Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens - a river running through a lush green forest
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Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

4.7
·16k reviews·Bradwell Grove, United Kingdom

A 160-acre wildlife park and gardens in the Cotswolds, home to over 260 animal species and famously dog-friendly.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens - a river running through a lush green forest

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 160-acre wildlife park and gardens in the Cotswolds, home to over 260 animal species and famously dog-friendly.

4.7
(16k reviews)

"A great family day out with a really good variety of animals to see, along with incredibly insightful feedings and tours."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your well-behaved dog is welcome! Keep them on a lead and enjoy the park together.

🚂 Scenic Train Ride

Hop on the park's train for a charming tour around the grounds. (£2 per person)

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rhino Encounter

Rhino Encounter

Rhino enclosure

Witness the impressive Southern White Rhinos up close, a truly awe-inspiring sight for all ages.

TikTokInstagram
Penguin Feeding

Penguin Feeding

Penguin enclosure

Watch the playful penguins during their feeding sessions – a lively and engaging spectacle.

Instagram
Walled Garden

Walled Garden

Walled Garden

Explore the beautifully maintained walled garden, a tranquil escape with diverse plant life.

Reddit
Giraffe Views

Giraffe Views

Giraffe enclosure

Marvel at the majestic giraffes, often visible and a favorite for many visitors.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Dog-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Cotswold Wildlife Park is famously dog-friendly, allowing you to explore with your pets. Just remember to keep them on a lead and be mindful of other visitors and animals. TikTok+2

Getting There Without a Car

Visiting from London? It's possible without a car! Public transport options exist, though planning is key. Consider trains to nearby stations and then local buses or taxis. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Warm, sunny days
Why
Animals are more active
Crowd
Medium
When
During feeding times
Why
Engaging animal shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

how to plan a trip from London to the Cotswolds without a car (full travel guide coming soon👀) #londontravel #uktravel #englishcountryside #thecotswolds #cotswolds #travelguide
@sammyynapolitano
30.6K likes • 498.3K views

🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your well-behaved dog is welcome! Keep them on a lead and enjoy the park together. TikTok+2

🚂 Scenic Train Ride

Hop on the park's train for a charming tour around the grounds. (£2 per person) Reddit

Such a fun dog friendly day out! 🦁🦒 #cotswoldwildlifepark #dogfriendly #ukdaysout
@pattyandjoe_
30.5K likes • 1.1M views
𝘔𝘺 𝘮𝘢𝘮'𝘴 𝘵𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘊𝘰𝘵𝘴𝘸𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘗𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦. 𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘴𝘸𝘪𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 🐧 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘢𝘳𝘪 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 @ralphspawtique 💚🩵 #dogfriendly #dogfriendlyzoo #dogsmakeeverythingbetter #doglife #dogfun #cotswoldwildlifepark #wildlife #giraffe #penguin #birds #birdchaser #pawrents #ilovemydog #mybaby #myboy #beautiful #beautifulboy #pupsofwales #welshdogs #welshdogsofi...
cavapoo.percy
95 likes • 0 views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of lovely picnic spots available, or grab a bite at the refreshments. Reddit

🗺️ Easy Navigation

Clear maps are available to help you find your way around the expansive park. Reddit

A young southern white rhino —————————————— 📍 @cotswoldwildlifepark June 2024 📸 @canonuk R7 + @sigmauk 150-600 C ⚙️ 1/1000s F/6.3 ISO 1600 💻 @photoshop + @topaz.labs —————————————— #rhino #rhinoceros #southernwhiterhino #animal #animalphotography #animalphotos #zoo #zoophoto #zoophotography #animals #animalsofinstagram
wildlifephotography14235
76 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐾 Dog-Friendly Paradise

Your well-behaved dog is welcome! Keep them on a lead and enjoy the park together. TikTok+2

🚂 Scenic Train Ride

Hop on the park's train for a charming tour around the grounds. (£2 per person) Reddit

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Plenty of lovely picnic spots available, or grab a bite at the refreshments. Reddit

🗺️ Easy Navigation

Clear maps are available to help you find your way around the expansive park. Reddit

📸 Capture the Moments

Bring your camera! The animals and gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.7
(16k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens for its excellent variety of animals, beautiful grounds, and family-friendly atmosphere. The dog-friendly policy is a major highlight, allowing pets to join the fun. While the park offers a great day out, some guests have noted that the cleanliness of the toilets could be improved.

