West Midlands Safari Park, Bewdley

A Living Safari Experience in Worcestershire

Nestled in the rolling hills between Kidderminster and Bewdley, West Midlands Safari Park spans approximately 80 hectares of naturalistic habitats and themed zones. Opened in 1973, it offers a unique self-drive safari where visitors can journey along a 6-kilometer route through free-roaming herds of African and Asian wildlife. This immersive experience brings you face-to-face with majestic giraffes, powerful lions, cheetahs, hippos, and meerkats, among others. The drive-through safari is carefully managed to balance visitor access with animal welfare and habitat conservation.

Diverse Walk-Through Exhibits and Interactive Zones

Beyond the safari drive, the park features extensive pedestrian areas that invite exploration on foot. The African Village provides an interactive glimpse into traditional village life alongside native wildlife like pygmy goats and Cameroon sheep. The Twilight Cave offers a rare opportunity to observe free-flying fruit bats and nocturnal creatures in a dimly lit, naturalistic setting. Other highlights include the lemur walk-through, the Ice Age and dinosaur exhibits with life-size models, and the popular Meet the Meerkats enclosure.

Adventure Theme Park and Family Fun

Complementing the wildlife experiences is an adventure theme park with rides suitable for all ages, including classic attractions like the Congo Carousel and Jungle Swings. Younger visitors can enjoy the Explorers' Play Park, designed to engage children with nature and play. Seasonal events, such as festive celebrations and live performances, add further entertainment value throughout the year.

Conservation and Education Commitment

West Midlands Safari Park is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), reflecting its commitment to animal welfare, conservation, and education. The park actively participates in habitat restoration projects, including maintaining heathland designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Educational talks and animal encounters are regularly held to deepen visitor understanding of wildlife and conservation challenges.

Historical Roots and Evolution

Founded by Jimmy Chipperfield in 1973, the park initially housed former circus animals and evolved over decades to become a leading safari and adventure destination in the UK. Past features like the dolphin area and boat safari have given way to modern exhibits and attractions, reflecting changing visitor interests and improved animal care standards. The park recently updated its name to West Midlands Safari Park to better represent its regional identity.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Visitors can expect well-maintained grounds, friendly staff, and a variety of amenities including food outlets, restrooms, and picnic areas. The park encourages pre-booking for the drive-through safari to manage capacity and enhance the experience. With free parking and proximity to Birmingham, it serves as a popular day trip or weekend getaway destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.