longleat safari spa

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Longleat forest.

Hidden amongst majestic Giant Redwood trees is our 5 Bubble rated Aqua Sana Longleat Forest, just a short drive from Salisbury, Bath and Yeovil.

Winner of multiple awards including Best Destination Spa in the UK 2020 and Best Spa in the South West & Wales 2021 and 2020.

Explore five spa zones and 24 different nature-inspired spa experiences, from the atmospheric Forest Cavern to the calming Moonlight Steam Room.

Plus, a wide range of  spa and beauty treatments  in one of our 24 treatment rooms, and a delicious menu in  Vitalé Café Bar , you have everything you need for complete relaxation in the heart of the forest.

Looking to find us? Our postcode is BA12 7PU

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The Hideaway

Tranquil spa days at longleat forest spa....

From £119 per person

Classic Spa Day

Our simple Spa Day is the perfect introduction to spa. If you want to relax and unwind, whilst discovering 24 different spa experiences, then this is the one for you.

From £79 per person

Twilight Spa

An evening spa escape is the perfect post-work pick-me-up. Relieve the stresses of the day with a quick burst of relaxation.

Afternoon Tea for 2

Relax and unwind with an indulgent afternoon spa for two people with access to our spa from 2.30pm to 6.30pm and a delicous afternoon tea in our Vitale Café Bar. 

Morning Escape for 2

Enjoy a morning spa escape for two people with access to 24 different spa experiences from 10am to 2pm and a delicous brunch served in our Vitale Café Bar.

From £189 per person

Elemis Pro-Glow Facial Spa Day for 2

Spend the day exploring our different spa experiences, all inspired by nature, then settle back and relax into your 50 minute Elemis Pro-Glow Resurfacing Facial.

From £149 per person

Soothe Your Soul Spa Day for 2

Take time from your busy schedule and escape to the forest for the day. You can explore 24 different spa experiences.

Mind, Body & Sole Spa Day for 2

A wonderfully indulgent spa day to leave you feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated. Spend a full day in the spa and enjoy a luxury treatment, the ultimate top to toe experience. 

From £99 per person

Recharging Twilight Escape for 2

The Recharging Twilight Escape is the perfect evening spa experience for those wanting a little time out to unwind and reset.

Awaken Spa Day for 2

Imagine how you will feel after a day at Aqua Sana. Recharge your mind and body by escaping to the forest and exploring the multiple nature-inspired spa experiences.

From £179 per person

Natural Glow Spa Day

The perfect skin care spa day, exclusive to Aqua Sana. Spend the day exploring our nature-inspired spa experiences.

From £159 per person

The Hideaway Spa Day

The Hideaway features an area for lounging, socialising and dining, plus a drinks station and washroom facilities. Hideaway spa day guests will benefit from a dedicated spa host who will be on hand throughout the day, plus private use of the Barrel Sauna.

Finishing Touches Spa Day for 2

Treat yourself to a day of rest and relaxation. Spend the day exploring 24 different spa experiences from heat therapy to deep relaxation, bubbling hydrotherapy to heated outdoor pools.

Elemis Face and Body Recharge Spa Day for 2

Slip into your robe and start your day with refreshments in our Vitalé Café Bar, then take your time as you explore up to 24 different spa experiences.

Whether you’re spending a full day or just a few hours with us, Spa Days at Aqua Sana Longleat Forest include access to all 24 spa experiences across five zones, complimentary robe and towel hire, use of our deluxe spa products and toiletries, and the opportunity to join our free Spa Wellbeing Sessions. 

Escape to the forest and spend the night in one of our stylish Executive Apartments, enjoying two full days in the Aqua Sana spa at Longleat Forest. Our spa breaks include welcome refreshments, a delicious breakfast and lunch in our Vitalé Café Bar, and an evening meal voucher which can be used at one of our nearby Center Parcs restaurants.

An exciting Forest Spa with 24 unique spa experiences across 5 spa zones. Bask in the fiery heat of the Volcanic Forest, drift away in the multi-sensory meditation areas and let your stresses melt away in the Hot Springs and Treetop Nesting zones.

Nordic Sauna

Alpine Steam Room

Lava Volcano Sauna

Volcanic Steam

Salt Steam Room

Moonlight Steam Room

Forest Cavern

Forest Glade

Forest Rain Walk

Outdoor Pool

Volcanic Mists

Hot Springs Garden

Waterfall Shower

Sole Therapy

Rain Forest Shower

Scandinavian Snug

Sweet Slumber

Fireside Relax

Forest Nesting

Forest View

Forest Meditation

Don't miss out on the limited-time offer

Spring into spa.

