Port Lympne Review: A Unique Stay For Animal Lovers

I kept seeing Port Lympne pop up on Instagram... the giraffes, the unique lodges, the incredible animal experiences and I knew it was somewhere I had to try. I love animals and I love a hotel that offers something a bit different from the norm, so this was the perfect fit for a little family adventure.

It’s not your standard hotel stay… and that’s exactly why I booked it.

First Impressions

The grounds at Port Lympne are incredible. You’re right in the middle of a wildlife reserve with over 900 acres of countryside. It feels completely different from anywhere else in the UK. Think sprawling parkland, herds of animals roaming and the kind of views you wouldn’t expect to find in Kent.

The staff were brilliant, really friendly and helpful from the moment we arrived. The restaurant looked lovely and staying on-site meant we were given a complimentary golf buggy to help us get around the grounds easily (trust me, it’s a lifesaver – the place is huge!).

The Accommodation – Shepherd’s Hut with a View

We stayed in one of the Shepherd’s Huts and it was absolutely gorgeous. Set in a field overlooking a drinking pool for the animals, you literally wake up and there are animals gathered right outside. It’s cosy, cute and beautifully done, with deck chairs and a fire pit outside so you can really make the most of the views.

Inside it’s small but perfectly formed: comfortable bed, little kitchenette and everything you need for a peaceful escape.

We were also lucky enough to be shown around some of the other accommodations:

• Tiger Lodge – floor-to-ceiling glass looking right into the tiger enclosure. Absolutely incredible.

• Rhino House – equally beautiful, with amazing views of the reserve and stunning interiors.

• Treehouses, bubble pods and lion lodges are also available if you want something truly unique.

The Experiences – Safari, Giraffe Feeding & More

One of the best things about staying at Port Lympne is that you get a complimentary safari included. We saw rhinos, giraffes, wild dogs and more, all roaming in wide, open spaces. It’s a brilliant way to really feel immersed in the experience.

We also booked the Giraffe Feeding Experience and I’m so glad we did. Core memories made. It was such a special moment for all of us, feeding these incredible animals up close is something I’ll never forget.

Food & Drink

If I’m honest, the food was the only letdown. While the restaurants looked lovely, quite a few were closed and there wasn’t much communication about it until we arrived. Service was pretty poor and overall it didn’t match the standard of the rest of the experience. Nothing awful, just not on par with the quality of the accommodation and grounds. I felt like this was the only thing that really let our experience down.

How Was It for Jax?

Jax loved it. Exploring the grounds, seeing animals up close and having space to roam made it such a fun experience for him. There are a couple of small play parks and plenty to see and do just walking around.

We were disappointed that the Dinosaur Walk was closed due to bad weather. Again, there wasn’t clear communication on this until we walked over there, which was a shame.

Who’s It For?

Port Lympne is ideal for:

• Families who want a unique break

• Couples looking for something different

• Animal lovers

• Anyone wanting to try a stay with unforgettable views and experiences

  
  

If you want something truly unique, the Tiger Lodge or Rhino House are well worth looking into.

Final Thoughts – Would I Go Back?

Absolutely. I’d love to return and try one of the animal lodges for a completely different experience. I’d also choose to go in warmer weather. We visited in March and while it was still amazing, I can imagine how lovely it would be in the summer with better weather and more facilities open.