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Blair Drummond Safari Park

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park in Stirlingshire is Scotland’s only safari park. This family-friendly attraction is home to over 350 animals, many of which are free to roam the 120-acre estate. Visitors can enjoy a drive through several enclosures before entering a large animal-themed adventure park that features a zoo, fun-fair rides, restaurants and cafes, and play parks.

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, located near Stirling, is the only safari park in Scotland, and it’s also one of the country’s busiest tourist attractions. Covering more than 120 acres, the park contains several enclosures that are home to a variety of animals, mainly from Africa and Asia, along with a few inhabitants from closer to home.

Visitors can drive through each reserve in their car and get some great close-up views of the free-roaming animals before heading into the adventure park on foot. Once inside the park, there are lots of attractions to keep visitors entertained such as Lemur Land, Chimp Island, the bird of prey habitat, and Pets Farm, to name a few.

Other attractions include fairground rides and amusements, a pirate ship and adventure fort, as well as a boat safari, pedal boats, dodgems, a rollercoaster, and a carousel. Meanwhile, food and drink are catered for with a restaurant and several snack outlets.

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park also has a more serious side as it’s involved with conservation initiatives like the Giraffe Conservation Foundation  and the AfriCat Foundation . In addition, the park’s education team regularly gives talks on the elephants, tigers, rhinos, and other animals they care for.

Blair Drummond Lemur

The Highlights

1: Drummond Safari Park provides a unique opportunity to see a wide range of animals in drive-through reserves and walk-around areas. Visitors can enjoy close-up views of exotic species like lions, rhinos, giraffes, and elephants, all from the safety and comfort of their own vehicles.

2: The park isn’t just about animal viewing; it also offers adventure and play areas designed for children. These include outdoor playgrounds, a giant astraglide slide, pedal boats, and a flying fox zip wire.

1: The park participates in breeding programmes for endangered species and works with various conservation projects. Visitors can learn about these efforts and gain insight into the importance of preserving our natural world through educational talks and interactive displays.

Visiting Tips

1: Since many activities are outdoors, the weather can impact your experience. Dress appropriately and consider taking waterproof clothing or sunscreen, depending on the conditions.

2: To avoid lines and potentially save money, purchase your tickets online before your visit. This can also help you take advantage of online discounts or special offers.

3: The park can get busy, especially on weekends and during school holidays. Arriving early not only helps you beat the crowds but also gives you a full day to explore without feeling rushed.

Blair Drummond Safari Park

Tourist Information

There are a huge number of activities for families to enjoy during their visit to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, although the highlight has to be driving through the reserves to get up close and personal with the animals on display. There are four main reserves to drive through, and each one showcases animals from various parts of the world in habitats that have been designed to be as close as possible to their own natural environments.

The African reserve features non-carnivorous native African species like zebras and white rhinoceros, while the lion reserve is home to a pride of African lions. The lion reserve, in particular, is a great enclosure as it features a raised walkway that can be accessed on foot from inside the park, so you can get a different perspective on the lions once you’ve finished the drive-through safari.

The other two reserves are the Monkey Jungle, which houses a troop of Barbary macaques, and the Asian Reserve, which contains herbivores native to Asia such as deer and camels. All the reserves are well-maintained, and the animals appear to be very happy in their habitats, which is great to see.

Blair Drummond Giraffe

Once you’ve finished the safari, it’s time to leave the car behind and set out on foot into the adventure park where you’ll discover various enclosures that are more like the ones you’d find in a zoo. In this area, visitors will see African elephants, rhinos, and giraffes alongside great apes on Chimp Island and ring-tailed lemurs in Lemur Land.

Next to Lemur Land is a lake that you can explore on a pedal boat, but if you prefer a more leisurely cruise you can take a ride on the boat safari which sails around Chimp Island. I highly recommend taking the boat trip as it’s a great way to see the park’s troop of chimpanzees foraging about in the undergrowth.

If you have children and they’re not too exhausted after seeing all the animals, you can take them to a couple of other areas to burn off their remaining energy. First is an enormous wooden fort that has a bird’s nest and slides, and second is a pirate ship that can be found inside a giant sandpit.

Both play parks have picnic benches and BBQ areas nearby, or you can use the on-site restaurant and cafe. There’s also an outside dining area that allows parents to keep watch while the kids are having fun.

Blair Drummond Boating

Things to Do

Safari Drive-Thru : Embark on an exciting self-drive safari to see zebras, ostriches, bison, and monkeys roam free in the park. Don’t forget to make sure all your windows are closed as you drive, and if you have a convertible, make sure the roof is up before you enter the lion enclosure!

Keeper Talks : The team at Blair Drummond Safari Park holds daily talks about the most popular animals, including what they like to eat, where they come from, and how they manage to survive in the challenging conditions of the modern world. Conservation is a key aspect of the talks, but they’re also fun and engaging for children.

Sea Lion Show: Enjoy the clever California sea lions’ daily live training demonstrations as they display their agility skills. The keepers also provide insightful commentary about the natural behaviours of these animals in a show that’s easily one of the most popular in the entire park.

