Best Petting Zoos in the UK for a Fun Family Day Out

Looking for a delightful way to entertain the kids while fostering their love for animals? The UK is home to some fantastic petting zoos where children can interact with friendly farm animals, feed lambs, and even cuddle rabbits. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a school holiday adventure, these petting zoos offer hands-on experiences that the whole family will enjoy. If you're flying into Scotland for your trip, consider booking Glasgow Airport Transfers for a hassle-free journey to your accommodation before heading out to explore.

1. Odds Farm Park, Buckinghamshire

Why Visit?

Odds Farm Park is one of the UK’s top-rated petting zoos, offering a perfect blend of animal encounters and outdoor fun. Located in Buckinghamshire, this award-winning farm park allows children to get up close with goats, sheep, pigs, and even alpacas.

Highlights:

• Animal Feeding Sessions: Kids can bottle-feed lambs and kid goats.

• Pony Grooming: Little ones can brush and care for gentle ponies.

• Indoor Play Areas: Perfect for rainy days, with soft play and tractor rides.

• Seasonal Events: Easter chick handling and Christmas-themed activities.

Visitor Tips:

• Book tickets online in advance for discounts.

• Pack waterproof boots as some areas can get muddy.

2. Godstone Farm, Surrey

Why Visit?

Godstone Farm is a fantastic choice for families near London, combining a traditional petting zoo with adventure playgrounds and tractor rides. The farm is well-maintained, with a strong focus on animal welfare and child-friendly interactions.

Highlights:

• Animal Barn: Meet rabbits, guinea pigs, and chicks in a supervised setting.

• Pig Racing: A unique and entertaining daily show.

• Outdoor Play Areas: Includes sandpits, slides, and a dinosaur trail.

• Farm Trail: Walk among free-roaming sheep and goats.

Visitor Tips:

• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.

• Bring hand sanitizer for after petting the animals.

3. Cotswold Farm Park, Gloucestershire

Why Visit?

Founded by TV presenter Adam Henson, Cotswold Farm Park is a must-visit for animal lovers. It focuses on rare breed conservation, giving children the chance to meet heritage sheep, cows, and poultry.

Highlights:

• Animal Handling Sessions: Hold chicks, stroke piglets, and feed donkeys.

• Farm Safari: A guided trailer ride around the pastures.

• Adventure Playground: Zip lines, slides, and a sandpit.

• Seasonal Lambing Events: Watch newborn lambs in spring.

Visitor Tips:

• Check the daily schedule for feeding times.

• The on-site café serves delicious homemade meals.

4. Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats, Kent

Why Visit?

If your family adores goats, this sanctuary in Kent is a hidden gem. Unlike commercial petting zoos, Buttercups is a rescue center where visitors can interact with rescued goats in a peaceful setting.

Highlights:

• Goat Walking: Lead a goat on a gentle walk around the fields.

• Adoption Program: Sponsor a goat and receive updates.

• Picnic Areas: Scenic spots to enjoy a packed lunch.

Visitor Tips:

• Pre-booking is essential as spaces are limited.

• Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

5. The Farmyard, London Zoo

Why Visit?

Located within ZSL London Zoo, The Farmyard offers city-dwelling families a chance to experience rural life without leaving the capital. Kids can groom donkeys, feed pygmy goats, and learn about sustainable farming.

Highlights:

• Meet the Keeper Talks: Learn about animal care from experts.

• Interactive Play Zone: A mini tractor course and climbing frames.

• Butterfly Paradise: A tropical exhibit with free-flying butterflies.

Visitor Tips:

• Combine your visit with other zoo exhibits.

• Weekdays are quieter than weekends.

6. Gorgie City Farm, Edinburgh

Why Visit?

This urban farm in Scotland’s capital is a fantastic free attraction where kids can meet pigs, sheep, and chickens. It’s a great stop if you’re touring Edinburgh with little ones.

Highlights:

• Daily Animal Feeding: Help staff feed the animals.

• Community Gardens: Learn about urban farming.

• Workshops: Seasonal craft and gardening activities.

Visitor Tips:

• Donations are appreciated to support the farm.

• Visit in the morning when animals are most active.

7. Smithills Open Farm, Bolton

Why Visit?

One of the largest petting farms in the UK, Smithills offers tractor rides, deer feeding, and an indoor play barn alongside traditional animal encounters.

Highlights:

• Deer Safari: Feed wild deer from a tractor-pulled trailer.

• Milking Demonstrations: Learn how cows are milked.

• Adventure Play Area: Huge slides and climbing structures.

Visitor Tips:

• Buy animal feed on-site for a fun feeding experience.

• Allow 3-4 hours to explore everything.

8. Hesketh Farm Park, Yorkshire

Why Visit?

Set in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, Hesketh Farm Park combines breathtaking scenery with hands-on animal fun.

Highlights:

• Sheepdog Demonstrations: Watch skilled dogs herd sheep.

• Pig Racing: A hilarious and competitive event.

• Nature Trails: Walk through beautiful countryside.

Visitor Tips:

• The on-site café serves locally sourced food.

• Ideal for combining with a Yorkshire countryside trip.

Planning Your Visit

When visiting these petting zoos, consider transportation options for a smooth journey. If you're in Scotland and need reliable transport, Glasgow Cab Services can provide comfortable rides to nearby attractions.

Final Thoughts

The UK’s best petting zoos offer unforgettable experiences for animal-loving families. Whether you're bottle-feeding lambs, grooming goats, or enjoying farm-themed playgrounds, these destinations guarantee a fun-filled day out.

Plan your visit today and create lasting memories with your little ones