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Events at Port Lympne

Find all the latest events at Port Lympne Reserve below.  Or find out more about our experiences that take place throughout the year, including indulgent afternoon teas and guided safaris.

Visit Port Lympne Reserve this Easter holiday from Saturday 1st to Sunday 16th April 2023, to enjoy ‘eggstraordinary’ big days out! Join us for an authentic safari in the Kent countryside and come face-to-face with giraffes, zebras, rhinos, ostriches and many more incredible species at the Kent's BIGGEST wildlife park.

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Why not stay for a day and join in on some of our other amazing experiences.

Experiences

Safaris, Animal Encounters and dining experiences at Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve

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Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve

Home to some of the world's most endangered animals, including Kent's only gorillas and black rhino, elephants at Howletts, and many more!  Visitors can enjoy a wild day out and see real conservation in action!  

Port Lympne is set over 600 acres and is home to the UK's most authentic safari experience.  The African Experience - 100 acres alive with animals.

Throughout the year visitors can take advantage of special themed events all included in the price of the ticket at no extra cost!  Visitors can also book additional activities for an extra special day, including bespoke safaris, guided tours, team building activites, keeper experiences and many more.

Restaurants and kiosks are located around the park providing a variety of hot and cold snacks.

The Reserve also offers a variety of short breaks, each one offering a unique experience, from an inside view to the lives of tigers or a glamping experience you’ll never forget. Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve can offer it all. Find out more at https://www.aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne/short-breaks/ .

See website for prices.

Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Reserve Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve Aldington Road Lympne CT21 4PD

Opening Times

Open everyday except Christmas Day Port Lympne Summer March - October 9.30am - 6.30pm (last entry 3.30pm) Winter October - March 9.30 - 5.30pm (last entry 2.30pm) Howletts Summer March - October 9.30am - 6pm (last entry 4pm) Winter October - March 9.30am - 5pm (last entry 3.30pm)

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Our Day At Port Lympne Safari Park and Wild Animal Reserve REVIEW

This year I have started to hear about Port Lympne. A safari park and wild animal reserve in Kent. Who also offer amazingly different short break experiences. I couldn’t believe that there is a safari park in Kent giving you the full safari jeep experience. The only time we had ever experienced something like that is in Disney’s Animal Kingdom , I didn’t know it was an option in the UK. We were offered the chance to visit for the day to review the park, I couldn’t wait to take the children there.

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Visiting Port Lympne

Port Lympne works extremely closely with the Aspinall Foundation. They are a conservation charity who are leading the way in the reintroduction of captive-bred animals back into the wild.

Port Lympne is home to Kent’s only giraffes and spectacled bears. Gorilla feeds are a real highlight of any visit and take place at 12 and 3 pm. They also have a Dinosaur Forest that is the UK’s largest outdoor dinosaur exhibition.

The reserve covers 600 acres and is home to more than 760 animals from over 90 species. It is split into two areas, the safari truck routes, and the pedestrian routes. It has a combination of hilly and flat terrain. This can sometimes be steep and uneven.

If you are interested in a short break at Port Lympne there are over 13 different ways to stay there. Including glamping, the hotel, a stay in a bubble or a tiger, wolf or rhino lodge.

The Safari Experience

Upon entering Port Lympne we were directed to Basecamp. This is where the truck stop is to join the safari. We got there just after opening and wanted to make this our first port of call to avoid any long queuing times. As soon as we arrived at the truck stop a truck arrived for us to board with the group of passengers already waiting.

The safari takes you through a South American Experience, an Asian Experience, and an African Experience. The safari easily lasted an hour and our driver was full of information about the animals and the reserve.

At the South American Experience, you might be able to spot

• Spectacled Bears

In the Asian Experience, you might be able to spot

• Red River Hogs

• Pere David’s deer

• Asian water buffalo

• Przewalski’s horses

In the African Experience, you might be able to spot

• Eastern black rhino

• African painted dogs

The safari truck drops you at the stop in Carnivore territory. This is located at the bottom of the reserve. The driver did give us the option to return to Basecamp with him but we wanted to explore this area next. From this point, you walk up the hill back towards Basecamp. There are parts that are steep. If you stay on a short break some of the accommodation comes with the use of golf buggies. I think these would come in very handy to visit the rest of the park.

