendly little creatures, highly inquisitive and totally lovable. You are allowed to feed them with a bowl of their food and they do climb on you so don't go dressed in your Sunday best. The visit to them lasts about 30 minutes which makes the fee of almost £100 very pricey. Children over the age of 10 can feed them as long as they are gentle and quiet.
It was a really lovely experience and I would recommend it but bear in mind that tickets for anyone accompanying you have also to be purchased.
All in all, a lovely overall experience. All the animals seem in good health and don't appear stressed.
On our arrival it was raining but showing signs of brightening up so we went first to Sam's Place for something to eat and drink before starting. Although the sandwiches were rather pricey they were fresh. The other point about this place is be careful where you sit if it is raining as there were numerous leaks with water coming through.
When we visited there were large areas of the park cordoned off for adding new attractions so the place was not as attractive as it could be. That said, we enjoyed the park and at the appointed time headed for the centre for the briefing about the meeting experience.
I was escorted into the enclosure by the Keeper, Shona, who I could not praise highly enough. The Meerkats are friendly little creatures, highly inquisitive and totally lovable. You are allowed to feed them with a bowl of their food and they do climb on you so don't go dressed in your Sunday best. The visit to them lasts about 30 minutes which makes the fee of almost £100 very pricey. Children over the age of 10 can feed them as long as they are gentle and quiet.
It was a really lovely experience and I would recommend it but bear in mind that tickets for anyone accompanying you have also to be purchased.
All in all, a lovely overall experience. All the animals seem in good health and don't appear stressed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went there today. The animals we saw looked healthy and energetic, their enclosures clean and rather ok in size. The food was ok, and affordable, as were the drinks. The people working there were friendly and helpful, the informative talks interesting. The playgrounds were fun and the first aid also worked perfectly (trust the kids getting a graze). And we adored the nesting dove with young in the main dining area,...
But, and it is a very big but, we were incredibly annoyed with the reflecting windows. To be able to see the animals you had to stand against the window panes, as well as using both hands to keep any sun out, before being able to see anything inside. Sometimes you could see through the iron cages or over the wooden paneling, but the reptile house was impossible as there were only windows. My glasses, or my bracelet, banged against the glass, clinging and clanging and I still saw nothing but the bushes behind me... The first three times you really try, the fourth you sigh, the fifth you swear and after the sixth you just give up and wish hell and damnation on the people who keep the glasses so impeccably clean ;)
But, and it is a very big but, we were incredibly annoyed with the reflecting windows. To be able to see the animals you had to stand against the window panes, as well as using both hands to keep any sun out, before being able to see anything inside. Sometimes you could see through the iron cages or over the wooden paneling, but the reptile house was impossible as there were only windows. My glasses, or my bracelet, banged against the glass, clinging and clanging and I still saw nothing but the bushes behind me... The first three times you really try, the fourth you sigh, the fifth you swear and after the sixth you just give up and wish hell and damnation on the people who keep the glasses so impeccably clean ;)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited on a sunny day recently and it was very enjoyable to walk round and see a good variety of animals from big cats to meerkats. It is not a large park so all the different areas can be accessed in a few hours. There is a lovely picnic area if you wish to take your own food. Lots of play areas and equipment for the children and plenty of seating for the not so young! Only negatives were the toilets which weren't brilliant but there was a cleaner visiting regularly. The food outlets were fairly basic but staff very friendly and helpful.
The animals looked healthy and well cared for and the grounds well maintained. Worth a visit, quite expensive but you can use Tesco vouchers.
The animals looked healthy and well cared for and the grounds well maintained. Worth a visit, quite expensive but you can use Tesco vouchers.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I had booked to visit here for my wife's birthday as we wanted to try something different for the day.
Tickets were almost £20 per adults but we managed to get a discount for being a teacher. Child prices were just under £10.
Once inside there were a great variety of animals from monkeys to tigers, exotic birds and owls through to zebras and wolves.
This place is really kiddie friendly with viewing windows low enough so they could see and great interactive games around the park.
We also stayed late enough to see the white tiger feeding time and had a talk from a park keeper that had been working here for over twenty years.
Overall this is a great place to visit as an adult alone and with kids!
Highly recommended and would return.
Tickets were almost £20 per adults but we managed to get a discount for being a teacher. Child prices were just under £10.
Once inside there were a great variety of animals from monkeys to tigers, exotic birds and owls through to zebras and wolves.
