Zoos & Wildlife

The UK is a nation of animal lovers and the range of wildlife parks and zoos in South East England would have Noah needing to build another ark!  These fantastic family-friendly visitor attractions allow you to get closer than ever before and give you the chance to learn about the amazing wildlife from around the world, and what's on your doorstep.  Many offer interactive and engaging experiences combined with discovering fascinating facts and insights. Try one of the animal walk-throughs, enjoy the views from both underwater and from the tree-tops, or have a go at one of the unique animal experiences such as becoming a zoo-keeper for the day. By visiting a zoo, wildlife centre or taking a safari, you are helping to support the conservation and protection work that these organisations undertake.

Best Zoo's in UK

Discover some of the best animal attractions in the UK, from zoos in Sussex, wildlife parks in Kent, birds of prey conservation in Hampshire, British native wildlife in Surrey. Your visit helps maintain the day-to-day care of the animals, and provide funding for wildlife projects both at home and around the world. Don't forget you can head over to the farm parks and petting zoo's page for more animal fun in the South East.

• Marwell Zoo, Winchester, Hampshire 
  Famous for its magnificent, endangered Amur tiger - Valentina, its gorgeous Snow Leopards, Warjun and Irina. This spacious wildlife park is home to white rhino, hippos as well as its 'Tower' of giraffes with its viewing point giving close access to these beautiful creatures. The spacious Tropical House spans two levels offering some fantastic vantage points, the old house has recently been revamped and reused for a new fascinating immersive display. The Marwell land train lets you conveniently explore the park at your leisure without having to walk too far. The 140-acre park also is home to six adventure playgrounds, lawns and gardens, so the family can also enjoy some monkeying around. Home to over 1000 animals its offers a Grrreat day out.
• Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Sandown, Isle of Wight
  A rescue centre, most famous for its big cats including tigers, lions, and lynxes. Located in a former Victorian fort on Sandown Beach, it focuses on protecting endangered species and rescuing threatened wildlife. There current project is to rescue two Brown Bears, Benji and Balu, from Azerbaijan. The walkthrough Lemur Dome, daily talks and regular events schedule make this a great place to visit, learn and support threatened wildlife.
• Drusillas Park, nr Eastbourne, East Sussex
  Is a fun fact finding day out for all the family! Widely regarded as the best small zoo in Europe, Drusillas offers a home to over one hundred different animal species and is designed with family fun and the children in mind. With rides, soft and wet play, and three animal walk-throughs this park combines learning, play and animals in one.
• Birdworld, Farnham, Surrey
  Home to over 2000 feathered friends this family-friendly attraction with its Penguin Beach, Flamingo Cove, Seashore Walk aviary, Owl Parliament, plus 26 acres of gardens is a great day out for all ages. Birdworld is a BIAZA accredited zoo, part of a network of zoos across the country that provide high standards of animal welfare, education, research and conservation.  

Animal & Wildlife Parks Near Me

Providing a fun, inspiring and often educational day out, you'll find a wildlife park in most counties of South East England, making them easy and fun to visit. Visiting also gives you opportunity to understand how these animal and wildlife parks protect British species, reptiles and birds to ensure these wonderful creatures can thrive for many years to come.

• British Wildlife Centre, Lingfield, Surrey
  Located on the Surrey/Sussex border, it is the best place to discover more about the UK's domestic species and animals. It is home to more than 40 species of wildlife native to the UK from red deer and owls to otters, red squirrels and wildcats.  Its daily informative keeper talks will keep you entertained, and wanting to discover more.  Don't miss their fantastic photography days and workshops.
• Monkey Haven, Newport, Isle of Wight
  The gold award-winning Primate Rescue Centre that makes animals happy - and people too. It's a place to relax, have fun and meet some fascinating creatures and discover their personalities. Don't miss the chance to see Mary, Mungo and Midge the Cotton–top tamarins with their cheeky faces and inquisitive natures.
• Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover, Hampshire
  An award-winning visitor attraction set in 22 acres on the outskirts of Andover. This charity works in the fields of conservation, education, rehabilitation and research of birds of prey. It boasts some of the best flying displays you can wish to find including demystifying vultures and the powerful kick of a secretary bird.
• New Forest Wildlife Park, Lyndhurst, Hampshire
  Home to an amazing range of wildlife, including four species of otter, 12 species of owl and four species of deer.  Located in the beautiful New Forest National Park, many of the animals here, such as the giant otter, are on the IUCN endangered species Red List and they are doing their best to help breed and conserve them for the future.
• Eagle Heights Wildlife Park, Dartford, Kent
  Is a not-for-profit organisation with an extensive conservation and breeding programme. Expect to find over 50 species of birds of prey, meerkats, reptiles and even Siberian huskys. Why not try Alpaca trekking or a Husky hike or combine your visit with afternoon tea.
• Crocodiles of the World, Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
  For a unique animal experience, come eye-to-eye with 15 species of crocodile with underwater viewing, hands-on encounters, and feeding displays. How about trying their Giant Galapagos Tortoise Experience or Meet The Meerkats Experience as a great gift idea.
• WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, Arundel, West Sussex
  Is a place of discovery offering the chance to look out for nature and wildlife amongst the wetlands around Arundel. Welcoming migrating birds alongside Dalmatian the pelican, coastal creek aviary with family-friendly boat safaris, pond dipping and free daily talks.
• Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, Ventnor, Isle of Wight (F)
  A haven for over 100 much loved donkeys and Shetland ponies, this centre rescues and supports unwanted and abandoned donkeys in the UK. Its free to visit, with free car parking, funds are raised through donations, adoption, income from the cafe, online and onsite shop, and the two-hour donkey experience.

Find an animal attraction or zoo near you by selecting the 'Map View' button below and see what's in the local area.