Bird of Prey Centre : See an incredible collection of eagles, hawks, and owls at the Bird of Prey Centre. The daily flying demonstrations are a must-see, as you can watch these magnificent creatures soar through the sky and learn about their crucial role in the ecosystem.

Adventure Playground : The park’s adventure playground is a fun-filled area with a fortress, pirate ship, and giant slides. Kids can burn off energy while parents relax in a nearby seating area with a coffee in hand, knowing their children are in a safe and secure environment. The playground is designed to be inclusive, so children of all abilities can enjoy it.

Blair Drummond

Things to Do Nearby

Doune Castle . Castle Hill, Doune, FK16 6EA. 10-minute drive. A mediaeval castle with one of the largest curtain walls in Scotland. Doune Castle is located near the River Teith in the historic village of Doune. It is famous for being the filming site for Monty Python, Outlander, and Game of Thrones.

Stirling Castle . Upper Castlehill, Stirling, FK8 1EN. 11-minute drive. One of the largest castles in Scotland and second only to Edinburgh Castle in importance, this 12th-century fortification was the original seat of power for the nation’s royalty. Today, it offers tourists permanent exhibitions, renovated rooms complete with period furniture and paintings, a café, and a shop.

Deanston Distillery . Teith Rd., Deanston, Doune, FK16 6AG. 6-minute drive. Located in a former cotton mill, this distillery on the banks of the River Teith offers guided whisky tours, tasting experiences, a shop, and a café.

Briarlands Farm . Blair Drummond, Stirling FK9 4UP. 2-minute drive. A farm-themed zoo is situated behind the safari park. This family-friendly attraction features a petting zoo, go-karting, a field maze, berry picking, play parks, and tractor rides.

River Teith . 10-minute drive. This picturesque river is the setting for lots of relaxing walks along its banks, which can be visited from almost any point along its length. The river is renowned both for its fishing and for the arched bridge that crosses it half a mile southwest of Doune village.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go to blair drummond safari park without a car.

Blair Drummond Safari Park features a drive-through safari that makes it very convenient for visitors with cars. However, it’s not strictly necessary to have a car to visit, as a large part of it can be walked around. The closest major town is Stirling, from which you can take a taxi or a local bus service. Note that some attractions within the park, like the drive-through safari, are designed only for motor vehicles.

How long does Blair Drummond Safari Park take?

The drive through the safari park takes around 30 minutes. The theme park area can take an hour to an entire day, depending on how much time is spent at each attraction and animal enclosure.

Do you need a car for Blair Drummond Safari Park?

A car is required for the safari park drive. Public transportation is available for accessing the theme park area on foot (buses #59, 160, and S60, X10A stop at the entrance).

Is Blair Drummond open all year?

Blair Drummond Safari Park is a seasonal attraction and is open from spring to autumn only, from mid-March onwards.

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Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

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Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Visit one of Scotland's top attractions for an incredible family day out. Come and view giraffes, lions, elephant, tigers, and meerkats. Take your chances with the cheeky monkeys in the Park's famous Macaque Drive-thru, walk with free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land, catch the popular bird of prey flying displays, and meet the dinosaurs - all included in the price of your entry ticket.

Safari Drive

There over 300 rare and exotic animals at Blair Drummond Safari Park. You can drive your own car through the animal reserves and get up close to camels, rhinos, deer, antelopes and a pride of lions. Keep an eye out for the troop of monkeys in the Safari Park's famous Macaque Drive-Thru. And don't forget to close your windows!

Adventure Play

Burn off some energy in the popular play park which is home to a giant play fort, a pirate ship, swings and a sandpit. Have a go on the pedal boats, astroglide, and go-karts - all of which are included in your entry price.

California Cove

Blair Drummond's sea lions are finally back and enjoying their brand new habitat, California Cove.   The indoor sea lion display won’t restart until later in the year, but you will be able to see them in their outdoor pool and find out more about their care in live training demonstrations, which take place twice a day.

Meerkat Mansions

Visitors can now view the meerkats in a new indoor habitat, with floor-to-ceiling glass viewing areas. This new indoor space is also fully wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy all the cheeky antics of the meerkats. And with much more room to play, dig and show off, there's plenty to see.

Meet the Dinosaurs

The dinosaur exhibit has over 20 life size dinosaurs, including velociraptors, triceratops, stegosaurus, flying pteranodon and an oviraptor with eggs. The largest dinosaur is a 21m diplodocus, and the most fearsome is the iconic T-Rex. ‘Dinosaurs at Blair Drummond’ is a permanent attraction which was opened in 2020. Entry is included in the price of admission.

A troop of free-roaming lemurs live at the Safari Park. You can walk with them through the trees, as they play above you. But watch out, lemurs are very curious creatures and like to say hello!

Bird of Prey Presentation

Catch one of the spectacular outdoor birds of prey flying demonstrations which take place three times a day.

Animal Talks

Want to find out more about your favourite animals?  Come and meet the education team at interactive animal talks throughout the day.

Accessibility

The Safari Park has excellent access for wheelchairs, prams and buggies. There are baby changing facilities, ample disabled parking spots and a 'Changing Places' toilet.

Online ticket sales only:  Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park 

Are you a social animal?  Follow the Safari Park on Facebook and keep up-to-date with the news, competitions and special offers.  