We captured our safari experience in the below video.

Dinosaur Forest

The next area of Port Lympne that we visited was the Dinosaur Forest. As expected this area is filled with dinosaurs. They are displayed in the correct timeline from when they roamed the earth.

The area contains lots of information about each dinosaur. We were even given a questionnaire about the dinosaurs to complete as we entered Port Lympne. We didn’t fill it in though as the children were having too much fun dinosaur spotting.

Dinosaur Forest is a lot bigger than we were expecting it to be and the children loved it.

The below video shows us exploring the Dinosaur Forest.

Meeting A T-Rex

Every Sunday during the summer holidays the Dinosaur Forest has had another visitor. A ‘real-life’ T-Rex . We made sure we were there when it was time for him to visit.

Joe the T-Rex was lots of fun and the children thought he was very funny.

Little E was even put in charge of him. She had to walk him around and keep him under control! You can see all the fun the children had below…

The Primate Trail

After we stopped for lunch at Babydoll’s Wood Fired Pizza we made our way around the pedestrian route. We headed towards the Primate Trail. The highlight of this part of the reserve for me was the Apes and Gorillas.

They are animals that Colchester Zoo doesn’t have, and I think they are a rare sight in many zoos.

What was really amazing was that there was a baby ape. It was fantastic to see one so small. It is also nice to know that they are happy enough to breed at Port Lympne.

I really wanted to experience the Gorilla feed but Ethan had struggled during our visit so we decided to give it a miss on this visit. I’m hoping there will be a future visit where we can experience this.

The below video is the full vlog of our day at Port Lympne.

Our Thoughts Of Port Lympne

Port Lympne doesn’t have the feel of a zoo. There is a more relaxed feel in the atmosphere. There are so many different animals to see there.

The safari was a real highlight for us. Amazing to have this experience in the UK. It was also very educational for us all.

The children loved their time there and also enjoyed playing in the different playgrounds.

I feel like Port Lympne want to offer its visitors an experience to remember at their reserve. They do this by offering a very different short break experience. Even down to the restaurant where we ate lunch, it just feels so different from a normal zoo-type visit. Babydoll’s could easily be a standalone restaurant found in your local town.

We would love to return but we would like to experience an overnight stay . Preferably accommodation that includes a golf buggy. The hills of the reserve did call for the purchase of cake on our return to Basecamp.

DISCLOSURE – We were gifted entrance to Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve for the purposes of this post and to create our YouTube videos. We always give our honest opinions, findings, beliefs, and experiences.

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Port Lympne Reserve

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Port Lympne Reserve - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 9:30 am - 6:30 pm
• (0.01 km) Rhino Lodge
• (0.26 km) Lympne Castle Cottages
• (0.81 km) Giraffe Lodge
• (1.26 km) Treehouse Hotel
• (1.07 km) Bear Lodge
• (0.20 km) The County Members
• (0.86 km) Unit No.1
• (0.63 km) The Garden Room At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
• (3.60 km) Hide and Fox
• (4.45 km) Coppers
• (0.21 km) Hythe Sound Mirror
• (0.28 km) Lympne Castle
• (3.85 km) Kent Ballooning
• (4.06 km) Alpaca Annie
• (0.80 km) Royal Military Canal, West Hythe

Review: An authentic African safari experience at Port Lympne Wild Animal Park

Did you know you can go on African safari just an hour from Tunbridge Wells? We went along to Port Lympne Wild Animal Reserve to check out the safari experience in the ‘Kent Serengeti’ as well as Dinosaur Forest and other awesome animals throughout the park.

After entering Port Lympne which is located on over 600 acres of Kent countryside, we were advised that the best way of seeing everything was going straight down to Base Camp and go on an African Safari bus which would last for just over an hour. We could then have lunch followed by taking a tour around the Dinosaur Forest and making our way back up to Base Camp, seeing more marvellous animals along the way.

