Zoos and animal parks in the UK

Meet animals up close at zoos, wildlife parks and family animal attractions.

Meeting an animal properly, feeding it or grooming it, is what makes this kind of day stick. Moel Famau Donkeys lets visitors meet, groom and walk miniature re-homed donkeys in the beautiful Welsh countryside, alongside sheep, an agility course and a spring-themed treasure hunt. Parker's Animal Sanctuary is a family sanctuary where you meet rescued animals, and it offers a countryside stay in shepherd's huts if you want to make a weekend of it. Wild Discovery, the on-site zoo at Ribby Hall Village, runs bird displays and animal talks through the day. Its bookable encounters cover capybaras, sloths, giant anteaters, binturongs and arctic foxes, and there is a Keeper for the Day for the child who would rather have the job than the visit. The Haybarn Farm Shop offers the chance to meet and feed Highland cows, goats and sheep, with a picnic area and treats available. Street Croft Farm in Hampshire is completely free to enter, with friendly animals, a children's play area and a cafe. Kentish Town City Farm runs sessions on learning about the plants we eat and how to cook them, and Little Fant Farm has a Little Farmers Club for regulars. AppleCast Farm is listed here too.