Blair Drummond Safari Park has received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor.

Transport and Parking

  • On Public Transport Route
  • Electric Car Charging
  • Taxi rank nearby
  • Coach Parking
  • Public Parking Nearby
  • No Pets Allowed
  • Ramp to main entrance
  • Wheelchairs or mobility aids provided
  • Partially suitable for visitors with limited mobility
  • Level access to all public areas
  • Suitable for visitors with limited mobility
  • Level access to main entrance
  • Accessible Parking Or Drop-off Point
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Level access to dining room, cafe or restaurant
  • Level Access
  • Wheelchair access throughout
  • Level access to bar
  • Level access from entrance to reception
  • Accessible toilets
  • Level access to leisure facilities
  • Wet room or level entry shower
  • Access guide

Dietary Options

  • Vegan Meals Available
  • Gluten Free
  • Vegetarian Meals available
  • Kosher Meals
  • Halal Meals

Typical Prices

  • Children's Menu Available
  • Outdoor Play Area
  • Baby Changing Facilities
  • Public Toilet Facilities
  • Lunch Available
  • Breakfast Available
  • Licensed Bar
  • Catering Available
  • Picnic Area
  • Patio or Beer Garden
  • Cafe or Restaurant

Payment Methods

  • Credit Card

Awards & Schemes

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Great Day Out - Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

  • Europe    
  • United Kingdom (UK)    
  • Scotland    
  • Stirlingshire    
  • Stirling    
  • Stirling - Things to Do    
  • Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

We had a great visit today! There’s lots to do at the park, the play area and fairground are a... read more

blair drummond safari park late

ago Africa and Asian animals living in rural Scotland is not what you expect to see, but that's... read more

blair drummond safari park late

Great Day Out

Great day out, we booked well in advance. Arrived 10minutes after ticketed time. Parked up and wandered around the park. Plenty to do and see. A few things were closed but that is understandable. Over all a great experience all round.

blair drummond safari park late

Thank you for your kind words. We appreciate all your positive comments and are glad that you enjoyed your visit. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Went for an evening safari. Weather was lovely. I didnt see Hope the tiger which was a shame as only came to see her as we watched her as a cub at YWP. Overall lovely place definitely go back when it's cooler as most animals were asleep too hot.

blair drummond safari park late

Thank you for your lovely review. We appreciate all your positive comments and are glad that you enjoyed your visit. We are sorry that you didn't manage to see Hope this time, but rest assured she will have seen you! We hope you will come to visit her again sometime soon.

Great day out. A lot of work going on so some things like the sealions and Meerkats werent open but wss still worth a visit. Plenty of hand sanitizing stations around and was busy but not enough to cause any worries. Please get more Elephants though. The poor single Elephant looked depressed and lonely

Thank you for your lovely review. We appreciate all your positive comments and are glad that you enjoyed your visit. For more information about our elephant, please visit the finding-out-about-mondula section of our website. We hope this will address any concerns you may have. We hope to see you again soon.

We had a great day out at the Safari park on one of the hottest days of the year. We went round the drive through areas first and saw lions and rhinos and even had a few monkeys decide to sit on our car roof. The play parks are fantastic for the kids and the dinosaurs are great fun. The animals were all great and lots o viewing areas with lots of hand sanitizer and wash stations around. We had a picnic at the park however lots of food areas if you want to buy there. The pedalos were great fun and we bought some tickets for the rides such as dodgems which we had lots of fun on. A great day out for all!

Thank you for your lovely review. We appreciate all your positive comments and are glad that you enjoyed your day. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

Had the best day , spent over 5 hours at the park , plenty parking plus disabled spaces. Tons of picnic areas & food outlets , lots to do and see for all ages . Disabled toilet facilities were amazing, hoists , plynths and very clean. Dinosaurs were amazing, animals all fabulous, fantastic play area also .

blair drummond safari park late

Amazing day out and we will be back. Couldn't fault this pace, we had an amazing day. Lots to do and well worth the money. The food, drinks, ice cream etc were all reasonably priced. Highly recommend.

blair drummond safari park late

Thank you for your lovely review. We appreciate all your positive comments and are glad that you enjoyed your visit. We look forward to seeing you again soon.

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7 things you NEED to do in Moscow this winter

blair drummond safari park late

1. Get your skates on

People at the opening of the Street Rink outdoor skating rink in Gorky Park, Moscow.

People at the opening of the Street Rink outdoor skating rink in Gorky Park, Moscow.

Young or old, sporty or couch potato, it doesn’t matter – ice skating is THE quintessential winter activity in which pretty much everyone Muscovite partakes. For that reason, Russians tend to be quite good at skating, but don’t let that put you off if you’re a beginner. Public ice skating is more about embracing the crisp winter mornings here than hardcore sporting endeavor, so expect high spirits and friendly atmospheres.

What’s more, there are a staggering 45 year-round skating rinks to choose from in Moscow. Gorky Park’s rink is a must-see that allows for pleasant strolling, coffee drinking, and art viewing afterwards. The VDNH rink is also worth checking out for the park that surrounds it, offering majestic light shows, fountains, and Soviet relics. For a more open-plan skating arena, head to Sokolniki Park, where you’ll find a whopping 5,400 square meter rink.

