Wildlife & Nature

The UK has an abundance of wildlife because of its diverse landscape and the beautiful greenery that can be found all over. Many sites offer wheelchair friendly hides and are great for anyone with sensory conditions or those that need somewhere they can take their time. Even the most urban of areas have their own naturally occurring wildlife and are home to parks and green spaces where nature can and does thrive.

Britain’s Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

There are wide areas of the UK that have been named as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty where you will find rolling fields, undisturbed woodlands and miles of beautiful beaches. You can find accommodation options and top attractions located in these areas as well as places that are accessible for those in wheelchairs and needing other accessible facilities. In addition, there are nature reserves, reservoirs, disabled friendly animal parks and safari parks which are accessible all over the country, this is as well as zoos and small holdings where wildlife conservation plays a big role.

The UK also has a number of sites that are designated as sites of special scientific interest and these areas are often home to a number of unusual plants, birds and animals. It is possible to see everything from deer, hares, otters, foxes, stoats, weasels, wild horses, wild boar, snakes, badgers and more in the wild at various places around the UK. You’ll also find animals in the more rural settings, such as squirrels and ducks as well as unusual creatures, such as newts, frogs and more. The sites of scientific interest and national parks are home to several interesting species of insect, such as rare butterflies and more that are being monitored for conservation reasons. Many of these animals will shy away from humans unless you’re in one of the many animal attractions where they are used to people coming and going, but there are certain parts of the country where you can go specifically to catch them in the wild. Head to the moors to see wild ponies and horses, or to rural Wales and Scotland to see puffins or the south coast to try and spot dolphins and whales. You can see red squirrels in the wild if you go to Scotland and even pelicans if you head to St James’ Park in London.

Britain is a haven for bird lovers, as well as the more usual specimens such as sparrows and crows, you’ll find birds of prey, from eagles in the Scottish Highlands, Red Kites in the east of the UK and buzzards and hawks in the various rural areas. Pheasants are regularly seen in the rural areas and you might even be lucky enough to spot a peacock or jay on your travels. Head to Somerset in the winter months to see starling murmurations or stop by a garden or park during the summer to see smaller birds, such as blue tits and sparrows jumping among the hedge rows. If you head to the coast, you’ll even spot dolphins, porpoises and other marine animals that you wouldn’t necessarily think would live in the UK. There are even rumours of big cats and a giant monster that lives in Loch Ness in Scotland, so keep your eyes peeled and you might just see something exciting!

Animal attraction

If you want to guarantee seeing a certain type of animal, heading to a farm attraction or animal park would be a good shout. These include zoos, safari parks and smaller conservation centres that host a wide range of wildlife, from those indigenous to Britain and also some species from further afield. These places have accessible facilities, such as level entrances, audio guides and large print maps and signs, so you know what wildlife can be found in the area.

Highlights

WWT Arundel Wetland Centre

This gorgeous nature reserve has accessible boat rides and a stunning reedbed boardwalk. Arundel…

Visit Jersey

Our handy accessibility guides are designed as the ideal starting point for planning your Jersey…

Bristol Aquarium

Our dedicated Even Calmer days create a more relaxing sensory experience for any customers who may…

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Hertfordshire Zoo

Address

White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, Hertfordshire, EN10 7QA

Telephone
01992 470 490

info@hertfordshirezoo.com

Broxbourne

The entire site is accessible for most people, offering level pathways across the Zoo. We have our Learn & Play Area with play equipment specially adapted for wheelchair users. At Hertfordshire Zoo we are committed to making our zoo accessible to…

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Natural Resources Wales and The Wales Coast Path

Address

Maes y Ffynnon, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL572DW

Rachel.parry@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

Bangor

Natural Resources Wales is the organisation responsible for looking after the environment and natural spaces across Wales. One of their main priorities is making sure that as many people as possible can enjoy the outdoors, regardless of ability.

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Longleat

Address

Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NW

Telephone
01985 844400

enquiries@longleat.co.uk

Warminster

While Longleat has differing terrains and inclines, the majority of our grounds and attractions are very accessible. Manual wheelchairs can be reserved in advance of your visit, and mobility scooters are available to hire both in advance and on the…

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WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Address

WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT

Telephone
01453 891900

info.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk

Gloucester

Whether visitors are passionate birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, families with young children, or individuals with additional access needs, Slimbridge offers a welcoming, inclusive and inspiring experience throughout the year.

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WWT Arundel Wetland Centre

Address

Offham, South Stoke, Arundel, West Sussex, BN18 9PB

Telephone
01903 883355

Info.arundel@wwt.org.uk

Arundel

This gorgeous nature reserve has accessible boat rides and a stunning reedbed boardwalk. Arundel Wetland Centre has buggy and wheelchair-friendly pathways, comfortable hides and disabled and parent & baby facilities.

