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5 of the UK’s best safari lodges

If you had your hopes pinned on a safari this year you needn’t miss out – as you can still get up close to elephants, cheetahs and lions in wildlife lodges across the UK

1. West Midland Safari Park

Cheetahs at West Midland Safari Park (West Midland Safari Park)

Tanzania might not be an option this year but you can still drive 6.5km through West Midland Safari Park near Birmingham, which is home to zebras, Congo buffalo, Indian rhino and critically endangered Bactrian camels.

To see some of the animals at night – after most visitors have left for the day – you can now stay over in one of the park’s eight new safari lodges.

As well as the lodges, the animals’ habitats have also been renovated, so the park’s three African elephants now have access to an outdoor paddock and drinking pool 24 hours a day. Six of the lodges have large windows and an outdoor deck overlooking the pool, so you can observe Latabe, Five and Sutton as they drink. The two-storey lodges blend in with the paddock as they feature thatched roofs, wooden floors, woven rugs and straw lampshades. The two other lodges overlook the cheetahs’ lair, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedrooms providing a perfect view of cheetahs Azrael and Bappe. A Red Panda Cottage is also due to open in spring 2021.

For more information visit West Midland Safari Park .

2. Longleat

A white rhino (Shutterstock)

Once the grounds of a 16th century manor house, Longleat opened as a safari park in 1966. Sandwiched between Bath and Salisbury, the reserve is four times the size of London’s Richmond Park, and home to game more at home on the plains of Zimbabwe.

Visitors can drive in their own vehicle or hop on a safari bus to see tigers, white rhinos and lions. Alternatively, you can join a walking safari to see lemurs, African tortoises and the black-headed Somali sheep.

For a close up of the zebras and giraffes, however, book a night in a cottage. There are three to choose from: East Lodge, which includes a guided tour of the grounds, and Keeper’s House and Keeper’s Cottage, both of which include a guided safari tour in a 4×4.

For more information visit Longleat .

3. Port Lympne Safari Park

Friendly giraffes (Shutterstock)

Swap Kenya for Kent on a safari at Port Lympne Safari Park on the edge of the Kent Downs. Covid rules permitting, you can choose one of three ranger-led safaris, during which you will see black rhino, wildebeest, ostriches and critically endangered Rothschild giraffes.

For a more intimate experience, stay overnight and see the animals once most guests have gone home. The 243-hectare estate is home to wigwams, shepherds’ huts, a treehouse hotel and an igloo-style ‘bubble’ designed for stargazers. Depending on the accommodation you choose, you might be able to observe Amur leopards from Leopard Creek or watch TV side by side with Adras, Oudrika and their offspring on the other side of an enormous window in Lion Lodge.

For more information visit Port Lympne Safari Park .

4. Camp Baboon

Okapi (Shutterstock)

Set within the Wild Place Project, this camp on the outskirts of Bristol is home to lemurs, pygmy goats, eland and okapi, which is endemic to the Congo.

The site has 10 wishbone-shaped cabins for overnight guests, who can help feed some of the animals on a morning tour before the site opens to the public. You can also join an evening tour and rangers’ workshops to learn bush craft skills under a canopy in the woods and around a firepit. As well as entry to Wild Place Project, overnight guests can visit Bristol Zoo Gardens for free, too.

For more information visit Camp Baboon .

5. ZSL London Zoo

An Asiatic lion (Shutterstock)

There are only 520 Asiatic lions left in Gir National Park in Gujarati in the north west of India. While you may not be able to travel there at the moment, you can see a pride of the endangered animals in Land of the Lions, a breeding centre inside ZSL London Zoo.

The London enclosure is modelled after the national park, complete with railway tracks, a corrugated roof, train station ticket hall and a crumbling temple. Visitors stroll on raised boardwalks over the lions to a viewing area. You can also spend the night in one of nine cabins in Gir Lion Lodge. A stay includes three tours that take place once the zoo is closed to the public.

For more information visit ZSL London Zoo .

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What Our Visitors Think

Little piece of heaven in the west midlands.

Loved our visit. Happy animals, very polite and helpful staff, venue was very clean and well maintained, food was tasty and all reasonably priced.

TripAdvisor

Great day out

This was a real interactive and memorable day. The whole experience created laughs and memories which will last a long time. Such value for money! Would definitely recommend.

Great experience

Lovely Safari Park, I think is the best one so far. I will definitely go again and recommend to friends. 

Simply the best value for money day out!

This has to be one of the best attractions for a perfect day that is packed with so many things to do and enjoy... and, at such a great price, coupled with a free return visit. Awesome!

