Tropical Birdland: A Vibrant Sanctuary for Exotic Birds in Leicester
Discover over 250 exotic birds in a lush 6.5-acre sanctuary with free-flying parrots, interactive feeding, and family-friendly amenities in Leicester.
Tropical Birdland in Desford, Leicester, is a 6.5-acre sanctuary home to over 250 exotic birds, including stunning free-flying parrots. Visitors can explore walk-through aviaries, wooded trails, and enjoy interactive experiences like feeding and holding birds. The site features a café, picnic areas, and hosts seasonal events, making it an engaging family-friendly destination immersed in nature and conservation.
A brief summary to Tropical Birdland
- Lindridge Ln, Leicester, Desford, LE9 9GN, GB
- +441455824603
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets online in advance during July, August, and September as August entrance is by e-ticket only.
- Bring mealworms to attract and feed some of the bird species during your visit.
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing and consider wellington boots on rainy days due to outdoor trails.
- Visit the on-site café for homemade cakes and barista coffee to relax during your exploration.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully enjoy the bird walks, animal encounters, and seasonal events.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take the Arriva bus service from Leicester city center to Desford, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. The journey takes around 40 to 50 minutes. From the bus stop, Tropical Birdland is a 15-minute walk along Lindridge Lane. Tickets cost about £3-£5 one way.
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Car
Driving from Leicester city center to Tropical Birdland takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via the A47 and local roads. Free on-site parking is available. Note that traffic can be busy during weekends and holidays.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Leicester to Tropical Birdland typically takes 20 to 30 minutes, costing around £15-£25 depending on traffic and time of day. This option offers door-to-door convenience.
Tropical Birdland location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Tropical Birdland
A Haven for Exotic Birds and Nature Enthusiasts
Tropical Birdland is a captivating 6.5-acre sanctuary nestled on the northern outskirts of Desford village in Leicester. It houses more than 250 birds from around the world, including parrots, owls, ducks, and emus. The sanctuary is designed to provide spacious, naturalistic habitats that allow many birds to fly freely, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors. The walk-through aviaries and wooded trails invite exploration and discovery, making it a unique place to connect with nature.Engaging Visitor Experiences and Wildlife Encounters
One of the main attractions at Tropical Birdland is the free-flying bird walk, where colorful parrots soar overhead, offering spectacular sights and sounds. At the end of the trail, visitors can participate in supervised feeding and bird-holding sessions, providing a hands-on opportunity to interact closely with some of the birds. Additionally, the sanctuary has recently introduced meerkat encounters, adding to the variety of animal experiences available.Facilities and Amenities for a Comfortable Visit
The site offers a cozy on-site café known as The Real Macaw Café, serving a variety of hot and cold foods, homemade cakes, and barista-style coffee. Picnic areas, some covered, are available near the children’s play area and flamingo enclosure. The sanctuary is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with accessible toilets and baby-changing facilities, ensuring comfort for families and visitors with different needs.Conservation and Education Focus
Tropical Birdland emphasizes conservation and education, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about endangered tropical bird species and the importance of protecting their natural habitats. The sanctuary’s environment encourages reflection on biodiversity and wildlife preservation, making it not only an entertaining destination but also an inspiring one.Seasonal Events and Membership Benefits
Throughout the year, Tropical Birdland hosts seasonal and special events, including a popular Christmas winter wonderland with festive activities. Visitors can also join membership programs that offer savings, updates, and opportunities to support the sanctuary’s ongoing work, including having their names commemorated on plaques.Location and Accessibility
Located on Lindridge Lane in Desford, Tropical Birdland is easily accessible from Leicester and surrounding areas. The sanctuary operates daily with seasonal variations in opening hours, generally from 10:00 to 17:30 during spring and summer, and shorter hours in winter. Visitors are advised to dress for outdoor conditions, as the attraction is primarily open-air with some covered areas.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Earl Shilton Castle
5.8 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Museum Development East Midlands
7.8 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
8.9 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
10.5 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
10.6 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Welford Place
11.0 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
Memorial Clock Tower
11.7 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
18.3 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
21.2 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Sir Frank Whittle
28.5 km
Coventry's tribute to the jet engine pioneer who revolutionized aviation and transformed modern flight.
Council House
28.7 km
A majestic Edwardian Tudor Revival building at Coventry’s heart, blending civic function with rich historical symbolism and artistic heritage.
Lunt Roman Fort
31.7 km
Explore Lunt Roman Fort, a captivating heritage site that reveals the rich history of Roman military architecture and life in ancient Britain.
Beeston Lock
31.9 km
Explore Beeston Lock, a historical landmark in Nottingham, where scenic beauty and rich industrial heritage come together for an unforgettable experience.
The Derby Ram Statue
34.4 km
Discover Derby’s iconic ram statue, a vibrant symbol of local legend, heritage, and community pride in the heart of the city.
