Paradise Wildlife Park
Latest Reviews
Took my young children 4 and 2 to paradise park recently. It was a good experience - they enjoyed seeing the good range of animals. Entry was reasonable with a voucher and we spent about 4 hours there which was plenty for them. The kids outside area is also very good. Having to pay a £1 for the train ride was a bit unnecessary as it's not the most entertaining but not the end of the world as the kids seemed to enjoy it so that's the most important thing
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My husband bought me a meerkat experience for Christmas. It was brilliant and the keeper was really chatty and informative. Got really close to the meerkats and one sat on my shoulder. There is so much to do at the park like crazy golf, adventure park as well as all the animals. Definitely would visit again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Although we did enjoy our day out at Paradise Wildlife park, it was disappointing to see that since we were here last, a couple of years ago. The place looked very run down & shabby, enclosures were over grown, bushes not cut back making it hard to view some animals / birds. But worst of all it was disheartening to see that many of the animals looked sad, unkept & were pacing around seemingly bored especially the big cats. Some animals looked thin or as though they hadn't had any attention paid to them in some time, it was upsetting to see. Other areas could do with attention too for example the train ride - train took several minutes to get going as just couldn't get momentum to pull the weight of carriages. Then when it did get going half of what we were supposed to be seeing was hidden by overgrown plats - dinosaurs also covered in moss & cobwebs.
Basically the whole place needed much TLC.
It is good to see that some areas are being done up so hopefully this is the start of a good overhaul which is much need to make it the great place it can be.
Basically the whole place needed much TLC.
It is good to see that some areas are being done up so hopefully this is the start of a good overhaul which is much need to make it the great place it can be.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My husband bought me this experience for my birthday and it was a fabulous experience. We were greeted in the morning by very friendly staff in the Animal Encounters Area, who provided us with hot drinks. We then met with the keeper, her name was Pia, who gave us lots of interesting information about the wolves we were going to feed that morning. We then went to both enclosures and fed both of the Norwegian and Iberian wolves. Pia, made the sure that the wolves were comfortable with us being so close and that we were also comfortable being so close to the wolves! It was an amazing experience and I would thoroughly recommend for any animal lovers. I feel like I learnt a lot from my visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
There is something for everyone here, including great wheelchair access throughout. We were unlucky that the Penguin enclosure had just been closed for refurbishment as both we and our grandchildren were particularly looking forward to seeing them but there was so much more to see that any disappointment was soon forgotten.
My wife and I were both disappointed that despite extensive signage we never did find any birds of paradise, whilst the children didn't see the ducks. The only bird on what we took to be the duck pond was a moorhen.
We ate at the main restaurant, under their large awning. The selection was satisfactory but not great and the prices were as one expects at such venues. For those on a budget or looking for a different experience there are designated picnic areas including a covered area that we did not inspect.
My wife and I were both disappointed that despite extensive signage we never did find any birds of paradise, whilst the children didn't see the ducks. The only bird on what we took to be the duck pond was a moorhen.
We ate at the main restaurant, under their large awning. The selection was satisfactory but not great and the prices were as one expects at such venues. For those on a budget or looking for a different experience there are designated picnic areas including a covered area that we did not inspect.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were Shadow Keepers for the day.
We arrived to a smile and a cup of tea. We then went to the hooved enclosures and met the Alpacas and Camel and to help muck them out. We were then shown around the paddocks.
After a short break we went to the reptile house and had all the animals explained to us. They have two anacondas and the female is huge and still growing. There are only a few in Europe. After holding a python we went onto see the Animal Antics show and helped round up the rats for their part in the show
We then went to fly an African Spotted Owl ourselves and watch the bird show. Lunch followed. It was complementary and the usual fare for a park and plenty of it.
Then came the small mammals and we hand fed the Red Pandas, a Coati and stroked a skunk. They were all so gentle when they took the food from our hands.
We then went to see the primates and again hand fed the Black Limas followed by the Red Ruff Limas. These were more boisterous, but again gentle and cute when we were feeding them. Lastly we want in with the Tapirs which was lovely.
We never really stopped all day and each keeper was ready and waiting for us at each stage. There was no 'corporate' guide. We met the actual keepers for each species of animal, which is what we wanted as they knew their charges and we got an excellent guide every time. Everyone from the receptionist to each keepers were lovely, informative and did everything to make our day go smoothly.
It was a great day for us and we thank everyone for their time and effort to make our day memorable.