Best family day out

Love it!! Plenty to do and see for all ages, clean and tidy. All staff pleasent and friendly, been going at least once a year for over 30 years and still love going.

Fabulous place Great staff. Spotlessly clean

I have an annual pass so use WMSP a lot. It never fails to impress. Today we did the minibus safari tour with Clive, our tour guide and driver. He was so knowledgeable and helpful. It was a lovely experience.

Great day had by all

Lots of close ups with the animals. There was plenty to do and see. Lots of information available regarding the animals.

Livingstone Lodge Overnight Safari Experience

Ashford, kent.

Livingstone Lodge is the UK’s first authentic overnight safari experience which has consistently wowed guests with a magical night under the stars in luxury tented accommodation.

This delightful glamping retreat overlooks 100 acres of Kentish savannah – alive with African animals. and guests are welcomed with an arrival drink and meet their experienced ranger who has been trained and qualified on safari in Africa. Staying in a lodge is a completely unique and unrivalled glamping experience, with wooden bedside tables, heaters, carpets, electric lighting and verandas which overlook the African Experience. The lodge offers a delicious five course African buffet prepared by the chefs and guests enjoy a full cooked, hearty breakfast.

VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2016: Tourism Experience - GOLD WINNER

• Find out more about the Livingstone Lodge Overnight Safari Experience and plan your visit
• Find more rural breaks in Kent

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Sleep in the treetops on an overnight safari in Kent

Get in touch with your wild side in Kent this spring with a true African experience that the whole family will rave about.

Location: Lympne, Kent

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Giraffe Lodge

Book Your Stay Now

Unforgettable glamping getaway 

Camp out under the stars and immerse yourself in an exciting safari experience right here in Kent!

Giraffe Lodge offers multi award-winning exclusive accommodation which transports you to the plains of Africa as you sip sundowners on the private deck of your luxury safari tent and marvel at the stunning wildlife that approaches the watering hole beneath the lodges.

Summer Short Break Sale!

Start your summer off right and enjoy up to 30% off magical getaways with award-winning accommodation, exotic wildlife, good food and spectacular views, right on your doorstep!

Gift Vouchers

Give the gift of an overnight stay at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, where choices of short breaks range from seasonal glamping to luxury lodges and can include the opportunity to wake up in a tiger’s world at Tiger Lodge or come face to face with a magnificent lion at Lion Lodge.

The African Experience in Kent

Your accommodation, exclusive access, safari experience, eat & drink, pricing and booking.

Your stay at Giraffe Lodge is a unique experience that will truly make you feel like you are in Africa. Stay in one of the eight glamping tents and wake up to the most magnificent view of the sunrise. This is a half board experience with full English breakfast and dinner included.

As you travel through the African plain to your luxury safari lodge, you’ll spot some of our iconic animals including giraffes, zebras, rhinos, ostriches and wildebeest as well as some of our more elusive antelope herds roaming the 100 acre wilderness.

Giraffe Lodge hosts 8 luxury safari tents. Each tent provides the perfect blend of safari-luxe and glamping charm, with en suite facilities, heating, lighting, fluffy towels and dressing gowns. Sleeping 2 in king, double or twin beds you'll spend a magical night under the stars in total comfort, falling asleep to the sounds of wildlife just metres away.

Giraffe Lodge overlooks the African Experience with tents carefully positioned in the natural surroundings. Guests can explore the grounds and venture out on a private safari for perfect photo opportunities and knowledgeable staff who will guide you through the experience. With a balcony overlooking the reserve, this glamping experience is the closest you can be to your roaming neighbours.

You will have access to Port Lympne Reserve during and outside of normal visitor hours from the day of your arrival to the day of your departure. Included with your stay admission to both our wildlife parks - Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve - from 9.30am to closure.

Guest are welcome to arrive from 9.30am and complete their paperwork in the Port Lympne Hotel, then return to concierge for 1.45pm ready for 2pm safari to Giraffe Lodge.

All of our short breaks guests have a safari included in the cost of their stay. Your safari will take you on an adventure through our South American, Asian and African Experience zones where you will see spectacled bears, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, camels and more. 

Your stay at Giraffe Lodge includes breakfast and dinner. Dining is a big part of the experience at Giraffe Lodge. Our chef will delight you with African inspired dishes and brai cooked on the open fire pit in the Lapa, using fresh, locally sourced produce.

Join your fellow guests for after dinner drinks or retreat to your private deck and enjoy the beautiful colours of the sunset reflected in the watering hole as the free roaming herds prepare for nightfall.

Sample dinner menu

Prices from £525 per night based on two people sharing, breakfast and dinner included.

