Knowsley Safari Park
Sightseeing attraction | Prescot | England | United Kingdom
Knowsley Safari Park in Prescot, England, is one of the most well-known safari parks in the UK and a popular tourist attraction in the northwest of the country, near Liverpool. The park opened its doors in July 1971 and was founded by Edward Stanley, the 18th Earl of Derby, and Jimmy Chipperfield, supported by the expertise of Laurence Tennant, a former game warden from Uganda and Botswana. Originally, the drive-through safari covered 5.6 kilometers and allowed visitors to observe animals such as lions, cheetahs, monkeys, giraffes, zebras, elephants, and various antelope species from their cars. Due to its popularity, the route was extended by another 2.4 kilometers in 1973, and the animal offering grew to include camels, buffalo, white rhinos, and tigers. Today, the park covers approximately 220 hectares and is home to over 700 animals from around 100 different species.
Knowsley Safari Park is famous for its safari drive-through, which at approximately eight kilometers is the longest in the UK. Visitors can drive through various zones designed according to geographical features, showcasing animals in as natural environments as possible. One of the main attractions is the Baboon Enclosure, where olive baboons live known for their curiosity and mischief – they often climb on cars and occasionally remove parts like windshield wipers. For those who want to protect their vehicles, there is an alternative "baboon-free" route or the option to use the Baboon Bus. Other highlights of the safari include the lion and tiger zones, where these majestic predators can be seen in enclosed areas, as well as the expansive areas with white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, ostriches, and antelope species such as roan antelopes and wildebeests.
In addition to the safari drive-through, the park also offers a foot safari area that complements the experience. Here, visitors can observe animals such as Amur tigers, giraffes, tapirs, meerkats, and reptiles up close. The foot area has been expanded in recent years, such as with the "Tiger Trail" and "Bear Country," where Andean bears can be seen. Another highlight is the "Bat Forest," a cave system with Egyptian fruit bats designed with rocks and waterfalls. For families, there is also the "Mizzy Lake" farm with native animals like goats, sheep, and Highland cattle, as well as a bird and waterfowl area around a lake.
Knowsley Safari Park places a strong emphasis on conservation and research. It is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums as well as the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, and participates in national and international breeding programs. An example is the successful breeding of white rhinos, with the group in the park being one of the most genetically diverse in Europe. The park also supports projects such as the Red Squirrel Recovery Network for the conservation of the Eurasian red squirrel and the Mersey Gateway Environmental Trust, which protects habitat in the Mersey estuary. These efforts make the visit not only entertaining but also educational.
Additional attractions provide variety, such as the "Flight of the Talons" show, an impressive display with birds of prey, and the sea lion performance, particularly popular with children. The park has a small train that travels through parts of the grounds, as well as amusement rides like bumper cars, a mini pirate ship ride, and swing chairs that appeal to younger visitors. An education center and "Safari School" offer interactive programs where visitors can learn more about the animals and their habitats.
The park's history is closely tied to the Knowsley Estate, the ancestral home of the Earls of Derby. In the 19th century, Edward Smith-Stanley, the 13th Earl of Derby, maintained a private menagerie with over 90 mammal species and more than 300 bird species, documented by artist Edward Lear. This tradition of animal keeping continued in the modern safari park. During World War II, part of the land served as an RAF airfield, which was decommissioned after the war before the park was established.
Culinarily, Knowsley Safari Park offers various options, including a restaurant serving hot dishes like pizza and loaded fries, as well as smaller snack stands and coffee. The atmosphere is shaped by the expansive landscapes and the proximity to the animals, reminding visitors of their natural habitats such as savannas and bushland. Seasonal events such as Dinosaur Days or themed shows ensure that the park remains diverse throughout the year.
Knowsley Safari Park is more than just a leisure destination – it combines adventure, education, and conservation in a unique way. The opportunity to experience animals up close, whether from the car or on foot, makes it an unforgettable experience. For families, animal lovers, and anyone seeking a touch of wilderness near a major city, the park offers a perfect blend of fun and fascination, reflecting the rich history and natural diversity of the region.
