1 / 2British Wildlife Centre
📍 Lingfield, Greater London
Dedicated British native species centre near Lingfield housing over 40 species — from harvest mice and red squirrels to wildcats and red deer — with half-hourly keeper talks and an afternoon owl display in the Dell.
As someone who normally shoots weddings and portraits, I was very new to wildlife photography – but this course was absolutely brilliant. The day was exceptionally well run, and the venue being closed to the public made it feel really special and intimate. All the staff were friendly, welcoming, and clearly passionate about the work they do to protect and care for the animals. A huge thank you to our keeper and guide, Jess – she was simply outstanding. Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and clear love for the animals made the day even more enjoyable. While the focus of the day was very much on the animals (which was fantastic), there were plenty of opportunities to get some amazing shots. The course was well suited to all skill levels and types of equipment – in our group we had everything from iPhones to full-frame mirrorless setups with big zooms. The café had some great options too, and there was no shortage of tea and coffee throughout the day. All in all, I left with some great photos and an even greater appreciation for British wildlife. Highly recommended – both the Centre itself and the photography experience. Thank you again to Jess and all the team!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for animal-loving families who want close encounters with species rarely seen in the wild. Children aged four and above engage best with the keeper talks; the owl display invariably draws gasps from all ages. A half-day visit covers everything comfortably.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →2,157 Google reviews
Dauda Bappa
5 months ago
“As someone who normally shoots weddings and portraits, I was very new to wildlife photography – but this course was absolutely brilliant. The day was exceptionally well run, and the venue being closed to the public made it feel really special and intimate. All the staff were friendly, welcoming, and clearly passionate about the work they do to protect and care for the animals. A huge thank you to our keeper and guide, Jess – she was simply outstanding. Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and clear love for the animals made the day even more enjoyable. While the focus of the day was very much on the animals (which was fantastic), there were plenty of opportunities to get some amazing shots. The course was well suited to all skill levels and types of equipment – in our group we had everything from iPhones to full-frame mirrorless setups with big zooms. The café had some great options too, and there was no shortage of tea and coffee throughout the day. All in all, I left with some great photos and an even greater appreciation for British wildlife. Highly recommended – both the Centre itself and the photography experience. Thank you again to Jess and all the team!”
David Thompson
2 months ago
“It's great, have been twice now and although some animals are hibernating there is still plenty to see to warrant a full half day visit. Personally, I prefer the afternoon to see the Owl display in the Dell and if you have kids with you, definitely stay for it, they will love it, owls flying within a few feet of you, if they're Harry Potter fans as well, well, they've just gone to Paradise, it'll make their day, probably their weekend. Otters amd Red Squirrel enclosure are highlights and hopefully they'll reopen the Boardwalk soon too. Go, it's a quintessentially British venue celebrating British Wildlife, young amd old alike will love it!”
Sophie Lineton
3 months ago
“Such a lovely centre with so much wildlife to see. The animals all seem super happy, comfortable and content. All the staff are friendly and when approached are super knowledgeable on the animals. Would definitely recommend to any animal lover!”
Felicity Westmacott
3 months ago
“Such a lovely place. Make sure you visit each enclosure for the keeper talk as the animals only really come out then. Cafe has simple, hot and cold food. The otters are my favourite”
Reviews from Google
Overview
The British Wildlife Centre focuses exclusively on species native to Britain. Keeper talks run every 30 minutes at individual enclosures, bringing out foxes, polecats, red squirrels, and wildcats on cue. The afternoon owl display in the Dell features birds flying at low height through the audience. Badger, dormouse, weasel, and bat displays occupy indoor viewing areas. An onsite cafe serves hot and cold food, and free parking is available throughout.
