longleat safari park uk

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You are here: Home > Things To Do > Longleat

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Explore a world of adventure at Longleat. From a Drive Through Safari expedition, to discovering inside our iconic Elizabethan mansion, there’s plenty to entertain you.

Travel the globe within this Wiltshire estate – stop off at African Village for a chance to see our new pack of African painted dogs, herd of Grants zebras and leap with lemurs. Say hi to our cheeky monkeys and bring your pack to meet our pack of wolves! Listen out for the Longleat lions’ roars as you explore. 

Continue your adventure on foot and walk with mischievous meerkats in Jungle Kingdom, feed rainbow lorikeets and watch our playful giant otters. Don’t forget to visit Koala Creek to see England’s only resident koalas, watch our sleepy sloths climb around or check in with our native red squirrels.     

Hop on board the Boat Safari and explore Half Mile Pond. Home to our family of noisy Californian sea lions, views of Gorilla Colony and Colobus monkeys will make quite a splash. Why not feed the sea lions to add to your unique day out? 

All aboard Longleat Railway! Enjoy a delightful ride around the lake and keep an eye on the action from our miniature railway. Or discover more about our history by adding a guided house tour to your itinerary.  

If your little cubs are looking to play, be sure to visit Little Explorer’s Garden and the Adventure Castle for plenty of room to let their imaginations run wild. Why not challenge yourself to our Hedge Maze and see if you can find your way through the winding passages? And no day is complete without a ride on Rockin’ Rhino! 

Book your tickets for a day out like no other or make your visit extra special with a VIP experience!

Guide Prices

Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

Opening Times

* Please visit the Longleat website for more details and opening times.

• Accessibility
• Accessible to Wheelchair Users
• Assistance Dogs
• Changing Places Toilet
• Disability awareness training for all personnel
• Guide Dogs Permitted
• Level access, ramp or lift to a public toilet
• Parking Areas for Disabled Visitors
• Ramp/Level Access
• Toilets for Disabled Visitors

Attraction Facilities

• On-Site café/restaurant

Children & Infants

• Accept children all ages
• Baby Changing Facilities

Establishment Features

• Conference facilities
• Event Venue
• On-site Restaurant/Cafe
• Printed Material in Foreign Languages - Applicable to Longleat House only
• Tea / Coffee Shop
• Wedding Venue

Key Features

• Approx length of visit - All day
• Forest Location
• In countryside
• Indoor Attraction - Longleat House
• Max group size - Unlimited
• Min group size - Twelve
• Outdoor Attraction

Parking & Transport

• Coach Parking
• Parking (free)
• Parking On Site

Payment Methods

• American Express accepted
• Booking essential - For Groups
• Delta accepted
• JCB accepted
• Maestro accepted
• MasterCard accepted
• Solo accepted
• Special group rates - see website or phone for details
• TIC Staff Admitted Free
• Visa accepted

Specialist Features

• Marketed towards children
• Marketed towards families
• Marketed towards senior citizens - House VIP Tours during winter months. Pre booking essential (Tel: 01985 845420 / [email protected])
• Marketed towards student/youth
• Themed Events

Tours and Demonstrations

• Demonstrations Given - Talks by keepers in Animal Adventure including Educational talks when booked and daily bird shows
• Educational Visits Accepted - See www.longleat.co.uk for educational resources
• Guided Tours Available for Groups
• Guided Tours Available for Individuals - Safari VIP Tours plus Animal Adventure VIP Tours: see www.longleat.co.uk for details.

Travel & Trade

• Group discounts available
• Min group size numeric qualifier - 12
• Packed lunches available

Venue Facilities

• Groups Accepted

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Monday, 11th november 2024 - tuesday, 7th january 2025.

Map & Directions

Road directions.

Longleat is just off the A36 between Bath and Salisbury (A362 Warminster - Frome road)

From the south-east: M3 (J8) - A303 - A36 towards Bath Longleat is just off the A362 between Warminster and Frome.

From the south west: A303 in a London direction - A350 towards Warminster - A36 towards Bath - Longleat is just off the A362 between Warminster and Frome.

From the north: M4 (J18) - A46 towards Bath - A36 towards Salisbury - Longleat is just off the A362 between Warminster and Frome.

Public Transport Directions

The nearest train station, Warminster, is approximately 5 miles from Longleat.

Warminster is on the Cardiff to Portsmouth line.

Westbury station is approximately 12 miles from Longleat and connects directly with London, being on the Paddington to Penzance line.

Both train stations are serviced by taxis which will bring you directly to Longleat.

For details on train times please contact the National Rail Enquiry line on 08457 484950 or visit their website www.nationalrail.co.uk

The following taxi firms work from Warminster and/or Westbury train stations:

Starline Taxis: +44 (0) 1985 212215

AAA Taxis: +44 (0) 1985 846674

DJ's Taxi's +44 (0) 1985 215151

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Explore the UK's first safari park at Longleat

Longleat, wiltshire.

Feed giraffes by hand and walk on the wildside with lemurs at this popular safari park, found in the picturesque grounds of historic Longleat House.

First opened in 1966, Longleat Safari Park was the first drive-through attraction of its kind outside Africa, and it's still running strong today. With countless species of animals and attractions like Penguin Island, Stingray Bay, Jungle Cruise and an adventure castle, it's a great day out for the entire family. Explore the animal habitats on a road tour through the park, before stepping onto the Main Square and venturing into koala habitats, outdoor playgrounds and hedge mazes.

