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Looking for animal sanctuaries in South Wales to visit with the family? Whether your children love farm animals, birds of prey, monkeys or wildlife rescue centres, South Wales has plenty of lovely places to explore.
Many of these sanctuaries focus on animal rescue, rehabilitation and conservation, making them a great opportunity for children to learn about caring for animals while enjoying a fun family day out.
Here are some of the best animal sanctuaries and rescue centres to visit across South Wales.
Last updated: 13th May 2026
Disclaimer: We do our best to keep all information on Little Adventures Wales as accurate and up to date as possible, however opening times, prices, facilities and events can change regularly. We always recommend checking the official website or social media pages before travelling.
The Meadows Wildlife Park
What? The Meadows Wildlife Park
Where? Groeswen, Cardiff, CF15 7UN
When? Open daily – check website for seasonal opening hours.
How Much? Paid entry. Prices vary depending on age and season. £5.50-£11.50 at time of publishing.
What Else Should I Know? Home to over 300 animals including meerkats, capybaras, reptiles, wallabies and raccoons. Families can enjoy animal encounters, feeding experiences and interactive sessions. There is also a café and indoor play area.
Visit the website | Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
Amelia Trust Farm
What? Amelia Trust Farm
Where? Five Mile Lane, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan, CF62 3AS
When? Open daily – check website for current opening times.
How Much? Children under 2 go free. From £5.25 without donation at time of publishing. Cheaper to book online.
What Else Should I Know? A countryside attraction and charity offering woodland walks, farm animals, gardens and a play area. The site focuses heavily on wellbeing, education and community support. Ideal for younger children.
Visit the website | Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
All Creatures Great and Small Animal Sanctuary
What? All Creatures Great and Small Animal Sanctuary
Where? Cwmbran, Torfaen
When? Visiting availability varies – contact directly before visiting.
How Much? Donations welcome.
What Else Should I Know? A registered charity caring for abandoned, neglected and abused animals. This sanctuary focuses on rescue and rehabilitation work. Visitor access may be limited at times depending on animal welfare needs.
Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary
What? Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary
Where? Caehopkin, Swansea, SA9 1UD
When? Open daily – check website before visiting.
How Much? Paid entry. Family ticket £30 at time of publishing.
What Else Should I Know? Located near the Brecon Beacons, this sanctuary rescues and cares for chimpanzees, baboons, capuchins and many other animals. It’s one of the most unique animal rescue centres in Wales and makes a great addition to a Brecon Beacons day out.
Visit the website | Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
Borth Animalarium
What? Borth Animalarium
Where? Borth, Ceredigion, SY24 5NA
When? Open daily – seasonal opening hours apply.
How Much? Paid entry. Family ticket £30 at time of publishing.
What Else Should I Know? A family-run rescue centre and sanctuary where visitors can meet, pet and feed many of the animals. Home to domestic animals, reptiles, exotic species and farm animals.
Visit the website | Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
Festival Park Owl Sanctuary
What? Festival Park Owl Sanctuary
Where? Festival Park Shopping Village, Ebbw Vale, NP23 8FP
When? Open selected days – check Facebook for updates.
How Much? Donations welcome.
What Else Should I Know? Established in 1998, this sanctuary rehabilitates injured and abandoned birds of prey including owls, hawks, falcons and eagles. Families can learn about conservation and bird care while seeing the birds up close.
Visit the Facebook Page for latest updates
Things To Know Before You Visit
- Always check opening hours before travelling as some sanctuaries operate seasonal schedules.
- Some rescue centres rely heavily on donations and volunteers.
- Animal welfare comes first, so certain experiences may occasionally be unavailable.
- Many locations are outdoors, so suitable footwear is recommended.
- Some sanctuaries offer animal feeding or encounter sessions which may need to be booked separately.
Are Animal Sanctuaries Good for Children?
Animal sanctuaries can be a fantastic educational experience for children. They help teach empathy, kindness and respect for animals while giving families the opportunity to enjoy time outdoors together.
Many sanctuaries also rescue animals from neglect or poor living conditions, helping children understand the importance of animal welfare and conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an animal sanctuary and a zoo?
Animal sanctuaries mainly focus on rescuing, rehabilitating and caring for animals rather than breeding or entertainment.
Are these animal sanctuaries suitable for toddlers?
Most are suitable for younger children, although some locations have uneven outdoor terrain so a buggy may not always be ideal.
Do I need to book in advance?
Some sanctuaries recommend booking ahead for special animal encounters or during school holidays.
Are dogs allowed?
Policies vary depending on the sanctuary and the animals they care for, so it’s always best to check in advance.
Which animal sanctuary is best for exotic animals?
The Wales Ape & Monkey Sanctuary and The Meadows Wildlife Park both have a wide range of unusual and exotic animals.
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