Wolds Wildlife Park, located in the picturesque market town of Horncastle, Lincolnshire, is a beloved destination for animal enthusiasts and families alike. This wildlife park is home to a diverse array of animals, from majestic lions and leopards to playful capybaras and ring-tailed lemurs. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the history, attractions, and activities that make Wolds Wildlife Park a must-visit destination.

History and Development

Wolds Wildlife Park was founded in 2013 by Andrew and Tracy Walters, with the park officially opening its doors in December 2019. The park started with the acquisition of Marty, a young female zebra, and has since grown to include a wide variety of animals. Over the years, the park has expanded its facilities and animal collection, becoming one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lincolnshire.

Location and Accessibility

Situated at Homefield Hemingby Lane, Horncastle, Wolds Wildlife Park is easily accessible from major roads and the nearby town of Horncastle. The park offers ample parking for visitors, ensuring a convenient and stress-free visit. The park’s location in the scenic Wolds region adds to its charm, making it an ideal spot for a day out with family or friends.

Animal Enclosures and Exhibits

Wolds Wildlife Park is home to a wide range of animals, each housed in spacious and well-maintained enclosures. Visitors can see majestic lions, graceful leopards, playful capybaras, and curious ring-tailed lemurs, among many others. The park takes great care in ensuring the well-being of its animals, providing them with enriching environments and proper nutrition.

Activities and Attractions

Visitors to Wolds Wildlife Park can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions designed to enhance their experience. The park offers interactive experiences such as fox encounters, where guests can get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. There are also opportunities for private miniature horse walking, allowing visitors to bond with these gentle animals. The park’s well-maintained play area and modern toilet facilities ensure a comfortable visit for families.

Educational Programs

Wolds Wildlife Park is committed to educating visitors about wildlife conservation and animal care. The park offers educational programs and guided tours, providing insights into the lives of the animals and the efforts being made to protect endangered species. These programs are designed to inspire visitors, especially children, to develop a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the importance of conservation.

Visitor Reviews and Ratings

Wolds Wildlife Park has received positive reviews from visitors, with many praising its clean facilities, friendly staff, and well-cared-for animals. The park has a rating of 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor, based on over 460 reviews. Visitors appreciate the variety of animals, the interactive experiences, and the overall family-friendly atmosphere.

Recent Developments and Challenges

In recent months, Wolds Wildlife Park has faced some challenges, including a temporary closure due to disputes among the owners. The park announced its closure on social media, citing “irreconcilable differences” regarding the future direction of the park. Despite this setback, the park’s owners have expressed their commitment to resolving the issues and reopening the park as soon as possible.

Community Support and Future Plans

The temporary closure of Wolds Wildlife Park has been met with disappointment from the local community and visitors who have enjoyed the park over the years. Many have voiced their support for the park’s owners and expressed hope for its reopening. The owners have assured visitors that the animals are being well cared for and that they are working to resolve the issues and reopen the park.

FAQs 

What animals can be found at Wolds Wildlife Park?

The park houses a variety of animals, including large carnivores like lions and tigers, as well as smaller species and birds. It is home to both native wildlife and more exotic animals, providing an immersive experience for visitors to see these creatures up close. The park was praised for the high standard of animal care and the friendly, knowledgeable staff who helped visitors learn more about the animals​.

Why is Wolds Wildlife Park closed?

The closure is due to internal disagreements between the co-owners of the park. While one owner, Tracy Walters, announced the closure, her business partner, Andrew Riddel, expressed hope that the issues could be resolved and that the park would reopen. There have been reports of personal challenges and disputes with local authorities, which have contributed to the park’s temporary halt​.

Will the animals still be cared for during the closure?

Yes, despite the closure, it has been confirmed that the animals continue to be well cared for. There have been no reports of any harm coming to the animals during this time. The staff’s jobs remain intact, and they are committed to ensuring the animals’ welfare is maintained​.

When will the park reopen?

The exact timeline for reopening is uncertain. The owners are currently working through internal issues and logistical challenges with local authorities. Both the owners and the community have expressed hope that the park will be able to reopen after these issues are resolved, but no official date has been set​.

What was the community’s reaction to the closure?

The news of the closure shocked many locals and frequent visitors who praised the park for its high-quality facilities and animal care. Several social media users shared their disappointment, with some expressing a desire for the owners to come to a compromise and reopen the park. The wildlife park had become a beloved part of the local area​.

Can I still visit the park’s website or social media pages?

Yes, the Wolds Wildlife Park continues to maintain its online presence through social media platforms like Facebook. Updates on the park’s status, including any potential reopening dates, are expected to be posted there​.

Conclusion

Wolds Wildlife Park is a cherished destination for animal lovers and families, offering a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife and learn about conservation efforts. Despite recent challenges, the park’s owners remain dedicated to providing a safe and enriching environment for their animals and visitors. With continued community support, Wolds Wildlife Park is poised to continue its mission of educating and inspiring future generations of wildlife enthusiasts.

To read more, Click Here.