Special events run throughout the year, including the ever-popular Festival of Lights over the Christmas period; this large display of illuminated Chinese lanterns adorns the entire parkland and adds a touch of festivity to everything. And, of course, visitors can also extend their stay in the area with a tour through Longleat House and its surrounding pleasure gardens.

Longleat Safari Park is due to re-open on Monday 15 June - make sure to check the website through the link below for availability and opening times.

• Find out more about Longleat
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Top Family Attractions - Plan Your Visit To Longleat

Barmy aristocrats, a family feud, a great Elizabethan house and lions in the backyard - why would anyone not want to visit Longleat?

Not too long ago the BBC program All Change at Longleat   offered viewers a revealing behind-the-scenes look at what's been going on since the endearingly loony Lord Bath (Alexander Thynn, 7th Marquess of Bath) handed over the business reins of the Longleat estate to his much less colorful son and heir, Viscount Weymouth.

The show was better than a soap opera as Ceawlin (the Viscount, whose name is pronounced Syoolin ) and his new wife Emma took over the place and immediately fell out with the old man. It's available on YouTube and it's worth a look in for a giggle.

Meanwhile, life goes on as normal for visitors to the great stately home and amazing safari park. Here's what you need to know to plan a visit.

First A Bit of Background

Longleat has been welcoming visitors since the late 1940s. The house an outstanding example of High Elizabethan architecture in England , was the first stately home ever opened to the public on a commercial basis. In a way, Henry, the 6th Marquess, father of the current Marquess of Bath, pioneered the tourism genre of stately homes as multiple activity attractions.

In 1966, Longleat opened the first drive-through Safari Park outside of Africa. It has since been seen by millions, worldwide, through the BBC's Animal Park television series.

Today, Longleat, set within 900 acres of Capability Brown landscaped park and 8,000 acres of woodland, lakes and farmland, is crammed with family activities and attractions, including:

Longleat House

Completed by 1580, Longleat was already a splendid house when it was visited by Queen Elizabeth I in 1574. Today's visitors can enjoy the remarkable collections of one family who have looked after the house for 14 generations, over 400 years. Among its treasures are masterpieces of Italian Renaissance and seven libraries (some of which are included in tours) filled with 40,000 books - the largest private collection in Europe.

One of the gorier items in the family collection is the bloodstained waistcoat worn by King Charles I at his execution. You can see it displayed in the Great Hall.

The notorious murals and portraits painted by the current Lord Bath decorate the private apartments and can be seen on morning guided tours of the ground floor. One reason for the family feud, as seen in the BBC documentary, was Viscount Weymouth's removal of one of the murals - his wife said they smelled. She meant they smelled of oil paint, but some art critics have been of the same opinion.

Longleat Safari Park

When Longleat first opened its safari park in the 1960s, the locals worried about lions roaming around the Wiltshire countryside. It's not an idle worry.

One of the revealing snippets of All Change at Longleat was the fact that estate managers carefully check the three miles of fencing around the safari park every day. They don't expect the big cats to tunnel out. But if a large branch falls in the night, it could provide a ladder for a lion or tiger to climb over a fence.

Visitors don't have to worry - as long as they stay safely locked in their cars. As you drive through, you can expect close encounters with wolves, giraffes, rhinos, two prides of the famous black-maned Longleat lions and, if you are lucky, the shy Siberian tigers. Thegangs of Rhesus monkeys that commit all kinds of mayhem on cars passing through the monkey jungle are very popular with families. And, if you take a boat ride on the park's lake, you may spot members of the new colony of lowland gorillas on the island in the middle. This was once the home of Nico, the park's Silverback gorilla who was one of the world's oldest known Silverbacks and a widower. He lived in splendid isolation on his own island. Sadly, Nico died at 56 years of age in 2018. The new gorillas are now settling in.

Also settling in is the family of Koalas. The park has created an Aussie paradise for them at Koala Creek.

Besides being a park attraction, with more than 100 species to see, Longleat plays a vital role in international breeding, conservation and rescue programs. Every year there are new arrivals. In 2019 the park celebrated the birth of two Amur Tiger cubs. This endangered species is the world's largest cat. Later in the year, seven wolf cubs were born in Wolf Wood.

Longleat Essentials

• Where: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NW England
• Phone: +44 (0)1985 844 400  
• Visit their website
• Open:  Longleat House, the Safari Park and the Adventure Park (with a superb Maze) are open from late March to November 1, from November 13 to December 6 and from December 11 to January 3, except for Christmas Day. Last admission and closing times vary based on daylight hours. Check the website for dates and times because opening days and hours vary slightly from year to year.
• Admission: Adult, child and senior tickets (for 60+) are available for the whole park, including Longleat House, or for the house and garden only. No family tickets are offered but online tickets cost 15% less than full price.
• By car: Longleat is just off the A36 between Bath and Salisbury on the A362 Warminster – Frome road. It's about 106 miles and 2.5 hours from London.
• By train: From London, take the Paddington to Penzance service to Westbury Station, 12 miles from Longleat. Warminster Station, 5 miles away, can be reached from London Waterloo, changing at Salisbury or from London Paddington, changing at Bath Spa. Check National Rail Enquiries for times and prices.    Taxi s from both stations can be booked.

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Top choice in Wiltshire

Half ancestral mansion, half wildlife park, Longleat was transformed into Britain's first safari park in 1966, turning Capability Brown's landscaped grounds into an amazing drive-through zoo populated by a menagerie of animals more at home in the African wilderness than the fields of Wiltshire. There's a throng of attractions, too: the historic house, animatronic dinosaur exhibits, narrow-gauge railway, mazes, pets' corner, butterfly garden and bat cave.