"Great wildlife park to visit with the family!
Little train (costs £2 each) takes you all round the park.
Lots of animals to see, Lions, tigers and giraffes, feeding shows for penguins.
Refreshments to buy, picnic areas to sit if you choose to bring your own food.
Lovely shop to pick up souvenirs.
Fun day out for all!"

rach fuidge

"Such a great family day out with a really good variety of animals to see, along with incredibly insightful feedings and tours available to add some more knowledge. The short train ride around the park is a lovely way to take in the grounds and get a comprehensive view of most of the animals in their habitats. Thoroughly recommend if you’re in the area."

Martyn Puttock

"Had a great day out at Cotswold Wildlife Park. The grounds are beautiful, the animals are well looked after, and it’s easy to spend hours exploring. The only downside was the toilets, which weren’t very clean and honestly felt like a set from the Addams Family, full of cobwebs and spiders. If they improved that part, the experience would be close to perfect."

Ionut Panescu

What People Like

Great animal variety
Beautiful grounds
Dog-friendly policy

What People Dislike

Toilet cleanliness

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

While a car is convenient, it's possible to visit without one. You can take a train to nearby stations like Kingham or Charlbury and then arrange a taxi or local bus service to reach the park. Planning your public transport route in advance is recommended. TikTok

Yes, there is a good-sized car park available for visitors. Parking attendants are often on hand to guide you to a spot, especially during busy periods. Reddit

For day trips to the Cotswolds, including the Wildlife Park, trains from London are a popular option. From the station, you'll likely need a taxi or local bus to reach your final destination. TikTok

While direct shuttle services aren't always advertised, local taxi companies and bus routes can connect you from stations like Kingham or Charlbury to the park. It's advisable to check local transport schedules beforehand. TikTok

The driving distance from London to Cotswold Wildlife Park is approximately 80-90 miles, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Public transport will take longer. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but it's generally considered great value for a full day out. It's best to check the official Cotswold Wildlife Park website for the most up-to-date pricing for adults, children, and concessions. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to save time and potentially secure your entry. Check the park's official website for booking options. Reddit

Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or specific promotions. It's worth checking the park's website or contacting them directly to inquire about any current offers or concession rates. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check the official Cotswold Wildlife Park website for the most accurate and up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit. Reddit

The park is generally well-equipped for wheelchairs and pushchairs, with wide paths and accessible routes. The train ride is also often accessible. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about seeing the rhinos, giraffes, lions, and penguins. The park boasts over 260 species, so there's plenty to discover, from meerkats to sloths. TikTokInstagram+2

Yes, the park often hosts insightful feeding sessions and talks, particularly for animals like penguins. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for timings. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a well-built wooden play area with various equipment suitable for toddlers and older children, making it a great family day out. Reddit

Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks. There are numerous picnic areas available throughout the park, making it a cost-effective option. Reddit

The park features a charming little train that offers a scenic tour around the grounds, allowing you to see many of the animals without extensive walking. It costs a small fee per person. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The park offers refreshments, including snacks and meals, at its on-site facilities. For a more budget-friendly or specific dietary choice, bringing a picnic is a popular option. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most park cafes offer a range of options. It's advisable to inquire directly with the catering staff upon your visit for the most current vegetarian and vegan choices. Reddit

The park is a fantastic venue for family celebrations. While specific party packages might not be advertised, the environment is ideal for a memorable birthday outing. Reddit

Yes, in addition to outdoor picnic spots, there are also covered and indoor picnic areas available, providing shelter from the elements. Reddit

Reviews suggest that the refreshments are adequate for a day out, and the picnic areas are a highlight for many. The focus is on convenience and family enjoyment. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire park offers great photo opportunities! Focus on enclosures with good viewing angles, like the giraffes, rhinos, and meerkats. The walled garden also provides beautiful scenic shots. Instagram+1

Professional camera equipment is generally allowed. However, drone usage is typically restricted in wildlife parks to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check the park's specific policy. Instagram

While not explicitly advertised, the park's layout and diverse animals make it a photographer's delight. Consider visiting during quieter times for better shots. Instagram

Meerkats are often seen very close to viewing areas, making them excellent subjects for close-up photography. Smaller primates and birds also offer great opportunities. Instagram+1