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London Zoo

Address

Outer Circle, Regents Park, London, London, NW1 4RY

Telephone
07966294022

communityengagment@zsl.org

London

Our aim is to ensure everybody has a great day out that is accessible for people of all needs and abilities. Our commitment to accessibility has us working with local people and specialist organisations to learn how we can improve, and make positive…

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Whipsnade Zoo

Address

Whipsnade, Dunstable, Bedfordshire, LU6 2LF

Telephone
01582 872171

GeneralEnquiries@zsl.org

Dunstable

Explore a world of wildlife like never before at Whipsnade Zoo, the largest zoo in the UK. Enjoy a full day of adventure making incredible memories. Experience thousands of amazing animals and learn how, as a ZSL conservation zoo, we're protecting…

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Forest of Dean Cycle Centre – Forestry England

Address

New Road, Cannop, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 7EH

Telephone
0300 0674800

fodrangers@forestryengland.uk

Coleford

Our cycling trails are comfortable for a range of abilities. Both the Colliers Trail and Old Bob's trail are suitable for families and beginners. We also have two downhill trails which were built for four wheeled adapted bikes – Countdown and…

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Fairytale Farm

Address

Southcombe, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5QH

Telephone
01608 238014

info@fairytalefarm.co.uk

Chipping Norton

We want all our visitors to have a great time. Fairytale Farm has been designed to put disabled people first.

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Moors Valley Country Park and Forest

Address

Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Dorset, BH24 2ET

Telephone
01425 470721

rangers@moors-valley.co.uk

Ashley Heath

We work hard to provide a friendly, accessible environment for all our visitors and the widest possible access to our buildings, facilities, trails, and events.

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Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Address

Hurst Lane, Auckley, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN9 3QY

Telephone
01302 535057

info@yorkshirewildlifepark.com

Doncaster

Based in South Yorkshire, on the outskirts of Doncaster, Yorkshire Wildlife Park the UK's no.1 walk-through wildlife adventure with conservation at its heart! It’s home to the UK’s largest collection of Polar Bears and some of the most endangered…

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Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest

Address

Bedgebury Road, Goudhurst, Cranbrook, Kent, TN17 2SJ

Telephone
01580 879820

bedgebury@forestryengland.uk

Cranbrook

Bedgebury National Pinetum and Forest is an award-winning destination set in the rolling hills of Kent’s High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Immerse yourself in nature and explore more than 2,000 acres of forest in a way that suits you.…

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Wendover Woods - Forestry England

Address

Wendover Woods Car Park, Upper Icknield Way, Aston Clinton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5NQ

Telephone
01296 696184

wendoverwoods@forestryengland.uk

Aston Clinton, Aylesbury

Set in a landscape shaped over thousands of years, Wendover Woods is a sheltered gateway to the rolling Chiltern Hills, offering a green escape just outside London.

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WWT London Wetland Centre

Address

Queen Elizabeth Walk, Barnes, London, London, SW13 9WT

Telephone
02084094400

info.london@wwt.org.uk

London

WWT London Wetland Centre is an award-winning urban wetland with over 105 acres of nature reserve to explore. Located in the borough of Richmond upon Thames, the Centre opened in 2000 and has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

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Symonds Yat Rock – Forestry England

Address

Symonds Yat Rock, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 7NZ

Telephone
0300 067 4800

fodrangers@forestryengland.uk

Coleford

An all-ability access path, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs takes you through the remains of the hill fort and up to the viewpoint. There is also a wellbeing trail, with specially designed signs inviting you to pause and reflect on the…

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Wyre Forest – Forestry England

Address

Callow Hill, Bewdley, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY14 9XQ

Telephone
0300 067 4935

wyre@forestryengland.uk

Kidderminster

We have all-terrain mobility scooters available to hire for those with limited mobility. They are easy to use and able to tackle a range of surfaces and gradients come rain or shine.

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Noah's Ark Zoo Farm

Address

Clevedon Road, Wraxall, Bristol, Somerset, BS48 1PG

Telephone
01275 852606

info@noahsarkzoofarm.co.uk

Bristol

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm is proud to be an accessible attraction. Facilities include multiple accessible toilets, Changing Places facility, accessible play equipment, hearing loops and more. Please visit the website before your visit for up-to-date…

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Alice Holt Forest

Address

Bucks Horn Oak, Farnham, Surrey, GU10 4LS

Telephone
0300 067 4622

enquiries.aliceholt@forestryengland.uk

Farnham

Near our friendly visitor centre we have an inclusive play area designed for every child to enjoy. Our wheelchair accessible roundabout and basket swing allow children of all abilities to have fun, and create memories in nature.

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West Midlands Safari Park

Address

Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcestershire, DY12 1LF

Telephone
01299 402114

info@wmsp.co.uk

Bewdley

We welcome all visitors and will try our best to provide as much help as we possibly can. Visually impaired guests are admitted free of charge together with a seeing guide accompanying them. Evidence of disability may be requested.

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Cardinham Woods

Address

Bodmin, Cornwall, PL30 4AL

Telephone
01208 76787

Cardinham.rangers@forestryengland.uk

Bodmin

Visitors with reduced mobility can explore the forest with our all terrain mobility scooter, available to hire via the Countryside Mobility scheme. Our easy-to-use Tramper can tackle forest terrain come rain or shine. Trampers are available Sunday…

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