Our first port of call was the Buggy Stop which is a covered area where we were able to leave the push chair for the rest of the day. Ben is getting fairly good at walking for longer periods anyway, but there are tons of Port Lympne push chairs scattered around the place for visitors to use should they need one.

The queue for the safari experience is conveniently next to a lovely playground which the kids had great fun in while we waited for our truck to arrive. A little tip for the safari – try to sit on the left side of the truck if you can , as many of the animals on the way down are on this side.

The Safari Experience is super! We got to see some amazing animals in their ‘natural’ habitats and the highlight of the day for me was seeing the baby giraffe which had only just been born. We started off by going through The Asian Experience followed by The African Experience where the animals roam free, which was another favourite too. There were zebras and antelopes literally wandering out in front of the safari truck and some gorgeous giraffes strolling around the field.

It was wonderful to see them in their own space enjoying life and roaming free. What also surprised me was how beautiful the views were across the landscape – we could see the sea from our truck and when we got to the highest part, we were able to look down at the amazing animals, across the rolling fields – it’s in such a stunning setting and is like nothing I have ever been to. Who would have known we have something so amazing close to Tunbridge Wells? Our driver was excellent with so much knowledge and interesting information about the animals too.

After going full circle, we got off the bus  at Carnivore Territory and wandered up to the Cafe. We were pretty hungry by this stage as it was close to 2pm so decided to have lunch before visiting the Dinosaur Forest. There was plenty of seating outdoors and the weather was still fairly good so we had lunch alfresco. Lots of families had brought their own lunch but we got something from the cafe as a treat. If you are getting lunch there, it might be better to go slightly earlier as the choice was a little more limited when we arrived. However there were still a few options for hot food and a lovely looking cake selection with hot and cold drinks too.

Next up was the Dinosaur Forest which I have to say was terrific too! This section of the site opened in early 2016 and boasts the largest collection of life size dinosaurs in Europe.  Visitors can wander around the trail and see all sorts of species with interesting facts about them along the way. The area is wild and natural and the children really enjoyed it. They have discovered a new-found love for dinosaurs again and have been talking about them ever since.

We made our way back up to Base Camp via the Primate Walk with the help of one of the Port Lympne buggies along the way for my youngest (thought the biggest was trying to get into it too). Seeing the Palace of the Apes is a must!  We happened to arrive at feeding time for the monkeys and loved seeing them swing from branch to branch with their lunch in their hands. There was also a baby baboon following his parents around which was really sweet to watch.

After arriving back at Base Camp, we picked up our buggy and went to the Wolves & Tigers section which is located close to the entrance before visiting the git shop which had lots of reasonably priced animal-related toys as well as special gifts too. Harry chose a wind-up dinosaur to buy with ‘his’ money, a nice little reminder of fantastic and fun day out!

Find out more about Port Lympne HERE .

From playgroups, education and English Tutors to events, activities and fun for all the family, you are in the right place!

Port Lympne Reserve

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

PORT LYMPNE RESERVE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• Sun - Sat 09:30 - 18:30
• (0.00 mi) Rhino Lodge
• (0.16 mi) Lympne Castle Cottages
• (0.51 mi) Giraffe Lodge
• (0.79 mi) Treehouse Hotel
• (0.67 mi) Bear Lodge
• (0.12 mi) The County Members
• (0.54 mi) Unit No.1
• (0.39 mi) The Garden Room At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve
• (2.25 mi) Hide and Fox
• (2.72 mi) Twenty Four
• (0.13 mi) Hythe Sound Mirror
• (0.18 mi) Lympne Castle
• (2.41 mi) Kent Ballooning
• (2.54 mi) Alpaca Annie
• (0.50 mi) Royal Military Canal, West Hythe

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Port Lympne Reserve

Last Updated on March 7, 2024 by Suzy McCullough

Port Lympne Safari Park is an animal reserve in Lympne, Kent. As well as being open for day visitors you can also book a stay in one of their many unique accommodation experiences or in their luxury hotel.