With access to our Spa from 9:00am – 5:00pm, A delicious Grazing Board and Complimentary towel and robe for the day | Prices from £129 per person

Complement your Spa Day or Spa Break with an indulgent treatment. Choose from a wide range of luxury treatments, where our experienced therapists use the finest luxury spa and beauty products to leave you feeling truly pampered.

The perfect place to relax and refuel. Our bright and contemporary Vitalé Café Bar is directly accessible from within the spa, and serves up delicious and nutritious food and drink alongside indulgent desserts and sweet treats.

Exclusive to Longleat Forest, and specifically for group bookings, this is a luxurious private space within the spa which can accommodate up to 10 people. This package includes a 25-minute treatment for each guest, refreshments, a dedicated spa host and more.

Explore the map to see the layout of our spa, including experience rooms, outdoor areas and treatment rooms. 

Download floorplan

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You are here: Things To Do > Longleat

Type: Safari Park

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Nestled within the Wiltshire countryside is a realm waiting to be explored. Discover various species of animal from around the world including lions, tigers, wolves, koalas, red panda and sea lions as you travel by road, rail, waterway and foot.

Explore the Safari Drive-through and be entertained by the infamous Rhesus monkeys as they clamber over cars. Continue on your journey across continents observing a range of carnivores from the big cats to the hyena and pack of wolves as they roam free in their open enclosures creating up close encounters you’ll never forget.

The exotic species continue as you explore the main park with squeal-inducing koalas to the endearing red panda. Walk with the meerkats, discover our Cuban crocodiles and watch the charming giant otters play in their underwater viewing enclosure.

Feel the weight of a rainbow lorikeet as it lands on your hand to drink nectar in Monkey Temple. See how agile the sea lions are as you throw fish to them, observe our mighty gorillas and try to spot our two hippos on the Jungle Cruise boat trip.

Marvel at Longleat House’s architecture, one of the finest examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain, and wander around the grounds and formal gardens at your leisure. 

Let energetic children explore a medieval fortress in the Adventure Castle, enjoy a Rockin’ Rhino ride, race to find the centre of the Hedge Maze then, take a breath, and board the miniature Longleat Railway for a relaxing journey around the Park’s scenic woodland.

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): £34.95

Child (3 to 15 years): £26.20

Under 3s: Free

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• The Astonishing Kingdom of Longleat

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* Open April - October daily, and during school holidays in February and Easter

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

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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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Longleat Safari Park

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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LONGLEAT SAFARI PARK: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Mon - Thu 10:00 - 17:00
• Fri - Sun 10:00 - 19:00
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• (6.26 km) Taste Deli
• (5.34 km) The High Pavement
• (4.36 km) The Fox
• (0.99 km) Longleat House
• (0.74 km) Longleat
• (2.37 km) Aqua Sana Longleat Forest
• (5.76 km) JET-EX Simulation
• (12.93 km) Great Western Airsports

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Latest , Wiltshire

Longleat safari park – a great family day out.

Longleat Safari Park in Wiltshire has a well deserved reputation as the UK’s leading safari and families will discover that along with this incredible experience, there’s so much more on offer here that you’ll want to return again and again.

*AD / This post contains affiliate links & as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also have been compensated in this post either financially or with products / stays. To read more see our  Disclosure Policy .

We drove into Longleat Safari Park with a slight sense of wariness, not knowing quite what to expect. This drive-through safari takes two to three hours to complete, set in the most wonderful countryside.

Our sense of anticipation quickly turned to wonder as we drove in through the gates and into the most incredible open landscapes filled with animals from around the world. 

We downloaded the award-winning Longleat App which acts as your tour guide as you drive from one zone to the next and it is absolutely brilliant. The app locates you exactly where you are on your drive through the safari and a guide instantly tells you about the animals you are seeing, fascinating facts and points to look out for.

We were so impressed with the app, and it really enhanced our enjoyment of the Longleat safari drive-through. I would thoroughly recommend having the app installed for your trip to Longleat.

The Safari drive through takes you into a host of different territories including Lion Country, Cheetah Kingdom and the Big Game Park complete with white rhinos as well as camels, oryx and ostriches. You’ll see the most incredible safari sights as you drive slowly past the animals.

