Discover the Remarkable History Behind Kent's Biggest Wild Animal Park
In 2026, Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve proudly celebrates its Golden 50th Anniversary. Discover the fascinating stories that have shaped Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve over the last 50 years, from the historic mansion and magnificent gardens to pioneering conservation and unforgettable safari adventures.
Since opening to the public in 1976, the reserve has become one of the UK's most extraordinary wildlife destinations, welcoming millions of visitors to experience unforgettable safaris, luxury overnight stays and over 900 animals from more than 90 species. But beyond the wildlife lies a rich history stretching back more than a century.
As part of our anniversary celebrations, visitors can follow our 50th Anniversary Heritage Trail, uncovering the remarkable stories behind some of the reserve's most iconic landmarks and greatest conservation successes.
Here's a glimpse of what you'll discover.
Where the story began
When conservationist John Aspinall purchased Port Lympne in 1973 as an expansion of nearby Howletts Wild Animal Park, he had an ambitious vision. Opening the reserve to the public in 1976 marked the beginning of a new era centred around conservation, breeding endangered species and returning animals to the wild. Today, that vision continues across 600 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, where every visit helps support vital conservation work around the world.
The Historic Mansion at the Heart of the Reserve
One of the first sights to greet visitors is the magnificent Port Lympne Mansion Hotel.
Completed in 1911 and designed by renowned architect Sir Herbert Baker, this elegant Grade II* listed house overlooks Romney Marsh from one of Kent's most spectacular viewpoints.
The mansion entered its golden age in 1914 when it became home to Sir Philip Sassoon, who transformed the estate into one of Britain's most glamorous country houses.
Among the famous guests who stayed here were Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, David Lloyd George and T. E. Lawrence, while the beautifully restored mural rooms, grand staircase and marble columns still reflect the elegance of a bygone era.
Today, guests can enjoy afternoon tea, fine dining or even spend the night surrounded by over a century of history.
Walk Through History in the Beautiful Gardens
The historic gardens surrounding the Mansion are every bit as impressive as the house itself.
Originally inspired by Italianate design before being expanded throughout the 1920s, they feature colourful borders, peaceful terraces and breathtaking views across Romney Marsh.
One of the most striking features is the Trojan Staircase.
This dramatic flight of 125 stone steps, complete with carved ram's heads and classical detailing, links the Mansion to the lower gardens and remains one of the reserve's most photographed landmarks.
Whether you're visiting in spring blooms or summer sunshine, the gardens remain one of Port Lympne's hidden treasures.
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Experience the Authentic Safari
No visit to Port Lympne is complete without climbing aboard our iconic Safari Truck.
Today's authentic safari experience evolved from a simple tractor-drawn trailer ride into the immersive adventure visitors know and love today.
Since 2005, beautifully restored vintage Renault, Bedford and DAF trucks have transported guests across the Kentish savannah, where free-roaming giraffes, white rhinos, antelope, camels and Kent's only spectacled bears roam across wide open landscapes.
It's one of the UK's most unique wildlife experiences and a defining part of every visit.
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A Conservation Story That Changed the World
Conservation has always been at the heart of Port Lympne.
Black Rhino
One of our greatest achievements has been the eastern black rhino breeding programme. Following the birth of our very first calf, Basha, in 1977, more than 40 black rhino calves have since been born at the reserve. In 1995, Port Lympne made conservation history when Bwana Kidogo (pictured) became the world's first captive-born black rhino to be successfully returned to Africa. Today, descendants of Port Lympne rhinos continue to thrive in the wild, while preparations are underway for even more rewilding success stories.
Western Lowland Gorilla
The Palace of the Apes is home to one of Port Lympne's most celebrated animal families. Opened in 2000, this pioneering habitat transformed gorilla care by recreating many features of their natural rainforest environment. Port Lympne and sister park Howletts are now recognised as the world's most successful breeders of western lowland gorillas, with generations born here helping safeguard the future of this critically endangered species. Visitors can watch the gorillas during daily rooftop feeds and witness their fascinating family interactions throughout the day.
Luxury Safari Stays Like Nowhere Else
Port Lympne revolutionised UK staycations in 2007 with the launch of its first overnight safari experience.
What began with Livingstone Lodge, now known as Giraffe Lodge, has grown into an extraordinary collection of 14 unique accommodation experiences.
Today, guests can wake beside lions, soak beneath the stars in a private outdoor bath overlooking tigers or enjoy breakfast while giraffes stroll past their safari tent.
From Tiger Lodge and Lion Lodge to Treehouses, Bubbles and Forest Hideaways, every stay combines unforgettable wildlife encounters with exceptional luxury.
Remarkable Animals, Remarkable Stories
Over the past 50 years, Port Lympne has cared for some truly unforgettable animals.
Among them are:
Kingut
The world's oldest tapir, who lived to the remarkable age of 42.
Samira
The Barbary lion cub whose hydrotherapy journey inspired visitors around the world.
Eauropean brown bears
A rescued family of European brown bears given a second chance after travelling from a closing zoo in Andorra.
African painted dogs
The reserve's endangered African painted dogs, which became the first to return to Gabon in more than 25 years.
Sumatran orangutans
The arrival of Sumatran orangutan brothers Hadjah and Malou.
Greater one-horned rhino
With the arrival of Orys, Port Lympne became Europe's only collection housing three different rhino species
Every animal has played a part in Port Lympne's extraordinary conservation story.
Looking to the Future
Although we're celebrating 50 years since opening to the public, Port Lympne continues to evolve.
Exciting future developments, including Giraffe Hall and Lion Lookout, will offer even more immersive wildlife experiences while supporting the conservation of endangered species around the world.
From historic mansion to world-leading wildlife reserve, the journey continues.
Giraffe Hall
COMING SOON
Lion Lookout
COMING SOON
Follow the 50th Anniversary Heritage Trail
As you explore Port Lympne this year, keep an eye out for our 50th Anniversary Heritage Trail.
Located throughout the reserve, each stop reveals another fascinating chapter in Port Lympne's story, from conservation milestones and remarkable animals to architectural treasures and unforgettable safari adventures.
Whether it's your first visit or your fiftieth, there's always something new to discover.
Celebrate 50 Years With Us
Join us throughout our Golden Anniversary year and experience everything that makes Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve one of Kent's most extraordinary destinations.
Explore beautiful gardens, discover fascinating history, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and become part of the next chapter in our remarkable story.
Here's to the next 50 years of conservation, adventure and unforgettable memories.
