Bowland Wild Boar Park is a haven for wildlife nestled in the heart of the Forest of Bowland, near the picturesque village of Chipping. The family-run business offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the countryside, interact with wildlife, and participate in various fun activities for the whole family.
The park opened in 2000, showcasing wild boars and diversifying from traditional farming practices. Over the years, it has developed into a more extensive wildlife park with over 20 animal species. The main goal has always been to offer an immersive educational and interactive wildlife experience for visitors of all ages.
Animal Park – Wildlife
The wild boars are the stars of the park. These fascinating creatures captivate visitors with their physical characteristics and behaviour. The park provides insights into their natural habitat and plays a crucial role in their breeding and conservation efforts.
In addition to wild boars, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including deer, pigs, hens, peacocks, rabbits, sheep, ostriches, ducks, geese, emus, alpacas, llamas, water buffalos, donkeys, meerkats, polecats, bantams, owls, guinea pigs, goats, pheasants, cattle, and turkeys.
Children can meet, interact with, and feed some of the animals. The boars breed throughout the year, and some piglets are usually around.
Walking trails and pathways run through the park, allowing visitors to explore the habitats and get close to the wildlife. The trails traverse through woodlands, meadows, and along the bank of the River Hodder.
Activities and Experiences
Beyond the animals, the park offers many family-friendly activities. Children can take the pedal cars for a spin or take a barrel ride around the grounds. Tractor and trailer tours of the grounds are available for kids and adults. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the dining area overlooking the enclosures.
The adventure play area promises hours of entertainment with zip wires, climbing frames, tunnels and more.
Facilities at the Park
Facilities at the park include a gift shop, cafe, ice cream parlour, and toilets. The cafe offers indoor and outdoor seating.
Opening Times and Prices
The park is open during the summer at weekends, bank holidays, and school holidays.
Prices are very reasonable. Tickets can be purchased in advance on the official website or at the gate. Children aged two and under get free entry. Annual membership options are also available.
Visitors are strongly advised to check the opening times and days on the official website before travelling.
Visiting – Location and Getting There
The Bowland Wild Boar Park is situated in the Forest of Bowland, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is between Chipping and Whitewell and around 15 miles from Preston. It is signposted from Chipping.
Owners of satellite navigation systems can use the postcode PR3 2HB to find it. If your satellite navigation system does not recognise this postcode, management suggests trying PR3 2QT.
There is no train station near the attraction.
Furthermore, no buses go there or even stop nearby. The closest bus stop is in Chipping, around 2.5 miles away.
Camping and Pods
The park offers camping facilities for visitors looking for an immersive nature experience. Visitors can bring their tent and enjoy a night under the canvas.
The park also has camping pods. These pods offer a great way to experience the outdoors without needing a tent. Visitors are advised to bring all their camping equipment, towels, and bedding. Holiday lodges and safari tents are also available.
For further details, visit the official website.
Other Attractions in and Around Preston
While Bowland Wild Boar Park is one of the best places in Lancashire for a day out with the kids, it may not be the most accessible for those relying on public transport. Fortunately, there are many other great places to experience in Preston and its surrounding areas.
Avenham Park and Miller Park are adjoining parks in Preston city centre. They offer beautiful landscaped gardens, a Japanese rock garden, and stunning views of the River Ribble. The parks are perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities.
The Ribble Steam Railway is a heritage railway attraction where visitors can ride vintage steam trains. The railway offers a three-mile return trip through Preston Docks and alongside the River Ribble.
The Preston Guild Wheel is a 21-mile cycling and walking route encircling Preston. This scenic trail takes sights such as Preston Docks and Brockholes. The official starting point is the Avenham Pavilion in Avenham Park.
Brockholes is a nature reserve located on the outskirts of Preston. The reserve is home to various wildlife and offers a range of walking trails. It also offers a unique floating visitor village with restaurants and an information centre.
Turbary Woods is a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre in Whitesnake, South Ribble. Visitors can see a unique collection of birds of prey, including eagles, hawks, falcons, owls, and vultures.
The British Commercial Vehicle Museum in Leyland, just south of Preston, offers a fascinating look at the history of British commercial vehicles. The museum’s collection includes vintage trucks, buses, and emergency vehicles.