We arrived to a smile and a cup of tea. We then went to the hooved enclosures and met the Alpacas and Camel and to help muck them out. We were then shown around the paddocks.
After a short break we went to the reptile house and had all the animals explained to us. They have two anacondas and the female is huge and still growing. There are only a few in Europe. After holding a python we went onto see the Animal Antics show and helped round up the rats for their part in the show
We then went to fly an African Spotted Owl ourselves and watch the bird show. Lunch followed. It was complementary and the usual fare for a park and plenty of it.
Then came the small mammals and we hand fed the Red Pandas, a Coati and stroked a skunk. They were all so gentle when they took the food from our hands.
We then went to see the primates and again hand fed the Black Limas followed by the Red Ruff Limas. These were more boisterous, but again gentle and cute when we were feeding them. Lastly we want in with the Tapirs which was lovely.
We never really stopped all day and each keeper was ready and waiting for us at each stage. There was no 'corporate' guide. We met the actual keepers for each species of animal, which is what we wanted as they knew their charges and we got an excellent guide every time. Everyone from the receptionist to each keepers were lovely, informative and did everything to make our day go smoothly.
It was a great day for us and we thank everyone for their time and effort to make our day memorable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We spent a wonderful afternoon looking at well looked after animals with knowledgeable keepers who took the time to answer all our questions. Reasonably priced food - well worth a visit. Only downside was we choose a day when there were an awful lot of school children visiting so a little on the noisy side!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We really enjoyed this. We are all big cat fans and there were plenty to see here. Lots for kids to do. If you go on your own as adults the zoo part is reasonably small , but then it is an attraction aimed at families. We went early and we got to see the cats waking up and eating breakfast. Toilets were nice and clean and they did have lots of toilet facilities and a playground for disabled visitors.
We had a great day, I would recommend!
We had a great day, I would recommend!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went here for a shadow a big cat experience. One word- Amazing!
Our keeper Steve was full of knowledge and super helpful.
It is an experience I would strongly recommend to anyone. It is not everyday you can say you have hand fed lions!
A great day, with great staff and great animals.
Our keeper Steve was full of knowledge and super helpful.
It is an experience I would strongly recommend to anyone. It is not everyday you can say you have hand fed lions!
A great day, with great staff and great animals.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My wonderful husband bought me an amazing VIP experience for my birthday. We got to spend 2 days at the park and even stayed overnight in the Tiger Suite. On the first day I fed a white tiger which was incredible. I was helped by a very informative keeper called Shirley who explained exactly what I needed to do. We spent the rest of the day enjoying seeing tigers, snow leopards, lions, meerkats, monkeys, lemurs and many, many more. I think my husbands favorite were the red pandas.
On the second day we had breakfast watching tigers and then had a tour with one of the keepers called Emma who was brilliant and very knowledgeable.
Overall we had a brilliant time.
On the second day we had breakfast watching tigers and then had a tour with one of the keepers called Emma who was brilliant and very knowledgeable.
Overall we had a brilliant time.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Early start but well worth it. Well informed guide took us around all the big cats enclosures. Fantastic place for children with plenty to do and see. Worth a visit!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I've wandered round this zoo with family, friends and alone, it's my favourite place, keepers are friendly and informative, place is kept clean, plenty to see and ideal for a family, great for photographers of animals too, most of the animals you can get up really close and personal to, separated in the main by specially toughened glass, access for wheelchairs, buggies etc, even for the higher walkway as specially made ramp for this use, compact and level for all types of mobility and age. Plenty to see and despite my many visits I don't think I've ever seen it all in one go, I imagine if you want a whistle stop tour it's possible but then you could miss out on all the keeper talks, the antics of the various animals, the bird show, etc, etc. All in all, a great day out for everyone
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We stayed here as opposed to hotel or B&B for a planned trip to Harry Potter studios. We were so glad we did. Had a lovely day around the park on first day. It was incredibly foggy that weekend and as it was November got dark early. It was excitingly eerie walking around the forest path and then in the morning waking up to the sound of the gibbons and the raw of the lions. Fabulous. The VIP breakfast experience was wonderful, 10 of everything for breakfast, followed by the tour with the keepers. The apartment was comfortable and warm, the kids loved having a TV in their room too. End result was that everyone enjoyed the zoo experience more the Harry Potter Studios - what more can we say. Can't wait to visit again. Not the cheapest of nights away but comparable to a nice hotel and profits go to the animals not some-ones pocket.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We went there with my 80 year old mother. When you arrive at the car park if you have a member of your party that is wheelchair bound you must speak to the staff guiding you into the car park as there is somewhere nearer to park for people who are disabled. Not knowing this my husband had to push my mother all the way up a steep entrance as we didn't know any better? We watched the bird show which was fantastic. All the staff are friendly and very helpful. The food is very basic I feel they could offer better as I am sure there are lots of people who would be happy to pay for a more varied menu. Great day out for the kids they even have indoor class rooms for when it rains
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Absolutely fantastic day at Paradise Wildlife Park. Got there just after 10am and was loved every minute of the day. Fed a white lion at 3pm and had a member of staff (Tony) helping me. He was very informative, friendly, and made the whole experience fantastic. Top marks for him. Highly recommended for all
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Have been several times now with friends to enjoy the animal experiences. Most recently was with a disabled friend in a wheelchair to feed the White Lions. Staff were very helpful and accommodating. A great atmosphere and wonderful day out and a disabled person still buzzing with the close up encounters with the cheeky Zuri and Moto, the male who graced her with his presence and deigned to take some tidbits from her hand. Don't worry, the whole process is carried out from the other side of a stout fence under excellent supervision of an experienced keeper, but you are literally a matter of inches away and they are so gentle that the worst you will get is a rough lick from their tongue as they take the snack.
