Paradise Wildlife Park
Latest Reviews
I honestly love this park, and I have been visiting it regularly for a while now. However, during our latest visit there were a couple of moments which were rather disappointing, and which made me think that the park is going downwards.
1) Enclosures are not as big as they should. I can't fault the ones for the jaguars and the white tiger. However, the enclosures for the lions, cheetahs, 3 other tigers and a leopard are way too small. The cheetah was just circling around in a rather agitated manner. Moto the white lion was walking around with a so to say almost "wooden" walk, as if he was older than in reality. Again, the enclosure needs to be larger.
2) The size of the enclosure for 3 wolves in the Wolf Walk area has VERY much to be desired. I worked for the UK Wolf Conservation Trust not long ago, their enclosures are far superior to what I have seen in Paradise. The same thing to say about the birds' enclosures. Seriously, there should be some space provided for an adequate flight and movement of the birds! The hornbills looked really battered, by the way. Lots of birds that used to be there are now missing (they could not all die just in 1 year, could they?)
3) Paddocks for the herbivores also have lots to be desired - more vegetation or soft substrate; the size of the territory yet again. I know it is necessary to keep the hooves of the herbivores naturally trimmed all the time, but reindeer on the concrete look seriously pathetic!
Basically, the impression is getting worse, to be honest.
1) Enclosures are not as big as they should. I can't fault the ones for the jaguars and the white tiger. However, the enclosures for the lions, cheetahs, 3 other tigers and a leopard are way too small. The cheetah was just circling around in a rather agitated manner. Moto the white lion was walking around with a so to say almost "wooden" walk, as if he was older than in reality. Again, the enclosure needs to be larger.
2) The size of the enclosure for 3 wolves in the Wolf Walk area has VERY much to be desired. I worked for the UK Wolf Conservation Trust not long ago, their enclosures are far superior to what I have seen in Paradise. The same thing to say about the birds' enclosures. Seriously, there should be some space provided for an adequate flight and movement of the birds! The hornbills looked really battered, by the way. Lots of birds that used to be there are now missing (they could not all die just in 1 year, could they?)
3) Paddocks for the herbivores also have lots to be desired - more vegetation or soft substrate; the size of the territory yet again. I know it is necessary to keep the hooves of the herbivores naturally trimmed all the time, but reindeer on the concrete look seriously pathetic!
Basically, the impression is getting worse, to be honest.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent an amazing Birthday here, they have a wide variety of animals here, the cat's are outstanding. Have finally got a great photo of a red panda, have been trying for years. And got some of the best ones of otters I have ever taken, they are so adorable. The platforms and the glass viewing points are outstanding for seeing the animals and for taking photos. For me the best was sitting in the café, drinking a cuppa ( on a very cold March day) and being eye level with the very playful Tigers.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I am a huge animal lover and completely disagree with the comments many people have made on here implying that the animals are mistreated and in confined spaces. While it is obvious that the centre is making some of the enclosures bigger, the animals were certainly not unhappy or in very small cages!
This place clearly is having a way to go before competing with the likes of Woburn but the conservation work and enthusiasm of the staff here conveys the love and care this centre has for animals. We participated in a meet the meerkat experience and it was fantastic because the staff were so concerned with the welfare of the creatures and were so well informed.
I do think that the stupid people who let their children bang on the glass should be dealt with but mainly by the parents themselves! There are signs everywhere and the other option is very big gaps between us and the animals which may be the only option if some people persist in being uncaring.
Ultimately - a lovely day out in a great place.
This place clearly is having a way to go before competing with the likes of Woburn but the conservation work and enthusiasm of the staff here conveys the love and care this centre has for animals. We participated in a meet the meerkat experience and it was fantastic because the staff were so concerned with the welfare of the creatures and were so well informed.
I do think that the stupid people who let their children bang on the glass should be dealt with but mainly by the parents themselves! There are signs everywhere and the other option is very big gaps between us and the animals which may be the only option if some people persist in being uncaring.
Ultimately - a lovely day out in a great place.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited over the easter weekend expecting it to be packed lucky it wasn't and a pleasure to walk round...
I don't agree with animals being caged but this centre is heavily into conservation...and for a lot of species theses days it it the only way for them to servive...At the moment there is a lot of work going on to upgrade the enclosures..but everything is kept to minimal disturbance and let's face it the animals come first....