Open from Friday 29th March to October:  7 days a week March to September and Wednesday to Sunday in October. 

For more information, you can call 01303 234112 Monday to Sunday between 9am to 5pm, or fill in our simple online form at the end of the page and one of our team will be in touch.

Book a double Giraffe Lodge       Book a twin Giraffe Lodge

Giraffe Lodge is o pen from April to October. Whether you experience the majesty of the savannah in spring, spot the herds of antelope calves in the summer or marvel at the changing colours of the landscape in the autumn, you'll always experience a unique African staycation on your doorstep!

Please note timings are approximate and itinerary is subject to change.

1:30pm Check in You're welcome to enjoy the reserve from 9:30am before heading to Guest Services to check in. We'll take your luggage up to your Lodge while you get acquainted with your fellow adventurers and your expert Ranger.

2pm Safari time! Keep your camera ready as your expert ranger guides you through the reserve and onto The African Experience, where giraffes, zebras, rhinos and wildebeest wander freely across the plain. Your safari vehicle is open-sided so don't forget to wrap up warm!

3pm Arrive at your luxury lodge Enjoy a welcome glass of bubbly on arrival and explore your authentic safari tent, furnished with real beds and all the creature comforts you need for a romantic night under the stars. Remember, this is glamping so make sure you've packed your fluffiest bed socks as it can get a bit nippy especially in the early spring/autumn months.

6pm Feeding time Join your fellow guests in the Lapa for an African inspired feast cooked on an open fire pit. Meals are included in your stay.

9pm onwards And relax... Spend the evening chatting to your host and fellow guests in the lapa, or enjoy a sundowner or two wrapped in a cosy blanket on your private deck as you watch the sky turn brilliantly red and orange and the animals settle down for the night.

7am Wake up call If you're not already awake watching the dawn break over the vast expanse of the African Experience, your host will wake you with a gentle call to start the day

8am Breakfast Rejoin your fellow guests in the Lapa for a full English breakfast, included in your stay.

9am Return trip Instead of enduring a tedious flight back to the UK after your safari adventure, you'll enjoy a short drive through the African Experience for a final glimpse of the animals and back into the Reserve where your luggage will be waiting for you.

10am Reserve access Spend the day exploring the rest of the 600 acre reserve and discover even more rare and endangered animals, beautiful landscaped gardens and wooded walks. We'll look after your luggage until you're ready to head home.

What's Included

• Stay for two at Giraffe Lodge
• Full English Breakfast and African inspired dinner (Braii) in the Lapa
• Entrance to Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve and Howletts Wild Animal Park (from 9.30am on the day of arrival until closure on the day of departure)
• Safari experience at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
• Access to the park's  restaurants
• Bedding and towels
• Welcome drink
• Free on site parking

Frequently asked questions

Below you'll find the most common questions our guests ask about staying at Giraffe Lodge.

What time do we check in?

Check in starts at 1:30pm at Guest Services for a 1.45pm departure. If you would like to explore the reserve before your safari we can look after your luggage.

What time does the safari start?

Your safari starts at 1.45pm and takes around 1 – 1 ½ hours. We advise that you take a bathroom break before boarding the safari truck as there are no stops until you reach Giraffe Lodge. We also advise that you take a coat/extra layer on safari.

How do we redeem our free admission to Howletts?

As part of your stay you get free admission to our sister park, Howletts Wild Animal Park, approximately half an hour away near Canterbury. When arriving at the Howletts Gatehouse, please provide your reservation name from Port Lympne or show your booking confirmation for free admission.

Are the tents heated?

Although there is a heater in your tent it can get cold during adverse weather and the early spring/autumn months.  We would advise that you pack appropriate clothing for the current weather conditions.

Are there any kettles/hair dryers for the tents?

Tea and coffee making facilities are available in your tent, however, we do not advise that hairdryers are used due to the limited supply of electricity to the tents.

Can we bring our own alcohol to the lodge?

Guests are not permitted to bring their own alcohol, however, there is a bar in the restaurant where you may purchase drinks to accompany your meal.

Are there toilets in the restaurant?

Unfortunately, there are no toilets in the restaurant. You can either use the en suite in your tent or the main shower block a short walk away at the top of the slope.

Can we have candles in the tent?

We do not allow candles or any naked flames in or around the tents for Health & Safety reasons. Lamps are provided in your tent.

Where can we smoke?

There are two designated smoking areas. One by the shower block at the top of the slope and the other is located behind the Lapa restaurant. There is a strict no smoking policy in or around the tents.

You may also like

With 14 different ways to stay, we're certain we have the perfect accommodation for you at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve. Don't forget that our unique accommodations can be booked as part of your conference or private event.