This place is really kiddie friendly with viewing windows low enough so they could see and great interactive games around the park.
We also stayed late enough to see the white tiger feeding time and had a talk from a park keeper that had been working here for over twenty years.
Overall this is a great place to visit as an adult alone and with kids!
Highly recommended and would return.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited for the first time and had a lovely day. Loads to see and do, lots of play areas and really enjoyed the splash pool.
We were able to see the majority of the animals out and about and interacting with each other. There were keeper talks and theatre shows at certain times throughout the day.
We used Tesco vouchers for entry which was really excellent as I don't think we could justify spending over £50 for 2 adults and 1 child. There are lots of extras that can be paid for once inside (although you don't have to): animal food, Train ride, side stalls, face painting etc. I suppose it costs a fortune to maintain such a place as well as this so they have to make their money some how.
Would certainly recommend a day trip here.
We were able to see the majority of the animals out and about and interacting with each other. There were keeper talks and theatre shows at certain times throughout the day.
We used Tesco vouchers for entry which was really excellent as I don't think we could justify spending over £50 for 2 adults and 1 child. There are lots of extras that can be paid for once inside (although you don't have to): animal food, Train ride, side stalls, face painting etc. I suppose it costs a fortune to maintain such a place as well as this so they have to make their money some how.
Would certainly recommend a day trip here.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER !!
on arrival I thought, oh no this is very catered for young children, And after a 90 minute drive it was not looking good, As I I was there with my 23 yr old son who loves zoos.
I though oh no don't like the animals being in smaller settings than I'm used to, as we usually visit Colchester zoo, however my first opinion quickly changed,after speaking to a lovely keeper called Aaron who explained to me how the animals especially the big cats are looked after on a more personal level, with a lot of the animals being rescued and hand reared. Was amazed at how hands on the keepers were, and were very willing to talk about what was obviously very close to their hearts.
Aaron also explained how each generations of family had thought where money should be spent, and that the newest generation was doing everything it could to build new enclosures for the animals, as they are looking rather dated in my opinion, so I was really happy to hear this is where they were focusing on now.
We had an excellent day there and spent a fortune in the gift shop, which in my opinion was stocked with very reasonably priced items. No more expensive than what you would pay outside the zoo.
We will definitely be returning, on our way out I spoke to one of the staff to explain to Aaron for me, how much I had enjoyed the zoo and I took back everything I said and thought on arrival.
I was then informed that Aaron was the families new generation and was the owners grandson. Wow not once did he mention that, which just about sums paradise wildlife park up, humbling and amazing.
on arrival I thought, oh no this is very catered for young children, And after a 90 minute drive it was not looking good, As I I was there with my 23 yr old son who loves zoos.
I though oh no don't like the animals being in smaller settings than I'm used to, as we usually visit Colchester zoo, however my first opinion quickly changed,after speaking to a lovely keeper called Aaron who explained to me how the animals especially the big cats are looked after on a more personal level, with a lot of the animals being rescued and hand reared. Was amazed at how hands on the keepers were, and were very willing to talk about what was obviously very close to their hearts.
Aaron also explained how each generations of family had thought where money should be spent, and that the newest generation was doing everything it could to build new enclosures for the animals, as they are looking rather dated in my opinion, so I was really happy to hear this is where they were focusing on now.
We had an excellent day there and spent a fortune in the gift shop, which in my opinion was stocked with very reasonably priced items. No more expensive than what you would pay outside the zoo.
We will definitely be returning, on our way out I spoke to one of the staff to explain to Aaron for me, how much I had enjoyed the zoo and I took back everything I said and thought on arrival.
I was then informed that Aaron was the families new generation and was the owners grandson. Wow not once did he mention that, which just about sums paradise wildlife park up, humbling and amazing.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This park is expanding and is rather nice for a day out with the kids. Brilliant for younger kids especially as they have tons to do! You could spend the whole day there. What I would suggest is taking your own food and drinks as like any park the food can be quite expensive. Loads of room in the two car parks. A bus can take you to the station although I would suggest going to the website for that info. Oh and if you book online you get 10% discount entry fee!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Me and my 6 year old daughter had a great day here today. The weather was sunny and hot and the park was clean, tidy and well looked after. It has a huge collection of animals and lots of play areas, and places to have your own food and picnic. As the weather was so hot we used the paddling pool and it was great!