It's just off the A362, 3 miles from Frome. Save around 10% by booking tickets online.

Longleat was the first English stately home to open its doors to the public. That decision was prompted by finance: heavy taxes and mounting post-WWII bills meant the house had to earn its keep.

The house itself contains fine tapestries, furniture and decorated ceilings, as well as seven libraries containing around 40,000 tomes. The highlight, though, is an extraordinary series of paintings and psychedelic murals by the present-day marquess, who was an art student in the ̓60s and upholds the long-standing tradition of eccentricity among the English aristocracy – check out his website (www.lordbath.co.uk).

Longleat is open until 7pm on many summer weekends.

near Warminster

Get In Touch

01985-844400

https://​www​.longleat​.co​.uk​​/

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Incredible day out with great customer... - Longleat Safari Park

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What a great day out at Longleat! Steve was our guide and looked after our group so well! His... read more

We usually go here every year and it's brilliant and this time did not disappoint! We love it... read more

Incredible day out with great customer service.

What an incredible day out. There is so much to do and many special opportunities to interact with animals by feeding giraffes, sealions, deer and lorakeets. A very high quality offering - from the brilliant customer service offered by all staff (thank you Dean- jungle cruise guide, Colin- house tour guide and Dave - safari bus driver and guide) to the produce/layout in shops. Even though we drove through the safari ourselves twice we also took the safari bus which was well worth it. We had different experiences each time. We also did the house tour which was excellent - made so by our very informative and interesting guide Colin. The afternoon tea in the orangery was a beautiful setting and nicely presented but not to the high quality expected (hard scones, cheap buns/rolls). We loved koala creek - a great way to see koalas close up. The jam was wonderful though. Highly recommend a trip to longleat. In high season you might be best to book a two day ticket.

A brilliant day out with the family, grandparents and 3 sons 3,6 & 9. Really enjoyed the bus tour. It was so informative and funny thanks to the brilliant tour guide/ bus driver Oscar. Loved seeing the animals and great play area too. The absolute highlight was feeding the rainbow lorikeets, the boys and adults loved it, really special. Would love to return to look around the house as the park alone took up a whole day.

We went on a VIP experience and chose to feed the giraffes. It was incredible! We fed these graceful creatures broccoli in their inside enclosure,while Callum,the guide told us about them. He was charming and very knowledgeable and obviously really cared about his job and his giraffes. We spent half an hour with them and then they went outside for the first time this year.

First time visiting the safari park, was really impressed with it all, lots to see my husband and I rode the safari bus tour bus ( to save my car from the monkeys) Dave our tour guide and driver was very informative and funny made the experience even more enjoyable I really enjoyed seeing the rhinos (love them) and the lions also watching the monkeys on the cars in front of the bus, would definitely return again.

Longleat safari, is a whole day experience and well worth getting to really early and planning to spend the whole day at, this was my second visit and we took the safari bus this time. Well this was a game changer, the driver knows where all the animals will be, loads of animal fact, the animals pet names and life histories, lots of things about the park. our driver was Dave, if you get him, he is gold, we just loved his humour and passion and local West Country accent, he made our day so special. This was topped off by the included boat and small gauge train ride which added to the fun. We had a lovely afternoon high tea in the Orangery which was beautiful, quiet and had a lovely atmosphere for grown ups. There are also so many places you can have a picnic that you bring with you or you can buy in the park, longleat will accommodate whatever you chose to do. All the staff were really friendly and came across like they loved their jobs. Book in advance to avoid disappointment in the high season. The park was not particularily busy, so this is a great time of year to go.

What a great experience, staff were very helpful and friendly and the safari was amazing. The boat ride was brilliant with the seals. It’s a must

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Type: Safari Park

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Tel +44 (0)1985 844 400

Explore a world of adventure at Longleat. From a Drive Through Safari expedition, to discovering inside our iconic Elizabethan mansion, there’s plenty to entertain you.

Travel the globe within this Wiltshire estate – stop off at African Village for a chance to see our new pack of African painted dogs, herd of Grants zebras and leap with lemurs. Say hi to our cheeky monkeys and bring your pack to meet our pack of wolves! Listen out for the Longleat lions’ roars as you explore. 

Continue your adventure on foot and walk with mischievous meerkats in Jungle Kingdom, feed rainbow lorikeets and watch our playful giant otters. Don’t forget to visit Koala Creek to see England’s only resident koalas, watch our sleepy sloths climb around or check in with our native red squirrels.     

Hop on board the Boat Safari and explore Half Mile Pond. Home to our family of noisy Californian sea lions, views of Gorilla Colony and Colobus monkeys will make quite a splash. Why not feed the sea lions to add to your unique day out? 

All aboard Longleat Railway! Enjoy a delightful ride around the lake and keep an eye on the action from our miniature railway. Or discover more about our history by adding a guided house tour to your itinerary.  

If your little cubs are looking to play, be sure to visit Little Explorer’s Garden and the Adventure Castle for plenty of room to let their imaginations run wild. Why not challenge yourself to our Hedge Maze and see if you can find your way through the winding passages? And no day is complete without a ride on Rockin’ Rhino! 

Book now to visit the UK’s number one Safari Park with England’s only koalas!

Want to make your visit extra special? Book a VIP Experience  or stay on the Estate in one of our luxury cottages with Longleat Accommodation .

Please note: Longleat House is not only a historic visitor attraction but also a residential home. As such, it will remain closed for visitors for the time being due to the current Coronavirus situation.