It very much feels like you’re visiting their large and spacious natural habitats rather than them being ‘on show’ which is great to see. 

We adored every part of the Safari at Longleat, including spotting the wolf pack on the move, giraffes gently eating leaves as we passed by and of course, the immersive ‘monkey mayhem’ zone where you come up close with a troop of inquisitive macaques.

It wasn’t long before we had monkeys climbing up onto our car roof and windscreen, and little faces peered through the windows much to the squeals of delight from my children. These cheeky macaques are well known for making off with anything loose on the outside of your vehicle or nibbling at your car aerial, so you can bypass this area if you want, but we thoroughly enjoyed this memorably up-close experience. 

If you’re keen to take time out of the car on the safari, one stop not to miss is the African Village where you can park up, take a stroll along the Lemur Walk-Through, spot giraffes, zebras and black wildebeest. There’s also giraffe feeding here for a small additional charge which is a wonderful experience.

We were so impressed with the Drive Through at Longleat Safari Park and it’s easy to see why it has become one of the most popular in the UK.

The fun at Longleat Safari Park doesn’t stop there. The sheer amount of activities on offer at Longleat is astonishing, so we would recommend making sure you have a full day to explore everything there is to enjoy.

Next to the Historic Longleat house is a wealth of brilliant family friendly activities all based around the main square. 

We started with the delightful Jungle Cruise which takes you on a half-hour boat trip past two resident hippos, along to a lakeside gorilla colony which is far enough away from the boat to be easily seen but not disturbed by their human visitors.

Then we were treated to a few minutes of fun from a group of Californian sea lions who were leaping and dashing through the water eager to catch a few fish thrown by the boat staff. This is a really lovely trip which makes it easy once again to see some wonderful animals without getting too close and disturbing their activities. 

There are plenty of places to grab food and refreshments back at the main square where you’ll find something for all tastes. If your kids are keen to burn off some energy the Adventure Castle is well worth a visit with zip wires, a medieval castle keep as well as climbing frames, trampolines and slides.

There’s a splash pad and soft play for little ones so it’s easy to spend a good hour here. We also loved the hedge maze which my kids thought was fantastic fun.

The maze twists and turns and you can spend lots of time here trying different routes in order the reach the centre and then onto the exit.

If you’re looking to explore a little further and want to skip the walking for a while, the Longleat Railway is a great way to journey around the grounds and spot more animals. This miniature railway takes you on a one-and-a-quarter mile journey through scenic woodlands and along the side of the tranquil half-mile lake, home to the hippos and seal ions.

For younger visitors there’s a new play area called the Little Explorer’s Garden as well as a gentle ‘Rockin Rhino’ fun fair style ride. There are plenty of chances to get up close with animals too in Monkey Temple where you can hand feed bright and colourful lorikeets, meet new arrivals on Koala Creek and spot otters and crocodiles in Jungle Kingdom.

Each of these areas are great family friendly attractions where you can spend plenty of time exploring and learning more about the natural world.

The house itself has incredible grounds which are so pleasant to explore. There are wonders around every corner from the ornate formal gardens, the cool orangery and the spacious corner dedicated to a pet cemetery in memory of the many animals who lived with the family in the house.

The house is a glorious masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture and you can visit it by booking a tour. We hadn’t left ourselves enough time to fit in the house tour, so we’re looking forward to coming back and enjoying more of the house and safari park.

Longleat Safari Park’s reputation as one of the best attractions in the UK for families is well deserved and comes thoroughly recommended. You can find out more about Longleat, its attractions and Safari drive through at the official website here .

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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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Longleat House & Safari Park – Lions, Mazes and Wifelets

Longleat House is a place of firsts. In 1547, it was the first house in England to be built in the Classical Rennaisance style.

In 1947, it was the first privately-owned stately home opened to the public.

In 1966, it opened the first drive-through safari park outside Africa and in 1975, it became home to the longest hedge maze in the world.

Here then is our guide to this most singular of stately homes.

Table of Contents

Longleat House

The story of Longleat begins in the 16 th  century – long before the safari, the hedge maze and the 7 th  Marquis with his seventy ‘wifelets’ (we’ll get to that) – with the son of a farmer named John Thynne. Thynne rose rapidly through the social ranks during the reign of Henry VIII to become a trusted steward of Edward Seymour, Lord Protector of England and the Duke of Somerset.