Unforgettable glamping getaway overlooking the spectacled bear habitat. Camp out under the stars and immerse yourself in an exciting safari experience.

Forest Hideaway

Exclusive hidden forest dens, for the ultimate romantic retreat. Includes a golf buggy to explore the reserve at your leisure.

Tiger Lodge

Wake up in a tiger’s world, then head out in your own personal golf buggy to meet the rest of the animals in the 600 acre reserve.

Back to the Wild!

With your visit and stay you contribute to our greatest mission, getting the animals 'Back to the Wild'. This initiative has already seen an impressive number of animals born at Howletts and Port Lympne returned to their natural habitats. Your help is vital for our worldwide conservation projects.

Book online

For more information or to enquire about gift vouchers for our short breaks, you can call 01303 234112 Monday to Sunday between 9am to 5pm, or fill in our simple online form and one of our team will be in touch.

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Best safari park lodges in the UK including rooms with views of animals

Best safari park lodges and hotels in the UK where you can see the likes of elephants, cheetahs and giraffes right from your room

• 14:35, 16 Jun 2021

A safari holiday is one of those trips that's on everyone's bucket list - and there are some pretty incredible safari lodges to dream about.

However, safaris can be seriously expensive trips, not to mention that holidays abroad aren't exactly on the cards for Brits right now.

The good news is that there are some brilliant UK safari parks where you can actually spend the night, and enjoy views of the like sof elephants, cheetahs and giraffes right from your room!

Then there are the lodges themselves with glamorous interiors, and extra perks such as exclusive tours of parks and zoos.

We take a look at some of the UK's best safari lodges and hotels to have on your radar for a memorable trip...

West Midlands Safari Park

West Midlands Safari Park has opened eight luxurious new lodges, all of which offer direct views over animal habitats.

Six of the lodges look out to the elephants, who often come to the nearby pond for a drink, while two overlook the cheetahs' habitat.

You can watch the animals from your bedroom, or opt to take in the views from the open plan living room and dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows so you don't miss anything. (You can take a sneak peek inside the lodges here ).

Prices will start from £171 per adult and £147 per child for a night's stay. You can find out more on safari-lodges.co.uk .

Port Lympne, Kent

Port Lympne offers up some luxurious lodges complete with a master bedroom and open plan living area, which offer direct views across animal habitats. Those staying in the Lion or Tiger Lodges can enjoy huge floor-to-ceiling windows so you can get up close to the animals without leaving the sofa, while the adults-only Giraffe Lodge comes with a private deck from which you can watch the giraffes.

Other perks include exclusive out-of-hours access to the Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, access to the safari parks and a safari experience included as part of the package.

There are also treehouse stays and glamping pods available.

Prices vary depending on lodge of choice. You can find out more on aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne .

Longleat has opened some luxury cottages in the heart of its safari park, from which you can watch animals such as giraffes as they wander around the grounds.

There are also perks such as a guided safari tour of the park, park tickets for your stay, and breakfast being included.

As reported by SomersetLive , prices for the Keeper’s Cottage prices start at £500 per night, and £750 for Keeper’s House (which includes an exclusive 4x4 tour of the Safari Park).

You can find out more at longleat.co.uk .

ZSL London Zoo

London Zoo's lodges don't offer direct views of animals, but they are located right by the lion enclosure so you can listen out for sounds from the creatures.

There are plenty of perks for budding zoologists such as exclusive tours of the zoo, a chance to feed animals their breakfast, discounts on meet-the-animals experiences, and more.

You can find out more on zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo .

Chessington Safari Hotel

Chessington Safari Hotel's rooms offer views across the resort's Wanyama Reserve where plenty of animals reside from zebras to meerkats.

The hotel offers both standard and themed rooms, the latter including Tiger, Giraffe, Zebra and even Penguin themes, and even rooms inspired by The Gruffalo and Room on the Broom. (It's actually in our top picks of the UK's best themed hotels for families too!).

Perks for guests include entry to the theme park, zoo and SEA LIFE centre, breakfast, and early access to rides before they open to the public.

You can find out more on chessingtonholidays.co.uk .

Looking for more ideas?

If you're trying to plan fun breaks with the kids for the summer, then you may want to check out our sister site 2Chill where holidaymakers and locals alike are sharing their recommendations on everything from the best attractions in an area, to the bars and restaurants you won't want to miss. You can also share your own recommendations if you're feeling inspired!

You may also want to check out our UK holidays page which we regularly update with the latest deals and sales we think you'll love, accommodation ideas and plenty more inspiration for your next British break.

What do you think of the safari lodges? Let us know in the comments below.

