Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster: The Complete 2026 Guide

Yorkshire Wildlife Park remains one of the best days out in South Yorkshire, and I can hardly believe there are polar bears in Doncaster! Since my first visit in 2021, the park has continued to grow and improve, adding new animals, expanding exhibits, and cementing its reputation as one of the UK’s premier wildlife attractions.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park opened in 2009 on the site of a former farm at Branton, near Doncaster. It has grown significantly since then — Project Polar (the polar bear reserve) opened in 2012, Point Lobos (the sea lion exhibit) opened in 2021, and the park continues to expand with new species and habitats each year. It is operated as an independent company, not part of a chain.

This 2026 guide covers everything that’s changed since my original visit, including exciting new arrivals, the upcoming Wild Live Concerts, and all the practical information you need for a brilliant day out.

I was born and bred in Doncaster. So it seems insane to me that there is a whole wildlife safari park where I grew up! It’s not far from my parent’s house so when we went, we invited my parents along as well, along with my aunt and uncle.

What’s New at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in 2026

Wild Live Concerts – August 2026 🎵

Massive news! Yorkshire Wildlife Park is hosting Wild Live Concerts across the August bank holiday weekend 2026. This is brilliant if you love combining wildlife with live music:

Saturday 29th August 2026:

• Scouting for Girls (headliner)
• The Hoosiers
• Toploader
• Scott Mills presenting
• The Camens supporting

Sunday 30th August 2026:

• Ocean Colour Scene (headliner)
• The Farm
• The Feeling
• Stereo MCs

Concert tickets include full park entry during the day, so you can enjoy the animals before the evening performances. The Hex Wildlife Hotel (right next to the park entrance) offers special weekend packages starting from £81.37 per person for families.

New Animal Arrivals

Lar Gibbons – Spring 2026

White-Handed Gibbons (Lar Gibbons) are arriving at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Spring 2026! They’ll be located between the Bush Dogs and Tapirs enclosures. These acrobatic primates are known for their incredible swinging abilities and distinctive whooping calls that can be heard up to 2 miles away.

Polar Bear News

A polar bear arrived at the park on “holiday” in late 2025, with hopes of being reunited with his brother. Yorkshire Wildlife Park now hosts one of the world’s largest collections of polar bears outside Canada, making Project Polar even more special.

Rescued Lion Cubs from Ukraine

In one of the most heartwarming stories of 2025, three lion cubs were rescued from war-torn Ukraine and given a safe home at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The cubs have settled brilliantly and are thriving in Lion Country. It’s incredibly moving to see these animals safe and healthy after everything they’ve been through.

Amur Leopard Babies

New Amur leopard cubs were born and named in memory of the park’s celebrated veterinarians. These critically endangered big cats are part of vital breeding programmes, and seeing the cubs play is absolutely delightful.

Essential Visitor Information 2026

Address & Contact

Address: Yorkshire Wildlife Park,
Hurst Lane,
Branton,
Doncaster,
DN9 3QY

Website: yorkshirewildlifepark.com
Phone: 01302 535057

Opening Times 2026

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Standard Opening Hours:

• Opening time: 10am daily (9:30am during August only)
• Closing time: Varies seasonally – check website before visiting
• Last entry: 90 minutes before closing

Winter hours (December-February): Typically 9:45am-4pm, last entry 2pm
Summer hours (March-November): Typically 10am-5pm or later

IMPORTANT: Always check the website before travelling as hours change seasonally and some areas may be restricted due to weather conditions (snow, ice, high winds).

Admission Prices 2026

BOOK ONLINE FOR THE BEST PRICES! Advance online booking saves substantial money compared to gate prices.

Standard Day Tickets (Online):

• Adults: From £22.99
• Children (3-15): From £18.99
• Under 3s: Free
• Senior (65+): From £20.99
• Disabled visitor: From £20.99 (essential carer free with relevant ID)

Family Tickets: Available – check website for current family bundle pricing

Annual Memberships: Excellent value if visiting more than twice per year. Benefits include:

• Unlimited visits for 12 months
• Free parking
• Discounts at Yorkshire Hive shops and restaurants
• Special member events
• 10% discount on experiences and gift shop

Money-Saving Tips:

• Always book online – significantly cheaper than gate prices
• Book early for best prices (dynamic pricing applies)
• Consider annual membership if local or planning multiple visits
• Look for winter sale prices (often up to 50% off)
• Group bookings (10+) receive discounts – contact bookings@yorkshirewildlifepark.com

How to Get There

By Car:

• From M18: Exit at Junction 3, follow brown tourist signs
• From Doncaster: 15-20 minutes drive southeast
• Postcode for satnav: DN9 3QY
• Parking: Over 2,650 spaces (parking charges may apply – check website)

By Public Transport:

• Train to Doncaster station, then taxi (approximately 15 minutes, £12-15)
• Limited direct bus services – check local bus timetables

By Air:

• Doncaster Sheffield Airport is very close (5-10 minutes drive)
• The Hex Wildlife Hotel opened in 2022 specifically to serve both airport and park visitors

The Animals at Yorkshire Wildlife Park

With over 500 animals representing 100+ species, here’s what you absolutely cannot miss:

Project Polar – The Star Attraction ⭐

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is home to the UK’s ONLY polar bear reserve and one of the largest polar bear facilities outside Canada. This is genuinely world-class.

What makes it special:

• One of the world’s largest polar bear reserves covering 10 acres
• Currently houses 8 polar bears (as of 2026)
• Four vast pools with underwater viewing windows
• Most recent arrival: a male bear in late 2025, potentially reuniting with his brother
• All bears are rescues from inadequate facilities across Europe

The bears:

• Victor (born 2000): Rescued from Punto Marino Aquarium in Mexico where he lived in a tiny concrete pool
• Pixel (born 2002): Rescued from the same facility as Victor
• Nissan & Nobby: Project Polar 2 residents
• Flocke, Tala, Indy & Yuma: Flocke and her three cubs from Marineland Antibes
• New arrival (2025): Name TBC

Watching these magnificent animals swim underwater through the viewing windows is absolutely breathtaking. The deep pools allow natural behaviours, and seeing a polar bear dive and swim right past you is unforgettable.

Best viewing times: Early morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler. The bears are less active in hot weather.

Lion Country 🦁

Home to African lions including the three rescued cubs from Ukraine (arrived 2025). The lions live in spacious, naturalistic enclosures where you can watch them lounging, playing, and displaying natural behaviours.

Pride of Yorkshire: The main lion pride features multiple viewing areas, including elevated platforms for different perspectives.

Rehabilitation Centre lions: Previously housed rescued lions from Romania – 13 lions were saved from appalling conditions at Oradea Zoological Garden in 2010.

Leopard Heights 🐆

Critically endangered Amur leopards in a stunning hillside enclosure. These are among the world’s rarest big cats, with fewer than 100 left in the wild.

2026 Update: New cubs named in memory of the park’s celebrated vets. The breeding programme is vital for this species’ survival.

Viewing tip: Leopards are most active early morning and late afternoon. They often rest in trees during midday.

Land of the Tigers 🐅

Amur tigers Sayan and Tschuna live in expansive enclosures replicating their natural Siberian habitat. These tigers were rescued from inadequate conditions and now thrive here.

Size comparison: Amur tigers are the largest tiger subspecies – males can weigh up to 300kg!

Point Lobos – Sea Lions 🦭

Opened in May 2021, this is the world’s largest filtered sea lion exhibit, holding 3 million litres of water!

The family: Six California sea lions from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

What to see:

• Underwater viewing areas showing sea lions swimming at speed
• Rocky beach areas and small islands
• Daily demonstrations (check schedule on arrival)
• Themed around Point Lobos, California – stunning design

Into Africa 🦒

African Plains: Multi-species savannah featuring:

• Giraffes: Three individuals – Jengo and Palle (Reticulated), plus Jambo (Rothschild’s). They have the best animals ever (obviously!)
• Grévy’s Zebras: Endangered zebra species with distinctive narrow stripes
• Kafue Lechwes: Stunning antelope from Zambian wetlands
• Common Elands: World’s largest antelope species

Black Rhinos: Critically endangered, housed opposite African Plains in large enclosures with mud wallows

Meerkats: Always entertaining! Watch them standing sentry, digging tunnels, and playing

South America Viva 🦙

Walk-through enclosure featuring:

• Patagonian Maras: Large rodents resembling rabbit-deer hybrids
• Capybaras: World’s largest rodents – surprisingly cute!
• White-faced Sakis: Distinctive monkeys
• Azara’s Agoutis: Medium-sized rodents

