Howletts Wild Animal Park
Canterbury, Kent
About Howletts Wild Animal Park
Discover Howletts Wild Animal Park: Kent’s Ultimate Wildlife Adventure!
Animal lovers and wildlife fanatics, welcome to Howletts Wild Animal Park – Kent’s original wildlife park and an extraordinary destination for animal encounters, conservation, and family fun! Nestled in 100 acres of beautiful countryside just outside Canterbury, Howletts is more than just a zoo. It's a place dedicated to protecting endangered species, inspiring visitors, and providing unforgettable experiences with some of the world’s most incredible animals.
Summer Roar 2026 runs from 20 July to 31 August at Howletts Wild Animal Park, bringing themed animal activities, keeper-led talks and family conservation fun across the park. Look out for Capybara Week from 20 to 26 July and Big Cat Week from 27 July to 2 August.
A Day of Adventure Awaits
From the moment you step into the park, you'll be immersed in the sights and sounds of the wild. Howletts is home to over 300 animals, offering an exciting journey through diverse habitats and species. Whether you’re fascinated by majestic elephants, powerful gorillas, or curious anteaters, there’s something here to capture the imagination of every visitor.
Top Things to Do at Howletts Wild Animal Park
- Meet the UK's Largest Herd of African Elephants: Witness these gentle giants up close and marvel at their size and intelligence. Howletts is the only place in Kent where you can see elephants, including the UK's largest herd of African elephants.
- Watch Lowland Gorillas in Their Naturalistic Habitat: Howletts is renowned for its conservation work with these incredible primates. Seeing a family of gorillas interact is a truly breathtaking experience.
- Spot Rare and Endangered Species: From black rhinos to giant anteaters and clouded leopards, Howletts is home to a vast range of exotic creatures, many of which are part of international breeding and rewilding programmes.
- Experience Conservation in Action: Howletts works closely with The Aspinall Foundation, a world-famous conservation charity committed to protecting and reintroducing endangered species into the wild. Learn about their rewilding projects and how you can help.
- Up-Close Animal Encounters: Want to make your visit extra special? Book an intimate 15-20 minute animal experience with a keeper and get closer than ever to some of your favourite species. For an unforgettable encounter, don’t miss the Gorilla Experience, a unique chance to learn about and observe these magnificent primates up close.
- Join Daily Keeper Talks and Feeds: Have a question about an animal? Just ask! The expert keepers at Howletts are always happy to share their knowledge and introduce you to the fascinating lives of the animals in their care.
- Explore the Ice Age Exhibit: Step back in time and come face to face with life-sized prehistoric giants, including mammoths and the fearsome Sabre-Toothed Smilodon!
- Play Areas for the Little Explorers: After an exciting day of animal spotting, let the kids burn off some energy at one of the park’s play areas, featuring climbing frames and slides.
- Seasonal Events Throughout the Year: There’s always something exciting happening at Howletts, from Easter egg hunts and spooky Halloween activities to magical Christmas events. Check the events calendar before your visit!
Rainy Day Guarantee
Howletts offers a Rainy Day Guarantee for eligible advance-booked day visitors. If it rains continuously for 2 or more hours between 10:30 and 17:00, you may be able to claim a free return visit within 30 days. Rainy day tickets must be claimed from the Gatehouse before leaving. Terms and eligibility apply.
Top Tips for Visiting Howletts Wild Animal Park
- Book Online in Advance: Save time and secure your spot by booking ahead.
- Dress for the Weather: The park is mostly outdoors, so bring raincoats and wellies if needed.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of walking – be prepared!
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Enjoy a picnic in the park, or visit one of the on-site dining options.
- Bring a Camera: Capture unforgettable moments – just remember, no flash photography!
Why Visit Howletts Wild Animal Park?
Whether you're a devoted animal enthusiast, a conservation supporter, or just looking for an exciting family day out, Howletts Wild Animal Park offers an extraordinary experience for all ages. It's not just about seeing animals; it's about learning, connecting, and making a difference. Through world-class animal care and pioneering conservation work, Howletts is helping to secure a future for endangered species – and you can be part of it.
So, if you're looking for an adventure filled with wildlife wonders, fascinating discoveries, and opportunities to support global conservation efforts, get your Howletts Wild Animal Park tickets today and start planning your visit! It's a wild day out you’ll never forget!
Meet the UK’s Largest Herd of African Elephants
A visit to Howletts Wild Animal Park isn’t complete without seeing the incredible African elephants – the largest herd in the UK! Watch these majestic giants roam their spacious habitat, interact with their young, and display natural behaviours. It’s a rare and humbling chance to see elephant family life up close, right here in Kent.