OPENING HOURS

Main Season: April –  October 

Adult (16+ years): £42.95

Child (3 to 15 years): £32.95

Under 3s: Free

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• Coach drop-off point

Key Features

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• Coach Parking
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• Special group rates

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• Groups Accepted

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Opening Times

* Open daily until 11th September, opening at 10am each day. Reopen from 12th September, each day except for Mondays, still opening at 10am.

Visit the website for more information

Thursday, 12th September 2024 - Sunday, 15th September 2024

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Longleat Safari Park Review, All You Need To Know

December 12, 2023, written by shayle follows, longleat safari park is one of our favourite places to visit as a family. we have visited during every season and loved every minute we spent there. here’s our review of longleat safari park and all you need to know..

Are you planning a family trip to Longleat Safari Park and Estate? In this blog post, we’ll share our comprehensive Longleat Safari Park review and tips to help you make the most of your visit, from the different ways to explore the safari park to our top money-saving ideas.

What’s at Longleat Safari Park?

Longleat Safari Park is located in  Wiltshire . It is home to various animals, including lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, monkeys, and many more. You can drive through the drive-through safari park in your car or take a guided tour to see the animals up close. In addition to the safari park , Longleat also features a walking safari, boat safari, stately home, gardens, and a range of other attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.

Longleat in Wiltshire was the pioneer of drive-through safari parks outside Africa. In 1966, on the 5th of April, it opened its doors to an enormous crowd of 486,500 visitors who came to witness the majestic lions of Longleat. Around 106,000 cars and 1,950 coaches went to the park during the first year.

Who is Longleat Safari Park suitable for?

Longleat Safari Park is suitable for anyone who loves animals and wants to experience a unique and exciting day out. It’s an excellent place for families with children, as various activities and attractions keep everyone entertained. We would say it’s most ideal for kids between the ages of 2 and 12, but it’s still enjoyable for children 13 years or older.

Is Longleat Safari Park accessible for disabled visitors?

The park is reachable by car and relatively flat, perfect for push and wheelchairs. There are several accessible toilets available, and changing facilities come equipped with adjustable changing benches and hoists near the Main Square. Additionally, there is a designated wheelchair area on the boat. They offer concessionary tickets and a queue assist scheme. For more accessibility information, visit Longleat’s website.

Is Longleat Safari Park expensive?

It’s probably the highest price we would play for a day at a zoo/safari park; however, it’s exceptional value for money for the amount your ticket gives you access to. The park is beautifully maintained, and the animals are thoroughly cared for. It’s a day out you will remember. There are optional extras like animal feeding, food, gifts, etc. But, they are not essential to have a great time. After entry costs, we only spend an extra £1.50 feeding the sea-lions during the day. You can view prices and buy tickets here.

What does your day ticket include?

• The drive-through safari experience.
• The walking safari and boat safari.
• Explore many attractions, including Longleat railway, adventure castle, rockin’ rhino and the hedge maze.
• Longleat’s stunning grounds and gardens.
• Special seasonal events (events taking place on your chosen visit date. Some restrictions apply. For more information, visit their  seasonal events page .)

We like to start the day at the African Village

We love to begin the day at the African village , where you leave the car and get up close to the animals, especially if we’ve had a lengthy drive already; it’s good to stretch our legs and use the facilities.

Here, you can feed giraffes, which is such a fun experience! There is also the lemur walk-through, which is perfect for little ones. We’ve even seen Ben Fogle filming for Animal Park in the lemur walk-through on one of our visits.

If you fancy a drink or a snack before returning to the car and beginning the Safari, consider checking out the Watering Hole Café. You can also find visitor toilets and the African Traders gift shop nearby.

Next, we head back to the car to head into the first part of the car safari, the East African Reserve.

Then we began the drive-through safari

Before embarking on your safari tour, wind up your windows and hide all the sandwiches. To enhance your experience, don’t forget to download the award-winning Longleat App . This pocket-sized guide includes exclusive audio commentary by Animal Park’s Kate Humble, guiding you through the incredible animals you’ll encounter on your drive.

We like to do the drive-through safari as early as possible, and when we stick to this, we dodge lengthy queues! The safari is long and takes you through the gorgeous woodland.

Will the monkeys damage your car?

You can bypass the monkeys if you prefer; there are cautionary signs about the potential damage they may cause to your vehicle. We drove through the monkey enclosure and, fortunately, did not experience any harm to our car. It was pretty fun when the monkeys climbed onto our vehicle. However, we did witness a few other cars that could have been more fortunate and had their rubber stripping and windshield wipers pulled off by the monkeys.

We loved Tiger Territory. Longleat’s Amur tigers are truly magnificent creatures. Yana and Red, both four years old, arrived at Longleat in 2018 as part of an international breeding program. Their cubs, Yuki and Rusty, were born in July 2019.

Can you get out of your car at the safari drive-through?

In most areas, your doors and windows need to be firmly shut – but there are more relaxed opportunities, too. You can purchase deer food to feed the deer and wind down your window. It’s important to note that the deer can be pretty persistent regarding food, and some people may feel uncomfortable or uneasy around them. Additionally, if you stop at the park, be prepared for your car to get a bit dirty from deer drool. If this isn’t something you’re comfortable with, you can bypass this section.

The safari drive-through takes roughly 2-3 hours to complete when there is little queuing, so factor that into your day.

Boat safari

Once at the main park, we like to head straight for the boat safari . There is usually a queue, but it can be hectic at peak times.

