New Forest Wildlife Park Guide: Tickets, Animals, Map & Visitor Tips
Nestled on the edge of the beautiful New Forest National Park in Hampshire, England, New Forest Wildlife Park is one of the region’s top family attractions. Combining unforgettable wildlife encounters with conservation, education, and outdoor adventure, the park offers visitors a chance to discover native British wildlife alongside fascinating species from around the world. It is open daily and is particularly well known for its otters, owls, wolves, lynx, and interactive keeper talks.
Unlike a traditional zoo, New Forest Wildlife Park focuses heavily on wildlife conservation and education. Visitors can stroll through peaceful woodland paths, watch daily feeding sessions, explore adventure playgrounds, and learn about the important work being carried out to protect endangered species.
Whether you’re planning a family day out, a weekend trip to the New Forest, or a wildlife photography adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting New Forest Wildlife Park. If you enjoy visiting wildlife attractions, don’t miss our guides to Puxton Park, Georgia Safari Conservation Park, and San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About New Forest Wildlife Park
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Longdown, near Ashurst, Hampshire, England |
| Type | Wildlife Park |
| Famous For | Otters, owls, wolves, lynx & conservation |
| Best For | Families, wildlife lovers & photographers |
| Opening | Open daily |
| Main Attractions | Animal exhibits, keeper talks & playgrounds |
Where Is New Forest Wildlife Park?
New Forest Wildlife Park is located in Longdown, near the village of Ashurst, on the eastern edge of the New Forest National Park in Hampshire. The park is only a short drive from Southampton, Lyndhurst, and Brockenhurst, making it an excellent stop while exploring one of England’s most beautiful national parks. Visitors arriving by car will find convenient on-site parking, while nearby railway stations at Ashurst and Brockenhurst provide easy public transport access.
History of New Forest Wildlife Park
New Forest Wildlife Park originally opened as the New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Conservation Park before expanding its collection and conservation work. Over the years, it has become one of the UK’s leading wildlife parks specializing in native British species and the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of wildlife. Today, the park works on breeding programs, wildlife education, and conservation initiatives while providing visitors with close-up encounters that inspire a greater appreciation for nature.
New Forest Wildlife Park Map
Before your visit, it’s helpful to review the park map to locate the major attractions and facilities.
The map includes:
- Animal habitats
- Otter enclosures
- Owl exhibits
- Wallaby Wood
- Keeper talk locations
- Adventure playgrounds
- Butterfly House
- Forest Kitchen Café
- Gift shop
- Picnic areas
- Parking
- Restrooms
Planning your route helps you make the most of your visit, especially if you want to attend scheduled keeper talks and feeding sessions.
Best Things to Do at New Forest Wildlife Park
New Forest Wildlife Park offers a wide range of experiences that combine family fun with wildlife education.
Meet the Amazing Animals
The biggest attraction is the opportunity to observe a diverse collection of fascinating animals in spacious natural habitats. Popular residents include:
- Giant otters
- Eurasian otters
- Wolves
- Lynx
- Scottish wildcats
- Pine martens
- Badgers
- Deer
- Wallabies
- Owls
Many of these species are either endangered or play an important role in conservation programs.
Watch Keeper Talks & Feeding Sessions
Daily keeper talks provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the park’s animals from experienced wildlife keepers. These presentations often include:
- Animal feeding demonstrations
- Conservation information
- Fun facts
- Questions and answers
- Close-up wildlife viewing
Keeper talks are among the most popular experiences at the park and are highly recommended for visitors of all ages.
Explore the Adventure Playgrounds
Families with young children will love the Go Wild! Adventure Playgrounds, which provide plenty of opportunities for climbing, sliding, and imaginative outdoor play. The playgrounds offer:
- Climbing structures
- Slides
- Balance equipment
- Nature-inspired play areas
- Toddler-friendly spaces
These areas allow children to burn off energy while parents relax nearby in the woodland surroundings.
Animals You Can See
One of the biggest highlights of New Forest Wildlife Park is its impressive collection of native British wildlife and carefully selected international species. The park is home to nearly 200 animals representing around 30 species, with spacious enclosures designed to encourage natural behaviors while giving visitors excellent viewing opportunities. Some of the most popular animals include:
- Giant otters
- Eurasian otters
- European wolves
- Eurasian lynx
- Scottish wildcats
- Pine martens
- Fallow deer
- Red deer
- Wallabies
- Badgers
- Foxes
- Owls
- Ferrets
- Harvest mice
Many of these animals are involved in breeding or conservation programs that help protect vulnerable wildlife for future generations.
