Drusillas Park
Polegate, Kent · Animals & Nature
The bit you came for
Our verdict
Kids
9/10
Age Fit 9 · Variety 9
Parents
7/10
Sanity Preservation 8 · Coffee Quality 7
Brilliant for younger kids, but the prices and add-ons will make parents wince a bit.
The long read worth saving for nap time
What’s it actually like?
Drusillas Park is a proper family day out rather than just a quick animal visit. The reviews paint it as a mix of zoo-style enclosures, interactive bits, dinosaur attractions, a big play park, soft play and a few fairground rides, with plenty to fill a full day. What stands out most is the variety. Parents mention unusual animals, good educational information, birds you can feed, and enough going on to keep children of different ages happy. The play areas get strong praise too, and there are indoor options for wet weather, which is always reassuring when you’ve packed snacks, waterproofs and optimism. The downsides are mostly the usual family-attraction grumbles: it’s pricey, some food is expensive, and a few extras cost more on top. One review mentioned closed rides on the day they visited, and another found the indoor sensory area a bit cheeky because adults were charged too. Still, most families seem to think it’s worth it for an occasional treat, especially if you book online and keep an eye out for offers.
Two-minute orientation
Quick read
A big family day out with animals, play areas, soft play and some fairground rides. Best for preschoolers to younger primary children, though older siblings can still enjoy it. Lovely variety, but it’s a treat rather than a cheap repeat visit.
Best for ages
Strong score for mixed-age siblings
The boring brilliant stuff
Need to know
Indoor vs outdoor split
Indoor / outdoor mix
Parking detail
Full parking wording is landing soon — meanwhile check Maps plus the venue’s own FAQs.
Dog-friendly?
Unclear
Reviews don't mention. Best to check the venue's website before assuming.
Pram-friendly?
Mixed
Should be OK around main areas, but rougher terrain may be tricky.
Baby change?
Likely yes
Venues this size usually have baby change facilities.
Food on-site & BYO
Yes: Food available on-site — cafe or kiosk.
Locate it
Polegate, Kent
THINGS PARENTS ASK
Common questions
Is Drusillas Park good for preschoolers?
Yes, very much so. Reviews repeatedly say it’s especially good for ages 3-4, with lots to keep little ones busy.
Is there enough to do on a rainy day?
Yes. Families mentioned indoor activities and said there were things to do when it was raining.
Is it expensive?
Yes, it can be. Reviews describe entry and food as pricey, though online booking and offers can help.
Can older children enjoy it too?
Mostly yes. Families with 8-10 year olds said they still had a great time, though it’s strongest for younger children.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
Real review quotes
"a full days adventure"
"great for four year olds"
"the price really ramps up"