Photo of Hemsley Conservation Centre in South East
Zoos & Wildlife

Hemsley Conservation Centre

📍 Sevenoaks, South East

★4.3(1,026 Google reviews)👶All ages

Conservation-focused zoo in Fairseat, Kent, specialising in rare and endangered species including otters, kinkajous, maned wolves, spider monkeys, and meerkats. Offers otter feeding sessions and junior zookeeper programmes.

✓ VIP keeper experiences✓ Rare endangered species✓ Knowledgeable passionate staff✓ Cafe wait times

🏆 Funzaroo Verdict

The best choice in Kent for families who want hands-on animal encounters beyond standard zoo species. VIP experiences are led by genuinely passionate keepers and represent excellent value for the level of access. Arrive shortly after opening for the most active animals. Not suitable for wheelchair users due to path width and toilet steps.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

💡Book VIP animal experiences in advance — otter feeding and maned wolf sessions are the most popular
⏰Arrive shortly after opening for the most active animals — spider monkeys are particularly energetic early
🎟️Narrow paths with uneven surfaces and stepped toilet facilities make the site unsuitable for wheelchair users
🚗The tea room can have long waits when busy — order early or bring your own snacks

💬 What Families Are Saying

View all reviews →
4.3
★★★★★

1,026 Google reviews

G Reviews from Google

A

Abi Higgins

2 months ago

★★★★★

“We had an absolutely great day at the Hemsley Conservation Centre! We got there shortly after opening and had a slow wander around just admiring all the animals, the spider monkeys were really active and came over to the window when we were watching them, but the baby marmosets were definitely a favourite and absolutely gorgeous! We stopped in the rainforest cafe for some lunch, the food was great and the hot chocolates were definitely welcome on such a cold day Later in the day I did the otter experience, it was brilliant! I got involved from start to finish. I cut up the fish and had a really good chat with the head keeper, then headed up to the enclosure where I got up close and personal feeding the beautiful otters, Rita and Noodle. The keeper was so knowledgable and was telling us not only about the otters but about all the animals and the centre as a whole. On the way back he told us about Dusty the armadillo who was so sweet with his little trot, which just topped off a perfect day out! Thank you to the whole team for a fantastic day!”

M

Mia Pring

4 weeks ago

★★★★★

“Amazing experience at the Helmsley Conservation Centre. We did the otter feeding experience and the staff were all lovely and super friendly. The keeper doing the experience with us was very informative and made the experience as personal as possible. We also got to walk around the conservation centre and see the rest of the animals. There was plenty to see and all the animals seem really happy in their habitats. A lot of them were even confident enough to come right up to the glass/fence to see you which was really nice and shows how well they are being looked after. The cafe was amazing as well, really good value meals, all made to order and good quality food. Highly recommend.”

C

Chris Weston

7 months ago

★★★★★

“My children had an amazing Maned Wolf VIP experience. Henry was so welcoming and knowledgeable about the animals, he made the experience so much fun. The centre has changed so much since we last visited nine years ago. It is clear how much hard work and devotion has gone into making the centre a real gem to visit. The staff were all very friendly and helpful, it is clear how much the animals mean to them. The animals talks were so engaging and informative. Very reasonable prices and great value for money. Loved the whole visit. Will try not to leave it nine years before we visit again! Please do visit and support this amazing centre. Thanks for a lovely time.”

💬 What parents mention

VIP animal experiencesStaff knowledge and friendlinessAnimal welfare and varietyAccessibility and cafe limitations

Overview

Hemsley Conservation Centre in Fairseat, Kent houses endangered species in dedicated habitats across an outdoor site. Highlights include active spider monkeys visible through the window, baby marmosets, maned wolves, and kinkajous. VIP keeper experiences — including otter feeding and maned wolf encounters — are led by expert staff who tailor sessions to the group. A tea room and small gift shop are on-site.

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday10:00 – 16:00
Tuesday10:00 – 16:00
Wednesday10:00 – 16:00
Thursday10:00 – 16:00
Friday10:00 – 16:00
Saturday10:00 – 16:00
Sunday10:00 – 16:00

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