Considering the park is quite small (compared to bigger zoos) it's very entertaining and has lots to do.
Considering the park is quite small (compared to bigger zoos) it's very entertaining and has lots to do.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited Paradise Wildlife Park today with my husband and our two children aged 8 and 4.
We met our friends there who have children aged 10 and 7.
It was easy to park even though it was very busy.
We had a wander round looking at the animals and the kids especially loved the meerkats and the monkeys.
Afterwards we had lunch which we brought with us and then the kids played in the playground and also on the slides there which they all loved!
Because it was hot they also went in the splash pool there which was absolutely packed but the kids didn't mind at all.
We were at the park for about 5 hours and the kids and parents had a lovely time.
The only thing I would say is that it would be nice if there were some changing rooms for the splash pool as the girls were a bit shy about getting changed and also the toilets were all blocked.
Maybe a bit of investment in building new toilets would be good.
However we would definitely go back again as there is so much to do.
We met our friends there who have children aged 10 and 7.
It was easy to park even though it was very busy.
We had a wander round looking at the animals and the kids especially loved the meerkats and the monkeys.
Afterwards we had lunch which we brought with us and then the kids played in the playground and also on the slides there which they all loved!
Because it was hot they also went in the splash pool there which was absolutely packed but the kids didn't mind at all.
We were at the park for about 5 hours and the kids and parents had a lovely time.
The only thing I would say is that it would be nice if there were some changing rooms for the splash pool as the girls were a bit shy about getting changed and also the toilets were all blocked.
Maybe a bit of investment in building new toilets would be good.
However we would definitely go back again as there is so much to do.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went with friends and there were 6 kids under the age of 9. They loved every minute running from activity to activity. There was loads for them to do and the animal side of the park was really quite good with a wife variety of animals to see and also interact with. You can buy little feed bags and feed certain animals. The younger ones absolutely loved this part and enjoyed taking part. We saw the biggest snakes I've ever seen and they have a beautiful cheetah and the most gorgeous lions. The access to the animals is better than in other zoos and the cheetah came fully up to the fence and displayed himself. You could hear the lions roar across the park and it was a mighty roar. Went on the little train which at £1 per person was expensive for about 2 mins if that. The train driver Albert was a gent though and let the smallest kids ride for free. We took our own lunch but the smell of the food around us was quite nice and looked good too. We did have ice creams and slush puppies but at £2.50 for a single slush puppy, I felt it was too overpriced and a bit wrong for a captive audience. Especially as bit cost nearly £60 to get in. There was nothing that was especially value for money and it was all a bit tired. Annoyingly everything the kids wanted to go on cost a pound so they kept pestering us for money which was a downside. The staff we encountered were pleasant and helpful but the other patrons were slightly chavvy and covered in tattoos. Also they need a sign which says "Please dress for the body you have instead of the body you want". I'm not thin, in fact I'm a big fat bald man but I saw some horrific sights around the park. These people are bizarre and I was glad to get away from them at the end of the day. All in all though the kids were happy and oblivious to all that went on around them. It was just mum and dad that felt a bit out of place. We're so middle class!!!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A nice well kept park with not too much walking - excellent for children and lots of informative talks about the animals
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We used our Tesco Clubcard vouchers to visit Paradise Wildlife Park. The parking us free and there are plenty if places to have a picnic so it was a very good value day out. The Park itself has good variety of animals and although some are a bit hard to see, it was good fun trying to spot them.
The highlight was sitting in the cafe by the tiger enclosure having an ice cream and watching the tigers doze less then 20 feet away through great big windows, perfect!
The animals all looked so well looked after and we also loved the Tapir feeding time and Bird displays where the birds fly so close to the audience, my little girl was in awe of the large owls.
There were lots of play areas, all free, and a ride on train(£1 each), as well as a paddling pool area, which we didn't have time to use.
The staff and facilities were good too!
I highly recommend this great day out!
The highlight was sitting in the cafe by the tiger enclosure having an ice cream and watching the tigers doze less then 20 feet away through great big windows, perfect!
The animals all looked so well looked after and we also loved the Tapir feeding time and Bird displays where the birds fly so close to the audience, my little girl was in awe of the large owls.
There were lots of play areas, all free, and a ride on train(£1 each), as well as a paddling pool area, which we didn't have time to use.
The staff and facilities were good too!