Walk Among Giants in the Ice Age Exhibit
Step back thousands of years and walk alongside life-sized creatures from the Ice Age at Howletts' immersive exhibit. From towering mammoths to fearsome sabre-toothed cats, it’s a fascinating and educational journey through prehistoric times. Kids and adults alike will love discovering these ancient giants as they stroll through the ancient Kentish woodland.
Upgrade Your Day with Wild Animal Encounters at Howletts
Take your visit to the next level with unforgettable animal encounters at Howletts Wild Animal Park – the only place in Kent where you can meet a giant anteater! From getting up close with lemurs to feeding our black rhinos, there’s a wild experience for every animal lover. Book an encounter and step behind the scenes with expert keepers to learn more about your favourite species. These upgradeable experiences offer once-in-a-lifetime moments and help support vital conservation work both here and around the world
Tried & Tested by Real Families
Howletts Wild Animal Park
Visited: Jun 2026
"A great more chilled day out. Lots of monkeys and cats, we found out many facts about every animal as we walked around. However we found it wasn't a full on long day and there wasn't many adventurous animals. Though it is a great price in comparison to many other zoo's that we have been to. " ...read more.
Facilities at Howletts Wild Animal Park
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Card Payments Accepted
Opening times at Howletts Wild Animal Park
- Monday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Tuesday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Wednesday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Thursday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Friday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Saturday, 09:30 - 17:00
- Sunday, 09:30 - 17:00
Howletts is open daily from 09:30 to 17:00 during the main summer season, with later 18:00 closing during school holidays and bank holidays. Winter opening times vary, and the park is closed on Christmas Day, so check your selected date before travelling.
Pricing & Tickets at Howletts Wild Animal Park
- Child (3-15) : £20.00
- Adult (16-18+) : £26.00
- Babies and Toddlers (0-2) : Free
Explore a 90-acre adventure in beautiful ancient parkland that is ideal for great days out in Kent with the entire family. No gimmicks, no nonsense, Howletts Wild Animal Park is committed to one thing, the conservation, breeding and reintroduction of rare and endangered animals.
Children 0-2yrs are free of charge and do not require pre-booking.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Howletts Wild Animal Park by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options at Howletts Wild Animal Park
Family favourite crowdpleasers including hot dogs, lasagne, nachos and fun sweets & slushies. Vegan and gluten-free options available sitewide.
FAQs
Parking at Howletts Wild Animal Park
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink at Howletts Wild Animal Park
Accessibility at Howletts Wild Animal Park
Howletts Wild Animal Park Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Contact Details
Howletts Wild Animal Park
Bekesbourne Road
Bekesbourne
Canterbury
Kent
CT4 5EL
England
Tel: 01227721286
Visit WebsiteHow To Get To Howletts Wild Animal Park
By Train
The nearest station is Bekesbourne, approximately 1 mile from the park. Howletts is a 90-minute train journey from London Victoria via Canterbury East. The route from Bekesbourne station to the park is not suitable for pedestrians; the official advice is to arrange a taxi for the short onward journey.
By Car
Howletts is located off the A2, three miles south of Canterbury. Follow the brown tourist signs from the A2 at Bridge. Use postcode CT4 5EL for sat nav. Parking is free and available onsite, with designated disabled bays on hard standing adjacent to the Gatehouse.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 14:15 14/07/2026
Howletts Wild Animal Park Reviews
Recent blog posts
Explore resort holidays for pre-teens with bigger pools, waterparks, kids’ clubs, sports and safe independence, plus family-friendly TUI options.
See what’s showing at the free NEC Lakeside Cinema this summer, including July and August family film listings, opening times and free family activities at the NEC.
Planning a holiday with older kids? Discover the best family holidays for 8 to 12 year olds, from Spain and Turkey to Croatia and Greece.
The Summer holidays have well and truly ARRIVED and there’s plenty of up and coming summer events kicking off to get excited for! Read on to find out what’s going on near you… The UK Family Days Out Everyone’s Booking This Summer Port Lympne Safari Park, Kent Ready for a Wild Summer? That’s exactly what’s…
Explore TUI family resorts made for little explorers, from kids’ clubs and splash parks to pools, mini discos and family entertainment in Spain, Greece and Turkey.
Find the best holidays for 4 to 7 year olds, with kids’ clubs, splash parks, sandy beaches and easy family-friendly resorts in Spain, Greece and Turkey.
Looking for places to see capybaras in the UK? Discover family-friendly zoos and wildlife parks where kids can spot, meet or learn about these gentle animals.
For many, the last week of term is upon us and more importantly that marks the beginning of the six weeks of Summer holidays! Say goodbye to routines and hello to epic new adventures. With major summer events kicking off next weekend, it’s time to gather the troops, clear your diaries, and get ready for…