Nearby enclosures house:

• Six-banded armadillos
• Venezuelan red howler monkeys (incredibly loud calls!)
• Cotton-top tamarins (tiny primates with distinctive white crests)
• Giant otters (charismatic and playful)
• Giant anteaters (fascinating to watch them feed)

Atlantic Forest 🌳

Opened April 2021, themed around Amazon lowlands:

• Bush Dogs: Rare and elusive canids from South America
• Maned Wolves: Tallest wild canids (not actually wolves!)
• Lowland Tapirs: Strange-looking herbivores with prehensile snouts

Lemur Woods 🐒

Walk-through exhibit where ring-tailed lemurs and red-ruffed lemurs roam freely around you! This is brilliant for children as the lemurs often come very close (though you mustn’t touch them).

Tip: Walk slowly and quietly for the best chance of close encounters

Himalaya – Coming in 2026! 🏔️

Red Pandas: Adorable and endangered, in Himalayan-themed habitat

New Lar Gibbons (White-Handed Gibbons): Arriving Spring 2026 between Bush Dogs and Tapirs. Known for their incredible acrobatic abilities and loud calls.

Wallaby Walkabout 🦘

Walk through as wallabies hop around you! Another brilliant close-encounter experience.

Gentoo Penguins Colony 🐧

Charming colony of Gentoo penguins with both above and underwater viewing. Daily feeds are highly entertaining – these penguins have proper personalities!

Birds & Other Species 🦜

• Pink-backed pelicans
• American flamingos
• Various waterfowl
• Birds of prey

Special Experiences & Activities

Pangea – Discovery of Dinosaurs

Life-sized animated dinosaurs throughout the park! This addition makes Yorkshire Wildlife Park brilliant for dinosaur-mad children. The animatronics are impressively realistic and roar and move.

Cost: Included in admission

Ranger Talks & Animal Demonstrations

Daily talks and feeding demonstrations scheduled throughout the day. These are fantastic – rangers are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate.

Typical schedule (check on arrival for exact times):

• Polar bear talk and feed
• Big cat talks
• Primate feeding
• Penguin feed
• Sea lion demonstrations

VIP Experiences

Book in advance for:

• Keeper for a Day: Shadow zookeepers and help with daily tasks
• Behind-the-Scenes Tours: See areas not open to the public
• Animal Encounters: Close-up experiences with selected species
• Photography Experiences: Dedicated photography sessions

Booking: Via website, popular dates sell out months ahead

Play Areas for Children

• Multiple adventure playgrounds: Scattered throughout the park
• Indoor play areas: For when weather turns
• Sand pits and water play: In warmer months

The Yorkshire Hive – Free Entry!

The Yorkshire Hive opened as a completely separate, free-to-enter destination adjacent to the park entrance. You don’t need a zoo ticket to visit!

What’s There

Shopping

• Local artisan products: Yorkshire-made foods, crafts, homeware
• African art and wildlife photography: Unique gifts and collectables
• Children’s boutiques: Gorgeous kids’ clothes and toys
• Plant shop: Houseplants and gardening supplies
• Cards and stationery: Locally designed

Dining

• Coffee shops: Proper barista coffee
• Bakery: Fresh pastries and cakes
• Evolution Restaurant: Full menu, theatrical dining on Friday/Saturday evenings
• Various food kiosks: Quick snacks and drinks

Entertainment

• Uproar Indoor Play Barn: Large indoor soft play (separate charge)
• Small amphitheatre: Free shows and performances
• Events space: Regular activities and workshops

Inside the Park – Food & Drink

Main venues:

• ¡Caramba! Restaurant: South American themed, in South America Viva area
• Various kiosks: Hot food, ice cream, drinks throughout park
• Multiple cafés: Hot and cold food options

Picnics: Allowed! Designated picnic areas throughout. Bring your own to save money.

