Cotswold Wildlife Park is one of the largest zoological parks in the United Kingdom and a popular family attraction in the Cotswolds. It is located near the village of Burford in Oxfordshire and occupies approximately 160 acres of landscaped parkland surrounding Bradwell Grove Manor, a nineteenth-century country house. The park combines traditional zoological exhibits with open parkland enclosures, allowing visitors to see a wide variety of animals in spacious surroundings.
The wildlife park opened to the public in 1970 and today houses hundreds of animal species from around the world. One of its most distinctive features is the large walk-through enclosures where visitors can move freely among certain animals. The lemur walk-through area is particularly popular, allowing close views of several species including ring-tailed and black-and-white ruffed lemurs. The park is also known for its large herd of white rhinoceros, one of the most successful breeding groups in Europe.
Other notable animals include giraffes, lions, wolves, zebras, camels, giant tortoises and a wide range of primates. The reptile house and tropical house contain snakes, lizards and amphibians, while the bat house offers a walk-through environment where visitors can observe bats flying freely. The park also has an extensive collection of birds, including flamingos, cranes and parrots.
One unusual feature of Cotswold Wildlife Park is its miniature railway, which circles the large central lawn. The train ride provides an easy way to view some of the open enclosures and is particularly popular with families visiting with children. The landscaped grounds include mature trees, gardens and wide lawns that give the park a relaxed, spacious atmosphere compared with many urban zoos.
The park is located about two miles south of Burford and is easiest to reach by car. There is a large on-site car park, and the attraction is well signposted from nearby roads. Visitors should allow at least three to four hours to explore the park comfortably.
Facilities include cafés, picnic areas and a gift shop. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the grounds are large and most paths are outdoors. Visiting earlier in the day is often quieter, and animals are usually more active during the morning. Cotswold Wildlife Park offers a combination of wildlife viewing and traditional English parkland, making it one of the region’s most accessible and family-friendly attractions.
Official website: https://www.cotswoldwildlifepark.co.uk
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