I highly recommend this great day out!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is a really nice zoo
The animals are healthy looking and kept in enclosures that are like a jungle setting
We really liked the tree top view where you can look down on the lions and tigers
The zoo is set in well maintained gardens so it's nice just walking through
There are lots of benches to have a picnic and the parking is good
For younger children there are lots of play areas
The animals are healthy looking and kept in enclosures that are like a jungle setting
We really liked the tree top view where you can look down on the lions and tigers
The zoo is set in well maintained gardens so it's nice just walking through
There are lots of benches to have a picnic and the parking is good
For younger children there are lots of play areas
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent 9hrs at the park while my daughter attended her Shadow a keeper day.
Nice little zoo well maintained, staff very helpful animals are well cared for and loads to do for kids 1 and up.
Lots being updated at our visit, new buildings and animal paddocks.
Food in the cafeteria was good and fairly priced.
Well worth a visit with the little ones
Nice little zoo well maintained, staff very helpful animals are well cared for and loads to do for kids 1 and up.
Lots being updated at our visit, new buildings and animal paddocks.
Food in the cafeteria was good and fairly priced.
Well worth a visit with the little ones
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We bought this for our sons birthday as he is tiger obsessed. We had a fabulous visit.
Our guide was so amazingly knowledgable and enthusiast about all of the 'cats'. They are clearly concerned with conservation and education. The guided walk lasted a good hour then we had our afternoon tea. Fantastic spread very scrummy sandwiches and cakes. You are overlooking the tiger enclosure. My only criticism is that only a couple of the tables are by the window and so unless u get in first although you have lovely food you won't see the tigers. It rocks be super if somehow they could redesign the area to have more window seating. Still a fantastic experience. The rest of the park was interesting and all in all a wonderful family day out.
Our guide was so amazingly knowledgable and enthusiast about all of the 'cats'. They are clearly concerned with conservation and education. The guided walk lasted a good hour then we had our afternoon tea. Fantastic spread very scrummy sandwiches and cakes. You are overlooking the tiger enclosure. My only criticism is that only a couple of the tables are by the window and so unless u get in first although you have lovely food you won't see the tigers. It rocks be super if somehow they could redesign the area to have more window seating. Still a fantastic experience. The rest of the park was interesting and all in all a wonderful family day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was my second visit here and we had a fantastic day out both times. The animals are all very well kept. Plenty of places to sit and have a picnic if you want to but there is also plenty of reasonably priced food outlets. Lots of play areas for the children around the park.
This is a very good value for money day out.
On this visit I done a feed the big cats experience, it was one of the best things I have ever done, I chose to feed the tigers, and got very up close to them actually having one take food out of my hand, all carried out in a very safe way with a keeper, one of very few places in the world where you get to hold the meat and have the tiger take it from your hand, awesome to get so close and appreciate the power of such a cuddly animal that would kill you in a second if it wasn't for the fence, you just want to put your hand through and stroke them.
I will be back again soon
This is a very good value for money day out.
On this visit I done a feed the big cats experience, it was one of the best things I have ever done, I chose to feed the tigers, and got very up close to them actually having one take food out of my hand, all carried out in a very safe way with a keeper, one of very few places in the world where you get to hold the meat and have the tiger take it from your hand, awesome to get so close and appreciate the power of such a cuddly animal that would kill you in a second if it wasn't for the fence, you just want to put your hand through and stroke them.
I will be back again soon
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Pros: good size zoo, good selection of animals to include couple of rare ones such as white tiger - must see!, huge parking (go as early as you can if you want parking space near main entrance), many picnic areas (you can bring your own food - they will stamp your hand on entry so you can leave everything in your car and pick it up when needed), children playground, opportunity to see how animals are fed as they advertise timings.
Cons: it is not the cheapest atraction, very chaotic layout, we were going around in circles on couple occasions and finding new attractions on our way out when our little one was sleeping in her buggy, map didn't help much. Maybe better signage would help.
Would I go back there? Definitely yes. We did enjoy our family day out a lot. Allow at least 6 hours, ideally whole day for your visit.
Cons: it is not the cheapest atraction, very chaotic layout, we were going around in circles on couple occasions and finding new attractions on our way out when our little one was sleeping in her buggy, map didn't help much. Maybe better signage would help.