Tip: Yorkshire Hive dining is often better value and quality than in-park options

Facilities & Practical Information

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: Majority of park (some slopes in places)
• Mobility scooter hire: Available, pre-book recommended
• Wheelchair hire: Available free of charge
• Accessible toilets: Throughout park
• Changing Places toilet: Available
• Essential carers: Free entry with relevant ID (1:1 basis)

Family Facilities

• Baby changing: In all toilet blocks
• Nursing rooms: Quiet spaces available
• High chairs: In dining venues
• Pushchair friendly: All paths suitable (some slopes)
• Lost children procedure: Report immediately to nearest staff member

Other Facilities

• Free WiFi: In Yorkshire Hive and main areas
• Cash machines: In Yorkshire Hive
• First Aid: Staffed facility near main entrance
• Lockers: Available for hire
• Phone charging: Points in some dining areas
• Shop: Huge gift shop with soft toys, souvenirs, books

Dogs

Assistance dogs only – No pet dogs allowed (for safety of both animals and visitors)

Top Tips for the Best Visit to Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Planning Your Visit

1. Book tickets online weeks ahead – Save money and guarantee entry on busy days
2. Arrive at opening time – Animals are most active early; crowds build by 11am
3. Allow 4-6 hours minimum – The park is huge! You’ll walk several miles
4. Check the weather – Most exhibits are outdoor; bring layers and waterproofs
5. Weekdays are quieter – Avoid weekends and school holidays if possible
6. Winter is magical – Polar bears LOVE cold weather; see them at their most active

During Your Visit

1. Start with polar bears – Project Polar is furthest from entrance; do it first while you’re fresh
2. Pick up a park map – Essential for navigating and finding ranger talks
3. Note ranger talk times – Plan your route around these; they’re brilliant
4. Wear comfortable shoes – You WILL walk 3-5 miles, much of it on slopes
5. Bring refillable water bottles – Water fountains available; stay hydrated
6. Take breaks – Multiple seating areas and cafés for resting
7. Don’t rush – Quality over quantity; better to see fewer animals properly

Getting the Most from Animals

1. Polar bears: Most active when cool (early morning, late afternoon, winter)
2. Big cats: Active morning and late afternoon; often sleep midday
3. Lemurs: Active all day; walk-through is magical but go slowly
4. Penguins: Attend feeding time for entertainment and photo opportunities
5. Sea lions: Underwater viewing is best; catch demonstrations for behaviours
6. Wallabies: Most active morning and evening

Photography Tips

1. Best lens: 70-200mm zoom ideal for most animals
2. Underwater viewing: Press lens against glass to avoid reflections
3. Golden hour: First and last hour of opening for best light
4. Be patient: Wait for animals to move into good positions
5. Continuous shooting: Animals move fast; burst mode helps

With Young Children

1. Pushchair essential – Huge distances; even older kids get tired
2. Plan around naps – Quiet spots in South America Viva area
3. Use play areas – Let them burn energy between animal viewing
4. Bring snacks – Food expensive; hangry toddlers are no fun!
5. Set realistic expectations – You won’t see everything; accept that
6. Make it interactive – Play “I spy”, count animals, animal noises game

Money-Saving Tips

1. Book online early – Up to 50% savings in sales
2. Annual pass – Pays for itself in 2-3 visits
3. Pack picnic – Designated areas throughout; save £30+ for family
4. Refillable bottles – Free water fountains
5. Yorkshire Hive dining – Often better value than in-park
6. Visit in winter – Cheaper tickets; animals more active in cold anyway
7. Free parking – If you have membership (otherwise charges apply)
8. 

Is Yorkshire Wildlife Park Worth It in 2026? My Honest Opinion

Absolutely, unequivocally YES. This is one of the best wildlife attractions in the UK, and I say that having visited many zoos and safari parks.

What Makes It Exceptional

1. Project Polar is World-Class

The UK’s only polar bear reserve is worth the admission price alone. Seeing these magnificent animals swim underwater through huge viewing windows is breathtaking. The facility is among the best polar bear exhibits globally.

2. Genuine Conservation Impact

Every animal has a story. The rescued polar bears from Mexico, lions from Romania and Ukraine, tigers from inadequate facilities – Yorkshire Wildlife Park actively saves animals whilst supporting global conservation programmes. Your visit directly supports this work.

3. Space and Welfare

Enclosures are enormous. Animals exhibit natural behaviours because they have room to do so. Compare this to older zoos with tiny cages and the difference is stark. Animal welfare is clearly the priority.

4. Value for Money

At £22.99+ per adult (online), it’s competitively priced. You’ll easily spend 5-6 hours here, meaning it works out at under £4 per hour for world-class animal encounters. Annual passes represent exceptional value.

