Things to do at Beale Park Wildlife Park and Gardens review
Beale Park is a conservation wildlife park which is home to a large array of animals in Berkshire, near to Reading. From the moment you step into the park you are immediately torn over what to see and do first.
If it is your very first visit, it is probably advisable to hop on the miniature train (you get 1 free ticket with your entry) which will give you a great view of everything the park has to offer. With stunning gardens, ponds, ducks to feed, a large play area, indoor play areas, an outdoor pool for children, farm animals, birds, monkeys and more this attraction is one of our family favourites.
In the summer, it is the perfect place to relax with a picnic, splash about in the pool, wander around the stunning water garden and to spend an entire day just taking it all in. In the winter months, you can warm up in the cafe, let the smaller kids play inside, enjoy the changing scenery and you’ll still be able to see all of the animals.
Of course, there is also a big conservation message behind everything that they do at Beale Park. The park was originally set up in 1956 by Gilbert Beale who decided to convert private farmland into a non-profit wildlife park. Not only is it home to some endangered species the team at the park are working hard on a breeding programme which will allow some of these species to be re-released, as well as helping to boost the numbers of those that are close to extinction. They also support and raise money for other conservation charities.
Beale Park is also very popular with education groups. Groups are mainly self-led but if you speak to them they are happy to host workshops including making bird and bat boxes, butterfly feeders as well as activities such as pond dipping. With a brand new wildlife education centre, it is the perfect place for your children to learn more about conservation.
In 2020, Beale Park will be offering a new tour service which will be led by a member of staff and open to large groups. In this one hour tour you will learn about all a team member does during their day at work.
The lovely large Peacock Party Room is a great location for a birthday party. When you book a party with Beale Park you will have access to the entire park, a 2 hour party in the room, party food and drinks. What a wonderful way to spend the day!
To make the most of Beale Park it really is worth purchasing a season ticket especially if you live nearby as each visit can be very different to the last and what better way to support a charitable business than by keep returning? If you’d like to do more for Beale Park you could also sponsor an animal, volunteer for them or set up a monthly donation.
Please note – Most places may still require you to pre-book online in advance. Some venues also still have certain areas closed for safety reasons. Please check their website and/or social media pages before visiting.
FAQ and Further Information Beale Park Wildlife Park and Gardens
Is there food and drink available?
Restaurant which offers hot and cold food and drink, ice creams, snacks, sweets with indoor and outdoor seating. Picnics are welcome.
What are the main things to do?
Wildlife park with a good range of animals, miniature train, indoor and outdoor play areas, gardens. There are toilets on-site and a cafe.
What are the ticket prices?
*Mid-range
*Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online. *Mid-range – Adult £10 and Child £8 high season. It is cheaper to visit in the low season.
Is there parking?
There is free parking.
When are they open?
Beale park is closed for most of the winter and re-opens in mid-February. Please check this website for up to date opening times.
Dog friendly?
Only assitance dogs are permitted.
Are they accessible?
Written by Emma, writer at www.emmareed.net
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