Cumbria Safari Zoo: A Unique Wildlife Experience

If you surf the internet for information on Cumbria Safari Zoo, you will probably not find much because this fascinating wildlife attraction was formerly known as South Lakes Safari Zoo. It is home to over 1,000 of the rarest and most endangered animals in unique natural environments which enable visitors to get to experience the amazing creatures with which we share our planet.

Visitors to this park nestled in the stunning Lake District of Cumbria, England can get to:

• Enjoy a day out in one of England’s most beautiful natural environments.
• Getting as close as physically possible to the extent of participating in animal feeding or spending the day as a zookeeper.
• Wander amongst animals on the verge of extinction like kangaroos, wallabies, and emus.
• Be amazed as free-flying macaws soar overhead.

Cumbria Safari Zoo has significantly evolved since it was established in 1994 by David Gill. The zoo’s mission has always been to provide an enriching and educational experience while promoting awareness of animal welfare and environmental conservation. From this article, you will get a birds-eye view of the zoo, from its impressive range of animal exhibits to its conservation initiatives, visitor amenities, and ticketing information.

The zoo in Cumbria prides itself on its interactive experiences courtesy of open enclosures where animals such as lemurs, wallabies, and emus roam freely. Visitors can walk through these areas and relish the rare opportunity of observing these animals in a more natural, relaxed setting. For instance, the Lemur Walk allows guests to stroll alongside these playful primates as they leap from tree to tree, an experience that is both captivating and educational.

Cumbria Safari Zoo Location

The wildlife park sits on Melton Terrace in Dalton-in-Furness in the county of Cumbria, UK. This charming northern English town is famous for its scenic landscapes, being home to the Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its lakes, mountains, and historical landmarks.

Cumbria Safari Zoo is just a short drive from the bustling town of Barrow-in-Furness, and the stunning Lake District is within reach, making it a perfect addition to any itinerary for visitors to the region. For tourists who love combining wildlife experiences with outdoor adventures, the zoo in Cumbria ideally intersects natural beauty and animal conservation.

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How to get to Cumbria Safari Zoo by Car

Driving is perhaps the most convenient and flexible way to reach the Cumbria Safari Zoo, particularly if you are coming from outside the region or intent on exploring the surrounding area as well. Satellite navigation for locating the zoo is LA15 8JR. If travelling from the south of England, the most direct route would be to take the M6 motorway northbound. Cumbria Safari Zoo is accessible via Junction 36 of the M6. Once you exit the motorway, follow the signs for Barrow-in-Furness, travelling along the A590. Dalton-in-Furness is well-signposted from this road, and you’ll soon see signs for the zoo in Cumbria. 

From the north or Scotland, again, take the M6 motorway southbound, exiting at Junction 36 and following the same directions along the A590. The drive through the Lake District offers stunning views, making the journey itself part of the experience.

Ample parking facilities are available at the zoo, and parking is free for all visitors.

How to get to Cumbria Safari Zoo by Train

Traveling by train is a convenient and scenic option with the nearest railway station being Dalton-in-Furness Station, which is approximately a mile from the zoo. This makes the zoo easily accessible on foot or by a short taxi ride.

Dalton-in-Furness Station is on the Cumbrian Coast Line, which connects to major stations such as Barrow-in-Furness and Lancaster. If you’re coming from further afield, you can catch a direct train to Barrow-in-Furness from cities like Manchester, Leeds, or even London. Once in Barrow, Cumbria Wildlife Park is just a quick 10-minute train ride to Dalton-in-Furness.

For a hassle-free trip, it’s best to check timetables and book tickets in advance, especially during weekends or school holidays when trains can be busier.

How to get to Cumbria Safari Zoo by Bus

The route to Cumbria Safari Zoo is also serviced by local buses. Stagecoach operates a service that runs through Dalton-in-Furness and nearby towns. The 6/6A bus route connects Dalton-in-Furness with Barrow-in-Furness, Ulverston, and other nearby areas.

The tourist who is travelling by bus would have to alight at Dalton-in-Furness and would find the zoo to be a 15-minute walk from the town centre. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Dalton town centre to the zoo.

How to get to Cumbria Safari Zoo on Foot or by Bicycle

For those staying locally or more adventurous, the Cumbria Safari Zoo can be reached by foot or bicycle. There are several walking and cycling paths through Dalton-in-Furness and the surrounding countryside, offering a scenic journey. Walking or cycling through the Lake District region is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cumbria while heading toward a day of animal adventures.

Meanwhile, if you choose to cycle, the zoo has bike racks where you can securely park your bicycle while you explore the park.