Things to do at Port Lympne Reserve

They have over 900 rare and endangered animals. You can go on safari to see their free, -roaming giraffes. Plus there are spectacled bears and the UK’s largest collection of dinosaurs. In over 600 acres you can see big and small cats plus primates, gorillas and many more. They also have the largest herd of black rhinos in the UK. The park also has some play areas for the kids plus daily animal talks and feeds.

In the Dinosaur Forest, you can see prehistoric life-sized creatures. Through three acres of natural woodland, you will discover facts and information about the prehistoric world. Kids can also have a go at digging for fossils. If you download the Port Lympne app you can bring the dinosaurs to life. They recommend that you download it before you get there.

Around the hotel, there are 15 acres of landscaped gardens to explore. With tranquil ponds, terraces and more. There is a hedge maze to get lost in and the gardens are a great spot for a picnic.

As well as there being a luxury hotel there are also a number of other places to stay dotted around the reserve. Most of these back onto enclosures such as tigers, lions, rhinos, wolves and more. They are also building a hotel with giraffes on the grounds. Plus glamping accommodation which is more affordable. You can also upgrade your visit to include animal experiences and safari experiences.

Important Information Port Lympne Reserve

Is there food and drink available.

There are restaurants and food outlets serving hot and cold food and drinks. You are welcome to bring a picnic.

What are the main things to do?

Wildlife park with big cats, rhinos, gorillas, primates and more. Large dinosaur collection, play areas, maze and hotel. There are toilets and places to purchase food and drinks.

What are the ticket prices?

An adult walking route and safari ticket costs £26.36 and children 3-15 £23.64. Under 3’s are free, walking route only tickets are cheaper. Other pricing options including family tickets and season passes are available. Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is a car park.

When are they open?

Port Lympne is open from late March until late October. For up-to-date opening times please visit their website.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are not permitted.

Are they accessible?

Information on accessibility

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18 intriguing facts about port lympne reserve.

Written by Coreen Griggs

Modified & Updated: 11 Oct 2023

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

• Animal Conservation Facts
• Animal Encounters Facts
• Animal Habitats Facts
• Breeding Programs Facts
• Conservation Efforts Facts
• Endangered Animals Facts
• Endangered Species Facts
• Rare Species Facts
• Safari Experience Facts
• Wildlife Conservation Facts
• Wildlife Facts

Port Lympne Reserve is a captivating destination that offers a unique experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Situated in Kent, England, this breathtaking reserve is a haven for animal conservation and adventure. From majestic lions and tigers to adorable primates and exotic birds, Port Lympne is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world.

But there’s more to Port Lympne Reserve than just its stunning wildlife. This remarkable destination also boasts a rich history and intriguing facts that will pique your curiosity. Whether you’re planning a visit or simply want to learn more about this extraordinary place, we have gathered 18 fascinating facts about Port Lympne Reserve that will captivate your imagination.

Key Takeaways:

• Port Lympne Reserve is a captivating wildlife sanctuary with over 700 diverse animals, offering unforgettable safari adventures and luxurious accommodations within the reserve itself. It’s a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates.
• Visitors to Port Lympne Reserve can witness the incredible behavior of Western Lowland Gorillas, explore the Dinosaur Forest, and get up close and personal with resident animals through the Animal Encounters Experience. It’s a magical destination for unforgettable celebrations and hands-on wildlife conservation opportunities.

The History of Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne Reserve is a stunning wildlife sanctuary located in Kent, England. This 600-acre reserve has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, when it was created as a private estate by Sir Philip Sassoon. Today, it stands as one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions, known for its incredible array of animals and conservation efforts.

A Home to Diverse Wildlife

Port Lympne Reserve is home to over 700 animals from diverse species. From big cats, such as lions and tigers, to rare primates including gorillas and lemurs, visitors can witness the beauty and majesty of these magnificent creatures up close.

The Gorilla Gardens

One of the highlights of Port Lympne Reserve is the Gorilla Gardens, where visitors can observe the incredible behavior and social dynamics of Western Lowland Gorillas. This immersive experience allows guests to learn more about these fascinating primates and the efforts being made to protect them from extinction.

