Located just outside Doncaster, Yorkshire Wildlife Park offers a family-friendly day out with over 500 animals across 100 species. This guide provides clear, practical information on how to get there, ticket prices, parking, accessibility, and the best times to visit, along with nearby attractions to enhance your trip.
The history of Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Yorkshire Wildlife Park opened in 2009 on the site of Brockholes Farm, a former riding school and petting zoo. Today, it spans 260 acres and is home to approximately 475 animals representing over 60 species. The park is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), focusing on wildlife conservation and rehabilitation.
I visited shortly after it opened, and I’ve been amazed at how much it has developed since. Yorkshire Wildlife Park is a heartening success story.
The park features several themed areas, including Project Polar, which houses the UK’s only polar bears; Leopard Heights, home to the endangered Amur leopard; and South America Viva, a walk-through enclosure displaying various South American species. Visitors can also explore the Hyenas of Harar and Simien Mountains precincts, which showcase Ethiopian wildlife.
Why book the Yorkshire Wildlife Park Entry Ticket?
- 🦁 Explore over 400 animals across 70+ species, including lions, tigers, giraffes, and meerkats
- 🌿 Experience immersive habitats like the African Savannah, Land of the Tigers, and Wallaby Walkabout
- 🎟 Skip-the-line entry with flexible ticket options—valid for any date
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-friendly attraction with picnic areas, play zones, and seasonal events
- ⭐ Rated 4.5/5 by over 145 reviewers for value, cleanliness, and animal welfare
- ✅ Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit; mobile tickets accepted
How to get to Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Yorkshire Wildlife Park is located in Branton, near Doncaster, South Yorkshire. The park is easily accessible by car, with the postcode DN4 6TB leading you to the entrance. For public transport, the First Bus South Yorkshire 357 service runs directly to the park from the Doncaster Interchange, operating hourly from Monday to Sunday. The distance between the accessible car park and the entrance is approximately 240 meters, and the route is flat, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs.
Opening hours, ticket prices, and what is included
The park is typically open daily from 9:45 AM to 5:00 PM, with last entry at 3:00 PM, although it closes an hour earlie in winter. It’s advisable to check the official website for any seasonal variations or special events that may affect opening times.
Ticket prices vary depending on the season, but the summer prices are as follows:
- Off-Peak Weekdays (Mon-Fri term time): Adult £27.99 (online £24.49), Child £23.99 (online £20.49)
- Off-Peak Weekends: Adult £28.99 (online £25.49), Child £24.99 (online £21.49)
- Peak Days (school holidays, event days): Adult £29.99 (online £26.49), Child £25.99 (online £22.49)
Winter prices are cheaper, with adult admission tickets costing from £21.50.
Infants under 3 years old enter for free.
Tickets can be booked online, which saves faffing at the gate.
Accessible tickets are available at discounted rates, and proof of disability and official carer status must be shown. Admission includes access to all animal exhibits, themed areas, and play zones. Certain areas may begin to close one hour prior to the advertised park closing time, so plan accordingly.
Parking, accessibility, and facilities
Parking at Yorkshire Wildlife Park is free for all visitors. The open-air car park is located at the front of the venue, with designated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders. The route from the parking area to the nearest public entrance is flat and without steps, ensuring accessibility for all guests.
The park offers various facilities to enhance your visit:
- Mobility Scooters: Available for hire; it’s recommended to pre-book online to avoid disappointment.
- Accessible Memberships: Includes non-named carer, allowing for inclusive visits.
- Dining Options: The park features several cafés and restaurants, including Wilds Café-Bistro and the Evolution Experience Restaurant, offering a range of meals and refreshments.
For full details of directions to the park, public transport options, and an interactive map, visit the official website.
Best times to visit Yorkshire Wildlife Park
To avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on weekdays during term time. The park tends to be busiest during school holidays and event days, so planning your visit during off-peak times can provide a more enjoyable experience.
Arriving early in the day allows you to experience the animals when they are most active. Additionally, the park offers various ranger talks and live shows throughout the day, which are worth planning your schedule around.
All else considered, I’d recommend going to see the polar bears first. It’s the most impressive enclosure, and you want to see them awake and interacting with each other.
Nearby attractions to combine with your visit
After exploring the wildlife park, consider visiting some nearby attractions to make the most of your day:
- Conisbrough Castle: A short drive from the park, this medieval castle offers a glimpse into England’s past. Kids enjoy playing in the ruins.
- Brodsworth Hall and Gardens: A Victorian country house with charming gardens.
- Gulliver’s Valley Resort: This family theme park features rides and attractions specifically for children aged two to thirteen.
- South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum: Housed on the former RAF Doncaster site, this museum exhibits aircraft and aviation history, including a Vulcan bomber.
- Cusworth Hall and Park: This 18th-century Grade I listed country house is set within historic parkland and features a social history museum.
These attractions are all within a short drive from the wildlife park, although I’d argue that the you can fill a full day looking at the animals, and don’t need to add anything else on.
Practical tips and FAQ
Are the paths wheelchair-friendly?
Yes, the park is accessible for all visitors. Most paths are flat and suitable for wheelchairs, though some areas may have uneven surfaces. It’s advisable to use all-terrain wheelchairs for certain sections. It’s also worth being aware that the park sprawls somewhat – there’s a lot of pushing to do, especially in the stretch from the car park to where the animal enclosures are.
Is there accessible parking close to the entrance?
Yes, there are designated parking spaces for Blue Badge holders near the entrance, with a flat and step-free route to the main entrance.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food. However, there are also several dining options within the park, including cafés and restaurants offering a range of meals and refreshments.
Are photos allowed everywhere?
Personal photography is allowed throughout the park. However, the use of tripods is restricted in certain areas, and drone usage is not permitted for safety and privacy reasons.
Are there kid-friendly facilities or activities?
Yes, the park features several play areas, including the Oasis Adventure Play Zone, which are suitable for children of various ages. Additionally, there are interactive exhibits and animal encounters designed to engage young visitors. Essentially, kids are the target market.
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