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The best safari parks in the uk.

Though nothing can beat seeing animals in their natural habitat, safari parks can be a great substitute when time, money and other circumstances get in the way of your dream trip. Visiting a safari park in the UK can also be a good introduction to safaris for children and other first-timers, as well as a more ethical choice of day out for animal lovers than the zoo.

In this post, we explore the UK’s best safari parks to help you support conservation from the comfort of home. 

The UK’s Best Safari Parks

Longleat safari park.

Set in the beautiful Wiltshire countryside, Longleat Safari Park is a really family-friendly day out. In the main park, you can walk past enclosures housing everything from creepy crawlies to wild cats and primates. 

At certain times of the day, you can join a jungle cruise out onto the estate’s huge lake where, if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a pair of hippos in the shallows and the silverback lowland gorilla and his family on the island in the centre. Keep your eyes peeled! As part of the trip, you’ll also have the chance to feed the resident sea lions who splash and swim alongside the boat in hopes of gobbling down some fish. 

Of course, the highlight of any trip to Longleat is the self-drive safari. Yes, Wiltshire’s plains are home to 3 of the big 5: lions, rhino and Anne the elephant, as well as cheetah, wolves, tigers and deer. As long as you drive safely and keep your windows closed, the animals are well accustomed to vehicles and can treat you to some incredible encounters. 

Other experiences available at Longleat include giraffe feeding, a lemur walk-through and monkey mayhem, where the rhesus macaques are free to clamber all over your vehicle and remove whatever takes their fancy! You might decide to take the safari bus for this exact reason… 

Longleat is committed to conservation right across the world. From breeding programmes to help restore populations of wild dogs and black rhinos in Tanzania to funding the conservation work of the Red Panda Network in Nepal, Longleat relies on donations and purchases from its visitors to support this critical work. By visiting, you’ll be doing a world of good!

Port Lympne

My personal favourite safari park in the UK is Port Lympne in Kent. This game reserve is the closest you’ll get to Africa in the UK, thanks to its safari drives and various lodge-style accommodation to stay overnight in for the ultimate experience. 

There are enclosures in the main park, housing beautiful animals like lynxes, gorillas and brown bears, as well as lions, tigers and cheetahs in larger pens. You can visit each of these areas on foot, and I recommend timing your visits alongside the programme of ranger talks. These give you the opportunity to hear more about the incredible animals and ask any questions you can think of!

Like Longleat, there are wide open plains that are home to giraffes, zebra and antelope, but the only way to see them is by joining one of the tours, where an experienced guide takes you and a group of others out into the wild on a safari canter. You’ll be lucky enough to see these animals roaming free (or as free as is possible in the Kent countryside), as well as rhinos, elephants, wild dogs and other rare species behind fences.

What makes this place really special is the Aspinall Foundation’s link to conservation efforts in Africa and beyond. Port Lympne has a hugely successful breeding programme that has returned various animals to the wild, including five eastern black rhinos, two cheetahs and over 60 gorillas.

At each enclosure, you’ll be able to read whether the animals inside are candidates for reintroduction, and there are dedicated teams at the park who will be more than willing to tell you more when you visit.

Woburn Safari Park

Over 80 rare and endangered species call Bedfordshire home, and you’ll be able to see them all at Woburn Safari Park. 

Much like other UK safari parks, your visit may begin with a drive-through safari that will take you on a journey across the globe. From the comfort of your own car, you will drive across plains and through grassland to see rare horses, bison, wildebeest, camels, southern white rhino, buffalo, giraffe, monkeys and zebra. 

Of course, my favourite area at Woburn Safari Park is the Kingdom of the Carnivores. Here, you could see Amur tigers, timberwolves, black bears and lions, each species separated into their own enclosures large enough that you’d still need to be lucky to spot them.

Once you have completed your 60-minute loop of the self-drive, your visit will be far from over, as your foot safari treats you to sightings of the smaller animals. Think parrots, meerkats, wallabies, otters, lemurs, sea lions, penguins, squirrel monkeys, red pandas and far too many more to mention.

By purchasing a ticket to Woburn Safari Park, you’ll be helping the team to sustain the population of animals kept onsite, as well as funding the critical conservation work they help to fund around the world. Various projects they support include the International Elephant Foundation, the Wildcats Conservation Alliance and Helping Rhinos. All very worthy causes, I’m sure you’ll agree! 

Knowsley Safari Park

Knowsley Safari Park near Prescot in Merseyside boasts the UK’s longest safari drive over 550 acres. 