2. Sweat out the winter blues

Sandunovsky baths

Sandunovsky baths

We challenge you to find a more relaxing atmosphere than a Russian banya . You simply won’t – this tradition will warm up your body and your soul. Sure, being practically boiled in a firewood sauna and then hit with a birch tree while half-drunk might not be everyone’s idea of fun, but trust us, they’re missing out on this unique detox.

Check out the Sanduny bathhouse for the most jaw-dropping Russian relaxation experience imaginable, characterized by palatial columns and mosaics, as well as stylish cold water pools for you to dive into after your beat-down. Happy steaming!

3. Light up your life

Teatralnaya Square

Teatralnaya Square

Moscow city center’s mesmerizing light display is not only the pride of the city, but of half of Russia too, who travel to the capital specifically for the luminous spectacle. In the lead up to New Year, the areas around Red Square, Teatralnaya Square, Nikolskaya Street, Pushkin Square, and Tverskoy Boulevard become a neon ocean.

The lights are a significant annual investment for the Moscow council, not least because they tend to replace the lights with new ones year on year, but it’s usually deemed worth it by admiring onlookers and tourists. If this display doesn’t get you in the festive spirit, nothing will.

4. Shout your lungs out at an ice hockey match

blair drummond safari park late

If there’s one sport Russians are particularly passionate about, it’s ice hockey. Go and experience the fierce athleticism, frequent on-rink fights, and rowdy crowds for yourself, and you’ll see what all the fuss is about. In contrast to Russian football matches, where there’s often little more than atmospheric novelty to be had, the country can take pride in having world-class hockey players, whose quality will be immediately obvious.

The best place for a match is the slick 12,100-seater VTB Ice Palace, home to CSKA’s ice hockey outfit.

5. Step back in time

Woman pulls a sled with a child on frozen pond in Moscow, Russia

Woman pulls a sled with a child on frozen pond in Moscow, Russia

Fancy a glimpse of the Orthodox Christmas atmosphere as it was in the Russian Empire? Look no further than Novodevichy Convent , a picturesque, snow-covered religious haven with a history stretching back five centuries. Initially used as a fortress for noblewomen, this stunning riverside ensemble is now a functioning monastery and peaceful cloister that boasts four stunning cathedrals, Kremlin-like walls, and a spectacular icon collection. Holy, placid, and serene, the convent is a uniquely antiquate enclave that’s night and day from the bustling modernity that surrounds it.

6. Wallow in the snow

A view of a rebuilt 18th century palace in Moscow's Tsaritsyno Park.

A view of a rebuilt 18th century palace in Moscow's Tsaritsyno Park.

Sometimes, you don’t need anything particularly ambulative to feel at home in a city. In fact, nothing embodies Moscow’s winter wonderland better than a mere stroll in one of its stately parks, sure to be piled high with endless snow dunes throughout the winter.

For a pleasant outing beloved by Muscovites and tourists alike, check out the grandiose Tsaritsyno Park , where nature peacefully co-exists alongside tsarist palatial pomp. The more sizeable Kolomenskoye Park is also worth checking out for a longer excursion that packs in medieval wooden architecture, never-ending rows of trees, and a postcard-ready river view.

However, if you want to really get off the beaten track and experience the winter pristine snow, head further outside the city limits to one of Moscow’s forests – Izmailovsky Park, Timiryazevsky Park, or Elk Island National Park, for example (all accessible by metro).

7. Get festive at the city’s many Christmas markets

blair drummond safari park late

Sip on a mulled wine, soak up the bright lights, haggle over a matryoshka  doll with Putin’s face on it. Moscow’s Christmas markets are an absolutely essential tourist experience, with the most popular fair set up right on the Kremlin’s doorsteps on Red Square. Indeed, those quaint stalls in the heart of the city take some beating against the backdrop of St. Basil’s Cathedral and the illuminated GUM shopping center. There are some other cool festive spots throughout the city, though – Gorky Park, for one, will be decked out in lights and international food stalls, while the Izmailovo Kremlin offers an unmissable experience in the world of kitsch souvenir shopping from vodka to pottery, to (sort of) authentic samovars.

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Watch CBS News

A walk in Moscow's grand new park, created by an American

October 7, 2018 / 9:30 AM EDT / CBS News

MOSCOW -- The hottest selfie destination in Russia's capital sits at the end of an elegant V-shaped walkway in Moscow's Zaryadye Park. The park itself is brand new – the result of an international collaboration led by New York-based architect Charles Renfro.

He is a partner in the firm, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, which also designed the wildly successful High Line in New York City.

Zaryadye, also wildly successful, is Moscow's first new city park in 50 years.

"It has become the most visited destination in central Moscow, and that makes me have chills and shivers," Renfro told correspondent Elizabeth Palmer.  

moscow-park-overview-620.jpg

Visitors have flocked to the park ... walkers and lovers, dreamers, tourists, families and friends.  

But bringing Renfro's radically modern vision to Moscow caused some culture shock. Take the walkway that extends over but not across the Moscow River. "This bridge goes nowhere.  It goes nowhere! We had a hard time getting it through," said Renfro.