In certain areas you can actually pay a small fee enter the enclosures to hand feed the species all done sympathetically with the animals best interest always in the forefront.
On site there is a good selection of children's rides etc. Cafe's in different locations throughout the site.
Also the national speedway museum (must admit didn't go in this time but will next visit).
Nr the museum there is a little lido for tiny ones that will be absolutely great on the summer months...
A great safe FULL day out for all the family
I don't agree with animals being caged but this centre is heavily into conservation...and for a lot of species theses days it it the only way for them to servive...At the moment there is a lot of work going on to upgrade the enclosures..but everything is kept to minimal disturbance and let's face it the animals come first....
In certain areas you can actually pay a small fee enter the enclosures to hand feed the species all done sympathetically with the animals best interest always in the forefront.
On site there is a good selection of children's rides etc. Cafe's in different locations throughout the site.
Also the national speedway museum (must admit didn't go in this time but will next visit).
Nr the museum there is a little lido for tiny ones that will be absolutely great on the summer months...
A great safe FULL day out for all the family
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Having booked the meet the wolves experience day as a Christmas present for my better half and we were more than impressed.
When we got to the park (early as the wild experience is before the park opens) we were given tea, coffee and biscuits.
The wolves themselves were amazing, feeding them by hand and stroking them through the bars.
The keepers Pier (sorry if we spelt it wrong!) and Lynne were very knowledgeable and keen to tell us about the animals.
We spent the rest of the day at the park, eating breakfast at the cafe overlooking the tigers was great.
Very enjoyable, relaxed family day out - would definitely look to visit again and do another experience day!
When we got to the park (early as the wild experience is before the park opens) we were given tea, coffee and biscuits.
The wolves themselves were amazing, feeding them by hand and stroking them through the bars.
The keepers Pier (sorry if we spelt it wrong!) and Lynne were very knowledgeable and keen to tell us about the animals.
We spent the rest of the day at the park, eating breakfast at the cafe overlooking the tigers was great.
Very enjoyable, relaxed family day out - would definitely look to visit again and do another experience day!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Firstly I would recommend getting here early to avoid ques etc, my husband and I met the red pandas and what an amazing experience, we learnt so much from our host I believe her name was Jess, and got to hand feed them. What an amazing experience.
Then we went around the zoo which we were very impressed with a lot to see including farm animals, Tigers, penguins.
Our children really enjoyed the soft play area and the out door play area, there is a little steam train, bouncy castles etc.
We will definately be returning.
Then we went around the zoo which we were very impressed with a lot to see including farm animals, Tigers, penguins.
Our children really enjoyed the soft play area and the out door play area, there is a little steam train, bouncy castles etc.
We will definately be returning.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I took my two children 6 and 4 years along with my partner for a day out here on the 1st April 2015.
A great day was had by all! After seeing all the lovely animals my children enjoyed playing in all the outside play areas that they have on the park. We ended the day in the indoor soft play area which the children loved.
The face painting is very good too.
There was just one thing I could not understand and that was why a cup of tea outside cost £1.20 but inside it cost £1.70, strange!
And just one last comment I don't think you should have to pay £1 per person to go on the little train when you have paid to enter the park!
But on the whole I would recommend a visit here and I will be returning with my children again soon.
A great day was had by all! After seeing all the lovely animals my children enjoyed playing in all the outside play areas that they have on the park. We ended the day in the indoor soft play area which the children loved.
The face painting is very good too.
There was just one thing I could not understand and that was why a cup of tea outside cost £1.20 but inside it cost £1.70, strange!
And just one last comment I don't think you should have to pay £1 per person to go on the little train when you have paid to enter the park!
But on the whole I would recommend a visit here and I will be returning with my children again soon.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My son bought me the Monkey Zookeeper experience for my birthday. We visited the park on a cold Tuesday in March but nothing could detract from the wonderful experience. Glen was our guide and made the day for us. We started off with a walk round all of the primates and Glen talked us through each of the species, even introducing us to a lovely little Armadillo!
