Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
A dedicated rescue sanctuary on the Isle of Wight, home to tigers, bears, lemurs, and more, focused on conservation and providing forever homes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
Best Time
Fewer crowds, active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dedicated rescue sanctuary on the Isle of Wight, home to tigers, bears, lemurs, and more, focused on conservation and providing forever homes.
"This is without doubt the best animal sanctuary we have been to hands down."
Check Daily Talk Schedule
Catch keeper talks for insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts. :microphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Much of the sanctuary is on flat ground, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Tigers
Tiger Habitat
Witness the power and beauty of tigers, including their unique 'chuffing' vocalizations. A truly captivating sight.
Playful Rescued Bears
Bear Habitat
See the recently arrived rescued bears, Benji and Balu, enjoying their new home and each other's company.
Lemur Encounters
Lemur Habitat
Observe the energetic and social lemurs, a special focus of the sanctuary's conservation efforts.
Tanuki's Vocalizations
Tanuki Habitat
Listen to the unique sounds of Pom, the male tanuki, as he vocalizes in his habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Animal Sightings
Support a Great Cause
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Daily Talk Schedule
Catch keeper talks for insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts. :microphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Much of the sanctuary is on flat ground, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Second Day Discount
Take advantage of the second-day visit discount for a more relaxed experience. :moneywithwings:
Plant-Based Cafe Options
The cafe offers 100% plant-based meals, a bold and admirable choice. :forkandknifewithplate:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Daily Talk Schedule
Catch keeper talks for insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts. :microphone:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Much of the sanctuary is on flat ground, but comfortable footwear is key for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Second Day Discount
Take advantage of the second-day visit discount for a more relaxed experience. :moneywithwings:
Plant-Based Cafe Options
The cafe offers 100% plant-based meals, a bold and admirable choice. :forkandknifewithplate:
WW2 History Nearby
Discover some WW2 history as part of your visit, adding another layer to your day. :military_helmet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Wildheart Animal Sanctuary for its dedication to animal welfare and the excellent care provided by its staff. The rescued animals, especially the tigers and bears, are a major highlight, with many guests impressed by their active and happy demeanor. The sanctuary's conservation mission and educational talks are also highly valued, making it a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
"This is a lovely centre for all of the animals which are magnificent. It is all self funding and they keepers do an amazing job with the animals - some of which have been rescued from private ownership to circuses to tourist attractions. Although some areas are gravel , the walk is on the flat for the majority of it. There is a cafe and shop. The bears are the latest edition and the looked very happy playing with each other in their new home. I loved it and would love to go again when visiting the IOW"
Janet Smith
"Incredible. Very well looked after animals, by a dedicated and kind team. The bears are the absolute highlight. You can see them genuinely celebrating their freedom and new lives in the IOW. The tigers were very active, and most of the animals seemed to be very relaxed - perhaps enjoying a very quiet visitor level, with kids back at school 😉"
Laura Barioli
"Great day out, lots to see and do well kept and maintained. The Two new bears were definitely a highlight. Cafe is 100% plant based which is a bold move but one that I admire. Overall nice day out."
Gaz jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located in Sandown on the Isle of Wight. It's a short drive or a scenic 10-minute walk along the coast from many accommodations. Visitors can also use the hover travel combined ticket for easy access.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to check their official website for any specific parking instructions or fees.
Yes, the sanctuary is accessible via public transport on the Isle of Wight, and it's also within walking distance of some areas.
Many visitors use a car for flexibility, but the hover travel combined ticket is also a popular and convenient option for reaching the sanctuary from the mainland.
Absolutely! It's a popular destination for day-trippers to the Isle of Wight, offering a fulfilling experience within a single day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are approximately £15.40 for adults and £13.20 for children aged 3-14. Children under 2 are free. Prices may include a 10% Gift Aid donation.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Yes, visitors can often take advantage of a second-day trip discount for a reduced price, allowing for a more leisurely exploration.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Wildheart Animal Sanctuary website for the most up-to-date information on opening times.