Why? "Well, because of the fact that it's not a bridge. And I think the Muscovites were wanting it to be functional. 'Why should we build a fairly expensive feature in the park that does nothing?' But you see how popular it is!"

moscow-park-walkway-620.jpg

Filled with light and life, this park is a prime example of how much Moscow has changed. Two decades ago, the site was home to the hulking Rossiya Hotel – a Soviet landmark famous for its 3,000 drab rooms, and its cockroaches. Finally, in 2006 it was demolished. For years the site stood derelict, until in 2012 President Vladimir Putin ordered up a park.

Renfro said, "We questioned whether we should do the competition, politics being what they were."

But Renfro was as stunned as anyone when Diller Scofidio + Renfro won the competition to design Zaryadye. "The idea that we could make something this intimate, this special, in the center of one of the world's busiest, biggest urban cities was just too titillating and too, too exciting," he said.

The Americans worked closely with their Russian partners, Citymakers, to design 32 undulating acres covered in native plants and trees … birds, drawn to this green refuge, which recreates all of Russia's landscapes.

Here, for example, are plants from the far north, underneath the fairytale domes of St. Basil's.

moscow-park-st-basils-620.jpg

Renfro's partner, landscape architect Mary Margaret Jones, is the head of Hargreaves Associates based in New York.  She calls it "wild urbanism." 

"Here we are, right now we're lost in this birch forest, [and] the city is right there. So, it's wild but it's urban," Jones said. "What interested us is the fact that it is a park, it is a landscape. And landscape is something that speaks to all people."

moscow-park-charles-renfro-mary-margaret-jones-liz-palmer-620.jpg

When they enter it, they leave the city behind. "The park managers, they love this part of the park – they say it's a little too romantic sometimes.  We think that's great!" said Jones.

But tucked under every hill in this park are hidden treasure. 

moscow-park-ice-cave-620.jpg

Visitors can go inside to see a mock ice cave, a virtual reality tour of Moscow, or the Philharmonic Orchestra, in a magnificent new concert hall inaugurated just weeks ago that sits under a graceful glass dome.  Putin himself boasted that the hall was the best in Europe.

This summer, Renfro and Jones – along with their Moscow partner, Petr Kudryavtsev – spoke at the edgy Moscow Urban Forum. Renfro said, "I think the thing that worked out best was international cooperation."

Palmer said, "Russian-American relations are at their lowest point in a long time."

"Ohhh, you're going to go there," laughed Renfro.

"I have to go there!"

"I think it's wrong to say that American-Russian relations are at their worst point. What's at a bad point is our leadership around the world. But I think the people that are actually making this world a better place are doing so more cooperatively and more effectively than ever before."

Of Zaryadye Park, Renfro said, "This is a park for centuries. This is a piece of the city that will last well beyond anybody's lifetime.  It's a park for eternity."

moscow-park-walkway-dancer-leap-620.jpg

        For more info:

  • Zaryadye Park , Moscow
  • Diller Scofidio + Renfro
  • Moscow Urban Forum 2018

       Story produced by Randall Joyce.

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Get the most of your stay in Moscow

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TOP-11 Moscow Parks to Visit

I have chosen the best 11 Moscow parks to visit and spend a beautiful time for you. Do not miss and choose one that you like the most – cycling, festivals, flowers, panoramic views and many other things are waiting for you!

Gorky Park (The Central Park of Culture and Leisure) – The main one of the Moscow Parks

In my opinion this park could be called the main park of the city. Why? Because of its huge territory, the central location and the amount of people visiting the park daily.  It was founded in 1928 and in 2011 it was totally reconstructed. Now it pleases visitors with modern objects and soft green lawns.

  • Oktybrskaya or Park Kultuty metro station, Krimsky Val, 9

The Gorky park is a the right choice for everyone! The youth will like a free WiFi, bicycles, skateboards and other rentals; the couples will enjoy spending time near the river, watching a sunset; parents will appreciate colorful playgrounds and a room for mother and child. Everyone can find something for themselves: from yoga classes  to watching movies in a cozy summer cinema, from dance classes to volleyball playground. Gorky Park is also the venue for all kinds of exhibitions, festivals, events for children and adults. During the winter there is one of the biggest skating rinks in the park.

Museon Art Park – A Second Gorky they say

“Museon” is located on the opposite side of Krimsky Val street. And right now some people believe that Gorky and Museon together is a one space sharing the same beauty.

  • Oktybrskaya or Park Kultuty metro station, Krimsky Val, 2

The Park of Arts was named this way because there is the largest composition of open-air sculptures in Russia. In its territory there are already more than 1000 unique exhibits: from monuments of the socialist realism era to various kinds of contemporary art. But this is not all the attractions of the park. In recent years, “Museon” has become an important cultural site of the city. The park regularly hold many different concerts, festivals, educational projects in the field of art and design. There is a Central House of the Artist, a comfortable summer cinema and other attractions on territory. Be sure to stroll pedestrian Crimean embankment, which looks like a modern park.