We then got to feed the spider monkeys who were absolute darlings but so naughty! They tried to take the bobble out of my hair and stole Glen's wallet out of his pocket. They were fascinated with my sons camera which resulted in some amazing photos. We then went in with the lemurs who were very sweet and a lot more chilled. Being animal lovers, the contact we were able to have with the primates was overwhelming and felt such a privilege.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely!! Worth every penny and an awesome present :))
We then got to feed the spider monkeys who were absolute darlings but so naughty! They tried to take the bobble out of my hair and stole Glen's wallet out of his pocket. They were fascinated with my sons camera which resulted in some amazing photos. We then went in with the lemurs who were very sweet and a lot more chilled. Being animal lovers, the contact we were able to have with the primates was overwhelming and felt such a privilege.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely!! Worth every penny and an awesome present :))
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Myself, two adults and one 4 year old went to Paradise Wildlife Park and had a fantastic day out. We saw the bird show that was very interesting and impressive, we then had an experience with the Meerkat's that was brilliant. There is a lot to do for children (play areas, sandpit & brick area etc.) so it kept him entertained all day.
I would highly recommend Paradise Wildlife Park
I would highly recommend Paradise Wildlife Park
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
First time here but son has been before tiers lions camels to name but a few a good play area food place was being done up but managed to get some food free parking had a good day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Bought my other half the Monkey Zookeeper Experience for Christmas, and she certainly wasn't disappointed. Our guide was everything you'd want him to be, both knowledgeable and clearly passionate about the animals he looks after. We took our time as we visited the various primate enclosures (the animals themselves were fascinating) and at no point did the tour feel forced or rehearsed. I'd definitely recommend paying whatever extra you can to have some form of guided tour rather than just going round on your own.
We had been to the park within the last 12 months, but there was plenty more to experience this second time around. Could see us visiting again if we're ever in the area.
We had been to the park within the last 12 months, but there was plenty more to experience this second time around. Could see us visiting again if we're ever in the area.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We came down from Aberdeen & was defently worth a vist. The guy that picked us up from the station was friendly & for a £1 each defently worth getting the mini bus there. The park looks as though it is been done up for summer so will be back to see that. The animals look well cared for & happy. My sister did the feed the big cat experence which she enjoyed, i was alouded along with her to get photos, the young keeper was very good with his knowledge on the cats defently an amazing expernce for someone who loves tigers etc as much as she does. 💕
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
been here a few times now, we are lucky we live really close by, i am sure people travel a way to come and visit this park and i would say it will def not be a wasted journey. lots of animals to see. a good variety of park and play areas. the large paddling pool is great, my kids could spend all day here alone. also has a nice inside play area for smaller chlldren. groupon often has offers on for cheaper entry prices. i had my son's 7th birthday party here, the package was well worth it, def recommend
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
we have visited PWP often over the years. It's a brilliant park, particularly for younger children, plenty of appealing things to see and do, not much walking, all fairly flat. I highly recommend :)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We spent a very pleasant day here. The layout is unusual in that the park is split in half by an access road. We went into the left hand side first, which is clearly the older part of the attraction. On that side there are some good but aging play areas for the children, suitable for those under 8. There is a short woodland walk which takes you past some animals including wolves. In amongst the woods there are some glass fibre dinosaurs, which reminded me of Blackgang Chine on the Isle of Wight. These ones are better though.
The best part of the park is on the right side. It's there where all the prime animals are. We saw a great bird show, and watched tigers play together from the cafe that overlooks their enclosure. I doubt there are many better places to enjoy a cup of coffee.
We had a great day here, but when you arrive, I recommend you do the left hand part of the park first and save the best till last!
The best part of the park is on the right side. It's there where all the prime animals are. We saw a great bird show, and watched tigers play together from the cafe that overlooks their enclosure. I doubt there are many better places to enjoy a cup of coffee.
We had a great day here, but when you arrive, I recommend you do the left hand part of the park first and save the best till last!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
2 grandparents, 2 parents, 3 children (7, 9, 11). Thoroughly enjoyable day for everyone. Animals well kept and interesting for the children and oldies alike.. Adequate eating arrangements overlooking the tiger enclosure and staffed by a lady who was extremely knowledgeable and entertaining talking about the animals, the nearby tigers in particular. The live talks about the various animals were well done and interesting.Well deserves its various accolades and well worth taking your time. The souvenir shop is well stocked with a good and reasonably priced selection of merchandise.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Family group - 2 grandparents, 4 next generation plus 4 grandchildren (aged 2 to 8) visiting on a sunny Saturday in March.
