Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park is a world-renowned conservation hub located in Bekesbourne, near Canterbury, Kent. Unlike a traditional zoo, Howletts is a breeding sanctuary that prioritises the welfare of rare and endangered species with the goal of eventually returning them to the wild.

What to Experience

The park is famous for its massive herds of African Elephants and its incredible success with Western Lowland Gorillas. You can walk through wooded pathways to see:

• Giant Anteaters and Honey Badgers: Rare sights in the UK.
• Tiger Territory and Glass-Fronted Enclosures: Allowing you to get incredibly close to Amur tigers and leopards.
• The Treetop Challenge: An adventurous high-ropes course for those wanting an aerial view of the park.
• Walking Encounters: Large, open-topped enclosures where you can see lemurs and other primates leaping nearby.

Duration and Suitability

Most visitors spend 4 to 5 hours here, though animal enthusiasts often stay the whole day to catch various feeding talks.

• Best Suited For: Conservation lovers and families who prefer a “wilder,” less manicured feel.
• Who Might Be Bored: Those expecting a “theme park” vibe with rides or highly manicured gardens. The focus here is strictly on the animals and their natural habitats.

Timing Your Visit

• For Quiet Reflection: Arrive at opening time on a weekday. The animals are often most active during the cooler morning hours.
• For Atmosphere: Crisp autumn days are beautiful as the park is heavily wooded, and the animals are often more playful than in the heat of midday summer.

Budget and Value

While entry is an investment in conservation, there are several ways to make it more cost-effective:

• Annual Memberships: These are a huge win for local families, often paying for themselves in just a couple of visits.
• Group Discounts: If you are visiting with a large party, booking in advance usually secures a lower rate.
• Service Discounts: They frequently offer reduced entry for Blue Light Card holders (emergency services, NHS, and armed forces).
• Clubcard & Vouchers: Keep an eye on major supermarket loyalty schemes, as points can often be converted into entry tokens.

Expert Tips for Your Visit

• Footwear: The park is set across 100 acres of ancient parkland. Wear sturdy walking shoes or trainers, as the paths can be uneven or muddy after rain.
• Food and Drink: There are cafes on-site, but many visitors bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated tables to save money.
• Parking: On-site parking is generally ample and located close to the main entrance.

Nearby Enhancements

If you want to extend your day, the nearby village of Bekesbourne or the city of Canterbury offers a wealth of traditional Kentish pubs and independent cafes. These are perfect for a relaxing meal after a long day of walking the park trails.

Unique Fact: Howletts is run by a foundation that has successfully returned entire families of gorillas and dozens of elephants back to protected areas in Africa—making your visit a direct contribution to global rewilding efforts.