Picture your kids’ faces lighting up as they watch playful lemurs swing through trees or stand in awe of the UK’s largest herd of African elephants. That’s the magic of Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent! I’m so thrilled to share this with you because Howletts zoo reviews are full of love for this special place, and right now, they’re offering a kids-go-free deal in August with tickets starting at just £22. It’s a budget-friendly way to make memories with your family while supporting conservation. Let me tell you why Howletts is a must-visit and how to plan your perfect day out!
Why Howletts Is a Family Favorite
Howletts isn’t your typical zoo—it’s a 90-acre sanctuary focused on saving rare and endangered animals. Located just outside Canterbury, it’s home to over 390 animals, including Kent’s only giant anteaters, western lowland gorillas, and adorable lion cubs named Zemo and Zala. Reviews on Tripadvisor praise the spacious enclosures and how well the animals are cared for, with one visitor saying, “The animals have so much room, and it feels like they’re the priority, not just the visitors.” This focus on animal welfare makes every visit feel meaningful.
Families love Howletts because it’s packed with fun for all ages. Kids can explore the new Joshi’s Jungle playground, opened in May 2025, or marvel at life-sized prehistoric models in the Animals of the Ice Age exhibit. The lemur walk-through is a hit, where you might see these curious creatures hopping along branches above you. Plus, free animal talks and feeding sessions happen daily, teaching kids about conservation in a way that’s exciting and easy to understand.
The Kids-Go-Free Deal and Tickets
This August, Howletts is making family trips even better with their kids-go-free offer! From now until September 2, 2025, kids aged 0-15 can enter free (up to three per booking) when you book online in advance. Adult tickets start at £22, and kids aged 3-15 are just £10 outside the free offer, making it a great deal for families. You can book through the Aspinall Foundation’s website or sites like Picniq for up to 25% off. One reviewer on Groupon called it “an amazing day out for the price, with so much to see!”
To grab this deal, visit the Aspinall Foundation’s website and check the “Kids go for £10” or kids-go-free promotions. Book early, as August is busy, and you’ll need to show your e-ticket at the gatehouse. Parking is free, and the park is wheelchair-friendly with flat paths, though there’s one steeper slope. If you’re bringing a picnic, there are plenty of spots to relax, which helps keep costs down. Just note that dogs aren’t allowed, except for registered assistance dogs.
What to Expect on Your Visit
A day at Howletts is full of adventure! Start early to catch animal talks between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM—check the info boards for times. You’ll see rare animals like Sumatran tigers, snow leopards, and black rhinos, plus the playful elephant calves Nusu, Oku, and Nguvu. The park’s 90 acres are easy to explore with wooded paths and a map you get at the entrance. Reviews mention the lemur walk-through and gorilla enclosures as highlights, with one parent saying, “My kids were glued to the gorillas for ages—they’re so human-like!”
The Pavilion Restaurant offers hot meals like lasagne or vegan options, but some reviews suggest bringing your own food to save money, as the café can be pricey. There’s also a play area for kids to burn off energy and a Treetop Challenge for those over 1.2 meters tall. If you want a special experience, book an animal encounter with a keeper for a closer look at animals like red river hogs or gorillas, though these cost extra.
Tips for a Perfect Day
To make your visit amazing, arrive when the park opens at 9:30 AM to beat the crowds and catch more animals active. Summer hours run until 6:00 PM, so you’ll have plenty of time. Wear comfy shoes for walking, and bring a raincoat, as Kent’s weather can be unpredictable. Check the Aspinall Foundation’s website for feeding times and special events like face painting or themed trails in August. If you’re driving, Howletts is just off the A2, about 90 minutes from London.
Why Howletts Steals Your Heart
Howletts is more than a day out—it’s a chance to connect with nature and support a charity that’s rewilded over 70 gorillas and 200 primates. Every ticket helps fund their work, which makes your visit feel extra special. The kids-go-free deal in August and £22 tickets make it easy to bring the whole family for a day of wonder. From watching elephants splash in their pool to giggling at lemurs, Howletts is a place that fills your heart with joy. Book now, pack your picnic, and get ready for a wild adventure your kids will talk about for years!