Neskuchny Garden – True Russian Nature is Here

Neskuchny garden is located on the right bank of the Moscow River. Today it is also seen as a part of the Gorky Park. This landscape park is one of the oldest in the city and is protected by the state. Its name was received from the Neskuchnoye Estate of  Prince Trubetskoi which is still located in the park.

  • Leninsky Prospekt metro station, Leninsky Prospect, 30

This park is famous mostly for its location close to the Gorky park. It is a quite place with true nature, lots of trees and squirrels and also ancient architecture. As in every park, there are sports and playgrounds, cafes and even a football field.

Zaryadye Park – 5 Steps Away From The Red Square

The area of this brand new park was opened only in September 2017 and located in the very heart of Moscow – right near the Red Square.

  • Open from 10AM to 10PM
  • Teatralnaya, Okhotnyi ryad, Ploschad Revolutsii

The park has 4 zones, each of them represent different parts of Russian landscapes. Above the river there is a floating bridge from where you get to see one of the best panoramic views on Moscow. Other attractions of the park are 5D cinema where you can take a flight above Moscow, few cafes and restaurants, pretty lakes with fishes and old preserved churches. In addition there is still being built a  philharmonic hall, covered with a huge dome and an Ice cage where the temperature will always stay below zero degrees.

When you are on the Red Square do not miss it!

All-Russia Exhibition Center (VDNKh) – The Soviet Style Moscow Park

Park VDNKh – one of the most famous parks in Moscow. This park is one of the sights of the city as it hasn’t changed much since the Soviet era.

  • VDNKh metro station, Prospect Mira, 119

The symbol of VDNKh is a fountain with 16 women symbolizing the friendship of the nations of the USSR. Around this fountain there are all the pavilions representing 16 republics. Now inside the pavilions you find various shops, cafes and exhibitions. If you go deep inside the park you will find a rocket Vostok and and an aircraft. What is funny the inside of the aircraft there is actually a photo exhibition. Near the northern entrance you there is a famous sculpture “Worker and Kolkhoz Woman”. It is extremely famous among Russians as all the movies by Mosfilm corporation used to start with the picture of this statue. But if you go further inside the park you will reach a very calm area. A lake is there, forest and birds singing. Since the park occupies a large area I suggest you to rent a bicycle.

Sokolniki Park – A Place For A Hunt Or For Leisure?

The park got its name because of the royal falconry, which took place there in the past when there was a dense forest. (Sokol means a falcon.) In 2011 it was significantly transformed: updated lawns, landscaped ponds and picnic areas, restored summer cinema and theater, a large rose garden, sports grounds, bicycle paths and other things.

  • Sokolniki metro station, Sokolnichesky Val, 1, p. 1

From the main entrance along the alley you can walk to the Sokolniki circle, where 8 alleys form 9 sectors, in each of them you will find trees of the same breed.  The park is famous for its rosary, as well as flower decoration. On the territory of the park there are concert halls, a library, amusement zone, dances zone and many many other attractions. In winter the park has a skating rink (a free of charge one) and ski runs. During the warm season you can rent a bicycle.

Tsaritsino Park – A Different World Inside Moscow

Here you can walk for hours, admiring the most beautiful nature and magnificent architecture.

  • Open from 6AM to 12AM
  • Tsaritsyno metro station, Dolsky, 1

The most amazing part of the park is the lake with a light and musical fountain. Every evening the fountain starts the show. Lights and music combined make you feel like you are not in Moscow but in a fairy tale. The park is also well equipped for sports lovers and healthy lifestyle. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a tennis court, sports facilities for acrobatics, bodybuilding equipment.

What I personally like about this park is the atmosphere. This place is actually far from the city center but I love going there anyway. Whenever I go there I feel like I left Moscow with all its hectic lifestyle. It is the place where I relax, enjoy myself or a company of my friends and feel kind of different. By the way totally suggested for a date!

Kolomenskoye Park – Combination Of Reserve and Architecture

The Kolomenskoye park is actually a Museum-Reserve. It is a former residence of Russian tsars and one of the most scenic places in Moscow.

  • May to September – open from 8AM to 12AM, October to April – from 8AM to 9PM
  • Kolomenskoye metro station, Andropov Ave, 39

 Alike with Tsaritsino park Kolomenskoye park has its own special atmosphere with all the architecture, trees, ponds and even a river bank. The park regularly hosts various folk festivals and different fairs. In summer time you can play with kites or rent a bicycle and ride around the huge area of the park.

I love the view that you get on the city from one of the hills near the river. I love the apple trees alleys and the beautiful churches. It is also a bit far from the city center but yet worth going there. One of my best friends even celebrated her wedding there.

Aptekarsky Garden or Botanical garden of the Moscow State University – The Best Botanical Garden in The World

Aptekar in Russian language means a pharmacist so basically it is a pharmacist’s garden. It was founded in 1706 by Peter The Great for growing medicinal plants for the royal family. But later they moved it from under the walls of the Kremlin to the current location.

  • Open from 10AM to 8PM
  • Prospect Mira metro station, Prospekt Mira, 26

In the botanical garden there are no attractions and noisy crowds of tourists. The area of the garden is not as big as any other park in Moscow. And the entrance is not free. But this exactly what makes this park one of the most comfortable in the city. In the Aptekarsky garden they grow thousands of different plants, flowers and trees. Some of the trees are more than 300 years old. They held different festivals there: flowers festivals, sand and ice sculptures expositions.

