Zoos, safaris and wildlife parks that make for a perfect summer day

The summer holidays are just around the corner and while the kids will be happy to have time off from school, parents will want to find things to keep them entertained. So a day or two out could be the perfect solution.

There are plenty of options for going out in Bristol, but one thing the city is currently missing is a zoo. At the start of 2022, Bristol Zoo closed its doors to the public for the last time, leaving the city without a local place to take the kids for an animal-themed day out.

But there are plenty of places within reasonable driving distance of Bristol that could be a great option. From safaris to wildlife parks and even the odd zoo or two, we’ve compiled a list of some places you could take the kids this summer.

Read more: Taylor Swift Eras Tour UK shows – set list, start times, acts and last minute tickets

Read more: Holidays for families with teenagers ahead of the release of Inside Out 2

Longleat

Located in Wiltshire, Longleat was “the first safari park to open outside of Africa in 1966” and is a brilliant day out for all the family. With over 120 species making the park home, there’s plenty to see and plenty of things to get involved in other than the safari, such as feeding the giraffes on the specially designed platform or taking a ride in the Lemur Walk-Through with lemurs as well as some sheep to see.

The park has different opening hours depending on the time of year, currently the park is open from 10:00am to 5:00pm during peak hours, while it is open an hour later during peak hours. During the summer, visitors can pick up the animals between 10:00 and 19:00, with final entry at 16:00. Ticket prices will cost £42.95 for an adult and £32.95 for a child aged 3-15. For more information visit the website.

Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park

If you’re looking for something closer to home then why not head to Avon Valley Adventure and Wildlife Park. While the park is currently closed, they will reopen the gates to visitors on July 13 for their “epic summer lineup.” There will be a huge sand and water play area for the kids and weather permitting a giant 50 meter slide.

And while the animals are more farm animals than zoo animals, it’s going to be a great day, especially if the sun is out. The park is open daily from 10.30am to 5pm and will cost £16.95 for an adult and a child aged two to 16 or £11.95 for a toddler. For all the information about the price and how to get there, go to the park website.

Join our WhatsApp group dedicated to food and drink events, reviews and news

Cotswold Nature Park

If you love the Cotswolds and want to see animals such as giraffes, tigers and even penguins, then the Cotswolds Wildlife Park near Burford could be the place for you. Apart from the animals, there is an adventure park for kids to run around and even a small farm where they can feed and pet the animals.

Open from 10am to 6pm with last entry at 4pm, ticket prices will vary depending on where you buy them. If you buy on the day, adults will cost £19 and children and senior citizens will cost £13.50. If you get an electronic ticket, then the prices will be a little cheaper, all the information can be found on the park website.

Marwell Zoo

For those who don’t mind a slightly longer drive, there’s always the brilliant Marwell Zoo. The site has hundreds of animals, a 140-acre park and five brilliant adventure playgrounds for kids to run around. There is also the possibility to feed the animals if there is availability.

Prices vary depending on which group you fall into, but adult tickets will cost around £25.18 and a child £21.58. Opening hours are 10am to 5pm and all other information can be found on the website.

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Or if you’re looking for a zoo a little closer to home, Noah’s Ark Zoo in North Somerset is a brilliant option just a short drive away. There’s a variety of animals at the zoo, from elephants to lemurs and even parrots, and there’s even a soft play area inside for the kids to enjoy.

The farm is open from 10.30am to 5pm throughout the summer and is not too expensive for a day out. Adult tickets will cost £26.40, £22 and concession tickets will cost £24.20. All information can be found on the farm’s website.