Here you’ll have close encounters with African lions, white rhinos and bison from the comfort of your own car. Though if you’re nervous about damage to your vehicle in the baboon enclosure, book a spot on the baboon bus, which is kitted out with climbing ropes and ladders for the baboons to roam free on. You can’t get much closer than that! 

There’s even more to see on the foot safari, including Amur tigers, giraffes, meerkats, bush dogs, birds of prey, sea lions and tapir too. What a treat! There are animal talks and shows scheduled throughout the day, so make sure you plan in advance to see everything you want to.

Knowsley has a dedicated conservation team tasked with educating visitors and the wider public about their critical projects. They also work on the ground with endangered species, including monitoring, anti-poaching activities and fixing fences to reduce human conflict in their natural habitats. 

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

This safari park in the heart of the Midlands makes a great day out or a holiday in and of itself. A stay in any of the luxury safari lodges promises an incredible encounter with animals including tigers, rhinos and elephants; but with a drive-through safari and village walk also on offer, you’ll have just as good a time without the expensive short break.

The safari drive can be done in your own car or as part of a guided minibus tour, where you’ll see African lions, giraffes, zebra, wild dogs, cheetahs and antelope. There’s also a Wild Asia area housing Indian rhino, swamp deer and blackbucks too.

There is arguably more to see here once you’re out of your car, including lemurs, ostriches, red pandas, hippos, meerkats, penguins, sea lions and… dinosaurs. Yes, really! Animatronic replicas of T-rexes, velociraptors and more growl and roar through the bushes in the Land of the Living Dinosaurs. There really is plenty to see and do here!

You’ll notice ‘Leisure Park’ has been appended to the name, meaning there’s more here than the animals. Virtual reality experiences, rollercoasters, log flumes and more can be found in the Adventure Theme Park, where rides are available for an additional fee. 

As perhaps the most theme park-like safari park in the UK, you’d be forgiven for believing this makes conservation less of a priority for West Midland. But that’s far from the truth. From research projects to breeding programmes, your entrance fee and other purchases will be supporting endangered species and biodiversity across the world. 

Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

Located just outside Stirling, Blair Drummond is easily one of the best safari parks in the UK, let alone in Scotland! 

As well as the famous safari animals like lions and rhinos in the drive-through area, Blair Drummond is also home to a huge variety of rare and fascinating species. Over 300 animals including Highland cattle, red ruffed lemur and llamas can be found on foot, making for a packed and wild day out. 

Conservation is an important aspect of Blair Drummond’s work. Since 2014, the park has given over £192k worth of funding to conservation projects, with that money contributing to the salaries of anti-poaching teams, their equipment and fighting deforestation. 

So there you have it: The UK’s best safari parks from every corner of the county. Which one will you discover first?

Anna is the founder of Really Wildlife. She's a 30-something lover of wildlife travel, vegetables and listening to the Lion King soundtrack on full blast.

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Home » Our Holiday Parks » Dorset » Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa » Bowleaze Accommodation » Safari Signature

Safari Signature

Accommodation in dorset.

What's included with your stay

2 Toilets, 2 Showers

Private Veranda

Designated Parking

Towels Included

Central Heating & Double Glazing

Options Include

2 Beds, Sleeps 6 or 3 Beds, Sleeps 8

Dog Friendly

Book our signature safari range for the ultimate hot tub ‘glamping’ experience in Weymouth. The signature safari lodges are the perfect place for a wild escape! Each lodge has a private hot tub , log burner style gas fire in the lounge, modern fitted kitchen and outside veranda. Set in our exclusive safari area of Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park, the lodges enjoy landscaped and peaceful surroundings with private parking.

To learn more about this unique holiday experience, please give our friendly team a call on  01305 833103 .

More about your Signature Safari stay

Our Signature Safari lodges are the most luxurious holiday accommodation on park and offer an exclusive glamping experience. These lodges host plenty of space for the whole family, modern amenities and captivating interiors.

The Safari lodges feature double glazed windows and central heating for maximum comfort, with covered outdoor verandas and private hot tubs.

The spacious open plan living area benefits from a gas log burner, two sofas, a smart TV and dining table that seats 8. The fully fitted, well-equipped kitchen includes an oven, microwave, dishwasher, wine cooler and fridge freezer (American style in 2 bedroom lodges).

The two bedroom lodges have one double bedroom, one twin, a shower room and an en-suite bath with shower for ultimate relaxation. The three bedroom lodges have a double bedroom, two twin rooms and two shower rooms. With TVs in every bedroom!

You can enjoy al fresco dining on the outdoor balcony, furnished with table & chairs. Then as the day draws to an end, why not relax and unwind in the private hot tub?

All our accommodation is a non smoking. All beds are made up on arrival and there is a guaranteed check in time of 2pm.