Car parking well supervised and adequate. The park site is relatively compact and there was plenty to keep our children busy. Don't think it would be very suitable for children above primary school age.
Good selection of animals - without too many small variants not of real interest to young children. The children's playground is extensive and ours spent quite a while there.
The downside - although the entry fee is quite substantial they even charge extra for a (very short) train ride.
Considering how busy it was the catering staff were brilliant - quickly clearing tables and keeping the place clean & tidy. Food was a little on the pricey side for what is was.
Car parking well supervised and adequate. The park site is relatively compact and there was plenty to keep our children busy. Don't think it would be very suitable for children above primary school age.
Good selection of animals - without too many small variants not of real interest to young children. The children's playground is extensive and ours spent quite a while there.
The downside - although the entry fee is quite substantial they even charge extra for a (very short) train ride.
Considering how busy it was the catering staff were brilliant - quickly clearing tables and keeping the place clean & tidy. Food was a little on the pricey side for what is was.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This place has really come along over the years and is a great venue for the family if you are stuck for something to do. sunnier days are best but with the right clothing you can have a good time any time of the year.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I have been on several occasions and at different times of the year and each time has been as great as the last! I went last spring to feed the Lemurs as a birthday present, and that was amazing! They sat on my shoulder whilst eating fruit and were quite funny to watch! I went recently in February and although the weather was cold and a bit damp, the animals were all still in and out of their enclosures, and the Alpaca are hilarious, one was chasing the camel, and took great pics of the tigers and little monies etc. overall great afternoon out!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Great zoo. Fantastic animals, well cared for and in good conditions. A truly world class collection of big cats (tigers, white lions, leopards, jaguar etc). Much less crowded than London zoo and a very pleasant morning or afternoon out!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Really enjoyed our meet the meerkats experience, they are such curious creatures!
Also got to feed lorikeets and zebras too. It's really easy to pay £1 and really improves on your day
The talks are great and really informative, we were told to go to the cheetah talk and the bird demonstration and also make sure to see the red pandas at there feeding time (2.15pm)
Also got to feed lorikeets and zebras too. It's really easy to pay £1 and really improves on your day
The talks are great and really informative, we were told to go to the cheetah talk and the bird demonstration and also make sure to see the red pandas at there feeding time (2.15pm)
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
So as you may notice I'm not from England nor am I an English citizen. I am however British born and bread and I was horrified to be told that they would not accept a bank of Scotland £20 note. It was almost like I was trying to pay with Japanese yen or the American dollar.
I would kindly like to point out that Scottish notes are legal tender anywhere within the United Kingdom just like Bank of England notes are accepted so to be greeted with a rude girl who looked at me as if I had two heads just put me in a bad mood and ruined my expectations of the park.
Anyway onto the positives and I am glad to say these far out way the customer services at the ticket gate.
The animals all appear to be fed well and cared for and they do have large enclosures to run around and enjoy. The keepers do regular educational talks and always presented themselves well with plenty of knowledge to share.
The park is quite well laid out and very easy to follow the layout with good signpost and excellent paths underfoot.
I must admit I have never seen a snow leopard before so this for me was the highlight but with so many great animals here it's difficult to choose a favourite.
We had a quick snack near by the tiger enclosure with a freshly made tiger club sandwich which was very well presented and very tasty and most importantly it was fresh and well worth the £4,95.
Overall I had a good day it's a shame it began with a bad experience and I hope staff are educated about what is legal tender within the UK.
I would kindly like to point out that Scottish notes are legal tender anywhere within the United Kingdom just like Bank of England notes are accepted so to be greeted with a rude girl who looked at me as if I had two heads just put me in a bad mood and ruined my expectations of the park.
Anyway onto the positives and I am glad to say these far out way the customer services at the ticket gate.
The animals all appear to be fed well and cared for and they do have large enclosures to run around and enjoy. The keepers do regular educational talks and always presented themselves well with plenty of knowledge to share.
The park is quite well laid out and very easy to follow the layout with good signpost and excellent paths underfoot.
I must admit I have never seen a snow leopard before so this for me was the highlight but with so many great animals here it's difficult to choose a favourite.
