Bristol: Crocodile Swimming Experience coffee and cake

If you’re after a truly memorable adventure that combines a little adrenaline with some relaxed hospitality, the Crocodile Swimming Experience at Gloucestershire’s Croc R Us might be just what you need. This tour offers the chance to swim with relaxed crocodiles, explore venomous snakes, and enjoy some tasty coffee and cake—all within a two-hour window.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the opportunity to get up close and personal with these impressive reptiles, guided by knowledgeable staff who know how to make every guest feel safe and entertained. That said, it’s not for everyone; the activity is best suited for those comfortable in the water and eager for an unusual adventure.

One aspect to consider is the price—at $270 for a group of up to two people—which might seem steep for some, but the unique nature of the experience and the inclusion of photos and a guided tour contribute to its value. If you’re seeking a hands-on, engaging, and slightly daring outing, this experience offers a unique blend of thrill and learning.

Key Points

• Unique Interaction: Swimming with a crocodile in a controlled environment offers a rare, close-up encounter with these creatures.
• Educational Value: Guided tours of crocodiles and venomous snakes provide insightful details that enrich the experience.
• Photographic Memory: A souvenir photo with a gator helps you remember the day.
• Delicious Break: Coffee and cake at the Croc Cafe offer a relaxing finish to your adventurous morning.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to six participants, ensuring personalized attention and safety.
• Age and Health Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or those with heart problems.

A Closer Look at the Croc R Us Experience

The Setting and Notable Features

Situated in Gloucestershire, Croc R Us offers a controlled environment where adventurous visitors can get genuinely close to crocodiles and venomous snakes. The setting is designed to be both educational and fun, emphasizing animal welfare and visitor safety. The Croc Cafe, conveniently located next to the reptile center, adds a cozy touch, making it easy to transition from the thrill of swimming to relaxing with refreshments.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the Croc Cafe, guests are greeted and briefed on safety and what to expect during the activity. The core of the experience is a 45-minute swim with a crocodile in a specially designed pool. The crocodiles here are described as “relaxed and enjoy human interaction,” which is promising for those who may worry about unpredictable behavior. Guides are on hand to ensure safety and to offer reassurance, so even nervous swimmers often find themselves comfortable once in the water.

Following the swim, there’s a guided tour of the crocodiles and venomous snakes. This part of the experience is where you’ll learn about each species, their habits, and how they’re cared for. According to reviews, the guides are friendly, funny, and very knowledgeable, adding a layer of authenticity and trust that makes the learning sessions particularly engaging.

Finally, guests head to the Croc Cafe for a light meal—likely a burger and wedges—along with a cold drink. It’s the perfect way to unwind after the adrenaline rush and chat about the highlights of your day.

What to Expect During Your Swim

The swimming segment is a highlight, especially for those who enjoy wildlife interactions. The crocodiles are said to be “relaxed,” which suggests they’re accustomed to human presence and won’t pose unexpected threats. Guests are encouraged to bring a waterproof camera to capture the moment, but flash photography is not allowed, likely for safety reasons and to avoid stressing the animals.

The guides are there to help you feel at ease, and most reviews praise their friendly and knowledgeable approach. They go beyond just safety, sharing interesting facts and anecdotes—making the experience both exciting and educational.

The Guided Tour and Reptile Handling

Post-swim, the tour takes you around the other crocodiles and the venomous snake area. This part caters to those wanting a deeper understanding of these animals. One reviewer noted that the guides, especially those leading the tours, “go above and beyond” to make sure everyone is comfortable and well-informed.

Reptile handling is included, giving you the chance to see—and in some cases, touch—these remarkable creatures up close. This hands-on element helps demystify the animals and might even turn skeptics into fans.

The Food and Relaxation at the Croc Cafe

The Croc Cafe offers a straightforward menu: hearty options like burgers and wedges, complemented by a cold drink. The reviews highlight the friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere, making it a good spot to sit back and reflect on your adventure with a snack.

Practical Details

Duration and Group Size

This experience lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable outing whether you’re on a tight schedule or want a quick but immersive activity. The group size is limited to 6 participants, which ensures a more personalized and safer environment—especially important when dealing with crocodiles and venomous snakes.

Price and Value

At $270 for up to two people, the cost might seem high at first glance. However, when you consider that this includes a 45-minute swim, a guided reptile tour, a souvenir photograph, and a meal, the value becomes clearer. This is not just a zoo visit; it’s a hands-on adventure that combines education, adrenaline, and relaxation.

What to Bring

To make the most of your time, pack the essentials:

• Swimwear (obvious for the swim)
• Change of clothes (for after)
• Towel
• Waterproof camera (for capturing moments)

Note: Avoid flash photography to keep the animals stress-free.

Restrictions and Considerations

This experience isn’t suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or individuals with heart problems. The activity involves water and close animal interactions, which require a certain level of comfort and physical ability.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, emphasizing that they “go above and beyond” to make guests comfortable. Freya from the UK specifically called this “the best experience ever,” highlighting how the animals appeared well cared for and happy. Ash expressed that they “loved every minute,” while a German traveler simply called it “super.”

These comments suggest that the staff’s professionalism and animal welfare are considered top priorities, which adds a layer of trust to the experience. Guests also appreciated the relaxed nature of the crocodiles, which helped reduce any fear factor for nervous swimmers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who aren’t afraid of a bit of water and want a close encounter with reptiles. It’s also a great choice for families with older children, particularly those interested in wildlife. However, it’s not suitable for young kids under 9, pregnant women, or those with heart issues.

If you’re looking for a unique photo opportunity, a chance to learn about crocodiles and snakes, or simply craving an activity that’s out of the ordinary, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The Crocodile Swimming Experience at Gloucestershire offers a fun, educational, and adrenaline-fueled outing that stands out from typical zoo visits. Combining hands-on animal interaction with a relaxed café setting, it caters well to those eager for a bit of adventure balanced with comfort. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure you’ll feel safe and well-informed throughout.

While the price might be on the higher side, the memories and photos you’ll take away are priceless. It’s a perfect outing for wildlife lovers, thrill-seekers, or anyone interested in reptiles and unusual experiences.

This tour is best for those who want to push their comfort zones in a controlled environment, enjoy close animal encounters, and leave with stories to tell. If that sounds like your kind of day, you’ll find this experience highly rewarding.

FAQ

Is the crocodile swimming experience suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children aged 9 and above. Younger kids might not be able to handle the water or the excitement involved.

How long do I spend in the water?
The actual crocodile swim lasts about 45 minutes. The entire experience, including tours and meals, takes around 2 hours.

Are the crocodiles dangerous?
The crocodiles are described as relaxed and enjoy human interaction. The guides are highly trained, and safety measures are in place, but caution is always advised.

Can I take photos during the activity?
Yes, you can bring a waterproof camera to capture the moments, but flash photography is not allowed.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel. It’s also wise to wear comfortable shoes for the rest of the tour.

Is food included?
Lunch at the Croc Cafe is included after the tour. You’ll enjoy a main course and a cold drink.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience available year-round?
You should check current availability, but the experience generally operates on scheduled times, so advance booking is recommended.

In summary, this tour combines adventure, education, and relaxation in a way few other wildlife experiences can match. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a unique day out in Gloucestershire, it offers a memorable way to connect with nature—and get a little wet in the process.