ongleat is one of the UK’s most iconic visitor attractions, offering a spectacular combination of wildlife encounters, historic grandeur, and family-friendly activities. Located in Wiltshire, England, this extraordinary estate is home to the UK’s first drive-through safari park, the magnificent Longleat House, and an impressive variety of attractions that appeal to all ages. Whether you are a history lover, animal enthusiast, or simply seeking an unforgettable family day out, Longleat delivers an experience like no other.
A Brief History of Longleat House
At the heart of the estate stands Longleat House, a masterpiece of Elizabethan architecture completed in the late 16th century. Built by Sir John Thynne, the stately home boasts lavish interiors, priceless antiques, and an extensive art collection. The house is surrounded by landscaped gardens designed by the legendary Capability Brown, making it one of the finest examples of stately homes in Britain.
Visitors can explore its grand halls, richly decorated drawing rooms, and ornate libraries, while expert guides share fascinating insights into the history of the Thynne family, who still reside here today. Longleat House is not just an architectural gem—it’s a living piece of British heritage.
Longleat Safari Park – A Wildlife Adventure
Longleat is world-famous for pioneering the UK’s first drive-through safari experience in 1966. Spanning hundreds of acres, the safari park is home to over 500 animals from across the globe. Guests can explore the park in their own vehicles or opt for guided safari truck tours.
Main Safari Zones
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African Plains – Encounter giraffes, zebras, and white rhinos roaming freely in a vast open landscape.
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Big Game Park – See elephants, camels, and antelopes in their naturalistic environments.
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Predator Drive-Through – Home to majestic lions, tigers, and cheetahs.
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Wolf Wood – Watch packs of wolves in a woodland habitat.
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Monkey Drive-Thru – A thrilling highlight where mischievous rhesus macaques interact playfully with cars (and sometimes dismantle them!).
The Monkey Drive-Thru – A Mischievous Favourite
The Monkey Drive-Thru is one of Longleat’s most talked-about attractions. Visitors can drive through an enclosure filled with cheeky primates who are known for hopping onto vehicles, tugging at wipers, and providing endless entertainment. It’s an unforgettable experience for those who love close-up animal encounters, though those wishing to avoid vehicle contact can bypass this section.
The Hedge Maze – A Fun and Challenging Adventure
Longleat is home to one of the largest hedge mazes in Britain, covering 1.5 miles of winding pathways. Made from over 16,000 English yews, the maze offers a fun challenge for families, with an observation tower providing the perfect vantage point to plan your route. It’s an activity that blends outdoor adventure with a sense of playful competition.
Boat Safari – Wildlife from the Water
For a change of pace, the Boat Safari on Half Mile Pond offers an aquatic perspective of the park’s wildlife. As you cruise across the water, you can spot sea lions, hippos, and even gorillas on the nearby Gorilla Island. This relaxing yet immersive experience is ideal for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Family Attractions and Play Areas
Longleat is a haven for families, offering a wide range of attractions beyond the safari.
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Adventure Castle – A huge wooden play fortress complete with slides, climbing areas, and zip wires.
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Little Explorers Garden – A wildlife-themed playground designed for younger children.
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Splash Pad – Perfect for cooling down on hot summer days.
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Jungle Kingdom – An interactive space where visitors can meet meerkats, giant otters, and red pandas.
Annual Events – A Year-Round Destination
Longleat hosts a vibrant calendar of events that enhance its appeal throughout the year.
Festival of Light
From November to January, Longleat transforms into a breathtaking world of illuminated displays. For 2025, the festival will feature a Wallace & Gromit theme, bringing beloved characters to life in glowing lantern form.
Summer Carnival
An energetic celebration with live entertainment, music, and themed activities perfect for the holiday season.
Seasonal Celebrations
From Easter egg hunts to Halloween adventures, Longleat ensures there is always something new for returning visitors.
VIP and Behind-the-Scenes Experiences
For those seeking something extra special, Longleat offers exclusive VIP tours where guests can get closer to the animals than ever before. Options include:
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Big Cat Feeding – Assist keepers in feeding lions or tigers.
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Giraffe Encounters – Hand-feed these gentle giants.
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Penguin Tours – Learn about the daily care of Longleat’s playful penguins.
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Keeper for a Day – Work alongside expert keepers for an insider’s view of animal care.
Gardens and Scenic Walks
Longleat’s extensive grounds are perfect for leisurely strolls. The formal gardens are meticulously maintained, featuring colourful flower beds, fountains, and ornamental sculptures. Surrounding woodlands and lakes provide a peaceful escape from the excitement of the attractions.
Practical Visitor Information
Opening Times
Longleat operates year-round, though hours vary by season and special events.
Tickets
Booking online in advance is strongly recommended, particularly for peak holiday periods and major events and it can work out to be considerably cheaper.
Accessibility
The estate is wheelchair accessible, with dedicated parking, accessible toilets, and mobility aids available for hire.
Facilities
Onsite amenities include:
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Multiple restaurants and cafes
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Picnic areas
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Gift shops
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Baby-changing facilities
Why Longleat is a Must-Visit Destination
Longleat’s combination of wildlife encounters, historic architecture, and family entertainment makes it one of the UK’s most diverse and exciting attractions. It offers something for everyone—whether you want to explore centuries-old history, see exotic animals up close, or simply enjoy a fun-filled day with loved ones.
From the thrill of the drive-through safari to the elegance of Longleat House, every visit feels like stepping into a world of wonder. Add in seasonal events, world-class facilities, and breathtaking scenery, and it’s easy to see why Longleat has become a favourite destination for both UK residents and international visitors.