Somerset rewarded Thynne with a knighthood for his service and loyalty on the battlefield of Pinkie in 1547.

The design of Longleat is Thynne’s very own. Perhaps it was the freedom of designing a house without the advice of an architect that allowed Thynne to create an English country house like no other. Longleat was created in the Italianate or Classical Renaissance style and was ground-breaking in its time.

Instead of creating a central courtyard with rooms looking inward, Thynne designed a giant cube of a house with all the major rooms facing outward to give views of the surrounding park.

Queen Elizabeth I

Thynne must have known that he had reached the uppermost echelons of English society and that his home was something of a masterpiece when  Queen Elizabeth I  chose it as one of the stops on her great summer progress of 1575.

At that time, the house was only two storeys high but soon grew to three. Three is the magic number and the façade at Longleat incorporated all three classical ‘orders’ or styles of column in its design: Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. Today, the exterior of Longleat House is almost exactly as it was in the 16 th  century.

Historic Treasures

In contrast, the interiors were massively altered in the 19 th  century and only the great hall survives as testament to the first John Thynne’s elegant taste. In the early 1800s Sir Jeffrey Wyatville was hired to give the interiors of Longleat a new lease of life, a task that was later continued by J.D. Crace in the 1870s.

The collection at Longleat, amassed by 15 generations of the Thynne family, features several stunning paintings. A series of hunting scenes painted in the 1730s by John Wooten dominate the cavernous great hall, while paintings by the likes of Titian can be seen hanging elsewhere in the house’s 130 rooms.

Longleat is also home to exquisite tapestries, beautiful examples of hand-painted Chinese wallpaper and a rare collection of large Meissen porcelain.

Longleat is famous too for its libraries.

The first John Thynne began the family tradition of collecting books and manuscripts and created the first library at Longleat in 1577.

Today, Longleat is home to eight libraries in total, including the unique Bishop Ken’s library which runs along the third floor of the entire east front of the house. Bishop Ken of Bath was a friend of the then Lord Weymouth and lived in exile at Longleat from 1691 until his death. The Bishop had been expelled from the church for refusing to swear an oath of allegiance to King William and Queen Mary.

Other Royal Connections

Elizabeth I was not the only reigning monarch to spend the night under the roof of Longleat House.

In 1663 King Charles and Queen Catherine felt secure enough on their throne to leave their home and visit the second John Thynne at Longleat in 1663, just two years after the Restoration.

In thanks, Charles II granted the Thynne family the title Lord Weymouth, a title descendents of the first John Thynne hold to this day.

After the Great War

Which brings us nicely to Longleat in the 20 th  and 21 st  centuries. In the years following the First World War traditional English country houses, especially those of the Ducal variety, became something of an elephant in the room. Times had changed and the country house, as a symbol of privilege, wealth and power, seemed to have no place in the brave new world.

By the time the Second World War had come to an end most of the country houses in England were either badly damaged by bombings or dilapidated, having been used as hospitals and barracks for the last five years.

The post-war years were hard on everyone, the wealthy included, and few could afford the mounting tax bills and costly repairs needed to keep their ancestral piles inhabitable.

Open To The Public

It was in this context that Henry Thynne, 6 th  Marquess of Bath took the unheard of step of opening up his stately home to the public. Amidst a blaze of publicity, Longleat became the first country house to transform itself into a lucrative tourist destination. Soon, a wave of other struggling aristocrats followed suit.

By the mid 1960s, however, the lure of touring Longleat House to catch a glimpse of how the other half lived had begun to wear off. Financial difficulties again threatened the Marquess of Bath’s estate and in an attempt to secure Longleat’s future for the long term he took a bold step.

In 1966, the 6 th  Marquess opened a safari park on the grounds of Longleat, the only such park outside Africa. Longleat soon became synonymous with the lions that roam its grounds and today there are over 500 animals living in the park.

A Colourful Marquess

Longleat is almost as famous for the private life of the 7th Marquess of Bath, Alexander Thynn, as it is for its roaming lions. Alexander took over the marquessate from his father in 1992, by which time he was already notorious for his eccentric and polygamous lifestyle.

As soon as he had the keys to the castle, Alexander set about redecorating the residential parts of Longleat House with his own painted murals. One such mural depicts portions of the karma sutra while others include portraits of Alexander’s seventy ‘wifelets’, many of whom live in cottages on the Longleat Estate.