For me it is one of the most beautiful parks not only in Moscow but in the world. I have never seen so many different flowers and plants anywhere else. And trust me I am a real park lover. And what is more the staff really takes care about every single tree or plant there, some of the trees have names and stories. I love it there and I think the price is really worth what you get.

Victory Park – A Park That Makes Us Remember The War

The park is located on the Poklonnaya Hill and it has one of the world’s largest memorial complexes dedicated to the World War II. The park was opened for the 50th anniversary of the Victory on May 9, 1995. It is also one of the main venues in the city for holding a variety of mass events.

  • Park Pobedy metro station, Brothers Fonchenko, 7

On the main avenue of the park there are with 1418 fountains – exactly as long as the war lasted. Fountains make five water terraces, symbolizing five years of military operations. And in the center of the park there is the Museum of the Great Patriotic War. If you are interested in the history of the war do not miss it. The Poklonnaya Hill is a part of the park and from the hill you get one of the best views on the city of Moscow. And I could say this is the best place for watching the fireworks during the mass celebrations. But be aware it gets too crowded then. As in most of the other big parks you can rent a bicycle or rollers there.

Izmailovsky Park – A Mix of a Big Forest and Attractions

Izmaylovsky Park occupies a huge green territory, making up a large part of the Izmailovo district. The park consists of two parts: Izmaylovsky Park of Culture and Rest and the forest park of Izmailovo. First part is full of attractions and restaurants while the second one is like a real forest with pine trees, birch groves, beautiful clearings and ponds.

  • Izmaylovskaya, Shosse Entuziastov or Partizanskaya metro stations, Izmaylovsky Park

It is easy to spend there a whole day. A large landscaped area and a lot of various entertainments for children and adults will help you not to get bored. An observation wheel, a boat station, children’s playgrounds, a dance floor, sports grounds, a skate park – all this is only a small part of the possible leisure activities. In the park there are bike paths and a rental services.

I don’t go there often to be honest. But the park is very very close whenever to a souvenir market on Partizanskaya metro station. And whenever the weather is nice and I have enough of free time I stroll through the alleys of the park and enjoy the nature. So if you are going to the souvenir market too and you have enough free time then do go to the park too.

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Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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BLAIR DRUMMOND SAFARI AND ADVENTURE PARK: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Meet the Animals

African lion.

King of the drive-thru

The world's tallest mammal

Breeding success

The original cheeky monkey

Our stunning Amur tigers

Streamlined swimmers

Emperor Tamarin

Impressive moustache

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Live from the Safari Park

Blair Drummond has webcams which stream live footage from the giraffe and rhino house.  This means you can watch our animals 24/7 where ever you are in the world.

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Keeper talks

Learn about our animals

Our Keepers have recorded short videos about some of our animals.  You’ll discover lots of fascinating facts about the animals in their care.

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Conservation

Protecting endangered species

Our mission is to help educate people about all the animals we care for here, and work together to preserve some of the world’s most endangered species.

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Animal adoptions

Adopt an animal

Cute or colossal, common or critically endangered, you can support our work at Blair Drummond Safari Park by adopting your favourite animal.

Adopt your favourite animal

Adoption hall of fame, visit our webcams, our conservation work, plan your visit, newsletter signup.

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with latest park news, updates on the animals and events.

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  1. The Complete Guide to Visiting Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

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  6. Blair Drummond Safari Park CLEARED over welfare allegations after probe

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COMMENTS

  1. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Visit one of Scotland's top attractions for an incredible family day out. Come and view giraffes, lions, elephant, tiger and meerkats. Take your chances with the cheeky monkeys in the Park's famous Macaque Drive-thru, walk with free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land, catch the popular bird of prey shows, and take a walk exploring our Dinosaurs - all ...

  2. Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park

    The enclosures were all spacious and well kept with lots of vantage points at different heights for different ages. We loved the safari park, the enclosure were easy accessed and they had a variety of animals and platforms to see them through. A top family attraction and home to over 350 rare and exotic animals.

  3. Visiting us

    No problem. Blair Drummond is the perfect venue for a memorable event. We have beautiful private venue space, a fantastic setting with appeal to all ages, and we can help with catering, team building and VIP experiences. We can cater for group sizes from 15 up to 2000 people. We'd love to hear from you for possible future visits.

  4. Blair Drummond Safari Park

    Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park in Stirlingshire is Scotland's only safari park. This family-friendly attraction is home to over 350 animals, many of which are free to roam the 120-acre estate. Visitors can enjoy a drive through several enclosures before entering a large animal-themed adventure park that features a zoo, fun-fair ...

  5. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Blair Drummond safari park visit. Not been to the park in years.. Great to see so much new activities for children and more food options.and development of animal housing Great selection of animals and viewing platforms. ... We opted for late afternoon however everything was closed and you weren't allowed round the safari. It was wet and the ...

