Nestled within 160 acres of picturesque parkland in Bradwell Grove, Burford, Oxfordshire, the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens offers an inspiring escape into the natural world. More than just a zoo, it’s a vibrant sanctuary where visitors can connect with an astonishing diversity of species, many of which are endangered in the wild, all set against the backdrop of beautifully tended gardens. This unique attraction invites families and nature enthusiasts alike to explore, learn, and contribute to vital conservation efforts, making every visit a meaningful experience.
The story of Cotswold Wildlife Park began in 1970 when its founder, the father of current Managing Director Reggie Heyworth, sought to breathe new life into his beloved family home, Bradwell Grove. His vision was to share his profound interest in nature with as many people as possible, transforming the estate into a place where the beauty and diversity of the natural world could be discovered. Over forty years later, this vision has flourished, establishing the park as one of the UK’s largest zoological collections and most exciting gardens.
Crucially, the park operates entirely on the support of its visitors, receiving no external funding. This self-reliance means that every ticket purchased directly contributes to the care of its animals, the thriving education programs, numerous endangered species breeding initiatives, and several vital conservation projects in the wild. This unique funding model underscores the direct impact visitors have on the park’s mission.
The park is home to an incredibly diverse collection of animals, divided into four sections, each cared for by dedicated keepers passionate about sharing their knowledge. Visitors can stroll up to eye-level with majestic giraffes on the fabulous Giraffe Walkway or observe Asiatic lions lazing in their enclosure.
Among the many fascinating residents are Humboldt penguins, crowned sifakas, giant tortoises, meerkats, white rhinos, and red pandas. Daily activities enhance the visitor experience, including the popular Penguin talk and feed at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm in the Walled Garden, where keepers are on hand to answer questions. At noon, the spectacular “Madagascar” walk-through offers a chance to learn about lemurs and other unique island species, highlighting the park’s conservation involvement. For those seeking a more immersive experience, programs like the Zoo Keeper Academy, Trainee Keeper Day, Junior Keeper Experience, and Animal Encounters offer behind-the-scenes access.
Cotswold Wildlife Park offers much more than just animal viewing. The Children’s Farmyard allows younger visitors to approach and even touch or stroke some animals, with handwashing facilities readily available. From April to October, a narrow-gauge railway runs from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm (weather permitting), taking guests on a scenic tour around the park.
For adventurous spirits, the “Skymaze” provides an exhilarating experience with interconnecting treehouses, jungle bridges, and slides, offering a bird’s-eye view from over 20 feet high. Younger children can enjoy the “Mini Manor,” complete with slides, treehouses, and a mini zip wire. Beyond the animal exhibits, the park’s beautiful gardens, meticulously tended by a creative team, offer a feast for the senses, making every corner a joy to explore.
Conservation is a cornerstone of the Cotswold Wildlife Park’s mission. As a proud member of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the park actively participates in numerous breeding programs for endangered species, including European Studbooks (ESB) and European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP). These programs are vital for maintaining healthy captive populations and supporting research. The park itself manages or monitors several ESB/EEP programs, including those for the Greater Bamboo Lemur and Crowned Sifaka.
In 2013, the Cotswold Wildlife Park Conservation Trust was established as a charity to further raise funds and awareness for animal species and endangered environments. The Trust supports various organizations and directly funds protected areas for Greater Bamboo Lemurs and Crowned Sifakas in Madagascar. Other significant projects supported include the Hornbill nest monitoring project, the Serengeti Rabies Vaccination project through TUSK Trust, and the Wild Camel Protection Foundation, all demonstrating the park’s commitment to global wildlife preservation.
Interesting Fact: Did you know that Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens operates entirely without external funding? Every single visitor’s ticket and contribution directly supports the care of its diverse animal collection, its educational initiatives, and its crucial global conservation projects, making your visit a direct investment in wildlife preservation!
Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens stands as a testament to a family’s enduring passion for nature. It offers an unforgettable day out, combining the thrill of encountering exotic animals with the tranquility of stunning gardens, all while playing a vital role in the global effort to protect our planet’s precious biodiversity.
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