1 / 3Port Lympne Safari Park
📍 Lympne, Merseyside
Safari park and overnight resort in Kent with 900 animals across 75 species on 600 acres. Truck safaris, wooded walkways, and accommodation pods adjacent to lion and tiger enclosures.
Absolutely incredible experience. We arrived early evening to check into one of the Pinewood pods and we got to see and hear the lions roaring before they went to bed. We had dinner at Babydolls and the staff there were incredible. They delivered a high level of service and the food was delicious and worth what we paid. We had transport arranged for us to and from the restaurant, free of charge, which was so considerate and a huge help with small kids. Marshmallows were provided in the pod and we had brought choc digestives, so in the evening we went to the communal firepit and made s'mores amongst the picturesque setting of the Pinewood site. Every staff member we encountered was courteous, professional and beyond helpful. The pod is compact but comfortable, well insulated and had all we needed for a night's stay. Being able to access the reserve outside of normal opening hours was a treat and we all enjoyed the Safari truck experience. For the 2 days access to the reserve, including Howletts and our of hours, plus Safari truck experience, hearing the lions in evening and morning, the accommodation and the high level of customer service, I think this was one of the most worthwhile and value for money trip we have ever done. We will be back again.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families seeking an overnight safari experience that delivers something genuinely different from a standard zoo day. Children who can handle outdoor walking distances and varying terrain get the most from the site. The early evening lion sounds from the Pinewood pods are a memorable highlight that day visitors do not access.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →5,999 Google reviews
Casey
3 weeks ago
“Absolutely incredible experience. We arrived early evening to check into one of the Pinewood pods and we got to see and hear the lions roaring before they went to bed. We had dinner at Babydolls and the staff there were incredible. They delivered a high level of service and the food was delicious and worth what we paid. We had transport arranged for us to and from the restaurant, free of charge, which was so considerate and a huge help with small kids. Marshmallows were provided in the pod and we had brought choc digestives, so in the evening we went to the communal firepit and made s'mores amongst the picturesque setting of the Pinewood site. Every staff member we encountered was courteous, professional and beyond helpful. The pod is compact but comfortable, well insulated and had all we needed for a night's stay. Being able to access the reserve outside of normal opening hours was a treat and we all enjoyed the Safari truck experience. For the 2 days access to the reserve, including Howletts and our of hours, plus Safari truck experience, hearing the lions in evening and morning, the accommodation and the high level of customer service, I think this was one of the most worthwhile and value for money trip we have ever done. We will be back again.”
K D
a month ago
“Really lovely weekend stay. We stayed in Pine lodge, 2 adults, 1 teen and toddler. Very clean and warm. Sitting around the campfire in the evening was great. Walking around the reserve in the evening and early morning was a fantastic experience. You can see the animals are really well cared for and happy. Our safari was great, the driver Niamh/Neve was really friendly and informative. All the staff around the reserve were friendly and helpful. We would definitely return. Very good value getting 2 days in the reserve and the overnight stay (safari included), you can also go to their other park Howletts in with the price. Fantastic conservation work going on.”
Lisa White
a month ago
“We really enjoyed our one night stay in the Pinewood pod. It was amazing to hear the lions roar near our pod. Our son thoroughly enjoyed toasting marshmallows that were provided for us for using with the nearby firepit. The employees were all extremely friendly, and the safari guide and ladies who spoke to us about the Tigers were very informative. The house, grounds and Garden Restaurant were lovely. The Sunday roast (beef sirloin) was delicious. We would love to return. As it had been raining for a few weeks it was very muddy during our walk around the safari park therefore we were pleased to have Wellington boots with us!”
Banjo
a month ago
“One in a million experience, for someone who’s always wanted to go on a big 5 safari, this sufficed nicely. The park is so well kept, the animals are really well looked after. We stayed in the huts next to the lions enclosure which was incredible hearing them communicating and roaming around at night. And seeing relaxing at the fence in the morning. Next time I think we will stay in the hotel to benefit from the use of the golf buggies as it can be a lot of walking around otherwise but all in all such a magical place. Will definitely be returning.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Port Lympne Safari Park in Lympne, Kent covers 600 acres of savannah-style land with over 900 animals across 75 species including giraffes, zebras, gorillas, spectacled bears, lions, and tigers. Truck safaris are led by knowledgeable guides. Overnight accommodation includes Pinewood pods with campfire access adjacent to the lion enclosure. Marshmallows and fire-pit materials are provided. A two-day pass includes entry to sister park Howletts Wild Animal Park.