We had a quick snack near by the tiger enclosure with a freshly made tiger club sandwich which was very well presented and very tasty and most importantly it was fresh and well worth the £4,95.
Overall I had a good day it's a shame it began with a bad experience and I hope staff are educated about what is legal tender within the UK.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited paradise park last week in half term.
We have visited numerous times and the park is one of our favourites.
The animals are always such a pleasure to see. There's lots to see and the park is mapped out well.
Always plenty for the children to do (bouncy castles, playground equipment, climbing frames and soft play). It truly is a wonderful day out.
However, I have had poor experiences with the staff on mostly every occasion I have visited.
The manager of the cafe was extremely difficult to talk to and very abrupt, then on this occasion the lady in the cafe was as miserable as sin and you felt like you had a cheek to be asking her for coffee!.
It really let's the park down if I'm honest. When I've visited other places, such as chessington and peppa pig world, the staff bend over backwards to offer their assistance and make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Paradise park staff don't really seem to give a damn!.
Safari Sam's diner is your typical fast food outlet.
I'm surprised they don't do a child's burger and fries (as they do nuggets etc) then you realise the only burger they offer is a £6.95 huge steak burger, which you know full well the child won't be able to fully manage, but your over a barrel really, as that's the only beef burger available.
My mother ordered a salad which was £5.95 for a pot of leaves and very little else (worth £3 max). It's very over priced, staff are unfriendly in there too and it's a shame their child's menu is not more suitable.
Like I say, food and staff aside, the park is ace and we love seeing all the big cats and other equally beautiful animals.
The red pandas are always a favourite of my kiddies, as are the meerkats and penguins.
I really wish the staff could just cheer up a bit though. How could anyone be miserable working there??!!
We have visited numerous times and the park is one of our favourites.
The animals are always such a pleasure to see. There's lots to see and the park is mapped out well.
Always plenty for the children to do (bouncy castles, playground equipment, climbing frames and soft play). It truly is a wonderful day out.
However, I have had poor experiences with the staff on mostly every occasion I have visited.
The manager of the cafe was extremely difficult to talk to and very abrupt, then on this occasion the lady in the cafe was as miserable as sin and you felt like you had a cheek to be asking her for coffee!.
It really let's the park down if I'm honest. When I've visited other places, such as chessington and peppa pig world, the staff bend over backwards to offer their assistance and make your experience as pleasant as possible.
Paradise park staff don't really seem to give a damn!.
Safari Sam's diner is your typical fast food outlet.
I'm surprised they don't do a child's burger and fries (as they do nuggets etc) then you realise the only burger they offer is a £6.95 huge steak burger, which you know full well the child won't be able to fully manage, but your over a barrel really, as that's the only beef burger available.
My mother ordered a salad which was £5.95 for a pot of leaves and very little else (worth £3 max). It's very over priced, staff are unfriendly in there too and it's a shame their child's menu is not more suitable.
Like I say, food and staff aside, the park is ace and we love seeing all the big cats and other equally beautiful animals.
The red pandas are always a favourite of my kiddies, as are the meerkats and penguins.
I really wish the staff could just cheer up a bit though. How could anyone be miserable working there??!!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We visited Paradise again after about 2 years+. Thankfully it did not rain until we left. Even though it was cold we spent over 4 hours here! There are new tigers. Sadly we found that Turkana had died since our last visit (African lion), who we loved to see. We spoke to his handler who had hand reared him since he was a cub. Loved the Snow Leopard, the cheetah who snarled at us when we looked in, but not for long! Saw a lady hand feeding the white lions, she did not look as terrified as I felt when I did it nearly 5 years ago, she did a great job!! The diner was brilliant, good catering for people with food allergies or intolerances, they were very helpful. We are going back in a month or so, hopefully the weather will be a bit warmer, but again, it is great place to visit even if cold, but dry.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I had never heard of this park, but found it as my daughter is doing a project and keeps talking about Jaguars! I thought it was really good value, lots to see and do, it seemed like there was a talk or activity going on all the time! The food in Safari Sam's was good value. I only drink decaf coffee which the lady in the mobile stall had, she was very friendly, other staff were friendly and knowledgable. There is a good range of animals and they all looked well looked after, there was also lots of children's rides, bouncy castles and activities! A great day all round!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
