Description
Searching for the best things to do with kids in Cumbria? South Lakes Safari Zoo is a popular wildlife park set across acres of naturalistic habitats in Dalton-in-Furness. Families can explore open walkthrough enclosures, view rare and endangered species, and enjoy an interactive day out.
Prices for adults and children depending on seasonal options and feeding bundles. Infants aged under three enter completely free of charge. Home to hundreds of animals, this conservation sanctuary provides a unique space for children to connect with nature and observe wildlife up close.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines immersive walkthrough habitats with incredible animal encounters, this zoo is an ideal choice. It offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe free-roaming lemurs, penguins, and large carnivores in natural environments.
Beyond the Main Attraction
- The Safari Restaurant & Coffee Shop: On-site family eatery serving hot meals, snacks, children's lunch boxes, and drinks.
- The Zoo Souvenir Shop: Retail outlet offering plush toys, conservation books, and pocket-money gifts.
- Outdoor Picnic Areas: Scenic open spaces with tables where families can enjoy packed lunches.
What Visitors Love:
- The unique walkthrough enclosures allow for exceptionally close encounters with lemurs, kangaroos, and birds.
- The wide variety of large exotic animals provides fantastic full-day entertainment for children of all ages.
- Staff members are friendly, knowledgeable during talks, and passionate about animal welfare and conservation.
- The open layout creates an immersive safari feel without needing a massive vehicle drive-through.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- Certain outdoor pathways can become muddy or slippery following periods of wet weather.
- Peak holiday periods can draw large crowds, leading to busier queues around the main food outlets and entry gates.
Attractions & Live Events
- Lemur Wood: Walkthrough habitat housing free-roaming ring-tailed and black-and-white ruffed lemurs.
- Penguin Coastal Cove: Specialized aquatic pool area for Humboldt penguins.
- African Carnivore Habitats: Secure viewing enclosures for African lions and tigers.
- Giraffe Viewing Tower: Elevated platform designed for close-range observation and feeding sessions.
- Kangaroo Walkabout: Open meadow shared with wallabies, emus, and native Australian bird species.
- Primate House: Indoor and outdoor enclosures home to various apes and small monkeys.
New for 2026
- Enhanced Interactive Conservation Trails: Newly updated family pathways featuring digital learning points and tactile discovery stations.
- Upgraded Accessibility Boardwalks: Refreshed timber decking ensuring smoother pushchair and wheelchair access across wetter terrain.
- Modernised Arrival Kiosks: Faster digital check-in points located near the main entrance to streamline park entry.
- Refreshed Educational Signage: Updated interactive conservation boards detailing global breeding programs for endangered species.
17.17 miles