We loved the boat safari, a unique part of the zoo. We caught a glimpse of the gorilla colony. Additionally, we had the opportunity to feed the sea lions, who always seem to be hungry and very friendly. We purchased a pot of fish for £1.50, which was well spent. The sea lions followed us alongside the boat, barking and jumping for the fish. We also saw a hippo relaxing in the distance.

Please note that while the boat is wheelchair accessible, pushchairs must be left at the quay. Additionally, any young explorers must be accompanied by an adult.

Time to explore the main park

The walking safari is the most hands-on zoo experience we have ever encountered. You can feed rainbow lorikeets nectar straight from your hand when you purchase a cup from the feeding station. In the wild, they mainly feed on fruit and pollen, but nectar is their preferred indulgence. 

We visited the family farmyard , which is lovely for younger children to interact with animals like donkeys and bunnies. The keepers here were so friendly and knowledgeable. They engaged the kids. 

You can also witness animal encounter shows throughout the day, led by incredibly knowledgeable keepers. Learn about and interact with snakes, spiders, guinea pigs, tortoises, millipedes, stick insects, cockroaches, ferrets, and rats.

There are attractions to enjoy, too, such as the hedge maze . Added to the estate in 1978, the hedge maze is the largest maze at Longleat and the biggest in Britain. It’s made up of over 16,000 English yew trees, which the grounds and gardens team have to keep in tip-top condition. A visit to the hedge maze can take 20 to 90 minutes, depending on how good you are at finding your way to the middle!

There’s just so much; there are rides like the rocking rhino, a train ride and much more.

Conservation at Longleat

Longleat is proud to support various conservation projects locally and globally. They focus on the UK and three world regions where they work with partner organisations. They concentrate efforts on particular species in these areas. In Asia, they help with the conservation of red pandas and elephants. In Australia, they assist with bushfire recovery work and focus on the southern koala. In Africa, they support a broader range of species across different countries, all in partnership with TUSK.

Longleat House

The 8th Marquess and Marchioness of Bath’s residence, Longleat House, is a stunning example of Elizabethan architecture and houses one of the most important private collections in the UK.

Longleat has been home to the Thynne family for sixteen generations, and their private collection is one of the most significant in Britain. The house’s walls were adorned with hundreds of paintings, including depictions of famous historical figures and members of the Thynne family dating back to the house’s construction by Sir John Thynne in the late 16th century.

The Great Hall features massive hunting scenes painted by John Wootton in the 1730s, while other rooms showcase exquisite tapestries, hand-painted Chinese wallpaper, and ornate Venetian-style ceilings.

Longleat also boasts a wealth of incredible furniture and thousands of historical documents, including around 44,000 books in seven libraries. Visitors can also see items used by the Thynne family, such as 19th-century christening robes and a lead-lined, cooper-built bath that was in use until 1946.

Walking through the vast halls and lavish chambers is like stepping back in time. Once you’ve finished admiring the house’s significance, explore the gorgeous gardens and Capability Brown-designed grounds that envelop it.

You can add a tour to your day ticket or membership for a nominal fee.

Can I take my dog to Longleat Safari Park?

Please be advised that Longleat Grounds do not allow dogs or other pets except in their kennelling facilities. This policy applies to Longleat House and associated courtyards, the formal grounds and car parks, and the Longleat Safari Park animal areas and attractions.

If you plan to bring your dog, you may use the kennelling facilities at the entrance to the safari drive-through for the day, subject to availability. Please note that advanced booking is not possible. The kennels at the entrance are basic, so you may bring food, water, blankets, or something that reminds your dog of home. Please be aware that the dogs are not supervised while in the kennels and are left at your own risk. However, a padlock will be provided upon request. Please note that this policy does not apply to Service Dogs, although restrictions apply.

Our top tips for visiting Longleat Safari Park to get the most for your money!

Arrive early

We always have difficulty fitting everything into one day at Longleat because there is so much to see and do. That’s why we have visited over and over again. Unfortunately, some attractions close earlier than others. Getting there early is best, especially if you are visiting in Winter.

Plan your visit in advance

Longleat Safari Park is a popular attraction, so planning your visit is a good idea. Check the park’s website for opening times, ticket prices, and any special events that may be taking place. You might even find discounts online. 

Pack a picnic

We always pack a picnic to save money; many picnic areas are in the park. Enjoy lunch in the beautiful surroundings or the car on your way around the safari drive-through.

How does Longleat Safari Park compare to other safari parks?

Longleat Safari Park is considered one of the top safari parks in the UK, and if we are truthful, it’s our favourite, and we will travel specifically to visit it. What makes Longleat Safari Park different from other safari parks is that it is not only a safari park but also a stately home with beautiful gardens and a range of other attractions.

Other popular safari parks in the UK include Woburn Safari Park, Knowsley Safari Park , and West Midland Safari Park. Ultimately, the best safari park for you will depend on your personal preferences and interests.

Where to stay nearby

Retreat to one of seven beautifully renovated self-catering cottages. Enjoy your very own self-catered Longleat Cottage, boasting views out over the Safari Park’s East African Reserve, the sprawling lawns of Longleat House or the picturesque woodland of the Longleat Estate.

Keepers House

We highly recommend the Keeper’s House for a luxury experience. This property is immersed within the safari on the east side of the Estate. You overlook the East African Reserve, the home of Longleat’s herd of Grant’s zebras and Rothschild’s giraffes. The Keeper’s House comprises two bedrooms, one equipped with a super king bed, while the other features twin beds that can be combined to form a double bed upon request.

