Explore Vast Landscapes Teeming With Wildlife
Set in the rolling hills of Kent, just 1.5 hours from London, Port Lympne Reserve is more than a wildlife park-it’s a leading conservation site dedicated to protecting endangered species and creating naturalistic environments that mimic the wild.
Spanning 600 acres, this extraordinary destination offers guests the chance to stay in luxury lodgings, explore vast landscapes teeming with wildlife, and witness first-hand the pioneering work being done to safeguard species for future generations.
Immersive Stays: Sleeping Among Wildlife
Port Lympne offers a range of accommodations, each designed to bring guests closer to nature. While we stayed in a Treehouse, which provided elevated views over the reserve, I would highly recommend opting for one of their animal lodges for a truly immersive experience.
- Leopard Creek and Lion Lodge allow guests to wake up to the sight of majestic big cats roaming just beyond their windows.
- Tiger Lodge offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these powerful creatures from the comfort of a secluded retreat.
- Bear Lodge provides a glamping-style experience with views over the reserve’s European brown bears.
For those staying in the Treehouse Lodges, there’s an exclusive Clubhouse, a hidden gem that feels like the equivalent of an executive lounge in a five-star hotel. Here, guests can unwind by the fire pit, sipping drinks as the sun sets over the rhino paddocks, watching these prehistoric-looking creatures roam in the fading light. Toasting marshmallows under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the reserve, is an experience that feels both indulgent and deeply connected to nature.
Every overnight stay includes a private buggy, allowing guests to explore the grounds at their own pace, winding through hidden pathways and encountering animals in expansive enclosures that mimic their natural habitats as closely as possible.
Port Lympne’s Conservation Efforts
Unlike traditional zoos, Port Lympne is deeply committed to conservation, with over 900 animals across 75 species calling the reserve home. The team works tirelessly to create environments that encourage natural behaviors, ensuring that animals live in spaces that closely resemble their native habitats.
One of their most notable achievements is their black rhino breeding program, which has helped bolster wild populations by transferring eight black rhinos from Kent to Africa, where they have since produced 25 offspring.
Port Lympne is also responsible for the painted dog European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), which manages the captive population of this critically endangered species. Their work extends to Western Lowland Gorillas, Spectacled Bears, Nubian Giraffes, and Javan Gibbons, all of which benefit from carefully managed breeding programs and conservation initiatives.
Dining: A Culinary Experience in a Historic Setting
Port Lympne’s dining options are as thoughtfully curated as its conservation efforts.
- Afternoon Tea is served in the Mansion Hotel, a historic Edwardian estate with beautifully restored interiors. The painted room where we dined was nothing short of spectacular, adding an artistic flair to an indulgent spread.
- The Garden Room Brasserie offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, with locally sourced ingredients and a menu that celebrates seasonal produce.
- Babydoll’s Wood-Fired Pizza provides a more casual option, serving authentic Italian dishes in a Mediterranean-inspired setting.
The Mansion and Its Gardens: A Place to Unwind
The Mansion House itself is a masterpiece, steeped in history and surrounded by 15 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens A. Whether strolling through Lime Tree Walk, admiring the Trojan Steps, or simply relaxing on the terraces with a drink, the estate offers countless spots to pause and take in the breathtaking views over Romney Marsh and the English Channel.
The gardens are not just for admiring-they’re designed to be enjoyed. Children (and adults!) can explore the Chess Garden, wander through the Magnolia Walk, or simply revel in the open spaces that invite play and relaxation.
The Giraffe Safari: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter
One of the most unforgettable experiences at Port Lympne is the Giraffe Safari B. These gentle giants, with their impossibly long lashes and graceful movements, are mesmerizing up close. With expert guides leading the way, guests have the rare opportunity to feed the giraffes, watching as their long, dexterous tongues curl around the offered branches B.
For those not staying overnight, day safaris are available, but I would highly recommend the overnight stay-not just for the immersive experience, but because every pound spent directly supports the animals and conservation efforts C.
A Weekend That Leaves a Lasting Impression
Port Lympne is more than just a countryside retreat-it’s a place where luxury meets purpose, where every stay contributes to global conservation efforts. Whether you’re waking up to the sight of a lion lounging outside your window, exploring the expansive landscapes, or learning about the critical work being done to protect endangered species, this is a destination that stays with you long after you leave.
Images Copyright by: Aspinallfoundation.org/port-lympne