The Dinosaur Forest

Step back in time and explore the Dinosaur Forest at Port Lympne Reserve. This unique exhibit features life-sized dinosaur replicas, taking visitors on a prehistoric journey and providing insights into the world of these ancient creatures.

Conservation Efforts

Port Lympne Reserve plays a crucial role in conservation efforts, with a strong focus on breeding programs and reintroduction initiatives. The reserve actively contributes to various endangered species conservation projects, helping secure a future for some of the world’s most threatened animals.

Luxury Accommodations

For those looking for an extraordinary experience, Port Lympne Reserve offers luxurious accommodations within the reserve itself. From treehouses overlooking the wildlife to elegant lodges with stunning views, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the comforts of modern amenities.

The Rhinoceros Conservation Program

Port Lympne Reserve is dedicated to the conservation of rhinoceros species through its successful breeding program. Visitors can learn about the challenges faced by rhinos in the wild and witness these majestic creatures in a safe and protected environment.

Safari Adventures

Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure at Port Lympne Reserve. Hop on board a safari vehicle and journey through the reserve, encountering wildlife in their natural habitat. This thrilling experience allows visitors to get up close to animals such as giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.

The Primate Trail

Discover the Primate Trail at Port Lympne Reserve, home to a variety of primate species including lemurs, macaques, and colobus monkeys. This interactive trail provides educational opportunities to learn about the behaviors, habits, and conservation challenges faced by these incredible creatures.

The Animal Encounters Experience

Port Lympne Reserve offers the unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of its resident animals. With the Animal Encounters Experience, visitors can feed giraffes, lemurs, and even have the chance to meet a rhino face to face.

The Howletts Wild Animal Park

Adjacent to Port Lympne Reserve is the Howletts Wild Animal Park, another nature reserve managed by the Aspinall Foundation. Visitors can explore this park and discover even more incredible animals, including elephants, wolves, and cheetahs.

The Stunning Landscapes

Port Lympne Reserve is not just a haven for wildlife, but also a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, ancient woodlands, and stunning gardens. Nature lovers will be captivated by the breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings of this unique sanctuary.

Volunteering Opportunities

For those passionate about wildlife conservation, Port Lympne Reserve offers volunteering programs where participants can contribute to the daily care and conservation efforts of the animals. It’s a chance to make a real difference and gain hands-on experience in wildlife management.

Education and Learning Programs

Port Lympne Reserve is committed to education and offers a range of learning programs for all ages. From school trips and workshops to guided tours and informative talks, visitors can expand their knowledge about wildlife conservation and the important role that zoos play.

A Destination for Events and Weddings

Port Lympne Reserve provides a magical setting for special events and weddings. With its vast grounds, stunning venues, and close encounters with wildlife, it offers a truly unique backdrop for unforgettable celebrations.

The Red Panda Sanctuary

Explore the Red Panda Sanctuary, a dedicated area in Port Lympne Reserve where these adorable and endangered animals are protected and cared for. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness their playful antics and learn about efforts to conserve this charismatic species.

The Big Cat Experience

For those fascinated by big cats, Port Lympne Reserve offers the Big Cat Experience. Join experienced keepers as they introduce visitors to the world of lions, tigers, and leopards, providing insights into their behavior, conservation, and daily care routines.

A Memorable Visit

A visit to Port Lympne Reserve promises a memorable experience for the whole family. With its captivating wildlife, educational opportunities, and beautiful surroundings, it is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservation advocates alike.

Port Lympne Reserve is an incredible destination that offers a unique experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its diverse range of animal species, breathtaking landscapes, and commitment to conservation, it is no wonder that this reserve draws visitors from all over the world.The reserve provides a safe haven for endangered species and plays a crucial role in conservation efforts. Visitors have the opportunity to not only witness these magnificent creatures up close but also learn about the importance of preserving our natural environment.Whether you’re interested in exploring the stunning landscapes, embarking on a safari adventure, or simply enjoying a peaceful stroll through the reserve, Port Lympne offers something for everyone. With its fascinating history, luxurious accommodations, and ongoing conservation efforts, this reserve promises an unforgettable experience.So, if you’re looking for a place where adventure meets conservation, Port Lympne Reserve is a destination you don’t want to miss. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, encounter extraordinary wildlife, and contribute to the preservation of our planet.

