The Meadows Wildlife Park

Wildlife Park

Explorer Tom

The Meadows Wildlife Park near Caerphilly has a cast list that sounds as if several continents met in a field and agreed to share the spotlight. Capybaras, lemurs, meerkats and wallabies appear alongside alpacas, goats and other familiar farmyard characters, at Groeswen. Come ready for a proper wander, and prepare to be judged by an animal with better hair than yours. The park describes itself as a not-for-profit, family-run place spread over twenty-one acres. Its walkthroughs and covered petting areas give visitors different ways to see the animals, while bookable experiences may bring a closer encounter. Follow staff instructions and let each animal decide how sociable it feels. A coffee shop feeds the humans. Plan for outdoor paths: the operator says most are gravel or stone, with some wooden paths beside the looser surfaces. There are ramps at reception and the coffee shop, an accessible toilet and marked parking spaces, but an all-terrain wheelchair or pushchair is advised for the wider grounds. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome, and free parking is provided. I would keep the dog from offering the meerkats any leadership advice. The Meadows lists daily opening from 10am, but its own page shows conflicting closing times, so check the current time before travelling. Booking ahead is strongly advised; walk-ins may be refused when capacity is full. The site is cashless for park payments, and the address is Gypsy Lane, Groeswen, CF15 7UN. Leave time for surprises. A capybara may steal the show, but there is a whole lively company waiting beyond the gate.