Longleat House and Safari Park: A Majestic Blend of History, Wildlife, and Adventure
Explore England’s grand Elizabethan estate with the UK’s first drive-through safari, enchanting gardens, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Longleat House, located near Warminster, England, is a grand stately home set within an expansive estate that includes the UK’s first drive-through safari park. Visitors can explore the magnificent Elizabethan mansion, wander formal gardens, and enjoy immersive wildlife experiences featuring lions, giraffes, meerkats, and England’s only koalas. The estate offers a variety of attractions including a hedge maze, boat safari, miniature railway, and seasonal events like the Festival of Light. It’s a captivating destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Longleat House
- Longleat House, Warminster, BA12 7NW, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 7 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and access discounts, especially during peak seasons.
- Start your visit with the safari drive early in the day or late afternoon for better animal activity and fewer crowds.
- Consider taking the safari bus to avoid car damage from monkeys and enjoy guided commentary.
- Explore the hedge maze and Adventure Castle for fun family activities beyond the wildlife experiences.
- Visit during the Festival of Light in winter for magical illuminations and seasonal entertainment.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Warminster town center takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A36 and A350. Free parking is available on-site with accessible spaces near the Main Square. During peak times, overflow parking is opened, and the drive to the safari start can take around 15 minutes.
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Coach
Coach groups can access dedicated drop-off points near the Main Square. Travel time from Bath or Salisbury is around 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Advance booking for coach parking is recommended during peak seasons.
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Public Transport
From Warminster railway station, local bus services connect to Longleat, with journey times around 30-40 minutes. Service frequency is limited on weekends and public holidays, so check schedules in advance.
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Walking
Walking from Warminster town center is not recommended due to distance (approximately 7 km) and lack of pedestrian-friendly routes. Onsite walking around the estate is extensive but mostly on well-maintained paths suitable for all abilities.
Longleat House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Longleat House
A Noble Heritage and Architectural Grandeur
Longleat House stands as a prime example of Elizabethan architecture, renowned for its striking façade and richly decorated interiors. Built in the late 16th century, the house has been the ancestral home of the Marquesses of Bath for centuries. Its grand rooms, historic art collections, and intricate woodwork reflect the opulence of England’s aristocratic past. Visitors can explore the ground floor through self-guided tours, with additional guided tours available to delve deeper into the house’s storied history and architectural details.The Birthplace of the British Safari Park
In 1966, Longleat revolutionized wildlife tourism by opening the first drive-through safari park outside Africa. This pioneering venture allows visitors to encounter exotic animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs in expansive, naturalistic enclosures. The safari drive offers an immersive experience where guests can observe animals roaming freely from the safety of their vehicles or opt for a safari bus to avoid potential car damage by mischievous monkeys. The park also features walk-through animal areas including the Jungle Kingdom and Koala Creek, home to England’s only resident koalas.Family-Friendly Attractions and Outdoor Adventures
Beyond the safari and house, Longleat offers a wealth of activities for families and adventurers. The famous hedge maze challenges visitors with its complex pathways, while the Adventure Castle and Little Explorer’s Garden provide imaginative play spaces for children. The miniature Longleat Railway circles the lake, offering scenic views and a leisurely ride. The Boat Safari on Half Mile Pond showcases sea lions and gorillas, adding to the diverse wildlife encounters. Seasonal events, such as the Festival of Light, bring festive illuminations and themed entertainment that enhance the estate’s magical atmosphere.Commitment to Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Longleat is committed to providing an inclusive experience, featuring accessible play equipment and dedicated areas for guests with disabilities or neurodiverse needs. The estate offers ample parking, including accessible spaces, and a variety of food and drink options throughout the park. Facilities such as restrooms, seating areas, visitor centers, and information boards support visitor comfort. The estate’s extensive grounds encourage leisurely exploration, with well-maintained paths and signage to guide guests.Seasonal Highlights and Special Experiences
Longleat hosts a range of special events throughout the year, including the renowned Festival of Light during the winter months, which illuminates the estate with spectacular displays. The Longleat Sky Safari hot air balloon festival is another highlight, offering vibrant balloon launches and performances against the backdrop of the Wiltshire countryside. VIP experiences and luxury estate cottages provide options for visitors seeking exclusive and extended stays. The estate’s dynamic calendar ensures there is always something new to discover.Planning Your Visit and Practical Information
Opening times vary seasonally, with longer hours in spring and summer and special schedules during events. Tickets include access to the safari, house, maze, and many attractions, with some activities requiring additional fees. Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak periods, to secure entry and take advantage of discounts. The estate encourages visitors to plan their day to avoid peak crowds, with early mornings and late afternoons often providing the best wildlife viewing opportunities. With its blend of history, wildlife, and family fun, Longleat offers a rich and memorable experience for all ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Bath Guildhall Market
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Green Park Station
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Unmissable attractions to see
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The Parish Church of St John the Baptist
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Catherine Hill
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Frome Weekly Market
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Shepton Mallet Prison
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Warleigh Weir
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Bath CityViewpoint
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Bath
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River Adventures Ltd
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The Forum
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Essential places to dine
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Tapas Revolution.
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Opa Bath
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Sotto Sotto
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La Perla
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Tagine Zhor
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OAK Restaurant
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Bar + Block Steakhouse Bath
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Browns Bath
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Bill's Bath Restaurant
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Thai Balcony Restaurant
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Las Iguanas - Bath
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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My Small World Toy Store
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Urban Outfitters
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Hauslife
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Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath
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Pinkart
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
