A Visitor's Introduction to The New Forest Wildlife Park

Why Visit The New Forest Wildlife Park?

The New Forest Wildlife Park is worth visiting for anyone interested in wildlife and nature. It is home to a diverse range of species, from native British mammals like otters, deer, and wild boar to more elusive animals like lynxes and wolves. The park provides a more intimate, natural experience compared to larger zoos or wildlife centres, focusing on conservation of endangered species and fostering a deeper understanding of the animals and their habitats.

In addition to the opportunity to see and learn about animals, the park is set within a beautiful forest landscape, allowing visitors to walk through peaceful woodlands while observing wildlife in large, natural enclosures. It's also an excellent place for children to learn about nature and wildlife through interactive exhibits, daily feeding sessions, and talks from knowledgeable staff.

New Forest Wildlife Park Highlights

1. Otter Enclosures: The park is renowned for its otter conservation work, and visitors can see several species of otters, including the native European otter and the playful Asian short-clawed otter. These animals live in large enclosures with natural environments, complete with streams and ponds. The daily feeding sessions are a highlight, where visitors can watch the otters dive and interact with their keepers.

2. Wolves: A pack of European grey wolves lives at the park, offering a rare chance to observe these majestic animals up close. Wolves are shy and elusive in the wild, so seeing them in a more natural setting is particularly special. Visitors can learn about the importance of wolves in ecosystems and their near-extinction in the UK.

3. Lynx: The park houses Eurasian lynx, which were once native to Britain but were hunted to extinction. These solitary big cats are difficult to spot in the wild, making the chance to see them at the park a notable experience. The lynx exhibit gives insight into the role of these apex predators in the food chain and the ongoing efforts to reintroduce them to parts of Europe.

4. Wild Boar and Deer: The New Forest Wildlife Park is home to both wild boar and several species of deer, including fallow and roe deer. The large, forested enclosures mimic the animals’ natural environments, allowing them to roam freely. Deer are especially significant in the New Forest, where wild populations have existed for centuries, and visitors can see these majestic creatures up close.

5. Butterfly House: During the warmer months, the park's Butterfly House is a must-see. It’s filled with vibrant, exotic butterflies that flutter freely among the tropical plants. Educational displays teach visitors about the lifecycle of butterflies and the importance of insect conservation.

6. The Pine Marten Enclosure: Pine martens, elusive members of the weasel family, are making a comeback in the UK, and the park provides a safe environment for these rare animals. The Pine Marten Breeding and Reintroduction Programme aims to boost their populations, and visitors can learn about these nocturnal predators’ role in controlling pests and helping to balance ecosystems.

7. Wildcats: The park is one of the few places where visitors can see the Scottish wildcat, a critically endangered species native to the Highlands of Scotland. These felines are one of the rarest mammals in the UK and look similar to domestic cats but are more robust and feral. Efforts are underway to breed and eventually release wildcats back into the wild.

8. Birds of Prey: The park is also home to several birds of prey, including owls and kestrels. While not as prominent as the mammals, these birds contribute to the biodiversity of the park and can often be seen perching or in flight displays during certain times of the year.

9. Adventure Playgrounds: In addition to the wildlife, the park also has two large adventure playgrounds, ideal for younger visitors. These play areas include climbing frames, zip wires, and other fun equipment that let children burn off energy in between animal encounters. The play areas are designed with safety in mind, and there’s plenty of seating for parents to relax nearby.

Conservation and Education

The New Forest Wildlife Park places a strong emphasis on conservation, particularly for species that are endangered or extinct in the wild. Through breeding programs, partnerships with conservation organizations, and educational talks, the park is dedicated to preserving these species for future generations. The park also participates in reintroduction programs for animals like pine martens and works to raise awareness about the importance of conserving natural habitats.

Educational programs are a key part of the park’s mission. School groups and families can benefit from special tours, workshops, and hands-on learning experiences that teach children about ecology, animal behaviour, and conservation efforts. The staff are highly knowledgeable and are always willing to share information during feeding sessions or talks.

Facilities

The New Forest Wildlife Park is well-equipped to make visits enjoyable and accessible for all. Facilities include:

Café: The on-site café serves a variety of hot and cold food, snacks, and beverages. With indoor and outdoor seating, it’s an ideal spot to take a break while enjoying views of the surrounding forest.
Gift Shop: The gift shop offers a range of wildlife-themed souvenirs, toys, books, and eco-friendly products. Proceeds from sales support the park’s conservation efforts.
Picnic Areas: There are several picnic areas around the park, allowing visitors to bring their own food and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.
Accessible Paths: The park’s pathways are well-maintained and accessible, making it easy for visitors with pushchairs or wheelchairs to navigate the grounds.
Restrooms and Baby Changing Facilities: Conveniently located restrooms with baby changing facilities are available near the entrance and at key points throughout the park.
Car Parking: Free parking is available on site, and it’s advisable to arrive early, particularly during peak times like school holidays.

Practical Information

Opening Hours: The park is open daily except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Seasonal opening times may vary, so it’s advisable to check the official website before planning a visit.
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online or on arrival, with discounts for families and groups. The park also offers annual passes for repeat visitors.
Best Time to Visit: To avoid crowds, visiting during weekdays outside of school holidays is recommended. Spring and summer are particularly beautiful times to explore the park, especially when the Butterfly House is open.
Location: The New Forest Wildlife Park is located near Ashurst, just a short drive from Lyndhurst and Southampton. It’s easily accessible by car and public transport, with Ashurst New Forest train station nearby.

Nearby Attractions

The New Forest Wildlife Park is set in a region rich in natural beauty and other attractions. Visitors can easily combine a trip to the park with exploring the wider New Forest area. Highlights include:

New Forest National Park: Covering vast areas of ancient woodland, heathland, and grassland, the national park is perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. The park is famous for its roaming ponies, picturesque villages, and diverse landscapes.
Beaulieu: This nearby village is home to the Beaulieu Motor Museum, a popular destination for car enthusiasts. The historic Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House are also worth visiting.
Exbury Gardens: A 200-acre garden renowned for its collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and rare plants, Exbury Gardens offers beautiful landscapes to explore.
Paultons Park: For families with children, Paultons Park, home to Peppa Pig World, is a nearby theme park offering a variety of rides and attractions.