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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 160-acre wildlife park and gardens in the Cotswolds, home to over 260 animal species and famously dog-friendly.
"A great family day out with a really good variety of animals to see, along with incredibly insightful feedings and tours."
🐾 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)
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 16,655 reviews
Type
Wildlife Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rhino Encounter
Rhino enclosure
Witness the impressive Southern White Rhinos up close, a truly awe-inspiring sight for all ages.
Penguin Feeding
Penguin enclosure
Watch the playful penguins during their feeding sessions – a lively and engaging spectacle.
Walled Garden
Walled Garden
Explore the beautifully maintained walled garden, a tranquil escape with diverse plant life.
Giraffe Views
Giraffe enclosure
Marvel at the majestic giraffes, often visible and a favorite for many visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Fun
Getting There Without a Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 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)
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of lovely picnic spots available, or grab a bite at the refreshments.
🗺️ Easy Navigation
Clear maps are available to help you find your way around the expansive park.
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.
🚂 Scenic Train Ride
Hop on the park's train for a charming tour around the grounds. (£2 per person)
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Plenty of lovely picnic spots available, or grab a bite at the refreshments.
🗺️ Easy Navigation
Clear maps are available to help you find your way around the expansive park.
📸 Capture the Moments
Bring your camera! The animals and gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
The park is generally well-equipped for wheelchairs and pushchairs, with wide paths and accessible routes. The train ride is also often accessible.
🎫 🧭 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.
Yes, the park often hosts insightful feeding sessions and talks, particularly for animals like penguins. Check the daily schedule upon arrival for timings.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
Yes, in addition to outdoor picnic spots, there are also covered and indoor picnic areas available, providing shelter from the elements.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit