Longleat

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Longleat Safari Park, located in Wiltshire, England, is one of the UK's most popular tourist destinations. It's an incredible place to spend a day with family or friends, surrounded by a variety of wildlife, stunning scenery and endless entertainment.

The park was opened in 1966 and was the first drive-through safari park outside of Africa. It's home to over 500 animals from all over the world, including lions, tigers, rhinos, zebras, and many more. The best part of the park is that visitors can drive their own cars around the park to get up close and personal with the animals, making it a truly unique experience.

One of the park's most popular attractions is the Safari Drive, a 40-minute tour of the park where visitors can observe the animals in their natural habitats. The drive is a bumpy but thrilling journey that takes you through different habitats, from the African savannah to the Asian jungle. The highlight of the drive is the ‘Monkey Drive-Through’, where visitors can watch monkeys jumping on the car and playing on the roof.

Aside from the Safari Drive, Longleat also offers a variety of other activities to keep visitors entertained. There's the Jungle Kingdom, where visitors can get up close with lemurs, monkeys and reptiles, and the Bat Cave, where visitors can see different species of bats flying around. The park also offers boat trips on the lake, where visitors can see the animals from a different perspective, and a helicopter ride, which provides stunning views of the park and the surrounding countryside.

One of the newest attractions at Longleat is the Longleat Hedge Maze, a massive maze made out of hedges that visitors can explore. It's one of the largest hedge mazes in the world and is a fun challenge for visitors of all ages.

Longleat Safari Park is also a great place for families, with a variety of children's rides and activities. The park has a play area, a petting zoo, and a carousel, as well as many other attractions designed especially for kids.

In conclusion, Longleat Safari Park is a must-visit for anyone looking for an exciting and unforgettable day out in England. With its combination of wildlife, entertainment and scenic beauty, it's a great way to spend a day surrounded by nature and adventure. Whether you're traveling with friends or family, Longleat is sure to provide a day full of memories that will last a lifetime.

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Things to do nearby

Located in the idyllic county of Wiltshire, Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is one of the UK's most famous and beloved tourist attractions. With its combination of stunning wildlife, historical architecture, and exciting activities, Longleat offers something for everyone. But what if you want to explore the surrounding area and discover other nearby gems? In this article, we'll take a look at some of the top places to visit and things to do within easy reach of Longleat.

First up is the charming town of Frome. Just a short drive from Longleat, Frome is a picturesque market town that boasts a wealth of independent shops, galleries, and cafes. The town's historic architecture, including the 17th-century Trinity House and St John's Church, is a must-see for anyone interested in local history. On the first Sunday of every month, Frome hosts a bustling artisan market, where you can browse for unique souvenirs, try local foods, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Another nearby attraction that's well worth a visit is the mystical Stonehenge. Located just 40 minutes from Longleat, this iconic prehistoric monument is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. The stone circle, which is thought to have been built around 2500 BC, is surrounded by a landscape that is steeped in ancient history and legend. While you're there, be sure to explore the Neolithic Houses, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the people who built and used Stonehenge.

For a taste of quintessential English village life, head to the village of Lacock. This charming hamlet, which is just a short drive from Longleat, has been preserved largely unchanged since the 18th century. The village is famous for its beautiful abbey, which was founded in the 13th century and has been used as a filming location for numerous period dramas, including Pride and Prejudice and Downton Abbey. You can also take a stroll around the picturesque streets, which are lined with crooked timber-framed houses, and enjoy a cream tea in one of the village's cosy cafes.

If you're looking for a fun family day out, then look no further than Bath. This historic city, which is around 45 minutes from Longleat, is renowned for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Roman Baths Museum, while adults can indulge in some retail therapy at the city's many boutique shops and independent galleries. And if you're in need of some relaxation after a busy day, why not visit one of Bath's famous spas and soak in the natural hot springs?

Finally, for nature lovers, a visit to the ancient woodlands of the Forest of Dean is a must. This beautiful forest, which is around an hour's drive from Longleat, is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including wild boar, deer, and buzzards. You can explore the forest on foot or by bike, following one of the many waymarked trails that criss-cross the area. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at some outdoor activities, such as canoeing or climbing?

In conclusion, while Longleat Safari & Adventure Park is undoubtedly one of the UK's top tourist attractions, the surrounding area has plenty of other sights and experiences to offer. Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or just good old-fashioned fun, there's something for everyone within easy reach of Longleat. So why not extend your trip and discover some of these hidden gems for yourself?