The South Lakes Safari Zoo in Cumbria, United Kingdom, offers a magical experience for visitors during the month of December. From festive meals with Santa and Mrs. Claus to hand-feeding endangered animals, this zoo is a must-visit destination for families and children looking to create unforgettable memories.

Animal Experiences at South Lakes Zoo in December

One of the highlights of visiting the South Lakes Zoo in December is the opportunity to engage with the animals. Visitors can hand-feed giraffes, lemurs, penguins, and even big cats, providing a unique and up-close encounter with these magnificent creatures. These experiences are limited and can be booked in advance or upon arrival, so it’s recommended to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Festive Meals with Santa and Mrs. Claus

During the month of December, the South Lakes Zoo offers a series of festive meals with Santa and Mrs. Claus. These special events include a cold platter on arrival, a hot and warming platter, bottomless hot drinks, and a keepsake Christmas Eve box. Guests can enjoy the company of Mrs. Claus as she regales them with tales from her life with Santa, and the jolly man himself will make an appearance to distribute gifts to all.

After the meal, visitors can meet Santa’s resident helpers, Christmas reindeer in training, and receive tickets to hand-feed the zoo’s resident critically endangered Kordofan giraffes and Humboldt penguins.

Accessibility and Policies at South Lakes Zoo

The South Lakes Zoo is wheelchair accessible, but the zoo does not have facilities available for wheelchair or mobility scooter hire. Visitors are asked to refrain from smoking, including E-Cigarettes, within the zoo grounds. No dogs are allowed in the park, but there is a nearby kennel service available.

Unattended children are not permitted in the park, and visitors must follow the interactive feeding safety advice signage. The zoo reserves the right to make changes to programmes, events, and schedules without prior notice.

Cost and Timings at South Lakes Zoo in December

The South Lakes Zoo offers a 50% discount on admission, adoptions, and experiences when booked online. Children under 3 years of age are admitted free of charge. Tickets are not sent out in advance and can be redeemed by showing the webstore order number to the admissions team or by using the email address used at checkout.

During the winter months, the zoo is free to enter, and visitors are encouraged to make a donation to help feed the animals and maintain the park.

Animals at the South Lakes Zoo

The South Lakes Zoo is home to a diverse array of animals, including lions, tigers, elephants, rhinos, leopards, giraffes, monkeys, and birds of prey. Guests can walk amongst some of the animals and birds, and there are interactive feeding experiences available.

Conclusion

The South Lakes Safari Zoo in Cumbria, United Kingdom, offers a truly magical experience for visitors in December. From hand-feeding endangered animals to festive meals with Santa and Mrs. Claus, this zoo is a must-visit destination for families and children looking to create unforgettable memories. With its accessibility, diverse animal collection, and unique events, the South Lakes Zoo is sure to delight and enchant all who visit.

References:
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Christmas 2022
– What Animals Does South Lakes Safari Zoo Have as of December 2023?
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Christmas 2022
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Reviews
– South Lakes Safari Zoo Reviews