The park is quite open with many shaded areas, especially under trees. Mornings and late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cotswold Wildlife Park is a fantastic choice for families. The wide variety of animals keeps children engaged, and the kids' play area provides a dedicated space for them to burn off energy. The little train is a hit with younger visitors, offering a fun way to see the park. Many enclosures allow for close-up views, making the animals feel more accessible and exciting for little ones. TikTokReddit

Consider bringing a picnic to save on costs and cater to picky eaters. The park's open spaces and shaded areas are great for managing children's energy levels. The dog-friendly policy also means the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the day together. TikTokReddit

🐶 Dog Owners

If you're a dog owner, Cotswold Wildlife Park is a dream destination. It's renowned for being dog-friendly, allowing your canine companions to join you on your adventure. Ensure your dog is on a lead and well-behaved, and they can explore alongside you. TikTok+2

Social media is full of happy dogs experiencing the zoo for the first time, from sniffing out new scents to watching the animals. The park's spacious layout is ideal for dogs, and the welcoming atmosphere makes it a stress-free outing for pet parents. It's a rare opportunity to enjoy a wildlife park with your entire family, four-legged members included. TikTokInstagram+2

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find plenty to capture at Cotswold Wildlife Park. The diverse animal collection offers subjects ranging from large mammals like rhinos and giraffes to smaller, more active creatures like meerkats and primates. Many enclosures are designed for excellent viewing, allowing for clear shots. Instagram+1

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light. The park's open design means you can find good vantage points, and the presence of animals like meerkats often allows for impressive close-ups. Remember to check the park's policy on professional equipment and drones. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Diverse Animal Collection

Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is home to an impressive array of over 260 animal species, making it a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts. From majestic rhinos and towering giraffes to playful penguins and curious meerkats, the park offers a chance to see a wide variety of creatures from around the globe. Many enclosures are designed to allow visitors to get remarkably close to the animals, offering fantastic viewing and photography opportunities. TikTokInstagram+2

The park's commitment to conservation is evident in its diverse collection, which includes rare and endangered species. You can encounter lemurs leaping through their enclosures, observe the unique behaviors of red pandas, and even spot sloths moving at their own pace. The variety ensures that there's always something new and exciting to discover, catering to all ages and interests. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the larger mammals, the park also features a fascinating collection of reptiles and birds. The walled garden itself is a beautiful habitat, and the park's layout encourages exploration, allowing visitors to stumble upon hidden gems. Whether you're interested in big cats, primates, or smaller creatures, Cotswold Wildlife Park provides an enriching and engaging wildlife experience. InstagramReddit

A Day Out with Your Canine Companion

One of the standout features of Cotswold Wildlife Park is its exceptionally dog-friendly policy. This means you don't have to leave your beloved pets behind when planning a day out. Dogs are welcome throughout the park, provided they are kept on a lead at all times. This policy is a huge draw for dog owners, allowing them to share the experience with their entire family. TikTok+2

Social media is filled with happy hounds enjoying their visit, from staffies to golden retrievers, marveling at the sights and sounds of the park. The wide paths and open spaces make it comfortable for dogs to navigate alongside their owners. It's a testament to the park's welcoming atmosphere that so many visitors choose to bring their furry friends along for the adventure. TikTokInstagram+2

While dogs are welcome, it's important to be considerate of other visitors and the resident animals. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb other guests or the wildlife. The park's dog-friendly nature transforms a typical zoo visit into a shared family outing, making it a truly unique and memorable experience for pet owners. TikTok+1

Navigating the Park and Amenities

Cotswold Wildlife Park is designed for a relaxed and enjoyable visit, with a focus on visitor comfort and accessibility. Clear, easy-to-read maps are strategically placed throughout the park, ensuring you can easily navigate your way between exhibits and facilities. This is particularly helpful for first-time visitors or those with limited time. Reddit

The park offers a variety of amenities to enhance your day. Plentiful benches and picnic areas are scattered across the grounds, providing ample opportunities to rest and refuel. Whether you choose to bring your own picnic or purchase refreshments from the on-site cafes, you'll find convenient spots to enjoy your meal. The little train is another popular amenity, offering a charming way to see a significant portion of the park without extensive walking, especially beneficial for families with young children or those with mobility concerns. Reddit

For families, the kids' play area is a significant draw, featuring well-built wooden climbing frames and diverse equipment. The park's overall layout is spacious and open, with many shaded areas, making it pleasant to explore even on warmer days. The toilets have received some less-than-glowing reviews regarding cleanliness, which is something to be aware of, but the overall infrastructure for a day out is well-considered. Reddit

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