Alexander is also a great lover of mazes and was responsible for installing the incredible Longleat Hedge Maze in 1975. The longest maze in the world, the hedge maze was later accompanied by the smaller Lunar Labyrinth, Sun Maze, Love Labyrinth and King Arthur’s Maze.

 By Rurik (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

In 2010, Alexander passed the marquessate and the management of the Longleat business to his son Caewlin.

Less than approving of his father’s lifestyle and taste in art, the 8 th  Marquess caused a well-publicised family rift when he removed some of his father’s murals from Longleat’s living quarters.

His father retaliated by refusing to attend his wedding.

Longleat Today

Today, the current Lord and Lady Weymouth and their two children continue to open their home to visitors every day of the week. The safari park at Longleat is a major family attraction that draws in visitors from all over the world, but it is Longleat House itself, an Italianate mansion built by the son of a farmer and visited by Queen Elizabeth I, that is truly extraordinary.

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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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A Family Day Out at Longleat Safari & Adventure Park

Table of Contents

When our friends suggested a group of us should all get together for a day trip to Longleat Safari & Adventure Park, we jumped at the chance. The last time I went, I wasn’t much older than Monkey is now – I remember my parents talking about the notorious monkeys who pull off your wipers and scratch the car… And considering this attraction has been pulling in visitors to its 9,000 acres of Wiltshire countryside since 1966, we knew the kids were going to love it.

Longleat Adventure Park History

Longleat is home to the 7th Marquess of Bath whose 16th-century stately home is open to the public – and a majestic sight it is when you drive along the winding road into the estate. It’s a grand building and one that stands out like a beacon amongst all its surroundings. And, as much as I wanted to go on the house tour and learn more about its history – we were never going to stand a chance with three toddlers desperate to explore.

What To Do at Longleat…

The day we chose to go was awful weather-wise. There’s a running joke amongst our friends who claim that my husband and I are magnets for the rain. Could we do Longleat in the rain? Well, we did. After meeting in the large on-site Costa coffee mid-morning, I couldn’t agree more. It was pouring down. But, after frantically checking our BBC weather app, which promised us the afternoon would brighten up, there was nothing for it but to get back in our cars and experience the world’s first drive-through safari outside of Africa – the Longleat safari drive through.

Longleat Safari

I’ll be honest – I didn’t quite know what to expect. As we drove through the main gates – it was reminiscent of that scene in Jurassic Park  where the convoy of cars enters the jungle. I suppose it would conjure up this image as the Safari is called Deadly Safari… We put up our windows pretty sharpish after receiving our free audio CD which is narrated by wildlife guru Steve Backshall. We didn’t really listen to it – only because the journey was interesting enough for Monkey once the tour got going in earnest.

Longleat Safari is home to over 500 animals from flamingos and lemurs to bigger mammals such as rhinos and giraffes. As you approach each enclosure, there are signs warning you of the dangers  – you can even avoid the infamous monkeys by driving around their compound. But where’s the fun it that?

Other activities at Longleat Safari & Adventure Park

By the time we’d made our way around Longleat’s Safari, it was well past lunchtime – although we’d scoffed most of our sandwiches in the car! Unfortunately, it was still raining but this didn’t deter us from venturing into the Adventure Park, which comprises of several sections including the Jungle Kingdom, Penguin Island and Postman Pat Village.

Longleat Jungle Cruise

Next stop, was catching the Jungle Cruise. We didn’t have to wait and boarded the boat straight-away. We all managed to get a prime position to see the sea lions that reside in the lake. They were fantastic – swimming up to us, playing about and diving under – even more so when we brought some fish for the kids to feed them.

Longleat Gorilla Experience and More

We also sailed past Longleat’s new Gorilla colony but were unable to catch a glimpse of the four lowland gorillas who now live there. And the same can be said of Nico – Longleat’s oldest silverback who has his own private island with satellite TV. I have a feeling the weather was a little too cold for them.

Meanwhile, the rest of our time was spent observing the monkeys at the Monkey Temple; stroking stingrays; getting up close and personal with Humboldt penguins, and touching snakes in the Butterfly and Reptile House.

Longleat Play Areas

The kids were still full of beans, so we saved the most strenuous activity till last – by letting them run wild in the Adventure Castle – a large playground and park with several slides, climbing frames, and an indoor play area.