Obviously the rest of the day isn't quite as exciting as being close up to a big cat but the Lemurs, Meercats, Monkeys, Otters, Penguins and the Red Panda etc. are all great fun
We had a nice meal in the main cafe which was quickly served but was fresh, with reasonable options inc. vegetarian and plenty of it for a very reasonable price especially compared to other wildlife parks and Zoos.
The park itself is compact but well laid out with good accessibility so all in a great day out that will suit all ages and mobilities.
Obviously the rest of the day isn't quite as exciting as being close up to a big cat but the Lemurs, Meercats, Monkeys, Otters, Penguins and the Red Panda etc. are all great fun
We had a nice meal in the main cafe which was quickly served but was fresh, with reasonable options inc. vegetarian and plenty of it for a very reasonable price especially compared to other wildlife parks and Zoos.
The park itself is compact but well laid out with good accessibility so all in a great day out that will suit all ages and mobilities.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Being a big fan of a couples day out I went here with my husband on my birthday. I think if we were going with kids (which we don't have yet) it would have been a great day but unfortunately apart from seeing the animals there wasn't much to do for us. The animals there were great to see and it was nicely laid out with great walkways above the big cat areas which were quite special but for the price we paid there really wasn't much to see for a day out. Half the park is massive adventure playground areas, an entertainment area and food hall - great for kids I'm sure and would probably go with nieces and nephews in the future. Think we were here about 2 hours in total and compared to other places like Colchester Zoo which we love I just felt odd being in a "family" place
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Used to go here as a kid many moons ago and decided to have a family day out there seeing as it's expanded lots and improved over the years.
Great day out and fairly priced. Has a good range of animals and even some that you're unlikely to see at bigger mainstream zoos.
Plenty to do for the kids including a soft play zone, outdoor park and train ride then the animals and a few shows/talks about them which is good.
Great day out and fairly priced. Has a good range of animals and even some that you're unlikely to see at bigger mainstream zoos.
Plenty to do for the kids including a soft play zone, outdoor park and train ride then the animals and a few shows/talks about them which is good.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was the first time we've been to Paradise Park since our children were young. It's changed quite a lot although the overall park is how I remember it. It is quite expensive for a family I would think. Particularly if they start charging for parking which was signposted outside although hasn't started yet. Obviously there are loads of animals to see. Mostly asleep when we were there. Typical zoo experience I find. There are outlets selling food which wasn't too bad. There are also picnic areas so you can take your own food to save a bit of money. The site is well set out so you can make your way round and find all the different animals without too much bother. All in all a good day out.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My husband & I had bought an experience to feed the Red Pandas. Even though we both love animals we'd somehow never visited this park before. What a shame! We've been missing out. Our daughter is grown up now but the facilities for small kids looked awesome. Slides, firetrucks, amusements.
More importantly the animals & their welfare appeared to be top notch. They've really put thought into viewing platforms & accessibility whilst keeping happy animals. That is always of utmost importance to us. Watching Misha the wolf being groomed by her keeper & loving every second of it spoke volumes.