A house has been at this location since 1804; it was initially built for the Longleat deer keeper. In 1890, the original building was almost entirely demolished and rebuilt by local builder John Vallis of Frome, based on the designs of Longleat’s Clerk of Works, William Buckenham. Following the opening of ‘The Lions of Longleat’ in 1966 as the first safari park outside of Africa, the house was converted into two separate cottages for animal keepers.

Center Parks Longleat Forest holiday breaks

Nestled within Longleat Forest, this spacious village offers a variety of activities, restaurants, and lodging options. You can even gaze up at Giant Redwoods, some of the tallest trees in Europe! For those seeking adventure, themed golf and escape rooms are available. And if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, spend quality time with loved ones in aqua sana. Learn more here.

Whitbourne Farm

Whitbourne Farm is in Corsley, just 5.1 km from Longleat Safari Park. With a beautiful garden and access to a patio, this holiday home offers free private parking and full-day security. The home boasts a hot tub, a terrace with stunning garden views, and a cosy living room. Guests can enjoy the outdoor dining area or the warmth of the fireplace on colder days—a great option if you are visiting the safari park and want to stay nearby.

Find further information here.

Nearby attractions 

If you’re staying nearby, why not visit Stonehenge ? This natural wonder is less than 20 miles away and provides plenty of open space to explore and learn. And if you’re interested in castles, several in the area, including Old Wardour Castle , are just a 30-minute drive away.

Longleat Safari Park is a fantastic destination that offers an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. The park’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare is evident throughout. With many attractions and activities, Longleat Safari Park is perfect for a day or even a weekend.

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Longleat Safari & Adventure Park, Warminster, United Kingdom

01985 844400

www.longleat.co.uk

In 1966, Longleat became the first location outside Africa to open a drive-through Safari. Over 50 years on, Longleat remains one of the UK’s leading tourist attractions. Boasting animals, Elizabethan architecture, 900 acres of parkland, and easy access from the A350, A36 and A361 Longleat truly is the perfect choice for a day out.

A trip to  Longleat  affords you the chance to immerse yourselves in the majesty of the impressive animals, moving freely across hundreds of acres of land; including zebra, giraffe, tigers, rhino, flamingo, cheetahs, and of course Longleat’s famous lions.

Stop at the African Village to walk amongst the lemurs and spot the lofty giraffes. Maybe grab a slice of cake at the Watering Hole and take a look out across the Zebra Plains. Don’t forget to visit Wallaby Walk and Warthog Ridge too!

There’s no need to book a time to come through the safari, just drive up from the main entrance with your tickets when you are ready to begin your wild adventure. The Safari Drive-Through is open at different times throughout the year so if you’re curious, do check on the website or call on 01985 844328 to discuss planning your day. Access to the Safari Drive-Through and the African Village are included in the Day Ticket; so there will be no surprise charges!

Longleat House, the beating heart of Longleat, was substantially completed by 1580 and is the current home to the 7 th  Marquess of Bath and three generations of the Thynne family. As well as being packed to the rafters with priceless antiques; the abundance of artistry and flair that the House exudes will capture imaginations of those young, and young at heart.

Longleat  may be best known for its Safari Park and Elizabethan stately Home, but it also represents a prime example of ‘Capability’ Brown’s exquisite style.

Lancelot Brown, who was born in 1716 and nicknamed ‘Capability’ for his apt persuasion of wealthy clients that their estates had ‘capability’ for improvement, employed his talents at Longleat between 1757 and 1762. With the assistance of the 1 st  Marquess of Bath the estate was transformed. Preceding this, Longleat had embraced the former fashion for formal gardens (boasting a Baroque Garden designed by George London in the 1660’s) but developments were made for something more natural. Brown established undulating lawns, peppered with trees and lakes. He went on to undertake extensive planting throughout the estate, and created the Pleasure Walk arboretum, which can still be enjoyed by visitors today.

Naturally, Brown’s work at Longleat has not gone untouched, but the fact that the estate remains largely Brown’s is an enduring testament to his work and style.

Longleat’s eccentric history, along with its firm home in the hearts of children and adults cements it as one of Britain’s most remarkable visitor attractions.

• Groups of 12+ receive generous discounts and exclusive perks such as complimentary driver tickets and lunches, and organiser tickets.
• Contact the dedicated groups team on 01985 844328 or email  [email protected] .

Longleat The Estate Office, Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW Telephone: 01985 844328 Email:  [email protected] Website:  www.longleat.co.uk Faceboook:  www.facebook.com/longleat Twitter:  www.twitter.com/Longleat

Discover Animals is a small team dedicated to bringing you the latest conservation and nature news. If you enjoy our content, please support our work with a donation from as little as £1.

In 1966, Longleat became the first location outside Africa to open a drive-through Safari. Over 50 years on, Longleat remains one of the UK’s leading tourist attractions. Boasting animals, Elizabethan architecture, 900 acres of parkland, and easy access from the A350, A36 and A361 Longleat truly is the perfect choice for a day out. A trip to Longleat affords you the chance to … Read more

Wildlife you might see at Longleat

Asian Elephant

The elephant of southern Asia. Is smaller than the African elephant, with smaller ears and only one lip to the trunk. It is often tamed as a beast of burden in India. Listed as endangered since 1986.

White Rhino

The largest and most numerous species of two-horned African rhinoceros. Has a broad, straight mouth and the widest set nostrils of any land based animal. Is the most social of all rhino species.

