Ultimate Guide for Mums to Wildlife Parks, Aquariums, Farms, and Zoos West Sussex
Zoos West Sussex Guide – Are you a mum looking for an engaging, fun-filled day out with the family in West Sussex? This guide covers everything you need about the area’s top wildlife parks, aquariums, farms, and zoos West Sussex. From essential tips to birthday party options and best deal times, we’ve got it all covered.
Looking for Zoos East Sussex? Then check out our article of all your animal days out there.
Table of Contents
Does Brighton have a zoo?
Brighton doesn’t have a zoo, but several fantastic options are nearby for a great family day out. Here’s a comprehensive look at some of the best spots in and around the British countryside of zoos West Sussex in South East England.
Drusillas Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Alfriston, East Sussex, BN26 5QS
- Website: Drusillas Park
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
Drusillas Park offers a magical world perfect for little eyes. It’s known as the best small zoo with a wide range of animals, including red pandas, meerkats, and exotic birds. The Amazon Adventure outdoor play area and the interactive adventure maze, Mungo’s Adventure Maze, provide endless fun for the kids and a warm welcome from their friendly staff.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during school term to avoid crowds.
- Deals: Check the Drusillas Park website for special offers and family tickets.
- Birthday Parties: Drusillas Park offers fantastic birthday party packages with access to all attractions and catering options.
How much is Drusillas Park?
Ticket prices for Drusillas Park vary, so it’s best to check their official website for the latest rates. They often have discounts for booking online in advance.
Crocodiles of the World
Location & Contact
- Address: Burford Road, Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, OX18 3NX
- Website: Crocodiles of the World
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This unique zoo is home to various crocodile species and offers a rare chance to learn about these fascinating creatures up close. It is the only crocodile zoo in the UK.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Early mornings when the crocodiles are most active.
- Deals: Look for family tickets and special event days.
- Birthday Parties: Crocodiles of the World provides exciting birthday party packages.
Marwell Zoo
Location & Contact
- Address: Thompson’s Lane, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH
- Website: Marwell Zoo
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.0/5
Attractions
Marwell Zoo features many animals, including snow leopards, white rhinos, and a newly introduced giraffe exhibit. The zoo is also known for its conservation work and has an indoor play area for younger children. A big hit for zoos in West Sussex.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Early spring or autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Deals: Annual passes offer great value for regular visitors.
- Birthday Parties: Marwell Zoo has birthday packages that include guided tours and animal encounters.
Fishers Adventure Farm Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex, RH14 0EG
- Website: Fishers Adventure Farm Park
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This farm park is great for the whole family. It features farm animals, tractor rides, an indoor play area, an adventure playground, and outdoor play areas. While not zoos West Sussex it offers a great animal themed day out for the kids.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer for outdoor activities.
- Deals: Check their website for seasonal discounts and family tickets.
- Birthday Parties: Fishers Adventure Farm Park offers tailored birthday party packages with farm tours and playtime.
New Forest Wildlife Park
Location & Contact
- Address: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, Southampton, Hampshire, SO40 4UH
- Website: New Forest Wildlife Park
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
The park features many animals, including red deer, otters, and lynxes. The adventure playground and special events like dawn safaris are a big hit with kids.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning is the best time to catch the animals at their most active.
- Deals: Family tickets and group discounts are available.
- Birthday Parties: They offer unique birthday party experiences with guided tours and animal feeding.
Fairytale Farm
Location & Contact
- Address: Southcombe, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5QH
- Website: Fairytale Farm
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.0/5
Attractions
This farm park blends classic fairy tales with a farm animal experience, creating a magical world for young children. It’s inclusive and accessible, designed with disabled children in mind.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays during term time for a quieter experience.
- Deals: Check online for discount vouchers.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, Fairytale Farm provides themed birthday parties.
Tilgate Nature Centre
Location & Contact
- Address: Tilgate Park, Tilgate Dr, Crawley RH10 5PQ
- Website: Tilgate Nature Centre
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
Tilgate Nature Centre is set within the beautiful Tilgate Park, home to over 500 animals worldwide so a big hot on our zoos West Sussex list), including meerkats, otters, and owls. The park, with its lake, walking trails, and picnic areas, is perfect for a family day out.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Any time of year, but spring and summer are best for outdoor activities.
- Deals: Check the website for family ticket discounts.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, they offer various birthday party packages.
Arundel Wetland Centre
Location & Contact
- Address: Mill Road, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PB
- Website: Arundel Wetland Centre
- Price: ££
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
Arundel Wetland Centre offers a unique opportunity to explore wetlands and spot various bird species. It’s a great place for nature walks and has an adventure play area for kids.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are good for bird watching.
- Deals: Annual membership offers good value for regular visits.
- Birthday Parties: Yes, themed birthday parties are available.
Sussex Prairies Garden
Location & Contact
- Address: Moorlands Farm, near Henfield, West Sussex, BN5 9AT
- Website: Sussex Prairies Garden
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
This stunning garden offers a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing family day out. The garden is filled with colourful prairie plants, and special events and workshops are often held there.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Late summer and autumn when the plants fully bloom.
- Deals: Check their website for event tickets and family discounts.
- Birthday Parties: Customizable birthday party options are available.
West Wittering Beach
Location & Contact
- Address: West Wittering, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 8AJ
- Website: West Wittering Beach
- Price: £
- TripAdvisor Ranking: 4.5/5
Attractions
While not a wildlife park, West Wittering Beach is a great spot for a family day out by the sea. The beach is clean and sandy, perfect for picnics, swimming, and building sandcastles.
Tips for Mums
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities.
- Deals: Parking discounts are available for booking.
- Birthday Parties: Ideal for beach-themed birthday parties.
Top Tips for Mums Visiting Zoos and Wildlife Parks
- Plan Ahead: Check opening hours, ticket prices, and special events.
- Pack Essentials: Bring sunscreen, hats, snacks, and water.
- Check Weather: Dress appropriately and bring rain gear if needed.
- Arrive Early: Early visits often mean quieter parks and more active animals.
- Look for Deals: Many parks offer online discounts, family tickets, and annual passes.
Conclusion
West Sussex and its surrounding areas offer great fun days for the family and a treasure trove of top attractions, from wildlife parks, zoos, safari parks, and farms, which are perfect for family days out or a short break. Whether you’re planning a special birthday party or just a fun day with the kids, there’s something for everyone to have a great experience and new experiences. So pack your bags, get the kids ready, and enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom!
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