The Ultimate Guide to Birdland at Bourton-on-the-Water
If you’re looking for a family day out in the Cotswolds, head for Birdland Park & Gardens in Bourton-on-the-Water. Birdland is a must-visit attraction for anyone who’s interested in wildlife, and its nine acres of wooded gardens make it an especially lovely place to spend the day.
Here’s the Lords of the Manor guide to one of our favourite local Bourton attractions.
Things To See At Birdland
Over 50 different habitats have been created at Birdland, from Out Of Africa to Penguin Shore. One of the loveliest ways to enjoy Birdland is simply to wander through these diverse environments, admiring their feathered residents.
You can also get closer to the birds (and other animals) in the Encounters area. If you can, try to catch a Meet The Keeper tour, which take place on most days at 12:15. Visiting Birdland for a special occasion? You can pre-book a special behind-the-scenes experience, including the fabulous Keeper For A Day package.
Dino fans will love the Jurassic Journey trail through the gardens, which makes the fascinating link between the dinosaurs and the avians at Birdland today. This new trail is set in the beautiful Marshmouth Nature Reserve section of the park, home to over 50 species: look out for otters and kingfishers as well as dinosaurs!
Find out about special events by reading the Birdland blog.
Bird Species At Birdland
From spectacular flamingos to tiny Scops owls and everyone in between, there are over 500 birds at Birdland. The Parrot Pandemonium habitat is a must-see part of the park, and of course, everyone loves meeting the penguins. You’ll see gorgeously colourful golden pheasants, elegant cranes and all sorts of exotic waterfowl.
As well as the birds, there’s also a Reptile House at Birdland. Look out for the park’s gentle giants, the calm African Spurred Tortoises.
Family-Friendly Birdland
If you’re on holiday in the Cotswolds with the kids, Birdland is an excellent choice. Children of all ages are naturally fascinated by animals, and there are so many colourful, quirky and engaging species here for them to enjoy.
There’s also a large outdoor adventure playground (for children up to 10) and a handy indoor area for the youngest visitors.
Feeling peckish? There are three picnic areas around the site, including some sheltered spots. Birdland is currently building a brand new cafe (we’re looking forward to trying it out – in the name of research of course!). In the meantime, the Flamingo Cafe continues to serve food and drink, but with a limited menu.
Then of course, there’s the gift shop… It’s well thought-out, with plenty of pocket money toys that won’t break the piggy bank, along with some adorable avian plushies.
One of the many wonderful things about Birdland is that the whole site is accessible for wheelchairs and buggies.
Visiting Birdland: Good To Know
Birdland is just two minutes from the centre of pretty Bourton-on-the-Water, with its traditional cottages and lovely Cotswold-stone bridges over the River Windrush.
Is there parking at Birdland?
There isn’t a car park at the attraction itself. Birdland advises parking in Rissington Road car park (Google Maps: GL54 2AY), which also has disabled parking bays.
How much does it cost to visit Birdland?
You don’t have to book online in advance; however, you can save a bit of money if you do. The Birdland online prices for 2023 are £11.95 for adults and £8.95 for children. There’s no admission fee for little ones under three years old, and there are concessions for students, seniors and accompanying carers.
If you think you’ll be visiting more than twice in a year, the annual pass is worth it (£35 adult, £26 children in 2023). You can also buy Birdland gift vouchers and special experience sessions from the website.
When is Birdland open?
Birdland is open every day from 10am, except Christmas Day. Closing time varies depending on the time of year, and last admission is an hour before this.
Allow up to three hours to explore the park, so make sure you have plenty of time to see everything!
Can I bring my dog to Birdland?
Yes you can! Four-footed visitors are very welcome at Birdland, provided they’re kept on the lead. The attraction provides bowls of fresh water for thirsty pups.
Book your Cotswolds Holiday Near Birdland
Lords of the Manor in Upper Slaughter is the perfect base for visiting Cotswolds attractions, and the brilliant Birdland is just down the road in Bourton-on-the-Water. Take a look at our available accommodation today, and book your Cotswolds holiday or weekend break.