Overview

When out for a drive during our stay, we saw a ‘brown sign’ pointing to a wildlife centre 9 miles and thought we would go and find it. It seemed to be an awful long nine miles but it took us through some lovely scenery. On reaching the turn of for Auchingarrich, I did have my doubts as we made our way up the rough road but I have to say, we are very glad that we did. Not knowing what to expect, I was surprised (pleasantly) at the number of animals within the centre – Marmosets, Lemurs, porcupines being amongst the more unusual ones. Personally I loved the tartan sheep and had a close encounter with a rabbit with whom I could have spent hours with. Oh, and I have to give special mention to the tartan sheep – how superb are those

Transport & Parking

On getting to the car park my wife went in first as I was a bit dubious of her having to push me around what look like hilly terrain. However she came back with a map in hand and assured me all was well. I was surprised when she informed me that she was admitted free as my ‘carer/wheelchair pusher.

Access

On the back of the map, there was good, practical advise and do’s and don’t about visiting the centre without going over the top. The centre was well laid out with paths leading through the various enclosures, with good signage about the animals. Although we were visiting as a couple, I have to say that this centre catered for families with children extremely well, with a superb play park, play barn and other ‘hands on’ areas to give children an enjoyable experience of many different animals. There are plenty of hand washing facilities around the centre for those who liked to pet and get involved with the animals.

Toilets

Did not use

Staff

On our visit, we were fortunate enough to meet the owner who took time to tell us about how they have built up the place over the past six years, the practicalities or running the place. We really appreciated this and it and it was so good to hear of the plans and issues faced going forward.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

After our thoroughly enjoyable walk around the centre, we stopped off in the café. Here there are lots of options from a quick coffee to main meals, with everything freshly made. As an outside attraction, it was nice to see a lovely blue peacock wandering around outside seeing if anything had been left by anyone. Rightly or wrongly, we didn’t go into the gift shop down to my aversion to shopping! We were told we could take the car up to a viewing point but I am sorry to say I chickened out half way up. All in all, I think that the Auchingarrich Wildlife centre is a gem of a place with lots to see and do for all ages. It will certainly be on our ‘must visit’ if and when we are in the area.