1. How do I get to Port Lympne Reserve?

To reach Port Lympne Reserve, you can travel by car or public transport. The reserve is located near Lympne, Kent, and is easily accessible from major road networks. If you prefer public transport, you can take a train to Ashford International Station and then catch a bus to the reserve.

2. Is Port Lympne Reserve suitable for children?

Absolutely! Port Lympne Reserve offers various activities and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Children can enjoy interactive exhibits, go on a safari adventure, and learn about the importance of conservation in a fun and engaging way.

3. Can I bring my own food to Port Lympne Reserve?

While there are several dining options available within the reserve, you are also welcome to bring your own food. There are designated picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal amidst the stunning surroundings. Just remember to dispose of any waste responsibly and respect the natural environment.

4. Can I stay overnight at Port Lympne Reserve?

Yes, Port Lympne Reserve offers a range of unique accommodations, including luxury lodges and glamping tents. By staying overnight, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the reserve after hours and wake up to incredible views of the surrounding landscapes.

5. How can I support the conservation efforts at Port Lympne Reserve?

There are several ways to support the conservation efforts of Port Lympne Reserve. You can donate directly to the reserve, sponsor an animal, or become a member to enjoy exclusive benefits while contributing to their conservation projects. Every contribution helps in their mission to protect endangered species and preserve natural habitats.

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Port Lympne: The African safari trip you can take in the heart of Kent's countryside

A chance to get up close and personal with giraffes, rhinos, zebras and more isn't one for the faint-hearted

• 10:26, 5 JUN 2021

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The Kent countryside is a versatile mistress with a surprise around every corner.

From Pegwell Bay to Swanscombe Peninsula and from the Hambrook Marshes to Knole Deer Park, the county offers a diverse landscape full of quirks.

In one corner of the Kentish countryside, between Ashford and Folkestone , is a wild savannah full of all sorts of beasts.

That is, of course, the much-loved Port Lympne in Hythe .

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The nature reserve has recommenced its popular safari experience and is taking bookings now after a sold-out bank holiday weekend.

Port Lympne said: "These unique tours are like nothing else in the UK, offering a journey through the park’s vast Kentish savannah, seeing such iconic animals as giraffe, rhino, wildebeest and zebra.

"They offer the best way to experience an authentic, awe-inspiring safari whilst restrictions remain on international travel."

The park is offering different experiences to customers who are seeking a savannah staycation experience this summer.

For those with a penchant for a particular animal, you can take a trip on the Rhino or Giraffe Safari with prices starting at £75.

For something a bit more general, there's the Rangers Tour which comes in at £45 and takes you on a 90-minute tour of the Asian and African lands.

If it's something exclusive you're after, the AAA Safari sees visitors paired with a ranger in small groups or one-to-one to meet all types of beast with prices from £95.

Howletts Wild Animal Park and Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve in Kent are some of the most successful breeders of captive endangered animals in the world.

The conservation charity boasts 146 gorilla births, 41 black rhino, 126 clouded leopards, 38 Javan gibbons, 172 Javan langur and 22 African elephants.

As well as being a home for many of those animals, on a trip to Port Lympne you might spot some well-known celebrities enjoying the reserve.

Port Lympne offers luxurious staycation options where guests can spend a night in upmarket accommodation in the middle of its animal pens.

It's not for the faint-hearted and has attracted many celebrity visitors.

TOWIE star Gemma Collins, for The Saturdays member Frankie Bridge and Love Island's Maura Higgins and Curtis Pritchard have all shared snaps from the park.