Derby Cathedral
34.8 km
Discover Derby Cathedral’s historic charm, panoramic views, and vibrant cultural life in the heart of Derby city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kirby Muxloe Castle
4.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins and tranquil moated grounds of Kirby Muxloe Castle, a spectacular unfinished 15th-century brick fortress steeped in history.
National Trust - Stoneywell
8.1 km
Explore a charming Arts & Crafts cottage nestled in vibrant gardens and woodlands, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in heritage and natural beauty.
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre
8.3 km
Step into history at Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre, where the dramatic 1485 battle shaped England’s future amid scenic rural trails and immersive exhibits.
Bradgate House
8.4 km
Explore the historic beauty of Bradgate House, the former home of Lady Jane Grey, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
Old John Tower
8.7 km
Discover the historic Old John Tower in Bradgate Park, a stunning landmark offering panoramic views and rich heritage amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Fosse Park
8.8 km
Britain’s large out-of-town shopping park near Leicester, offering top retail brands and vibrant dining under a striking glass roof.
Bradgate Park
8.9 km
Explore Bradgate Park’s medieval deer park, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes in Leicestershire’s historic natural sanctuary.
Beaumont Shopping Centre
9.6 km
A vibrant community hub in Leicester offering diverse shopping, dining, and weekend markets in a welcoming atmosphere.
Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve
10.0 km
Leicester’s largest local nature reserve, a tranquil mosaic of wetlands, woodlands, and canal-side paths rich in wildlife and history.
The Blackbird
10.3 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
Leicester Castle
10.5 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
10.5 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
The Newarke Houses Museum
10.6 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
The Guildhall Museum
10.7 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Leicester Cathedral
10.8 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
Essential places to dine
The Windmill Inn
3.4 km
Historic 19th-century pub in Brascote offering hearty English fare, real ales, and a warm countryside welcome.
Dom restaurant and bar
5.5 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Fourwards Restaurant
5.9 km
A family-run British restaurant in Earl Shilton blending classic flavors with modern creativity in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Black Iron
8.1 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
8.7 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
10.0 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Restaurant263
10.6 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Cosy Club
10.7 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
10.7 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
10.8 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Merchant of Venice
10.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
10.9 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
The Frame
10.9 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
10.9 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The White Peacock
11.1 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jasmine's Gifts
6.4 km
Discover unique handmade treasures and local artisan gifts at Jasmine's Gifts in Earl Shilton, where community spirit meets charming craftsmanship.
Watkinghams Gift & Homeware Store
7.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and stylish homeware in a charming village shop celebrating local artistry near Bradgate Park.
Forget Me Knot Leicester Ltd
8.7 km
Anstey's beloved independent gift shop, where thoughtful curation meets genuine hospitality.
Narborough Hall
8.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Narborough Hall, a beloved gift shop nestled in the heart of Narborough village, Leicester.
The Range, Leicester
10.7 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Niche Store
10.8 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
Arciide
10.8 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Menkind
10.8 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Set
10.9 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Very Bazaar Leicester
10.9 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
The Wardrobe
10.9 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Just Fair Trade
10.9 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Source
11.0 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Urban Outfitters
11.0 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
Nim's Boutique ltd
11.0 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bulls Head
3.4 km
A warm and lively pub in Leicester Forest West offering expertly cooked food, a great beer garden, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Keepers Lodge
9.5 km
A friendly community pub in Leicester offering great food, drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Crows Nest
9.9 km
A lively Leicester pub with great food, live music, family events, and a welcoming pirate-themed atmosphere.
Nine Bar
10.0 km
A lively Leicester bar offering quality cocktails, craft beers, and delicious burgers in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Metal Monocle
10.2 km
A vibrant steampunk haven in Leicester where rock and metal music meet inventive drinks and immersive atmosphere.
Tree, Leicester
10.7 km
A vibrant craft beer pub in Leicester city centre with a glorious beer garden, fresh food, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Queen of Bradgate
10.7 km
A lively Leicester gastro pub blending artisan British fare, craft drinks, and vintage charm on the historic High Street.
The Gadabout
10.8 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
10.9 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
The Rutland & Derby Arms
10.9 km
A lively Leicester pub with top-notch wings, a stunning beer garden, and friendly service in the heart of the city.
The Blue Boar
10.9 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
10.9 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Tønne Bar
10.9 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Firebug
11.0 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
Knight & Garter
11.0 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The 2Funky Lounge
10.3 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Mosh
10.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
Club Republic
11.0 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Corah Works
11.1 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The Basement
11.1 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Waikiki Nightclub
11.1 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
The Fan Club
11.1 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
TRUTH Leicester
11.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Motto Nightclub
11.2 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
The Emporium
11.5 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Helsinki
11.5 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Echo's Night Club
16.8 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
Ciros Nightclub
17.4 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Tubes
31.5 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
The Attic Adult Club
31.7 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
