Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park is a zoo south of Canterbury spread across 36 hectares with more than 390 animals from around the world. The grounds include large enclosures for elephants, gorillas, tigers, and other species rarely seen together in one location.

John Aspinall started a private animal collection on this estate in 1957, opening it to visitors in 1975 after restoring the manor house. Since then, the site has grown into a center for breeding programs focused on endangered species.

Keepers lead daily feeding demonstrations where visitors can watch animals eat and interact while learning about their natural behaviors and diets. These sessions offer insight into ongoing conservation work and the effort to protect threatened species in the wild.

Paths through the park are mostly flat and paved, making it easy to move around with wheelchairs or strollers. Wheelchair rentals are available at the entrance, and reserved parking spaces sit close to the main gate.

Staff members know many animals by name and maintain close bonds with them, which becomes clear during feeding sessions and talks. Some gorillas here were born at the park and live in multigenerational groups rarely seen in captivity.

Location: Canterbury

Inception: 1975

Website: https://aspinallfoundation.org/howletts

GPS coordinates: 51.26670,1.15000

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:31