• Most Recent

An Insider’s Guide to Port Lympne Reserve

28 Sep, 2023

Port Lympne Reserve, located in Kent, England, is a renowned wildlife conservation and safari park that covers approximately 600 acres of stunning countryside. Established in the 1970s, the reserve is famous for its mission to protect and rehabilitate a diverse range of wildlife species from all over the world. Visitors to Port Lympne can embark on a safari-style adventure where they can observe animals in settings that resemble their natural habitats. Port Lympne is home to a wide array of wildlife, including large mammals like African elephants, giraffes, lions, and rhinos, as well as smaller creatures such as lemurs and exotic bird species. It provides a variety of educational programs designed to spread knowledge about protecting wildlife and the environment. The picturesque landscape of Port Lympne, with its rolling hills and lush vegetation, provides a beautiful backdrop for this important conservation effort.

The Gastronomic Experience at Port Lympne

With an array of dining options, visitors can embark on a gastronomic experience that complements the natural beauty of the reserve. Every meal, whether it is fine dining or quick nibbles, offers a chance to discover the essence of this unique location. The reservation offers three restaurants and several other options of food and beverages.

The Garden Room Restaurant

At Garden Room Restaurant, guests can enjoy a seasonal menu made with locally sourced ingredients. With its huge windows and pleasant environment, the restaurant boasts a welcoming atmosphere. Dishes here range from hearty mains to carefully crafted desserts, providing a diverse culinary experience.

Babydoll’s Wood Fired Pizza

Babydoll’s Wood-Fired Pizza provides casual and family-friendly dining options. Here, wood-fired pizzas with a variety of toppings are prepared to perfection. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with a focus on creating a comfortable space for families and groups to enjoy their meals together.

Bear Lodge Restaurant

The Bear Lodge Restaurant is open to those looking for a distinctive place to stay overnight. Amid the gorgeous Kent countryside, it offers a fine dining experience. The cuisine is chosen to suit the realistic safari experience, offering a range of international and locally-inspired dishes.

In addition, the reserve offers several impressive spots. Near the picturesque watering hole, you can find a selection of refreshing drinks and snacks. There are also cafés for a quick pick-me-up, a terrace to enjoy the historic Port Lympne Mansion with a selection of fine wines and cocktails, and a picnic area for those who prefer a more al fresco experience. Finally, Port Lympne ensures that every visitor feels comfortable, offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Accommodations Choices

Accommodation options at Port Lympne Reserve cater to a range of preferences, from luxurious and immersive experiences to more rustic and nature-centric stays.

Luxury Lodges

Each lodge is uniquely themed and provides stunning views of the Kent countryside. The lodges are equipped with en-suite bathrooms, cosy bedrooms, and spacious living areas. Some lodges also offer private hot tubs and balconies, providing an extra touch of luxury. Additionally, guests have the exclusive opportunity to embark on after-hours safaris, adding a touch of adventure to their stay.

Treehouse Hotel

Elevated among the treetops, the luxurious treehouses offer a unique combination of comfort and adventure. Each treehouse is equipped with en-suite bathrooms, cosy bedrooms, and stylish lounges. The experience is further enhanced by the exclusive use of a golf buggy for exploring the reserve.

Located centrally in the Port Lympne Mansion, the cottages are the perfect option for guests looking for more privacy. Cottages combine vintage elegance and modern comfort, offering a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living spaces, and a lovely outdoor terrace. It’s an ideal choice for families or small groups looking for a more intimate lodging experience.

Pinewood Camping Pods

For guests seeking a more rustic and adventurous stay, cabins provide a cosy and back-to-nature experience. The pods offer comfortable beds, heating, and access to shared bathroom facilities. Guests can also enjoy their private decking area, perfect for relaxation and stargazing.

Offering 180-degree panoramic views, the bubble is the ultimate romantic getaway. The accommodation can host two guests. With transparent walls and ceilings, it includes a freestanding bath, as well as a monsoon shower, and a separate living area.

This is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, families and anyone looking to support wildlife conservation !

Tags: England , Kent , reserve , restaurants , safari , Travel guide

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Port Lympne Safari Park

Buying as a gift lovetovisit gift card available here, 25% off port lympne safari park tickets - pick your safari truck ride time for the ultimate kent day out for families.

