Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Oxfordshire, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens is amongst the finest zoos I've visited across the UK. In fact, it recently secured the title of the UK's best zoo in a nationwide survey, which assessed everything from species diversity to visitor satisfaction and value for money. As someone who thoroughly enjoys discovering the Cotswolds, I was particularly keen to experience what it had in store.
From the moment you enter, there's an undeniable feeling that every detail has been carefully considered to ensure both animals and guests feel completely comfortable. Spanning 160 acres of parkland and gardens, the ambience is serene and calming - making it ideal for a leisurely, stress-free day out.
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The park is home to more than 260 species, all accommodated in generous, natural-looking habitats that integrate beautifully with the surrounding environment. As you stroll through, you'll come across magnificent animals from across the globe.
This includes giraffes, white rhinos, lemurs, Asiatic lions, Humboldt penguins and red pandas.
Each creature appears content and well cared for, a sentiment reinforced by the park's impressive visitor reviews and numerous recent accolades for animal welfare and guest satisfaction.
One of the most memorable highlights during my visit was the giraffe feeding encounter, a special activity available to book for an additional fee.
Coming face-to-face with these majestic creatures was truly remarkable, with the keeper readily available to provide captivating insights into their habits, dietary needs and conservation efforts. Witnessing their long eyelashes and tongues at such close quarters was both enchanting and enlightening.
Despite ranking amongst the UK's finest wildlife destinations, the park never once felt crowded or hurried. The beautifully maintained gardens and sweeping lawns provided ample opportunity to pause, unwind and soak up the natural surroundings.
A key factor behind the park's award-winning status is its outstanding value for money. Standard day tickets are priced at approximately £19 for adults and £13.50 for children aged three to 16, with marginally reduced rates available for those who book online in advance.
Under-threes are admitted free of charge, and parking is included within the ticket price. Considering the sheer scale of the park, the exceptional standard of animal welfare, and the breadth of experiences available, this struck me as remarkably affordable — particularly when measured against other wildlife attractions across the UK.
Whether you're a dedicated wildlife lover or a family in search of an unforgettable day out, Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens delivers on every front.
Its stunning scenery, immersive encounters and extraordinary variety of animals combine to make this one of the finest experiences I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying.
Should you be considering a visit, secure your tickets in advance, take your time exploring, and be sure to stop and say hello to the giraffes.