Animal Exhibits and Attractions at Cumbria Safari Zoo

Here, the visitor is treated to the spectacular sights of giraffes towering above the landscape, and on treetops. This is also where to find herds of black-and-white striped zebras grazing in the grassy enclosures. This is also the exhibit for the awe-inspiring African white rhino with its thick skin and massive build.

The Big Cat Territory: 

Apex predators in Cumbria Safari Zoo are housed in an environment that emphasizes safety and animal welfare. While the African lions are a centrepiece attraction here, Siberian tigers, with their distinct orange-and-black fur, make for a captivating sight. The visitor will also be thrilled by Cheetahs whose incredible speed is unparalleled.

The Primate Islands

With zoo-goers having a soft spot for primates, Cumbria Safari Zoo does not disappoint in this regard. The park parades various islands and enclosures dedicated to housing various species of primates. These exhibits include: Lemurs and capuchin Monkeys as well as the enclosure for larger primates like Chimpanzees and Gibbons.

Wolves Pack

This is an enclosure in the zoo in Cumbria where visitors can observe wolves in a more expansive environment. It is best appreciated during safari drives. The zoo’s wolf pack is an important part of their conservation messaging, as they emphasize the need to protect this often misunderstood predator in the wild.

Penguin Beach

In Cumbria Safari Zoo is a recreated coastal environment where Penguins naturally live. Visitors can observe the birds both on land and in water through glass-panel viewing areas that allow for a closer look as varieties like the Humboldt penguins swim effortlessly through the water.

Petting Zoo and Farm Animals

Family activities in Cumbria Safari Zoo peak with a tour of this attraction where children and families can interact with domestic animals such as goats, sheep, and rabbits. The visitors get to be involved in the feeding sessions of these animals. 

Breaking from the exotic wildlife on parade, this enclosure is designed to foster a connection between young visitors and animals, affording them a better understanding of animal care and farm life.

The Aviary

Bird enthusiasts who visit the zoo in Cumbria can’t miss out on The Aviary which houses an array of bird species, from colourful parrots to majestic birds of prey. This is the enclosure where beautiful macaws and parrots supply vibrant displays of colour and sound. Visitors interact and even mimic the sounds of these incredibly intelligent birds once in this section of the zoo.

Cumbria Safari Drive-Through Experience

Just like in a typical African safari, visitors to the zoo in Cumbria can enjoy a drive-through experience. The facilities enable them to take their own vehicles or hop on a safari bus to observe animals in a more naturalistic setting. With this experience, guests can feel as though they are in the wild, driving through different Cumbria animal exhibits drawn from all parts of the globe.

This drive-through can take the visitor to sections where ostriches and different species of antelopes roam freely. These animals even get to come close to the vehicles, offering a unique and intimate wildlife viewing experience.

Bactrian camels, which are native to the deserts of Central Asia, are another pleasure to behold in the Cumbria Wildlife Park. With their characteristic two humps, these camels are a testament to their incredible adaptations to extreme environments.

The following facilities and amenities can be found in this place:

• Cafes and Restaurants
• Gift Shop
• Play Areas

Ticket Information at Cumbria Safari Zoo

Cumbria Safari Zoo offers various ticketing options that suit the preferences and budget of visitors. This ranges from day passes to annual memberships.

Day Tickets: With this pass, visitors can enjoy the zoo’s attractions from open to close. Prices vary depending on the time of year, with discounts often available for children, seniors, and groups. Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate on the day of your visit.

Annual Memberships: Annual membership provides excellent value for regular visitors. It accords them unlimited access to the zoo for a year, along with so many perks like discounted entry to special events. Holders of annual membership also enjoy priority booking for animal encounters, and discounts in the gift shop and cafes.

Special Events and Experiences: The zoo in Cumbria offers a range of special events and experiences, such as evening tours, “Keeper for a Day” programs, and private animal encounters. Advance booking is required for these fast-selling experiences. As such, it is recommended to plan ahead if you’re interested in participating.

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Conclusion on Cumbria Zoo

The rich tapestry of animal exhibits in Cumbria Safari Zoo offers an incredible experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re driving, taking public transport, or exploring on foot, this park brings the typical African savannah and other wildlife locations across the world to one of England’s most stunning regions.

Whether you’re interested in big cats, primates, birds, or reptiles, this UK’s premier wildlife attraction is replete with over a thousand of the world’s most amazing and rare species.

By affording guests interactive feeding sessions, immersive walk-throughs, and educational talks, the zoo in Cumbria stands out as the wildlife destination where education, conservation, and recreation come together to create an unforgettable adventure.

No member of your family should be denied the beautiful drives, scenic train rides, and picturesque walks that Cumbria Safari Zoo offers. The excursion is not one they would forget in a lifetime.

We hope this blog post has provided you with everything you need to know about Cumbria Safari😁. For more insightful articles and tips on African safaris, be sure to visit our African Category.