But with a long drive still ahead of us, we decided to find a restaurant to have some dinner before shooting off back home. Unfortunately, all the park’s restaurants were closed so we had to find somewhere outside of the estate.  I’m not sure if this is the case during the summer months, but this was a little inconvenient when there were six hungry adults and three ravenous toddlers to feed. Luckily, a nearby Pizza Hut saved the day.

How Big Is Longleat?

So, apart from the weather and lack of evening dining options, it was a successful trip. The map was quite deceiving as the adventure park is fairly compact – and can easily be done in an afternoon. But perhaps that was because it was such a wet and cold day, and we rushed around it like a whirlwind. However, that said, even though some areas look a little old and tired, that didn’t detract from the fun the kids had – they really had a good time. In fact, we all enjoyed ourselves – being able to see a lion and cheetah so close, was worth the price of the ticket alone – everything else was just a bonus.

Things To Know Before You Go – Longleat Tips

• Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is located in Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW •  Tickets can be purchased on the day, but if you book online at longleat.co.uk you save up to 15%. Adults All in One Day Ticket £29.70 (if booked two days in advance); Kids 3-14 £22.27 • Longleat Safari bus times vary depending on the time of year that you visit. Tickets cost £5 and The Safari Bus is subject to availability and bookings are taken on a first come first served basis. Check here for more info . • There are several Longleat Safari Park restaurants – including the new Chameleon Tree Restaurant and Coffee House, and Pizza Piazza.

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The History Hit Miscellany of Facts, Figures and Fascinating Finds

• United Kingdom

Wiltshire, UK

Sarah Roller

18 feb 2021, @sarahroller8, about longleat.

Longleat House & Safari Park is the seat of the Marquesses of Bath, as well as being notable for having the first safari park constructed outside of Africa. It is located in West Wiltshire, UK.

History of Longleat

Longleat was originally an Augustinian priory: the house was bought for Sir John Thynn in 1541, but burnt down shortly afterwards in 1567. By 1580 the house was rebuilt, mainly to a design by Sir John. The house has remained with the family ever since: Sir James Thynne employed Sir Christopher Wren to work on the house in the 17th century, and his son, Thomas Thynne, commissioned formal gardens and landscaping by George London.

Various other alterations happened in the 19th century under John Crace, adding some Italian Renaissance style interiors. The house was used as a temporary hospital during World War One and was used as a the base for an evacuated school in World War Two.

Longleat was opened to the public at the end of the 1940s in order to generate revenue, and the safari park was opened in 1966, becoming the first drive-through safari park outside of Africa. Part of the 900 acre estate was also leased to Centre Parcs in more recent years.

The house still has an impressive art and book collection today, and the formal gardens are exceptionally pleasant. The present Marquess’ father loved mazes, and planted several across the grounds which are worth getting lost in if you have the time.

Longleat today

The house is accessible via free flow, self-guided visit or via tour: there are multiple themes to choose from, including ‘Scandalous History Tours’ which dish the more salacious gossip on the Thynne family, including the current Marquess’ father, who kept his mistresses in grace and favour cottages across the estate and painted explicit murals in his house – be warned if you plan on taking children!

The safari park remains the star attraction for most visitors: the majority of it is drive through: the monkeys are particularly mischievous and have known to steal car aerials if you’re not careful. The park has a wide variety of animals, including lions, cheetahs, giraffe and zebras amongst many more – the novelty of seeing lions amongst the bluebells in spring is somewhere you won’t find elsewhere.

Getting to Longleat

Longleat is located just off the A36, roughly halfway between Bath and Salisbury, on the A362 between Warminster and Frome. Public transport options are somewhat limited: the nearest stations are Frome and Warminster respectively, although are both approximately 5 miles away and there is no bus service to speak of.

The drive through the grounds can be particularly lovely and atmospheric so be sure to enjoy it!

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Longleat Stays – Lodges, Log Cabins & Cottages With Hot Tubs

Located on the westernmost tip of Wiltshire, the massive estate of Longleat is the ultimate family destination. At its core, the place is a stately home, but thanks to its landscaped parklands and deep woodlands, Longleat is now considered the first safari park in England. From its exciting hedge maze to its wonderful collection of wildlife, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure. Visitors are also welcome to explore the estate’s endless grounds and tour the grand Elizabethan manor. For a holiday like no other, bring your family and friends to Longleat!