Yes, you can adopt and donate to support the animals at the sanctuary, contributing to their care and conservation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see a variety of animals, with a special focus on tigers and lemurs. They also house rescued bears, lynx, and tanukis, among others. 
Yes, the sanctuary hosts daily animal talks where keepers share fascinating insights into the animals' lives and conservation efforts.
The majority of the walk is on the flat, making it accessible for most visitors. Some areas may be gravel, but overall it's a manageable experience.
'Tiger Island' was a former name or attraction associated with the sanctuary, highlighting its significant tiger population and conservation focus.
It's a rescue sanctuary dedicated to providing forever homes for animals from difficult backgrounds, with a strong emphasis on conservation and education.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The sanctuary has a cafe that offers 100% plant-based meals, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and ethical choices.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally advisable to check with the sanctuary regarding their policy on outside food and picnics.
Yes, the cafe is entirely plant-based, so all options are vegan and vegetarian-friendly.
The cafe is generally family-friendly, offering a place to rest and refuel during your visit.
You can expect a range of plant-based dishes, catering to a sustainable and ethical dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The tiger enclosures and bear habitats offer excellent opportunities for capturing stunning wildlife photos. Look for vantage points during keeper talks for dynamic shots.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, always be mindful of animal welfare and avoid using flash photography that could disturb them.
You can capture images of tigers, bears, lemurs, lynx, tanukis, and other rescued animals in their naturalistic habitats.
Depending on the enclosure design and the animals' behavior, you can get some great close-up shots, especially during feeding times or talks.
Be patient, use a telephoto lens if possible, and try to capture the animals' natural behaviors. Early morning or late afternoon light is often best.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The daily animal talks are particularly engaging for younger visitors, offering fun facts and insights into the animals' lives. The sanctuary's commitment to rescue and conservation also provides a valuable educational opportunity, teaching children about animal welfare and the importance of protecting wildlife. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's a good amount of walking involved, and the plant-based cafe offers a healthy refuel stop. ❤️ Couples and Wildlife Enthusiasts
💰 Budget Travelers
This allows you to maximize your experience without needing to purchase a full-price ticket again. While admission has a cost, the value comes from supporting a worthy cause and seeing a diverse range of animals. Packing your own snacks and drinks might be an option, though the plant-based cafe offers a unique dining experience if you choose to eat there. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sanctuary's Mission: Rescue and Conservation
The sanctuary's core mission revolves around offering these animals a second chance at a happy and healthy life, ensuring they receive the best possible care and enrichment. This commitment to animal welfare is evident in the well-maintained habitats and the dedication of the animal care team. Beyond rescue, Wildheart plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, particularly for endangered species like tigers and lemurs. By educating visitors about these animals and their plights in the wild, the sanctuary aims to foster a greater understanding and appreciation for wildlife. They actively promote the survival of endangered species through first-class educational and recreational experiences.
Visitors can learn about the individual stories of the animals, which often highlight the importance of conservation and the impact of human activities on wildlife populations. Meet the Animals: Highlights and Stories
+1 The arrival of rescued brown bears, Benji and Balu, has been a significant highlight, with guests observing their playful interactions and apparent joy in their new environment. Other notable residents include lemurs, known for their social dynamics and energetic displays, and tanukis, whose vocalizations have recently been captured and shared.
The sanctuary also houses lynx and other exotic animals, each with their own rescue story. The keepers are passionate about sharing these stories, offering daily talks that provide deep insights into the animals' pasts, their rehabilitation, and their current well-being. This personal connection to the animals' journeys is a key part of the Wildheart experience. Visitor Experience and Amenities
Beyond the animal habitats and cafe, the sanctuary also incorporates elements of local history, with some WW2 history integrated into the visitor experience.
The overall atmosphere is often described as peaceful and engaging, with many visitors feeling a strong connection to the sanctuary's mission and the well-being of its residents. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit