Where can we go?

Port Lympne Wild Animal Park, Lympne, near Hythe, Kent, CT21 4PD.

What is there to do?

As well as its historic 19th-century mansion surrounded by 15 acres of landscaped gardens with views over Romney Marsh, Port Lympne has a 600-acre park for wild animals. It is home to the largest breeding herd of black rhino outside Africa, Siberian and Indian tigers, small cats, monkeys, Malayan tapirs, red pandas, Barbary lions and many more rare and endangered species including the largest collection of western lowland gorillas in the world. The park also hosts experience packages such as Keeper for the Day and a 90-minute African Experience safari, through a 100-acre park adjacent to the Port Lympne estate where more than 300 wild animals such as giraffe, black rhino, zebra, wildebeest, ostrich and other beasts roam free as if on the plains of Africa.

How do we get there?

Junction 11 of the M20 and follow the signs to Port Lympne (five minutes from Junction 11).

How much will it cost?

£14.45 adults, £11.45 children aged four to 16 and students 16 plus £11.45, senior £12.45. There are family tickets available from £44 to £51.50. Overnight safari from £150 per person, based on sharing a two-bed tent.

Opening times and dates?

Open from 10am every day except Christmas Day.

What about lunch?

Visitors can bring a picnic, visit the snack kiosks or a conservatory with a varied menu of hot and cold dishes.

Are there any special events or occasions to look out for this summer?

On September 6 there is the Totally Wild Challenge (cycle or walk around Port Lympne to raise funds for conservation charity, the Aspinall Foundation's work) Call 01303 234190 for details.

Any handy hints?

Wear flat comfy shoes, bring a camera and a fleece.