Hot Tub Accommodation: Holiday Cottages Luxury Lodges, Log Cabins

Looking for the perfect place for your stay in Longleat? Luckily, the safari park is close to many bustling cities and charming towns offering tons of luxurious accommodations. Families can retreat after a day of adventure into cosy country homes decorated with spacious lounge areas and gardens. For couples on a romantic break, you can recapture the intimate atmosphere with these lovely cottages and bungalows. And if you’re travelling with a big group, there’s always room for more with properties featuring extra bedrooms and summer houses. Spend the day in Longleat and retreat to the best holiday base!

Modern lodging with sunny lounge area. Exclusive deck perfect for al fresco dining. Panoramic lakeside scenery for maximum tranquillity.

Barn conversion surrounded by lovely gardens and countryside. Only five-minute drive away from shops, cafes, and restaurants. Property can be decorated for Christmas upon request.

Located on the outskirts of Bath. Family country home with patio and enclosed lawn. Games room include pool table, air hockey, and table football.

Holiday bungalow found within pretty village of Compton Dundon. Features private gravelled driveway and manicured lawn. Can accommodate up to three well-behaved pets.

Renovated barn featuring reverse-level and open-plan layouts. Lounge area includes bifolding doors opening to grounds. First-floor balcony with overlooking flatlands.

Detached cottage with funky and artsy interiors. Stone walled garden with fire pit and hammock. Property welcomes up to four dogs.

Semi-detached property boasting original exposed beams. Kitchen opens to terrace for outdoor dining. Within driving distance to Poole, Bournemouth, and Weymouth.

Classic English home fitting for large groups. Property set within exclusive neighbourhood of Meare. Spacious garden for well-behaved pets.

Six-bedroom holiday home with lovely piano. Spacious terrace for al fresco dining with woodland views. Found on the outskirts of Frome.

Newly-renovated modern home with Bansky-inspired interiors. Fenced patio and yard with outdoor furnishings. Within driving distance to city of Bath.

Restored barn featuring an eclectic mix of rooms. Enclosed gravelled yard for maximum privacy. Perfect for small families or romantic getaways.

Luxurious woodland-themed retreat. Enclosed terrace with outdoor seating. Can be booked with adjacent property for larger groups.

SEE ALL PROPERTIES

Best Places To Stay On Your Longleat Hot Tub Break

With its unique location and vast estate, Longleat has plenty of access to neighbouring towns and cities. Pair your safari adventure with a quick stroll along the ancient streets of Bath. For an authentic rural retreat, holidaymakers and glampers will find their next home from home within the town of Bradford-on-Avon. And if you simply want to get lost in the pretty countryside, then Shaftesbury is the place to be. For your next stay in Longleat, take a pick from some of the best holiday destinations:

Bath is a city located in the southwestern region of Somerset. The city itself is built around the Avon Canal and is surrounded by limestone hills from Mendip Hills and the Cotswolds. Due to its stunning landscape and incredible heritage, Bath is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the largest settlement in the county, receiving millions of visitors every year.

The city of Bath is famous for many things including its Georgian architecture and Roman-built baths. The latter is located at the heart of the city and within close distance to the historical Bath Abbey. On the other hand, its Georgian style is very much evident through the city’s exteriors and is represented through buildings like the Royal Crescent and the Circus. Bath is also closely associated with the famous writer, Jane Austen.

Bradford-on-Avon

Bradford-on-Avon is a picturesque town within the borders of Wiltshire. The town is dominated by valleys and hillsides with the River Avon connecting it to the city of Bath. Although generally smaller than its neighbours, the town is rich in history with ruins dating back to Roman times. Holidaymakers also frequent the area for its charming architecture and idyllic atmosphere.

The town is best known for its heritage sites including the Tithe Barn, which is believed to be the biggest medieval barn in England. It’s also synonymous with the Town Bridge. This bridge is the most iconic structure of Bradford-on-Avon featuring nine arches and a small domed chapel. The trek up St. Margaret’s Hill is also a favourite trail among holidaymakers who want a panoramic view of the town’s countryside.

Shaftesbury

Shaftesbury is a town located in Dorset and is known for its hilly streets and sprawling farmlands. With its beautiful landscapes and charming homes, it’s considered one of the prettiest towns in the county. Like many rural towns, Shaftesbury has a deep history with its fair share of age-old ruins. This includes Shaftesbury Abbey, a nunnery that was believed to have been established in 888. Another worthy structure is St. Peter’s Church, a Grade-II listed building that is now being used as the town hall.