Known to travel up to 1,000 km (620 mi), they inhabit mainly the Sikhote Alin mountain region with a small population in southwest Primorye province in the Russian Far East.

Humboldt Penguin

A south American Penguin that breeds in coastal Peru and Chile, is named after the cold water current it swims in. It is classified as a threatened species with an estimated 3,300 to 12,000 population.

A large slender spotted cat found in Africa and parts of Asia. It’s the fastest animal on land, with their large nostrils and enlarged heart and lungs working together to circulate oxygen efficiently.

A large African mammal with a very long neck and forelegs, having a coat patterned with brown patches separated by lighter lines. It is the tallest living animal.

African Lion

Lions are unusually social compared to other cats, living in groups called prides. They typically inhabit savanna and grassland, although they may take to bush and forest.

Rainbow Lorikeet

It is a species of Australasian parrot, and has a very bright plumage. The head is deep blue, the belly & rest of the upper parts are deep green, a red chest, and yellow thighs and rump.

Californian Sea Lion

An eared seal occurring mainly on Pacific coasts, the large male of which has a mane on the neck and shoulders. They are particularly intelligent and can be trained to perform various tasks.

Western Lowland Gorilla

One of two subspecies of the western gorilla, it is the smallest and can be found in Central Africa, in forests and lowland swamps. It is the gorilla normally found in zoos. Discover Animals is a small team dedicated to bringing you the latest conservation and nature news. If you enjoy our content, please support … Read more

A small mammal belonging to the mongoose family, found in Botswana, Namibia, southwestern Angola and South Africa. Most travel in groups of around 20 meerkats, this is called a “mob”, “gang” or “clan”.

Common Hippo

Recognisable by their barrel-shaped torsos, massive jaws and large tusks, nearly hairless bodies, stubby legs and great size. They are semi-aquatic, inhabiting rivers, lakes and mangrove swamps.

Native to the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China, it is a small arboreal mammal classified as vulnerable with an estimated population of less than 10,000. Discover Animals is a small team dedicated to bringing you the latest conservation and nature news. If you enjoy our content, please support our work with a donation from as … Read more

Giant Anteater

Giant anteaters are usually found in tropical and deciduous forests as well as the grasslands of Central and South America. They do not have any teeth but have a tongue which is more than 60cm in length and a tiny 1.25mm wide which they put to good use by eating over 30000 insects per day! … Read more

Caribbean Flamingo

Smaller on average than greater flamingos, their life expectancy of 40 years is one of the longest in birds. Most of its plumage is pink, giving rise to its earlier name of rosy flamingo. Discover Animals is a small team dedicated to bringing you the latest conservation and nature news. If you enjoy our content, … Read more

It is not a distinct genetic group, with many categories such as the agile and the red-necked wallaby. They tend to look similar to kangaroos but smaller in size, and have powerful hind legs & tails.

Family and group offers at Longleat

2 thoughts on “longleat”.

It would be lovely to see African elephants and giant panda’s.

you can see giant pandas in edinburgh zoo

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You are here: Home > Things To Do > Longleat

Tel: +44 (0)1985 844 400

Explore a world of adventure at Longleat. From a Drive Through Safari expedition, to discovering inside our iconic Elizabethan mansion, there’s plenty to entertain you.

Travel the globe within this Wiltshire estate – stop off at African Village for a chance to see our new pack of African painted dogs, herd of Grants zebras and leap with lemurs. Say hi to our cheeky monkeys and bring your pack to meet our pack of wolves! Listen out for the Longleat lions’ roars as you explore. 

Continue your adventure on foot and walk with mischievous meerkats in Jungle Kingdom, feed rainbow lorikeets and watch our playful giant otters. Don’t forget to visit Koala Creek to see England’s only resident koalas, watch our sleepy sloths climb around or check in with our native red squirrels.     

Hop on board the Boat Safari and explore Half Mile Pond. Home to our family of noisy Californian sea lions, views of Gorilla Colony and Colobus monkeys will make quite a splash. Why not feed the sea lions to add to your unique day out? 

All aboard Longleat Railway! Enjoy a delightful ride around the lake and keep an eye on the action from our miniature railway. Or discover more about our history by adding a guided house tour to your itinerary.  

If your little cubs are looking to play, be sure to visit Little Explorer’s Garden and the Adventure Castle for plenty of room to let their imaginations run wild. Why not challenge yourself to our Hedge Maze and see if you can find your way through the winding passages? And no day is complete without a ride on Rockin’ Rhino! 

Book now to visit the UK’s number one Safari Park with England’s only koalas!

Want to make your visit extra special? Book a VIP Experience  or stay on the Estate in one of our luxury cottages with Longleat Accommodation .

Please note: Longleat House is not only a historic visitor attraction but also a residential home. As such, it will remain closed for visitors for the time being due to the current Coronavirus situation.

OPENING HOURS

Main Season: April –  October 

Adult (16+ years): £42.95

Child (3 to 15 years): £32.95

Under 3s: Free

Book Tickets

• The Astonishing Kingdom of Longleat

Opening Times

* Open daily until 11th September, opening at 10am each day. Reopen from 12th September, each day except for Mondays, still opening at 10am.

Further Information

Accessibility.

• Guide Dogs Permitted
• Parking Areas for Disabled Visitors
• Toilets for Disabled Visitors

Attraction Facilities

• On-Site café/restaurant

Establishment Features

• Coach drop-off point

Key Features

Parking & transport.

• Coach Parking
• Parking On Site

Payment Methods

• Special group rates

Specialist Features

Venue facilities.

