Knowsley Safari Park

Experience a safari trail like no other with the longest safari drive in the UK as well as a walking tour through the zoo.
Book a seat on the Baboon Bus for an exciting ride through Knowsley Safari Park and a chance to get up close and personal with the furry friends.
Bring your wild side out with the animal displays and keeper talks.
Let your little monkeys go wild with the amusement rides and carnival features available on site.
For more zoological fun, why not check out the kid's clubs or book an animal experience for an unforgettable day out all the family can enjoy!

First opening in 1971, Knowsley Safari Park has been one of the best days out in the North West for decades. With 550 acres to explore, the number of activities and things to see here come rain or shine makes this safari park one of the best family attractions in Liverpool.

Get acquainted with the animals in the five-mile Safari Drive, the longest UK safari drive. The different areas are designed to be as close to the animal's natural habitat as possible, so it will feel like you're driving through the savannah with your family. It takes approximately one hour to make one round trip; however, you can drive around for as long as you like. Follow the route on the map to spot impressive creatures from all over the world such as rhinos, lions, gazelles, camels and more.

The Safari Drive is an entirely safe experience; however, there is a chance that animals like baboons can jump on your car while you're making your way through. If you have any concerns, you can avoid this area, or you can book a seat on the Baboon Bus. Take a tour in the monkey-proof bus for a safe and fun journey through the Safari Drive.

If you fancy a slower-paced journey through the wild, take your time exploring the Foot Trail. Here you can take your time looking at animals as well as checking out the displays with unique educational features. Clap your hands for the sea lions in their special area, prowl around with the tigers on the Amur Tiger trail and feed the vultures at the birds of prey in the Flight of the Talons exhibition. Check the schedule for some unmissable keeper talks and feedings to make some great memories and learn about the wonders of nature.

As well as the magnificent animals, Knowsley Park is home to some entertaining amusement rides for kids. From carousels to a pirate ship, jungle dodgems and more there is so much fun to be had by all the family. Wristbands are available to purchase at a small price so visitors can have an unlimited amount of fun on the rides.

To further the experience, why not book your child a place in the Kids Club? There are lots of different kinds of courses available to choose from that suit different ages. The key choice for older kids would be the Knowsley Academy weekend for teenagers who have a serious passion for animals and zoology. It is a great opportunity to meet the keepers, learn about what it takes to care for different animals and see the behind the scenes actions that keep the Park running.

For a chance to truly get up close to the animals, take advantage of the Animal Experience programme. This service allows you to spend some time with specific animals like lions, rhinos and tigers. This package includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the enclosure, an opportunity to talk with the keepers and ask any questions and depending on what animal you choose you may even get an opportunity to prepare food and feed them. This is an unforgettable experience for any kids aged 8+.

For the truly adventurous, there is an option to book a VIP guided tour around the Safari Drive. Choose from one of three kinds of tours to get a well-rounded view of the safari as well as some insider information from a knowledgeable guide.

What to know before you go

Opening hours are from 10am - 7pm, with the last entry on to the Safari Drive being at 5pm.
Please do not feed the animals or leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip around the Safari Drive.
There are numerous places to eat at Knowsley Safari Park. The Oasis Restaurant located on site offers top quality food with vegan and gluten-free options. If you fancy a barbecue dinner, the Outdoor Grill has a large meaty menu to choose from with locally sourced ingredients. For those who fancy a light bite to eat, the Coffee House and the Deli both have a lot of options for healthy refreshments after a long day of safari adventures.
There are plenty of toilets, including wheelchair-accessible toilets, and baby-changing facilities on site.
Knowsley Safari Park is accessible for both buggies and wheelchair users. There are buggies, wheelchairs and mobility scooters available to rent at a small extra price. The Baboon Bus can also be converted to accommodate wheelchair users, but please keep in mind that the Safari needs 48 hours' notice to organise this.
Assistance dogs are welcome; however, they are not permitted in some areas of the Safari to ensure the safety of all animals, visitors and staff.

Getting there

Knowsley Safari Park is located about 11 miles from Liverpool city centre.
If you are travelling by bus, Prescot Bus Station is the closest stop to the Safari, just a short walk away. Alternatively, the 530 Safari Express bus runs from Liverpool city centre and takes visitors directly to the zoo and home again at the end of the day.
The closest rail station is Prescot Station, about a half an hour's walk or a short taxi ride from the Park.
If you are driving, the Safari Park is very well signposted as you come down the M62. Follow the brown signs to arrive at the Safari.
You can park for free on site.