The staff were extremely welcoming & knowledgeable. When it came time to feed the red pandas they weren't interested in coming down out the trees. Now we were imagining we'd be told, 'Tough, that's the way the dice rolls.' Obviously we'd never expect the animals to be forced into anything. However we were told to come back in an hour. If the red pandas didn't come down then we'd try again & if that failed we could meet the meerkats instead. We were so impressed with their determination to give us a good experience. As it happens one of the red pandas came down for feeding on our second visit. It was a wonderful experience I'll never forget and I managed to get some awesome close up photos. We also learnt a huge amount about red pandas.
For the record we visited on a school day. I imagine this place gets swarmed with children during the holidays so plan accordingly. You can't blame the park for being popular & busy.
More importantly the animals & their welfare appeared to be top notch. They've really put thought into viewing platforms & accessibility whilst keeping happy animals. That is always of utmost importance to us. Watching Misha the wolf being groomed by her keeper & loving every second of it spoke volumes.
The staff were extremely welcoming & knowledgeable. When it came time to feed the red pandas they weren't interested in coming down out the trees. Now we were imagining we'd be told, 'Tough, that's the way the dice rolls.' Obviously we'd never expect the animals to be forced into anything. However we were told to come back in an hour. If the red pandas didn't come down then we'd try again & if that failed we could meet the meerkats instead. We were so impressed with their determination to give us a good experience. As it happens one of the red pandas came down for feeding on our second visit. It was a wonderful experience I'll never forget and I managed to get some awesome close up photos. We also learnt a huge amount about red pandas.
For the record we visited on a school day. I imagine this place gets swarmed with children during the holidays so plan accordingly. You can't blame the park for being popular & busy.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited on a quiet, rainy Monday but the day was great!! There's were some great animals to see and because it was raining we were the only people who turned up to the bird show so a lovely keeper called Claire gave us our own personal bird show!! It was fantastic and really made my other half's day!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We have just been to Paradise Wildlife Park.
It was our first ever visit and we will definitely be coming back.
Everything was so much fun.
My children are 3 and 7 and they loved the adventure playgrounds and slides.
We also thought the animals were great especially the monkeys who were so funny.
I'm sure they were showing off to us!
We took our own food so can't comment on the restaurant but from what I saw it looked nice.
The gift shop was lovely too and we can't wait to go back!
It was our first ever visit and we will definitely be coming back.
Everything was so much fun.
My children are 3 and 7 and they loved the adventure playgrounds and slides.
We also thought the animals were great especially the monkeys who were so funny.
I'm sure they were showing off to us!
We took our own food so can't comment on the restaurant but from what I saw it looked nice.
The gift shop was lovely too and we can't wait to go back!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It's located just outside London so it's a perfect day out if you want to enjoy some quality time. Me and my girlfriend was there during sunny August and it was lovely.
There is a decent collection of animals there, especially the big cats. The white lion pride is a must watch as they are so rare and so beautiful. And you can see snow leopards, tigers and other big cats there as well. Apart from the animals there are few good restaurant out there to have a decent meal while you enjoy the nature.
It cost us around £30 for tickets for both of us and it was totally worth it.
Ideal day out for a couple, family outing, kids day out, photographers, or anyone looking for a getaway from busy life.
There is a decent collection of animals there, especially the big cats. The white lion pride is a must watch as they are so rare and so beautiful. And you can see snow leopards, tigers and other big cats there as well. Apart from the animals there are few good restaurant out there to have a decent meal while you enjoy the nature.
It cost us around £30 for tickets for both of us and it was totally worth it.
Ideal day out for a couple, family outing, kids day out, photographers, or anyone looking for a getaway from busy life.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Johanna and I attended a Breakfast with the Big Cats experience. I was better than we expected, in particular the breakfast buffet which was excellent with wide choice of cold meats, cheese and cereals. The talk from the keeper was informative and he clearly loved the big cats, although at times he did start to loose the interest as he went on a bit too long. The big cats all look well carted for and the importance of the breading programs was explained well. The remainder of the Park only has a limited range of animals but it was clearly popular.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What an amazing day!! We did the white lion feeding experience and wow, what an experience it was!! The lions were brill, the instructor was excellent, so thorough on all information whilst being friendly. We even got a little bit of extra time with him and the lions where the park was so quiet. We saw him again at the wolves, and the tigers and he was still superb. You've such an array of animals that aren't you're typical zoo animal, it was fascinating, loved every minute. All staff were friendly and chatty, lovely atmosphere. Would come here again easily, worth the 2.5 hour drive 👍
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
