Birdland Park and Gardens

Wildlife park with bird exhibits and dinosaur trail

Outdoor Educational Toddler Friendly Ages 3-16 Under 12s Playground Nature Park Theme Park Waterfall Water Play Picnic Area Tourist Attraction Zoo Nature Trails Family-Friendly Café

location_on Adresse: Rissington Rd, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham GL54 2AY, Vereinigtes Königreich

At a Glance

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Best Ages

All ages

payments

Cost

Varies

timer

Time Needed

2-4 hours

domain

Indoor/Outdoor

Outdoor

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Weather Fit

All weather except heavy rain

stroller

Stroller Access

Good

Washrooms

Accessible

restaurant

Food

On-site café

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Parking

Available on-site

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Booking

Recommended

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Parent Effort

Low

verified Our Take

Suitable for families with children aged 3 and up; best visited during spring to autumn. The park combines education, conservation, and play but requires planning due to the range of attractions spread across nine acres.

About This Place

Birdland Park and Gardens is a family-orientated attraction in Bourton-on-the-Water, Gloucestershire, set within nine acres of gardens and woodland along the River Windrush. It features aviaries housing over 500 birds from around the world, including rare species such as the Waldrapp Ibis and King Penguins, as well as a Jurassic Journey section with life-sized dinosaurs. Facilities include a café, picnic areas, accessible toilets, and a gift shop. The site offers educational programs, seasonal events, and interactive experiences like feeding penguins and viewing birds through live cams. It is open seasonally, typically in spring and summer.

Official Website open_in_new

schedule

Seasonal opening

Open seasonally, typically in spring through autumn.

pets

Bird exhibits

Features themed bird habitats including penguin and parrot enclosures.

sports

Dinosaur trail & play

Includes a dinosaur trail and children's play area for younger kids.

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Interactive experiences

Offers feeding sessions and guided talks to enhance learning.

Good to Know Before You Go

Bird species: Over 500 birds from diverse regions, including rare and endangered species such as the Waldrapp Ibis, King Penguins, and Humboldt Penguins.
Key attractions: Jurassic Journey with life-sized dinosaurs, Pandemonium of Parrots, Parliament of Owls, and Out of Africa exhibit.
Animal interactions: Guided talks, bird feeding sessions (including penguin feeding), and opportunities to engage with wildlife.
Facilities: Children's play area, Nest Kitchen café, picnic spots, gift shop, accessible toilets.
Seasonal operation: Open seasonally, typically from spring through autumn.
Conservation focus: Supports wildlife recovery initiatives and is involved in conservation of endangered bird species.

Kid Fit by Age

Babies

Stroller-friendly paths and shaded areas provide comfort for babies; the peaceful environment aids calmness, though some bird calls may be loud.

Toddlers

Engaging sights and sounds of birds, gentle walks, and the play area near the café suit toddlers well; short visits are ideal.

Preschoolers

Interactive experiences like feeding sessions and themed enclosures make the park engaging; the dinosaur exhibit adds imaginative fun.

Elementary

Educational value from guided talks and diverse bird species supports learning; hands-on activities and the play area enhance enjoyment.

Tweens

While some exhibits may feel familiar, the conservation angle and unique habitats provide interest; socializing around shared experiences can be enriching.

Teens

Interest varies based on personal enthusiasm for wildlife or nature; the park may appeal more to teens drawn to photography, environmental causes, or quiet exploration.

Insider Tips

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Arrive at opening to see morning feeding shows

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Check the schedule for guided tours

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Visit the owl enclosure at dusk for best views

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Use the park map to skip crowded areas

health_and_safety Safety

•Supervise children near water features
•Keep a safe distance from animals
•Follow posted paths to avoid hazards

accessible Accessibility

•Step-free access to main entrances and key exhibits
•Sensory-friendly pathways with quiet zones
•Baby change facilities in main toilets

schedule Best Time to Visit

Visit early on weekdays for fewer crowds and quieter surroundings.

shopping_bag What to Bring

check_boxComfortable walking shoes
check_boxWeather-appropriate clothing
check_boxPicnic supplies
check_boxCamera for bird sightings
check_boxHand sanitizer

Frequently Asked Questions

What age group is this place most suitable for? expand_more

The park is suitable for children of all ages, with activities like the play area and interactive feeding sessions that appeal to younger visitors. Some exhibits may be less engaging for very young toddlers.

Is there parking available, and is it suitable for large vehicles? expand_more

Parking is available on-site, with a designated area near the entrance; it is accessible for standard vehicles and has space for larger vehicles including coaches.

Can I eat on-site, and is there a cafe or food options? expand_more

Food and drinks are available on-site at the Nest Kitchen café, which serves light meals, snacks, and beverages. Visitors can also bring their own food for picnics in designated areas.

Is booking required, or can I just turn up? expand_more

Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during peak seasons, to ensure entry and help manage visitor numbers.

What should I bring when visiting? expand_more

Visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, as the park covers nine acres with paths through gardens and woodland. Weather-appropriate clothing is advisable as the site includes outdoor areas.

Is the park accessible for visitors with mobility challenges? expand_more

The park has accessible toilets, and most pathways are suitable for wheelchairs. The majority of exhibits and attractions are wheelchair-accessible, though some woodland paths may be uneven.