Tickets & Opening Hours
New Forest Wildlife Park offers flexible admission options for families, couples, and individual visitors. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the entrance, and booking is recommended during weekends and school holidays. General admission includes access to:
- All animal exhibits
- Keeper talks
- Feeding demonstrations
- Adventure playgrounds
- Wallaby walkthrough
- Woodland trails
- Picnic areas
Special experiences, memberships, and keeper encounters are also available for visitors looking for a more immersive wildlife experience.
Opening Hours
The park is open daily throughout the year, with seasonal opening hours. Before visiting, check the official website for:
- Daily opening times
- Keeper talk schedules
- Feeding times
- Seasonal events
- Holiday activities
- Weather updates
Arriving early gives you enough time to enjoy the full range of attractions and attend several animal presentations.
Restaurants & Facilities
Visitors can take a break at the on-site café, which serves a variety of meals, snacks, and refreshments throughout the day. Food options typically include:
- Breakfast items
- Sandwiches
- Burgers
- Children’s meals
- Fresh cakes
- Ice cream
- Tea and coffee
- Cold drinks
The park also provides:
- Picnic areas
- Gift shop
- Free parking
- Accessible pathways
- Baby changing facilities
- Restrooms
These facilities make it easy for families to spend an entire day exploring the park.
Best Time to Visit
New Forest Wildlife Park is enjoyable throughout the year, but each season offers something unique.
| Season | Weather | Best Activities |
| Spring | Mild with blooming woodland | Wildlife photography, baby animals |
| Summer | Warm and busiest season | Keeper talks, family visits |
| Autumn | Cool with colorful forests | Walking trails, animal watching |
| Winter | Quiet and peaceful | Photography, conservation experiences |
Spring
Spring is one of the best times to visit, as many animals become more active and the surrounding woodland bursts into color.
Summer
Summer offers the widest range of daily activities, longer opening hours, and the best conditions for exploring the outdoor exhibits.
Autumn
Autumn provides spectacular forest scenery and cooler temperatures, making it perfect for leisurely walks through the park.
Winter
Winter is quieter, allowing visitors to enjoy a more relaxed wildlife experience with fewer crowds.
Nearby Attractions
The wildlife park is ideally located for exploring the beautiful New Forest and surrounding Hampshire attractions.
New Forest National Park
Discover ancient woodlands, open heathlands, cycling routes, and the famous free-roaming ponies that make the New Forest one of England’s most treasured landscapes.
Paultons Park
Families can enjoy exciting rides, themed attractions, and the world-famous Peppa Pig World just a short drive from the wildlife park.
Beaulieu
Explore the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Palace House, beautiful gardens, and historic abbey grounds in this popular New Forest destination.
Exbury Gardens
Famous for its spectacular gardens, woodland walks, and miniature steam railway, Exbury Gardens is a wonderful destination throughout spring and summer.
Southampton
The nearby city offers shopping centres, museums, waterfront attractions, restaurants, and ferry connections.
Visitor Tips
Follow these tips to make the most of your visit.
- Book tickets online before arriving.
- Check the keeper talk schedule upon entry.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring a camera with a zoom lens for wildlife photography.
- Visit early for quieter animal viewing.
- Pack waterproof clothing, as weather can change quickly.
- Bring snacks and refillable water bottles.
- Allow at least four to five hours to explore the park fully.
Visit Also
Planning more wildlife adventures? You may also enjoy our guides to Puxton Park, Georgia Safari Conservation Park, and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. These destinations offer exciting animal encounters, family-friendly activities, and unique wildlife experiences worth exploring.
“`FAQs
Is New Forest Wildlife Park worth visiting?
Yes. It’s one of Hampshire’s top wildlife attractions, offering animal encounters, conservation experiences, woodland walks, and family-friendly activities suitable for all ages.
Where is New Forest Wildlife Park?
The park is located at Longdown, near Ashurst, Hampshire, on the edge of the New Forest National Park.
What animals can you see?
Visitors can see wolves, lynx, giant otters, Eurasian otters, owls, wallabies, deer, pine martens, Scottish wildcats, foxes, and many other fascinating species.
How long should you spend at the park?
Most visitors spend 4–6 hours exploring the exhibits, attending keeper talks, and enjoying the playgrounds.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather and the widest range of daily activities, although the park is enjoyable throughout the year.
Conclusion
New Forest Wildlife Park offers a memorable day out where conservation, education, and family fun come together in a beautiful woodland setting. From watching playful otters and majestic wolves to attending informative keeper talks and exploring adventure playgrounds, every visit provides opportunities to connect with nature and learn about wildlife conservation. Whether you’re exploring the New Forest on holiday or planning a family day trip in Hampshire, New Forest Wildlife Park is a destination that combines fascinating animal encounters with peaceful surroundings, making it one of the region’s most rewarding attractions.
