There is so much to say about our enjoyment of Longleat especially given the current state of the UK where social distancing is in place. It is essential to book online before you go because they are being really strict on numbers within the Park. Which was actually amazing because we got longer to really sit and watch the animal especially on the drive through safari.
We got to Longleat at opening time which was 10am. We decided to do the drive through safari first, then the walk around area for lunch then fit in another drive through safari. You start off in the grasslands/savanna area where you have the Bongos, Antelope, Zebras and Giraffes. You can take the opportunity to part your car and visit the Australian walkthrough but this visit we didn’t end up doing this due to the weather being so hot. We love this area because you can have the windows down and really use your camera to the best of your and it’s ability. We have a Canon 500D that we bought specifically for these types of trips but Xander has a Kidizoom Camera and that took some good images considering it was made for kids to abuse.
Unfortunately the deer park was closed due to COVID-19 (Xander would have loved this so excuse to go back when it opens) so we just went straight into the Monkeys. Longleat monkeys are renowned for their destruction of car aerials and windscreen wipers. If at all possible stop at the walkaround car park and remove them be heading to the enclosure. Obviously we didn’t 😀 The little darlings ate the top of the aerial (still works woooo) and one clever one decided it wanted to dismantle the water sprayers on the bonnet. These still work as well though needed a little more maintenance. The best bit about the monkeys is the look of surprise on Xander’s face of the monkeys being so naughty on everyone’s cars.
Then my favourite bit! Big cat territory. I the morning we were lucky enough to catch two tigers playing and go action shots of one about to leap on another.
Unfortunately we didn’t get much from the cheetah as it spent all day lying in some long glass. However, we got some amazing views of the Lion’s from both enclosures, on both trips.
The next two predators decided to hide in settles or corners for the first drive round but during our afternoon trip the Hyena was full on running around the enclosure and the wolves were socialising.
By this time we were hearing complaints from Xander, that he was hungry so we headed to the main walkthrough area with the smaller animals, food outlets, play areas and shops. In this area the noticeable features we saw being closed were the Bat Cave, King Arthur’s Mirror Maze, and the shops attached to the house. There was always a large queue for the train and jungle cruise so we didn’t do these because the 32 degree heat was too much for us all. After food and ice cream we ventured into the Jungle Walkthrough to see the Otter then made our way to the big adventure play area. Xander spent a good hour running around with other kids having an amazing time whilst Emily and I sat in the shade and drank cold water from the drinking water fountains.
To end the day we visited the shop so Xander could add a gecko and cheetah to his stuffed toy collection then did our second drive through before directly heading back to our campsite.
Pros
- Queues were reduced and manageable due to social distancing restrictions (except train and cruise)
- Toilets were widely available and regularly cleaned (staff members were stationed at the toilet buildings to do this every few customers)
- Queuing for food and attractions was well marked out so that you felt save with social distancing.
- You can go around the drive through safari as many times as you like during opening hours.
Cons
- Certain attractions closed or had long waiting times (train and cruise).
- Beware of the monkey mechanics!
- Our day was hindered by the heat and lack of shade around the park but this would not be a problem for those of you who love the heat.
- No guarantee you will see the animal during the drive through safari especially in hot weather.
What is your favourite family day out?
See you on Tuesday
Faerydae Stitches 