Animal Experiences

We are closed

Coronavirus update: 4th January 2021 - In light of the recent government announcement placing the UK under alert level 5 and the reinstatement of a nationwide lockdown, we have closed Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve and Howletts Wild Animal Park to the public. We are awaiting further government guidance and will work to reopen the both parks to guests as soon as it is appropriate to do so. We will be contacting guests with upcoming bookings to advise them on next steps.

As a charity, we appreciate your support and understanding. This is an unprecedented situation and during these incredibly challenging times we ask you to consider donating to our Animal Support Fund and contribute towards the feeding and care of our animals.

How your experience will be different

At Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve, a fundamental part of our mission is to create incredible experiences for animal-lovers. We place the utmost importance on the safety and wellbeing of our guests, animals and teams.

We have completed a series of thorough risk assessments and introduced a range of new health and safety measures that seek to reduce the risk associated with the presence of COVID-19 that are in line with government advice and the requirements of local health authorities. We have also ensured that our teams are provided with the correct PPE, follow social distancing guidelines and carefully monitor their own health to minimise risk.

Gloves and a face mask will be provided and must be worn for the duration of the encounter, and we ask that you not touch the animals.  Please ensure that you adhere to the 2 metre social distance between yourself, the keeper or ranger and fellow guests.  Hands must be washed before and after your animal experience.

Thank you for your consideration and cooperation to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable visit.

Go behind the scenes

Get hands on with our range of animal experiences for all ages. Budding animal keepers can find out what it takes to care for some of the world’s most endangered animals on a keeper experience day or come face to face with some of our visitor favourites on a 30 minute animal encounter.

Your personal day planner

Below is a list of activities that you have added to your planner. Make sure you print off the day's itinerary! If any of the activities have a cost, don't forget to book them before you visit!