Howletts Wild Animal Park
Overview
"Howletts Wild Animal Park in the parish of Bekesbourne, near Canterbury in Kent, was established as a private zoo in 1957 by John Aspinall. In 1962 the House known as Howletts was being restored. A small cottage was inhabited by an employee. The animal collection was opened to the public in 1975."
Contact details
Bekesbourne Ln Bekesbourne Canterbury South East CT4 5EL United Kingdom
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Access Card notes
This provider accepts the Access Card as supporting documentation for accessible facilities and tickets. *The information in this listing is submitted by the provider*.
Access guidance
- The park is generally flat with even pathways. There are some gentle slopes. There is one hill on a medium gradient. Most of the walking paths are generally tarmac; some have tree roots running underneath them. The main entrance (Gatehouse) has a flat surface with no ramps required for wheelchair users. There is a slight slope into the gatehouse at the entrance to the park. The path that runs past the Red River hogs does include a short steep hill. Walking with Lemurs: This is a walk through enclosure where lemurs are not confined. The structure has an 'air lock' door system . There are no steps to access this enclosure and there are wide doors for access. Wheelchairs are available to hire from the Gatehouse. Your car keys or other item of value will be securely held as a deposit for the duration of your visit. Mobility scooters are allowed but not for hire. If you use a mobility scooter, please contact us in advance on 01227 721286 for advice and assistance. Access to the Pavilion Restaurant is via steps at the front of the building or level access via the side door. Access to Coffee House Café has a ramp and wide doors to the side and a small step to the front of the building with wide doors that open outwards. Access to the Jurassic Mine Gift Shop has a slight step. For more information, please visit our website.
- The car park is very large with parking bays on grass and on hard standing. Designated disabled parking is located on the hard standing. There is ample parking space sectioned off for disabled visitors and exceeds roughly 20 car parking spaces. Access to the park is via the Gatehouse located a short distance from the hard standing. Parking is free and there is plenty of space for coach parking.
- Toilet facilities including disabled toilets and baby changing are located at various points around the park and marked on the park maps. Toilets are in, and just outside of the pavilion restaurant and 200yds from the coffee house cafe.
- We regret that dogs (including assistance dogs) are not permitted within the park due to welfare regulations. Please make alternative arrangements for your dog before visiting. Please do not leave dogs in cars.