• Groups Accepted

Visit Website

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor Traveller Rating:

• Excellent 6159
• Very Good 1944
• Average 639
• Terrible 421

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Endangered vulture chick at Longleat 'thriving'

The African white-backed vulture chick is the first to be hand-reared successfully at Longleat Safari Park

• Published 12 May 2024

A chick from a critically endangered species of vulture has become the first of its kind to be successfully hand-reared at a wildlife park in Wiltshire.

The African white-backed vulture chick is seven weeks old and now thriving at Longleat Safari Park.

The hatching is part of a breeding programme.

“The mother has sat on eggs before, but they’ve never hatched; this time we were able to support her by putting the eggs in an incubator,” said Darren Beasley, Head of Animal Operations at Longleat.

'Under threat from pesticide poisoning'

“The chick is now 10 times the size of when it was born and is doing really well,” he said.

The vultures, which are also known as Gyps Africanus, are critically endangered as a species.

Its numbers have dwindled from 80 million in the 1980s , external to only a few thousand today, a decline of 99.9 per cent.

"Many are under threat from pesticide poisoning around the world which is why we support the charity TUSK and its Vulture Conservation Project (VULPRO) across South Africa," Mr Beasley said.

“In addition, one of our keepers, Amy Parratt, is on the national vulture working group which oversees the breeding programme in the UK.

The vulture chick is now seven weeks old and 'thriving'

“Vultures are nature’s way of clearing up; a key component of the African ecosystem - the wombles of Africa you could say,” he added.

The chick, which is yet to be named, will join the venue – the official name of a vulture aviary – in the next few weeks.

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Related Topics

• Conservation

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Endangered vultures poisoned en masse in Botswana

• Published 21 June 2019

New cheetahs bring hope of cubs at safari park

• Published 14 April

Safari park to build 'dangerous animals' enclosure

• Published 30 January

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Longleat Safari & Adventure Park, Wiltshire

the UK’s No.1 Safari! Wiltshire

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Longleat Safari and Adventure Park is one of the UK’s best-loved attractions. It features an extensive Safari Park and has over 16 attractions, including the Capability Brown landscaped grounds. Stroll at your own pace through the Main Square, jump on board the Longleat Railway, or take a trip on the Jungle Cruise. Don’t miss the attraction Koala Creek. These adorable Koalas made the trip from down under with a pair of Southern hairy-nosed wombats! Lastly, finish the day experiencing the majesty of the animals moving freely across hundreds of acres; including zebra, giraffe, tigers, rhino, flamingo, cheetah and of course, the lions. Drive amongst them from the comfort of your seat on the coach.

Please Note: The use of scooters is prohibited throughout the Longleat Estate.

The coach will be taking an alternative route through the safari park which is designed to allow vehicles to by-pass the monkey enclosure and viewing points are provided.

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Tiny fennec fox kits hand-reared at Longleat Safari Park

• West Country
• Longleat Safari Park
• Monday 13 May 2024 at 3:33pm

Tiny fennec fox kits are being hand-reared at Longleat Safari Park.

A pair of tiny fox kits are being hand-reared by keepers at Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire.

Weighing just 46 grams, they haven't been named yet named as their gender is unknown.

Samantha Peeke, their keeper, is sharing the sleepless nights with colleagues Gemma Short and Catriona Moy as the babies initially need feeding every two hours, day and night.

They are planning to introduce them to rice as the first step to weaning.

Samantha said: “We are now feeding them every three hours with a longer break overnight.

“We are sharing the care so they don’t get attached to one of us as the aim is to reintroduce them to their mum and dad; eventually we hope they will also become part of the international breeding programme."

The fennec fox is by far the smallest member of the fox family and significantly more petite than a family cat.

They reach a maximum length of under 40cm and weigh less than two kilograms.

Although they’re the tiniest canine species, what they lack in body size they more than make up for with their huge ears, which are up to 25 per cent of their entire body length.

Found in Northern Africa, throughout the Sahara Desert, east to the Sinai Peninsula and Saudi Arabia they live in semi-arid desert environments with sparse vegetation, utilising the sand for burrowing and creating their dens.

Their large ears enable them both to hear their prey and to dissipate excess body heat.

Other adaptations to their hot and arid environment include furry paws, which act as an insulator against scorching sand and the fact they do not need to drink water, receiving all their liquid from their mixed diet of plants, fruit and insects.

It’s the second litter for their mum Zuri and dad Enzi.

Their first kits died within 24 hours as although Zuri produced the vital colostrum needed, there appeared not to be enough milk for the babies.

Catriona, team manager of Animal Adventure and Lakes at Longleat, said: “After she lost the first three, we spent time preparing for the possibility of a further litter.

“We wanted to ensure that knowing she may not produce enough milk that we had everything in place in case it was required to help Zuri care for the young.

"Hand rearing is always a last resort.

“When cameras in the den showed Zuri had given birth to three kits, we watched closely so not to disturb her.

"Zuri showed good mothering behaviours; however, it then became clear she was struggling with all three.

“This combined with previous history led us to make the difficult decision to remove two to give mum the best chance to successfully raise a kit.

"Unfortunately, despite Zuri’s best effort, sadly the kit that remained with her passed away,” she added.

In the summer the plan is to reintroduce them to their mum and dad as their birth is important for the European breeding programme as with the new pairing of Zuri and Enzi, the blood line is not represented elsewhere in the UK.

THE 10 BEST Resorts near Park of Culture and Leisure, Elektrostal

Resorts near park of culture and leisure, property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class.

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