Enjoy a 10% on park discount card to use in the bars, restaurant and takeaway during your stay.

N.B. Imagery not representative of all grades.

Floor Plan - Sleeps up to 8

Your stories

“we love it here".

"I have been to many many parks over the years and they don’t compare to Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa. The entertainment team are the most approachable, fun and talented team – in fact all of the staff are just so friendly. Looking forward to our next visit. Thank you for making it memorable.”

All Features

Everything you need to know about your stay with us.

• 2 showers or 1 shower and a bath with shower
• Designated parking space next to the accommodation
• Covered veranda with outside table & chairs
• Double glazed and central heating
• Complimentary towels
• Smart TV in the lounge
• 10% on park discount card to use in the bars, restaurant and takeaway
• 2pm Check-in
• Check-out time 9:30 am
• Beds made on arrival
• Sofa Bed in lounge
• TVs in every bedroom
• Spacious open-plan living space
• Modern and stylish themed interior
• Fully-fitted and well-equipped kitchen
• Dining table seating up to 8 people
• Wine cooler

Book your stay

Holiday Dates

Choose how many nights you would like to stay

Book your holiday here

Things to do.

Things to do in Dorset

Onsite Facilities

Park Entertainment

Restaurants and Bars

Waterside Spa

Other Accommodation

Deluxe Safari with Hot Tub

Signature with Hot Tub

Have a question?

Give us a call and we'll answer any questions you have quickly and easily.

Bowleaze Cove

01305 833103

Chesil Beach

01305 773233

Osmington Mills

01305 837010

01503 262718

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At This Sustainably-Minded Safari Lodge In South Africa, Wild Luxury Has A Light Footprint

By Kerry McDermott

“You’ll see the lions have now adopted a triangle position, a classic attack formation.” That this deadpan line from our safari guide – delivered with perfect comic timing as one 300-pound cat settled itself in front of our parked jeep, another prowled lazily past the driver door, and a third surveyed us coolly from its position under a (very) nearby tree – prompted stifled giggles rather than panic from inside the vehicle is some indication of his aura of supreme calm and authority. Two qualities, it turns out, that a first-timer like me appreciates in a guide – particularly one who’s liable to make gags during a close encounter with an apex predator. Fortunately, from the moment you arrive at Lepogo Lodges , a remote sanctuary at the heart of South Africa ’s lush Lapalala Wilderness, it’s immediately apparent that you’re in the safest of hands.

It starts when you reach the gate of the reserve, which spans almost 50,000 pristine hectares in Limpopo Province and – along with our new friends, the lions – is home to leopards, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, wild dogs, and plenty more besides. After a three-hour drive from the airport in Johannesburg, being spirited into the bush in one of Lepogo’s tricked-out jeeps feels a little like being plucked from the daily rush of ordinary life and plopped down on a totally different planet: one where the light is golden, silence reigns, and you are far, far more likely to happen across a giraffe than you are another human being.

By Riann Phillip

By Ellie Pithers

By Laura Hawkins

Our destination is Melote House, a luxe new retreat that joins Noka Camp in the Lepogo Lodges stable. Where Noka is made up of individual villa suites – all perched on a clifftop with staggering views of the Palala River below – Melote is for exclusive use, a one-of-a-kind getaway for a family or group of up to 16, with six suites in the fully staffed main house and a further two in an adjacent cottage. Noka Camp has won various industry plaudits since it opened in 2019, and Lepogo’s enigmatic founder, Kate Hughes, has brought the same exacting approach to this sensitively designed low-rise property, which almost appears to have grown out of the hillside thanks to its stepped facade and living roofs planted with native trees, all rendered in shades of rust and terracotta that seem to melt into the landscape.

Inside, the penthouse Baobab Suite is a sleek, spacious haven of warm woods and polished concrete, with a freestanding bathtub and tasteful nods to the surroundings incorporated into the decor: an artwork by Clive Walker, the renowned conservationist who helped to found Lapalala Wilderness, adorns the sliding doors of a vast walk-in closet and dressing area, and what appear to be sheer curtains, upon closer inspection, are actually threaded with the faintest outlines of stalking leopards. While showing me around, the manager enthusiastically points out a skylight above the bed for stargazing, and the plunge pool and outdoor shower on the expansive terrace, before finally gesturing to a gleaming sideboard that conceals a television with a dismissive wave of his hand. Fair enough: the suite’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the veldt stretching for miles into the distance – Netflix cannot really compete.