What Could Be Better

I’ll be honest about the downsides:

• Weather dependent: Most exhibits are outdoor; rain affects enjoyment
• Lots of walking: 3-5 miles with slopes; exhausting if you’re not fit
• Food prices: In-park dining is expensive; bring picnic if budget-conscious
• Can’t see everything: So large you’ll need multiple visits to appreciate fully
• Parking charges: Additional cost unless you have membership

Who Will Love It

• Families with children of any age – Something for everyone
• Animal lovers and photographers – Incredible subjects and viewing opportunities
• Those passionate about conservation – See your money making a difference
• People wanting a full day out – Easily 5-8 hours of entertainment
• Winter visitors – Polar bears at their most active!

Who Might Be Disappointed

• Those expecting rides/attractions – This is pure wildlife, no theme park elements
• Anyone not prepared to walk miles – Mobility scooters available but it’s still extensive
• Fair weather visitors only – Much better with appropriate clothing
• Those wanting quick visits – Needs 4+ hours minimum to appreciate

My Rating: 5/5 Stars

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is exceptional. The polar bear facility alone would earn 5 stars, but combined with rescued big cats, excellent primate collections, brilliant sea lion exhibit, and genuine conservation impact, it’s unmissable.

Yes, it’s huge. Yes, you’ll walk for miles. Yes, you’ll need most of a day. But you’ll witness world-class animal welfare, support vital conservation work, and create memories that last a lifetime.

The Wild Live Concerts in August 2026 add even more value – combine a full day with animals with evening live music from major acts. Brilliant!

Would I recommend it? To absolutely everyone. This is Yorkshire’s premier wildlife attraction and one of the UK’s best zoos. Book online, arrive at opening, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to be amazed.

The fact there are polar bears in Doncaster still blows my mind. Go see them!

Yorkshire Wildlife Park FAQs

How long do I need at Yorkshire Wildlife Park?

Minimum 4 hours, but 5-6 hours is ideal to see everything without rushing. Some visitors spend 8 hours! It’s a huge site with over 500 animals.

Can I bring my dog?

No, only assistance dogs are permitted. This protects both the wildlife and visitor dogs.

Is it suitable for toddlers and babies?

Absolutely! Pushchair-friendly throughout, baby changing facilities, and children love the walk-through exhibits like Lemur Woods. Many animals are genuinely engaging for young children.

What if it rains?

Most exhibits are outdoor, but there are some covered areas and indoor facilities. Animals are often more active in light rain! Bring waterproofs and wellies.

Can I bring food and drinks?

Yes! Picnics are allowed with designated areas throughout the park. This saves substantial money for families.

Is the park accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the majority of paths are wheelchair accessible (some slopes). Wheelchair and mobility scooter hire available. Accessible toilets and Changing Places facility available.

How much is parking?

Parking charges apply (check website for current rates). Over 2,650 spaces available. Free for annual members.

Can we leave and return the same day?

Get your hand stamped at exit for same-day re-entry.

Are there lockers?

Yes, available for hire near the entrance.

What time should we arrive?

Opening time (10am, 9:30am in August) is best. Animals are most active early, and you’ll beat the crowds.

Do you need to book?

Online booking is essential – saves money and guarantees entry. The park can reach capacity on busy days.

What animals will we definitely see?

Polar bears, lions, tigers, leopards, giraffes, rhinos, sea lions, penguins, lemurs, wallabies, and dozens more. Over 500 animals across 100+ species.

Other Yorkshire Wildlife Attractions

Planning a Yorkshire wildlife adventure? Check out these other excellent attractions:

• Flamingo Land, North Yorkshire – Theme park and zoo combination with big cats and thrill rides
• Tropical World, Leeds – Indoor tropical wildlife, perfect for rainy days
• Askham Bryan Wildlife Park, York – Smaller, family-friendly park near York
• Sewerby Hall & Gardens – Historic hall with mini zoo and clifftop views
• SEA LIFE Scarborough – Marine life and touch pools
• The Deep, Hull – One of the UK’s most spectacular aquariums
• Zoos in Yorkshire: Your Complete Guide to the County’s Best Wildlife Parks

For even more ideas, see my guide to things to do with kids in Yorkshire.

Have you visited Yorkshire Wildlife Park? What did you think of the polar bears? Share your experiences in the comments!