Make time for animals, keeper talks and family play at Lake District Wildlife Park near Bassenthwaite. Explore the outdoor enclosures at your own pace, then build your day around the presentations and activities available during your visit.
Where: Bassenthwaite Lake, near Keswick, CA12 4RD.
Best for: animal viewing, keeper presentations and family play.
Our suggestion: allow half a day, with extra time for a booked experience.
Bring: comfortable outdoor footwear and a waterproof layer.
Look out for favourites such as red pandas, lemurs, meerkats and zebras, alongside birds and reptiles. For wild animals outside managed enclosures, see our Lake District wildlife-watching locations. Browse the park’s wildlife pages before your visit, but remember that individual animals may be resting or off show.
The programme includes bird-of-prey displays and talks about animals such as meerkats and red pandas. Check the day’s schedule when you arrive rather than relying on fixed times in an older guide.
Allow time to watch quietly between presentations. Follow keeper instructions and feed animals only where the park explicitly permits it.
For a more focused visit, explore the park’s animal experiences. Options and availability vary; check the age limits, supervision requirements, clothing advice and whether park admission is included before booking.
These experiences are separate from simply walking around the park. Contact the team if you need help choosing an activity or checking access requirements.
The park describes conservation as part of its work, including endangered-species programmes and management of protected habitats around Bassenthwaite. Keeper presentations offer an opportunity to learn about animals and the pressures facing their wild populations.
The park has outdoor play facilities and indoor soft play, useful for breaking up a day of animal viewing. Most of the visit is outdoors, so plan for changeable Lake District weather even if you hope to use the indoor areas.
A café serves food and refreshments, with picnic facilities outdoors and under cover if you bring your own lunch. The gift shop provides another stop before heading home.
Our suggestion is to check the presentation programme first, then fit play and lunch around the talks your family most wants to see.
The official website currently lists adult admission at £15.95, seniors at £14.95, children at £13.95 and a family ticket at £56 for two adults and two children. Under-threes enter free.
General admission does not require advance booking according to the park’s homepage. Check the official website for current tickets and opening arrangements; animal experiences may require separate advance booking.
Use the Tripadvisor link below for reviews and listings. If booking through a third party, confirm exactly what is included and the cancellation terms.
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Lake District Wildlife Park is home to a fascinating collection of animals, making it a popular family attraction near Bassenthwaite.
Visitors can explore the enclosures, learn about different species and enjoy keeper presentations when available.
The park’s animal collection continues to develop, so check its latest news before visiting to discover any new arrivals and special experiences.
Use CA12 4RD for Lake District Wildlife Park, Bassenthwaite Lake. The official contact page provides a location map and contact details. Call 01768 776239 if you need directions or help planning your arrival.
For autumn and winter visits, check the latest opening hours directly with Lake District Wildlife Park before travelling. Opening times, keeper presentations and animal experiences may vary by season, particularly around Christmas and public holidays.
Visit the official Lake District Wildlife Park website for current opening hours and admission information.
If travelling without a car, check the complete journey and return connection before setting out. Do not assume that a nearby bus stop or railway station provides direct access to the entrance.
The park describes wide gravel paths, with an incline towards the zebra enclosure. Accessible parking is close to the entrance and an accessible toilet is available. Wheelchairs are not available to hire, so bring your own if needed.
Free carer admission is available alongside a paid visitor ticket with supporting evidence such as DLA/PIP documentation, an Access Card or Max Card. Check the official access information before travelling.
Pet dogs are not admitted. The park permits assistance dogs and asks visitors to show documentation at reception; contact the team beforehand to discuss its requirements.
Animal calls, smells and busy presentations can be stimulating. Quieter areas, including the willow circle, offer places for a break; ask staff for help finding a suitable spot.
For another outing during your stay, consider Mirehouse and Gardens, Whinlatter Forest or a visit to Keswick. Check opening and access arrangements for each destination.
Look around Bassenthwaite and Keswick for a convenient base. Our Armathwaite Hall Hotel & Spa guide introduces a nearby option. Confirm any wildlife-park admission offer directly with your accommodation before booking.
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Planning a longer visit? Explore hotels, guest houses and other accommodation near Lake District Wildlife Park using the interactive map below.
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