Welcome to the Lookout Lodge, a one-of-a-kind glamping opportunity at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, England. This extraordinary accommodation experience allows you to stay in heated camping pods, surrounded by hundreds of animals from around the world.
Location and Wildlife
The Lookout Lodge is situated in a breathtaking location, overlooking the beautiful Chiltern Downs. Your neighbors for the evening will include the zoo’s herd of white rhinos and reindeer. In the morning, you’ll wake up to the captivating sounds of roaring lions.
Lodge Options and Amenities
The Lookout Lodge offers a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs:
| Lodge Type | Capacity |
|---|---|
| Double Lodges (Lion, Wolf, Giraffe, Hippo) | 2 adults |
| Twin Lodges (Penguin, Elephant, Bear, Reindeer) | 2 adults |
| Family Lodges | 2 adults, 2 children (or 1 adult, 3 children) |
Each lodge comes equipped with the following amenities:
- Comfortable beds with soft linens and pillows
- Sofa bed with linens (for families)
- Kettle with a selection of hot drinks
- Towels
- Hair dryer
- Private veranda
The lodges are a short walk from the separate male and female washing facilities.
Animal Tours
A stay at the Lookout Lodge includes three exclusive tours:
- Sunset Tour: Explore the zoo as the sun sets, guided by experienced hosts who share fascinating animal facts.
- Torchlit Night Tour: Venture through the zoo at night, with the help of torchlight, to witness the nocturnal behavior of the animals.
- Early Morning Tour: Start your day with a private tour of the zoo, before it opens to the public, and observe the animals as they wake up.
These tours provide a unique opportunity to experience the zoo in a way that is not accessible to regular visitors.
Dining
The Lookout Lodge experience includes a delicious two-course dinner, as well as a complimentary welcome drink. Breakfast, with a choice of full English and continental options, is also provided.
Pricing and Availability
The Lookout Lodge offers the following pricing options:
- Lodge for 2 adults: from £298 per night
- Additional child place: £40 per child
They run both adult-only and family nights. On adult-only nights, each lodge can accommodate a maximum of two adults. On family nights, each lodge can accommodate a maximum of two adults and two children (or one adult and three children). Children must be between the ages of 5-13 years old.
Please note that their accessible lodge can only accommodate a maximum of two adults and one child.
Additional Information
Guests are welcome to arrive at Whipsnade Zoo any time after 10 am on the day of their stay. From 4:30 pm, guests can meet their hosts and get settled into their lodge. The Lookout Lodge experience begins at 4:30 pm when guests are welcomed by the friendly and experienced host team. Enjoy a complimentary drink and take in the fantastic views before heading to your own private lodge to settle in.
Whipsnade Zoo Glamping at the Lookout Lodge offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the world of wildlife while enjoying the comforts of a glamping retreat. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this is an opportunity not to be missed.
References:
– Experience Bedfordshire. (n.d.). Lookout Lodge at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.experiencebedfordshire.co.uk/accommodation/lookout-lodge-at-zsl-whipsnade-zoo-p1102701
– Whipsnade Zoo. (n.d.). Preparing for your Lookout Lodge visit. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-your-visit/zoo-experiences/lookout-lodge-zoo-sleepover/preparing-your-visit
– Whipsnade Zoo. (n.d.). Glamping at Whipsnade Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/zoo-stories/blog/glamping-whipsnade-zoo
– Whipsnade Zoo. (n.d.). Lookout Lodge – Sleepover at the Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-your-visit/zoo-experiences/lookout-lodge-zoo-sleepover
– Tripadvisor. (n.d.). LOOKOUT LODGE – Updated 2024 Reviews. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g499476-d4356715-Reviews-Lookout_Lodge-Dunstable_Bedfordshire_England.html