Everything at Melote has been designed to maximise that vista: the lavishly appointed living area, complete with a locally focused wine cellar, opens onto an enormous deck with a swimming pool, a dining area for al fresco meals, a sunken brai pit, and all manner of other inviting spots from which to take in South Africa’s famously epic sunsets. A raised wooden walkway leading out onto the plain culminates in a viewing platform that overlooks a watering hole, so you can linger over your sundowner in the company of passing impala or wildebeest.

There’s a different type of luxury at play here, too, beyond the Champagne and the chef-prepared meals and the high-thread-count sheets. The reassurance that your presence here – enjoying once-in-a-lifetime-level encounters with the Big Five – does not risk damaging this undeniably special place, or its resident wildlife. A rare non-profit safari camp, the sustainability-focused Lepogo Lodges offsets the carbon footprint of all international guests’ journeys, supports local communities with education initiatives and job opportunities, and funnels all proceeds back into the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, sponsoring specific conservation efforts such as the reintroduction of cheetahs or the rehabilitation of pangolins retrieved from the illegal wildlife trade.

The team here consider themselves custodians of the reserve, and it’s a role they take seriously. Their shared passion for Lapalala is evident in the guides’ and trackers’ intimate knowledge of the landscape and the creatures that call it home, and the visible pleasure they take in orchestrating unforgettable experiences for guests. Ours included, but were definitely not limited to, climbing quietly from the jeep to observe a cheetah on foot; seeing a pair of lions mate; glimpsing a rare black rhino; and watching rapt as a parade of elephants – including two adorable calves – stopped to spray themselves with water and dust at the edge of a breeze-rippled pool.

Lepogo has found some ingenious ways to conjure the considerable comforts of Melote House during these excursions onto the reserve, too. As well as individual pairs of binoculars, the open-sided jeeps are kitted out with cosy blankets and rain ponchos (all in the camp’s signature, understated-chic shade of taupe) should the weather take a turn. At one mid-morning pitstop, our guide, Liam, produced a coolbox containing a picnic of homemade biscuits, French press coffee and Amarula. Another early outing ended at a scenic lookout spot, where we were surprised by Melote’s chef, Fleur, and a freshly prepared feast of fruits, cheeses, smoked salmon, pastries and eggs cooked to order. And after a serene sunset river cruise, watching scudding pink and orange clouds reflected in the mirror-like surface of the water, we returned to shore to find an ephemeral “bar” laid with a white tablecloth, sparkling glassware, canapés, and sundowners – all in the middle of the bush.

Where to after all that but back to Melote, for a dip, a session in the private spa or to sleep under the stars on a sky bed? It’s almost enough to persuade you never to leave – except for the fact that beyond the infinity pool, a wonderland awaits.

By Tracy Achonwa

By Alice Cary

By Slutty Cheff

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Enjoy breath-taking views in a Lion Lodge

Immersive views of African lions…

The four fantastic, one-storey lodges are authentically themed and can sleep up to six guests.

Panoramic views of the lions’ new habitat can be witnessed through the large windows in bedrooms and living areas, meaning you can eat, sleep and relax just a whisker away from these magnificent cats.

In one bedroom, you will find a king-sized bed. In the other, there are twin single beds with a king-sized bunk bed above, perfect for young adults or children.

The Wildlife

Lions are impressive, large cats that live in groups, which are called prides. One of the most recognisable aspects of a lion is its mane, which is the longer hair male lions grow around their head, neck and chest. The colour of a mane can vary from lighter blondes, to much darker browns and blacks. Male lions roar to warn the pride about danger, scare off intruders and show their dominance – it can be heard up to five miles away!

Watch our bachelor group of lions as they play together and explore their new home. They were born here at the Park in the summer of 2019 and are growing into stunning young males!

The four brothers are called Havoc, Hodge, Harabi and Hercules with Havoc having the darkest fur of the group – see if you can spot him!

What’s Included

• Exclusive use of a Lion Lodge for up to 6 people

• Panoramic views of lions in their new habitat

• Two-day Admission Ticket to West Midlands Safari Park and all attractions

• Two-day Ride Wristbands to use in the Adventure Theme Park*

• Breakfast and dinner (provided in jars to reheat in your Lodge)

• Covered outside decking area

• Bedding and towels

• Hairdryer

• Widescreen TV

• Free WiFi

• Hot drink-making facilities

• Microwave

• Noble Isle Toiletries

• 20% off items in on-site gift shops and food outlets

• 24-hour concierge

• Free parking

*Summer season only. Generally from mid-February to end of October. Please see wmsp.co.uk for exact dates.

Floor Plans

Watch the Video

From £830 per night, based on 2 guests. Additional guests : £185 per adult per night £130 per child (3-15yrs) per night £ 20 per under 3 per night

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