Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo
Sightseeing attraction | Kilgetty | Wales | United Kingdom
Family attraction in Pembrokeshire
The Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo in Kilgetty, Wales, is one of the most well-known and popular family attractions in the UK and a versatile destination in the picturesque region of Pembrokeshire. Originally starting as a simple farm, Folly Farm has evolved since its opening in 1988 into a sprawling adventure park and zoo that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Founded by Glyndŵr Williams and his wife Anne, who originally ran a dairy farm, the idea came about as families would stop by the roadside to pet the cows and watch them being milked. This enthusiasm inspired the family to transform the farm into a place of entertainment and education, now regarded as one of the best day trips in Wales.
Adventure park and zoo Wales
The park covers an area of approximately 48 hectares and combines four main areas: a farm, a zoo, a nostalgic funfair, and extensive indoor and outdoor play areas. The original farm, known as the "Jolly Barn," remains a central attraction. Here, visitors can experience a variety of animals up close, such as horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and smaller petting animals. The Jolly Barn is covered, providing an experience that is popular, especially among families with young children, even in changing weather conditions. The opportunity to feed and pet the animals makes this area an interactive highlight.
Covered vintage fairground Wales
Folly Farm's zoo is another centerpiece of the park, housing over 200 different species from around the world. Since introducing its first zoo animals in 2002, the offering has steadily expanded. Highlights include the only giraffes in Wales, which can be viewed from an elevated viewing platform called "Giraffe Heights," as well as the endangered Eastern Black Rhinos in the "Kifaru Reserve." This area, opened in 2015, serves as a breeding facility for this endangered species, with the first rhino calf born in Wales, Glyndŵr, entering the world in 2020. Other notable residents include Humboldt and Macaroni penguins in the "Penguin Coast," lions, lemurs, sloths, and a variety of exotic birds in walk-in aviaries. The zoo is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, actively involved in breeding programs for endangered species.
Family day out Wales
Another unique element is the covered vintage funfair, considered one of the largest of its kind in Europe. This area offers a nostalgic journey back in time with traditional rides like bumper cars, a carousel, and the "Cakewalk" – a moving walkway that requires skill. A special attraction is the Mighty Wurlitzer cinema organ, regularly played to enhance the atmosphere of an old-time fair. As many of these attractions are covered, Folly Farm provides a full experience even in rainy weather, setting it apart from other amusement parks.
Children's activities at Folly Farm
The adventure play areas, both indoors and outdoors, are a paradise for children. In "Carousel Woods," they can play on huge climbing frames, slides, and rope bridges, while outside pirate ships, tractor rides, and sand play areas ensure entertainment. An agriculture-inspired tractor-land train takes visitors through the outdoor areas, passing more animal enclosures and offering a relaxed way to explore the extensive site. This variety of activities makes Folly Farm a place where every age group can feel at home – from toddlers to grandparents.
The Alnwick Garden places a strong emphasis on education and conservation. In addition to regular animal presentations, the park offers special experiences like feeding giraffes, penguins, or rhinos, providing a behind-the-scenes look and bringing visitors closer to the work of the animal keepers. These programs underscore the park's commitment to species diversity protection and environmental awareness. The facility has received numerous awards, including the title of "Best Family Day Out in Wales" from the Wales Tourist Board and a placement among the top 10 zoos worldwide in the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards 2017.
Culinary options at Folly Farm range from cafes serving hot meals and snacks to picnic areas inviting visitors to bring their own meals. The proximity to the coast of Pembrokeshire enhances the experience, as many visitors combine their trip with a visit to the nearby beaches of Saundersfoot or Tenby. Seasonal events like Halloween specials or Christmas programs featuring Santa Claus ensure that the park remains attractive year-round.