  6. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Zoos & Safari Parks. Blair Drummond. Stirlingshire. From £0 per person per day. Visit one of Scotland's top attractions for an incredible family day out. Come and view giraffes, lions, elephant, tigers, and meerkats. Take your chances with the cheeky monkeys in the Park's famous Macaque Drive-thru, walk with free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land ...

  7. What to expect

    Learn more about our incredible birds of prey as they soar, swoop and dive in their stunning surroundings. This 20-minute presentation takes place three times a day and offers fantastic photography opportunities. Our bird of prey flying displays take place at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm daily.

  8. Blair Drummond Safari Park

    Blair Drummond Safari Park. / 56.165; -4.038. Blair Drummond Safari Park is a family visitor attraction located near Stirling in Scotland. It opened to the public on 15 May 1970 and is home to over 350 animals, many of which roam freely or are kept in large enclosures in the 120-acre (49 ha) estate.

  9. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park Admission

    Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park Admission. Home to over 300 animals, Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure park offers an exciting experience getting up close to the animals. Choose from some of the more tailed animal experiences or enjoy a safari day out with the whole family. £18.50. See website for information.

  10. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Review of Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park. Reviewed July 27, 2021 via mobile. Great day out, we booked well in advance. Arrived 10minutes after ticketed time. Parked up and wandered around the park. Plenty to do and see. A few things were closed but that is understandable.

  11. Illustrated Guide to Places to Visit

    Blair Drummond House. Blair Drummond lies four miles to the northwest of Stirling and about a mile south of the village of Doune (and Doune Castle). A mansion was built on the estate in 1715 on a site which is now the giraffe enclosure. In the 18th Century, Blair Drummond was the home of Henry Home, Lord Kames (1696 - 1792), a Scottish advocate ...

  12. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Visit one of Scotland's top attractions for an incredible family day out. Come and view giraffes, lions, elephant, tiger and meerkats. Take your chances with the cheeky monkeys in the Park's famous Macaque Drive-thru, walk with free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land, catch the popular bird of prey shows, and take a walk exploring our Dinosaurs - all included in the price of your entry ticket.

  13. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park hiring Ticket Office Assistant

    Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park was opened to the public in 1970 and was, at the time, one of Britain's first safari parks. With over 400,000 visitors a year, we're now one of the most popular visitor attractions in Scotland and offer a world-class visitor experience that's exciting, educational, and fun. Day-to-day duties

  14. Experiences

    A great opportunity to learn more about what it takes to be a keeper and get a behind-the-scenes look at your favourite animals, including giraffes, rhinos, elephant, lions, lemurs and chimps. 6.5 hour experience that runs from 9:00am until 3:30pm. Lunch and refreshments included. Minimum age 16 years. To buy a Keeper for a Day Experience ...

  15. 7 things you NEED to do in Moscow this winter

    1. Get your skates on. People at the opening of the Street Rink outdoor skating rink in Gorky Park, Moscow. Evgeny Biyatov/Sputnik. Young or old, sporty or couch potato, it doesn't matter ...

  16. A walk in Moscow's grand new park, created by an American

    Moscow's stunning new park, designed by Americans 05:38 MOSCOW -- The hottest selfie destination in Russia's capital sits at the end of an elegant V-shaped walkway in Moscow's Zaryadye Park.

  17. 11 Moscow Parks To Visit And Spend a Beautiful Time

    Museon Art Park - A Second Gorky they say. "Museon" is located on the opposite side of Krimsky Val street. And right now some people believe that Gorky and Museon together is a one space sharing the same beauty. Free. 24h open. Oktybrskaya or Park Kultuty metro station, Krimsky Val, 2.

  18. Re-opening date announced!

    Go back. 21 February 2024. Re-opening date announced! We're thrilled to share some exciting news with you all! After a productive winter dedicated to sprucing up the park, we're delighted to announce that our doors will be reopening on the 16th of March! During the off-season, our team has been hard at work painting, resurfacing, and ...

  19. Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

    Visit one of Scotland's top attractions for an incredible family day out. Come and view giraffes, lions, elephant, tiger and meerkats. Take your chances with the cheeky monkeys in the Park's famous Macaque Drive-thru, walk with free-roaming lemurs in Lemur Land, catch the popular bird of prey shows, and take a walk exploring our Dinosaurs - all included in the price of your entry ticket.

  20. Gorky Park (Moscow)

    Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure (Russian: Центральный парк культуры и отдыха (ЦПКиО) имени Горького, tr. Tsentralny park kultury i otdykha imeni Gorkogo, IPA: [tsɨnˈtralʲnɨj ˈpark kʊlʲˈturɨ i ˈodːɨxə ˈimʲɪnʲɪ ˈɡorʲkəvɐ]) is a central park in Moscow, named after Maxim Gorky.In August 2018, the Park's 90th ...

  21. Experience Maps

    Download the map for your animal experience by clicking the appropriate button below. This map will show the designated meeting spot for your experience, and recommend the best place to park. We offer a variety of animal experiences for both families and individuals. Our experiences can all be purchased online. Book now.

  22. Meet the Animals

    Live from the Safari Park. Blair Drummond has webcams which stream live footage from the giraffe and rhino house. This means you can watch our animals 24/7 where ever you are in the world.