Nature and Wildlife

Spot brilliant birds and interesting insects at one of the county's nature reserves and open spaces, or enjoy a totally wild day out with the family at one of Europe’s leading zoos. Whatever takes your fancy, Hertfordshire has a fantastic array of nature and wildlife to discover…

Hoping to uncover where the wild things are in Herts? If so, enjoy a family day out at one of the county’s leading wild animal parks. At ZSL Paradise Wildlife Park in Broxbourne, watch the big cats feed daily, learn about the weird and wonderful habits of some of the zoo’s residents, explore at the Jungle Theatre or book an up-close animal experience. Alternatively, head east, and venture to Ventura Wildlife Park, a unique interactive zoo based within approximately two acres of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. The zoo is home to a variety of animals including zebra, wallaby, kangaroo, and lemurs, as well as the UK's only Cuban Hutia!

For an up-close experience with animals of the friendlier variety, dig out your wellies, roll up your sleeves and enjoy a day out with the kids at one of Hertfordshire’s fantastic farmyards. Take a trip to Willows Activity Farm in St Albans, where you can meet a host of farm friends, take a tractor ride, and even get a chance to say hello to Peter Rabbit and Lily Bobtail with a visit to their home in Cotton-Tail Village. Set amongst 25 acres of countryside in the shadows of the stunning Hatfield House estate, Hatfield Park Farm is home to a host of traditional breeds in their natural countryside setting. Delight in a walk amongst the paddocks, take advantage of the feeding stations, and let the kids run off their excitement at one of the farm’s many play area facilities.

On a trip to Tring Park, one of the county’s most important ecological areas, explore more than 250 acres of sweeping panoramas, open parkland, mixed woodland and rare chalk grassland. Part of the Chilterns' Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, get closer to nature as you uncover a mosaic of habitats for birds, mammals, flora and invertebrates.

With our rolling countryside, miles of footpaths and striking views, Hertfordshire is perfect walking territory. Why not pay a visit to National Trust’s Ashridge Estate with over 5000 acres of countryside to enjoy for a day out by foot? Alternatively, do a loop around beautiful Fairlands Valley Park situated within the heart of Stevenage which boasts over 20 acres of open water across four linked lakes, woodland, grassland, and even a sailing centre. No matter what pace you’re looking to set, lace up those walking boots and breathe in the fresh Herts air on a ramble with nature.

Start your own wild encounter with Hertfordshire by taking a look at some of our top nature and wildlife suggestions below.