Port Lympne Safari Park is home to over 600 acres of wildlife wonderland and over 900 amazing animals for you to discover in an exciting day out for a discounted price in Kent today. 

How does my Port Lympne Safari Park ticket work?

• Pick your timeslot for the safari truck ride
• Your tickets also grant you all-day admission to the safari park 
• Adult tickets from £24, was £32
• Child tickets from £21,  was £28

Book your discount admission tickets to Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent and get ready for an unforgettable day out for the whole family, or read on to find out more about this fantastic Kent day out. 

Ticket Information:

The time shown on your ticket is the safari truck start time. It is advised to arrive at the park 60 minutes prior to the safari truck start time. Once confirmed, the safari time will not be able to be amended. The safari loading area is approximately a 15-minute walk from the entrance. If the safari is missed, alternative times will not be offered.

Visit Port Lympne Safari Park for one of the best things to do in Kent with the family

If you're looking for some of the best days out in Kent, then you and the family will love visiting Port Lympne Safari Park. Enjoy an immersive journey into a world of wildlife like no other!

Hop in the safari truck and get ready for an adventure into nature, where you'll meet extraordinary animals from around the world. 

Home to wildlife from every corner of the globe, Port Lympne Safari Park lets you witness many majestic animals as they roam free in natural habitats.

Explore the many things to do at Port Lympne Safari Park

Kent's largest wildlife park is home to wonderful animals from all over the world. See wildlife park favourites such as lions, zebras, cheetahs, giraffes and monkeys, while also encountering rare animals that have become endangered in the wild, such as the Western lowland gorilla, the Eastern black rhino and the Siberian tiger. 

These are just some of the many exotic animals that you'll find on your safari adventure through Port Lympne! The whole family will love spotting animals of all shapes and sizes as you make your way through the site on a safari truck ride. 

Conservation is at the very heart of Port Lympne Safari Park, and each visit to the park helps fund the protection of these extraordinary animals. 

The Aspinall Zoo's are two of Kent's best days out

Kent has two wonderful wildlife parks, both offering locals and visitors to the area fantastic days out in Kent:

• Howletts Wild Animal Park - a walk-through wildlife park with over 300 animals and around 50 species, you'll witness real conservation in action at Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent
• Port Lympne Safari Park - info on this page

General Admission & Safari Truck Tickets - Port Lympne Safari Park

Get your tickets to a safari truck ride at Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent for 25% OFF and see extraordinary animals from around the world today.

How to find us

Port Lympne is in Lympne near Hythe. Leave the M20 at Junction 11 and follow the brown tourist signs to the park (about 5 minutes drive from the motorway)

How do my Port Lympne Safari Park tickets work?

These tickets include general admission and a ride on the safari truck. The timeslot shown on your ticket is when your safari truck ride will begin. 

Once confirmed the safari time will not be able to be amended.

It is advised that you arrive to the park 60 minutes prior to the safari time. Park gates open from 9:30am.

The safari loading area is approximately a 15-minute walk from the entrance.

If the safari is missed alternative times will not be offered.

Is Port Lympne Safari Park wheelchair accessible?

Port Lympne Safari Park is wheelchair accessible. Accesibility facilities in Port Lympne Safari park include: 

• Wheelchair and buggie routes
• Accessible toilets
• Accessible restaurant
• Accessible gift shop
• First aiders
• Accessible safari truck
• Wheelchair available to hire
• Mobility scooters permitted
• Minibus assistance available
• Concession tickets available
• Assistance dogs permitted
• Disabled parking

How long should I spend at Port Lympne Safari Park?

It takes around 4-5 hours to explore all of Port Lympne Safari Park. 

Can you drive through Port Lympne Safari Park with your own car?

No, your car is left at the car park and you walk through the parks.  However, there is an African & Asian Experience safari ride available.

How many animals are at Port Lympne Safari Park?

Port Lympne is home to approximately 900 animals and 75 species.

Can I bring my dog to Port Lympne Safari Park?

Dogs are not permitted at the park, except for registered assistance dogs.

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