While most tourists would associate the town as a holiday destination, the rest of Britain knows Shaftesbury from the “Hovis” commercial. The famous commercial was filmed in Gold Hill, one of the town’s hilltop areas and featured a young boy riding his bicycle with a loaf of bread in his basket. It was an extremely popular advert during the 1970s and drove tourism up for this quiet little town. That’s not all though – Shaftesbury also has fascinating museums, lovely outdoor parks, and gorgeous gardens boasting its own flower called “Shaftesbury Snowdrops.”

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How to get to Longleat Safari Park for the day...

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Center Parcs Longleat Forest Questions & Answers

How to get to Longleat Safari Park for the day? Is it walkable, is there any public transport or will we need to book taxis?

  Bus or taxi. I wouldn’t walk as it’s not safe due to lack of paving. Bus is £2 for two people from Market Place. But only run one an hour.

Taxi is around £10.

The entrance to Longleat Safari Park is only a matter of yards from the exit of Center Parcs Longleat. But!! Center Parcs drive is half a mile, and Longleat's drive is probably 2 miles to the house. There is a safari bus but I could not give details on that.

I happily take my car around the safari as you do not have to enter the monkey enclosure if you don't want to.

You could walk to the main entrance, its pretty much right opposite Center Parcs, but you pay to get in whilst in your car. I don't remember seeing a walk up pay booth. Then once you have paid to get in it is quite a drive down to the main park. It isn't really a place to walk to.

I wouldn't recommend not taking your own car. Driving your own car around the Safari is the main attraction.

It’s not far, if you love walking it should take about 30 mins? But then you’ll need a safari bus to go round park.

Is the bus route from London to longleat safe ,we are travelling with 20 month child?

I've just seen your reply Luciacratz. Very helpful.

We won't have a car. I've found out about the safari bus which sounds good as they give information onboard. Shame we can't take the bikes off site so will probably try and arrange a taxi to get to the park unless all the group are feeling energetic.

Thanks for the replies. I should have said that we're going by train to Center Parcs so no car. I'll have to find out about safari buses which it seems we'll need a taxi to get to.

Sorry, I am unsure. You may want to ring Center Parcs Longleat. I am sure they will be able to help.

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Longleat Safari Park osteopath helps develop Asian elephant care

• Published 15 August 2023

An osteopath who helps care for a 69-year-old elephant at Longleat Safari Park has led workshops in Thailand about how to care for the animals.

Keepers from the safari park in Wiltshire travelled to Thailand with renowned Cheltenham osteopath Tony Nevin.

He has been treating Asian elephant Anne for more than a decade after she was rescued from a circus.

"We've got this whole toolbox of things we can use," Mr Nevin said.

Mr Nevin uses hand massage techniques along with laser work and infra-red imagery to care for Anne, who has been at Longleat since 2011.

He visits the safari park once a month to look after her, and has taken the skills and insights gained from his time there to teach others how to look after elephants.

Mr Nevin, whose practise Zoo Ost Ltd is based in Cheltenham, and keepers from Longleat travelled to Chiang Rai in Thailand to led practical workshops with elephant keepers who work across Thailand.

Osteopathy practices with the rescued elephants at the workshop in Thailand saw a marked improvement in their posture and gait over the course of a week.

He said: "I've been working with Anne ever since she arrived at the park. She had a life in the circus and that involves effectively gymnastics - and just like any person that does gymnastics, particular joints can suffer.

"So as a result with Anne she's got arthritis in her hips and knees and throws more of her weight forward which then creates problems in them," he added.

He said: "As a species, Asian elephants are really struggling and I was really keen to use the skills I'd built up working with Anne and take those out to Thailand and be able to work with elephants there and teach vets and elephant handlers their the techniques that we use. "

Longleat's head of animal operations, Darren Beasley, said: "Anne is hugely intelligent and renowned for being quite the character by all who are lucky enough to spend time with her."It is a privilege to have been entrusted with her care and we're so pleased that - with Tony's help - we can share the learning and techniques honed at Longleat to provide vital support for her species across the world," he added.

Longleat has joined forces with the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the World Elephant Day Foundation to help secure better outcomes for elephants across the world. 

"We are proud that our member safari parks such as Longleat are world-leaders in elephant care," said Dr Jo Judge, CEO of BIAZA."The dedicated work of Tony and the Longleat keepers is a brilliant example of this - sharing the knowledge and skills they have in caring for Anne, can go on to support elephants all across the world. "

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