Would I go back there? Definitely yes. We did enjoy our family day out a lot. Allow at least 6 hours, ideally whole day for your visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Had a virgin experience voucher to use & booked the Tiger Tea. Spent an enjoyable couple of hours touring the park before our allotted time to visit the big cats. Our guide Ian was excellent, very knowledgeable and experienced. It was a hot day and the cats were dozy but Ian made sure we got to see them as far as possible. The Tea afterwards was very pleasant in the tree top cafe overlooking the Tigers. All in all a good day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
First visit to Paradise Wildlife Park. What a wonderful day out. This was so much better than I was expecting.
The animals were in top notch condition. The viewing platforms for the big cats in particular were a brilliant idea.
We attended two of the talks......big cats and then later the cheetah one.
A huge thank you to Nick for sharing all his big cat knowledge with us. He is such a credit to Paradise Wildlife Park.
The animals were in top notch condition. The viewing platforms for the big cats in particular were a brilliant idea.
We attended two of the talks......big cats and then later the cheetah one.
A huge thank you to Nick for sharing all his big cat knowledge with us. He is such a credit to Paradise Wildlife Park.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
On a hot sunny day Paradise Wildlife Park is a great day out for a family with young children. The park's zoo offers a range of animals while the kid's attractions are numerous and diverse from bouncy castles, mini splash park, miniature railway, adventure playground - the list goes on and on! There's no doubt the park's facilities like tired in places but given a family ticket is £5-10+ cheaper than popular nearby favourites like Willows Farm; overall it delivers fantastic value for money.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
wow, wow and wow
had the immense pleasure of doing the shadow a big cat keeper with feeding the big cats
so amazing !!!!!!
hand to mouth feeding of these majestic animals, a memory that will stay with me forever
a special mention to keeper Cassie, who as well as being knowledgeable was a constant source of fun throughout the day and made the experience so much more pleasant
she is a real asset to the park
guys give these tours ago they a truly stunning
thank you so much
had the immense pleasure of doing the shadow a big cat keeper with feeding the big cats
so amazing !!!!!!
hand to mouth feeding of these majestic animals, a memory that will stay with me forever
a special mention to keeper Cassie, who as well as being knowledgeable was a constant source of fun throughout the day and made the experience so much more pleasant
she is a real asset to the park
guys give these tours ago they a truly stunning
thank you so much
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I take my granddaughter here during the school holidays, we spend all day here and she is reluctant to leave when closing, so must be good, she is 8 years old.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent half a day at the park with my two sons aged 2 and 6. The viewing platforms allow you to get fab views of the animals, in particular the lions. Kids enjoyed being so close to the animals with great unrestricted views.
They also enjoyed being able to feed the farm animals, with feed brought on site.
My six year old son enjoyed the go carts and play grounds.
The only disappointing part of our time was service in Safari Sam's diner, apart from the queue the ladies that were serving seemed to take their time, almost moving in slow motion. The food itself was average could be a lot better. I would recommend just taking a picnic.
Luckily I purchased our tickets the day before on a discount website ( picniq tickets) and got tickets for a family of four for £52 rather than £70 plus at the park.
They also enjoyed being able to feed the farm animals, with feed brought on site.
My six year old son enjoyed the go carts and play grounds.
The only disappointing part of our time was service in Safari Sam's diner, apart from the queue the ladies that were serving seemed to take their time, almost moving in slow motion. The food itself was average could be a lot better. I would recommend just taking a picnic.
Luckily I purchased our tickets the day before on a discount website ( picniq tickets) and got tickets for a family of four for £52 rather than £70 plus at the park.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The 6 of us went here at the weekend. Got lucky with the weather. Arrived early and nice and quiet. Park has been developed since our trip a year ago. Lots of improvement going on. Loved our day out here. Lots to see and do. Boys of 3 and 4 walked it all with some rests. Great coffee watching the Tigers from the restaurant. Nice train ride (£1 each), and day finished with some fun with the magician and balloon man, which the boys really enjoyed. Will definitely return. Great family day out
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Paradise Wildlife park is absolutely brilliant for the whole family. It gives people a chance to see animals they probably never would be able to see otherwise. You are able to get up close and really see what they are about. The learning aspect by the park is brilliant, they keep the children fully entertained and enthralled.
The food and drink side of things are good value for money too and the service is spot on. It's worth a visit
The food and drink side of things are good value for money too and the service is spot on. It's worth a visit
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
