Lincolnshire: ARK Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Entry Ticket

If you’re after a family day out that combines animal rescue, prehistoric wonders, and interactive fun, the ARK Wildlife and Dinosaur Park in Lincolnshire might just be your next adventure. This isn’t your typical zoo — it’s a place that operates as a rescue sanctuary for exotic animals, offering visitors a chance to see a variety of captivating creatures, from lively mammals to impressive reptiles, all in a setting that feels both educational and entertaining.

What really sets this park apart is its dinosaurs — with Lincolnshire’s largest dinosaur attraction, Jurassic Ark, it’s a hit for both kids and grown-ups curious about the prehistoric world. Add in indoor attractions like the Tropical House and soft play areas, and you’ve got a well-rounded experience that balances animal encounters with family-friendly entertainment.

One thing to keep in mind is that the park is seasonally closed in January, so planning ahead is crucial. Also, while entrance costs are very reasonable at just over $18 per person, some of the more interactive experiences, like animal encounters and escape rooms, require advance booking and additional fees. This is a fantastic day trip for families, animal lovers, and dinosaur enthusiasts alike, especially if you’re looking for a mix of education, fun, and meaningful rescue stories.

Key Points

• Rescue Sanctuary: The park operates as a rescue for exotic animals, making your visit meaningful.
• Diverse Experiences: From mammals and reptiles to dinosaurs, the variety ensures there’s always something to see.
• Indoor & Outdoor Fun: Tropical House, soft play, Jurassic Ark, and outdoor play areas cater to all weather conditions.
• Food Options: The Kalahari Cafe provides locally made cakes and snacks, perfect for refueling.
• Value for Money: Entry is affordable and includes access to most attractions, with optional extras.
• Seasonal Closure: The park is closed in January, so check availability before planning your trip.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Visiting the ARK Wildlife and Dinosaur Park feels like stepping into a different world — one where rescue animals take center stage, and dinosaurs reign supreme. The entrance, with its friendly reception, sets a warm tone for what’s to come. Once inside, the atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with a clear focus on education and conservation.

Exploring the Rescue Sanctuary

One of the most appreciated aspects of the park is its status as a rescue sanctuary. This isn’t just a zoo where animals are kept in enclosures; it’s a place where animals that need help find a safe haven. As you walk around, you’ll see exotic mammals, reptiles, and some unexpected species. Reviewers often mention the “beautiful and seldom seen carnivores”, which makes the experience unique compared to more conventional zoos. For animal lovers, this is an opportunity to learn about the importance of rescue work and conservation efforts.

The Indoor Attractions: Tropical House & Soft Play

The Tropical House is a standout feature — a warm, lush environment filled with exotic plants and animals, offering a stark contrast to the outdoor areas. It’s a great spot for kids and adults alike to marvel at the diversity of reptile and insect life. The Trash Panda Towers soft play area and the Familiar Friends Barn are designed for children to burn off energy while also learning in interactive settings.

According to reviews, “the indoor attractions are perfect for bad weather”, making this a dependable option when the skies are grey. The all-weather play area and Dino Racers, for instance, keep children entertained for hours, which is a huge plus for busy parents.

Jurassic Ark: Lincolnshire’s Dinosaur Delight

No trip here is complete without a walk through Jurassic Ark, the largest dinosaur-themed attraction in Lincolnshire. This outdoor area features life-sized models of dinosaurs, some of which are interactive or animated, bringing prehistoric times vividly to life. Visitors comment that the “dinosaur displays are impressive and educational”, with some noting that the models are well maintained and realistic.

The park also includes dinosaur-themed activities like Dino Bites pizza, which is perfect for a quick, themed lunch. For kids, the outdoor play park adds an extra layer of fun, with climbing frames and Dino Racers for a bit of energetic play after the dinosaur exploration.

Animal Encounters and Twilight House

While some experiences, like animal encounters, require pre-booking and extra charges, the opportunity to see ring-tailed lemurs at Lemur Lake or peek into the nocturnal world of the kinkajou at Kinkajou Cavern is well worth planning ahead. Reviewers highlight that “the Twilight House offered a fascinating glimpse into animals’ nocturnal behaviors”, making it both educational and engaging.

Food and Refreshments

The Kalahari Cafe is praised for its locally made cakes and savory options, making it a cozy spot to recharge. During peak times, you might find the stone-baked pizzas at Dino Bites, ideal for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s convenient to have quality, tasty food options available on-site, especially since the park offers so much to explore.

Practical Details and Tips

The ticket price of $18.18 per person offers excellent value, considering what’s included — access to indoor and outdoor attractions, the dinosaur land, and the animal rescue areas. Additional experiences such as the Escape Room or animal encounters have their own booking requirements, so plan ahead if these interest you.

The park’s 150-day validity means you have ample time to plan your visit, but remember, it’s closed in January. Make sure to check the seasonal opening hours on the official website before your trip.

For accessibility, the park states it’s wheelchair accessible, which is a huge plus for visitors with mobility needs. The atmosphere is family-friendly, and the staff are generally friendly and helpful, according to reviews.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This park is perfect for families with children eager to explore both animals and dinosaurs, especially if you want to support rescue efforts. It’s equally suited for animal enthusiasts interested in seeing exotic and rescued species in a caring environment. Dinosaur fans will appreciate the detailed and impressive Jurassic Ark land, which makes this a memorable outing.

If you’re after a value-packed day out that offers both educational content and fun, with good indoor and outdoor options, this is an excellent choice. However, those seeking a traditional zoo experience or visiting in winter should plan accordingly as some areas are seasonal.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The ARK Wildlife and Dinosaur Park in Lincolnshire offers a rich mix of rescue, education, and entertainment. The combination of animal rescue stories and dinosaur adventures makes it stand out from typical zoos or parks. The entry fee is reasonable, especially considering the range of attractions included, from tropical indoor environments to outdoor dinosaur displays.

For families, animal lovers, and anyone with a curiosity for prehistoric creatures, this park delivers value and variety. Be sure to plan your visit around the seasonal schedule, and consider booking extra experiences in advance to maximize your day.

This is a thoughtful, engaging, and family-friendly destination that balances fun with the important message of conservation. It’s a day out that can entertain children while also leaving adults with new insights into rescue animal work and prehistoric life.

FAQs

Is the park open year-round?
No. The park is closed in January, so check the official website for seasonal opening times before planning your visit.

What is included in the entry ticket?
Your ticket grants access to the entire park, including indoor attractions like the Tropical House, soft play areas, Jurassic Ark, outdoor play parks, and the animal rescue sections.

Are there additional costs for special experiences?
Yes. Encounters with animals, the Escape Room, Dino Racers, and booking animal encounters or twilight experiences require advance booking and extra fees.

Can I visit with a wheelchair?
Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the attractions.

How long should I plan for my visit?
Given the variety of attractions, a half-day to full-day visit is recommended. The park’s 150-day validity makes it flexible for planning.

What about food?
The Kalahari Cafe offers locally made cakes, snacks, and refreshments. During peak times, the Dino Bites pizza outlet is also available for quick meals.

To sum it up, the ARK Wildlife and Dinosaur Park offers an engaging, educational day out for those who love animals, dinosaurs, and meaningful conservation stories. With its mixture of indoor and outdoor attractions, affordability, and family-friendly vibe, it’s a destination that promises both fun and a touch of learning. Perfect for a relaxed family adventure or a day to indulge your dinosaur obsession, it’s worth considering for your Lincolnshire itinerary.