Find the perfect stay near Knowsley Safari Park

Knowsley Safari Park is a massive wildlife destination spanning 550 acres of open land where animals roam freely through the Merseyside countryside. It offers a unique chance to drive through vast enclosures and watch lions, baboons, and rhinos from the comfort of your own car. This family-friendly spot provides a refreshing escape from the city, letting you get close to nature while enjoying a relaxed and fun-filled day out.

Finding a place where animals roam across hundreds of acres gives you a real sense of adventure right on the edge of the city. It is a good idea to check your car's mirrors and wipers before you head in, as some of the residents are known for being quite curious.

Planning your day out

You will need to book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot. An entry fee applies for all visitors, and once you are inside, you can explore the 550 acres of parkland at your own pace. Most people find that the main driving route takes about 1 hour to 2 hours to complete, but you can go around more than once if you want another look at the animals.

There is plenty of space to park your car if you want to hop out and explore the foot safari on foot. Please check the official landmark site for up-to-date information regarding opening hours, seasonal closures, and ticket availability.

Things to do on your visit

The main attraction is the 5-mile safari drive, which is the longest in the UK. You will drive through different zones where you can see lions, white rhinos, and camels from the comfort of your seat. If you are worried about your car, there is a car-friendly route that lets you skip the baboon enclosure, or you can hop on the Baboon Bus for a small extra charge.

Outside of the car, you can take a stroll along the Amur Tiger Trail. This elevated boardwalk gives you a great view of the tigers in a natural woodland setting. There are also sea lion displays and bird of prey talks held at various times throughout the day, so it is worth checking the schedule when you arrive.

Natural features and animals

The park is part of the historic Knowsley Estate, which provides a massive green space for a wide variety of species. You will see herds of deer and antelope grazing across open plains that feel worlds away from the city streets. The layout is designed to give the animals plenty of room to move around in environments that mimic their natural homes.

The woodland areas are particularly peaceful, offering a chance to see smaller animals and native plants. Because Knowsley Safari Park is so spread out, you get a real feel for the scale of the landscape as you move from the open savannah sections into the more sheltered forest enclosures.

Finding your way around Knowsley Safari Park is easy, and there are plenty of options for places to stay nearby. Reaching the park is a simple task whether you are travelling by car or using local transport links.

Best areas for your stay

Choosing to stay in the Prescot area or the eastern suburbs of Liverpool puts you right on the doorstep of the action. These locations are ideal for those looking for family rooms and on-site parking, making the morning trip to the 550-acre park very quick. If you would rather be closer to the shops and restaurants of the city, staying near Liverpool Lime Street Station is a good option. This area offers everything from budget-friendly hotels to more stylish spots, all within a 10-mile drive of the safari gates. Staying in the outskirts provides a more relaxed pace, which is perfect after a long day of exploring the outdoors.

Getting to the park

You can catch a train from Liverpool Lime Street Station to Prescot Station, which is the closest stop at just 1.5 miles from the entrance. Once you arrive at the station, a 10-minute taxi ride will take you straight to the start of the safari. For those driving, the park is located just off the M57 motorway, usually taking about 20 minutes to reach from the centre of Liverpool.

Book your stay near Knowsley Safari Park with ease using Opodo. Our site lets you quickly sort through local listings to find a price and location that fits your travel plans. Choose your favourite spot today and enjoy your trip to Liverpool.