Question 1

What animals can I see at Hemsley Conservation Centre?

Accepted Answer

At Hemsley Conservation Centre, visitors can explore a diverse collection of rare and fascinating animals. From playful lemurs and curious meerkats to exotic kinkajous, porcupines, and the unique Cuban hutia, our Kent wildlife zoo offers an unforgettable opportunity to get up close with some of the world’s most interesting species.

Question 2

What are the opening hours and ticket prices?

Accepted Answer

Hemsley Conservation Centre is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last entry at 3:00 PM. Adult tickets are priced at £16, while children aged 2–14 can enjoy entry for £11.50. We also offer concession rates for visitors with disabilities, family tickets and group booking options. Check our website for the latest pricing and seasonal offers.

Question 3

Do you offer animal experiences or hands-on sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hemsley Conservation Centre provides a range of interactive animal experiences. Visitors can enjoy feeding sessions, meet-and-greet opportunities, and keeper shadowing experiences. These sessions offer a rare chance to learn about our animals, their natural behaviors, and the importance of conservation in an engaging, educational environment.

Question 4

Is Hemsley Conservation Centre family and child-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Our zoo is designed for families and children of all ages. We provide safe, accessible pathways, a tearoom, picnic areas, and baby-changing facilities, ensuring that your visit is comfortable, enjoyable, and memorable.

Question 5

Is the HCC accessible?

Accepted Answer

We regularly welcome wheelchair and pushchair users to the zoo. As we are a natural zoo so encourage you to treat your visit like a visit to the wild! Our pathways are made of compressed woodchip, decking and gravel grids with a few slight inclines and declines. Some areas are uneven and form the natural landscape of the area - regular visitors with disabilities and pushchairs have no problem in dealing with.

At some parts of the year some areas of the site do also get muddy especially when there is lots of rainfall. Do take this into consideration before visiting.

All of our buildings are accessible and we have ramps available should you require them. Our staff are always on hand to help! You can read our accessibility statement by clicking here.(https://www.hemsleyconservationcentre.com/accessibility)

Question 6

How long will my visit last?

Accepted Answer

That's completely up to you!

Entry to the centre lasts the whole day and you can come and go throughout the day as you wish.

To make the most of your visit we would recommend going to the free animal talks which are listed at the entrance, reading the information signs around the centre, taking your time, spend time looking for and watching the animals and also speaking to a member of staff if you have any questions.

Question 7

I have booked tickets and can't visit on that day. What do I do?

Accepted Answer

There is no need to re-book if you can't visit on a certain day for general entry. Just show your booking/QR code when you next visit.

If you cannot attend an experience please email enquiries@hemsleyconservationcentre.com (mailto:experiences@hemsleyconservationcentre.com)to rearrange your experience for a different day.

Question 8

How do I get there by car or public transport?

Accepted Answer

Hemsley Conservation Centre is conveniently located in Fairseat, Kent. By public transport, visitors can use the 306/308 bus routes from Sevenoaks to Bluewater, stopping at Vigo Village or Culverstone Green. For those driving, we offer ample on-site parking, making your visit easy and hassle-free.

Question 9

Can I feed or hold any of the animals?

Accepted Answer

We offer pre-booked animal experiences, many of which enable you to feed our animals.

Question 10

Do you offer volunteer and work experience placements.

Accepted Answer

Yes we do, for all information, please click here.(https://www.hemsleyconservationcentre.com/careers)

Question 11

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

For the safety and comfort of our animals and visitors, dogs are not permitted inside the zoo or tearoom. Assistance dogs are an exception; please contact us in advance to discuss arrangements for your visit.

Question 12

Is there a café or facilities for refreshments?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our tearoom serves a selection of delicious meals, snacks, and beverages, perfect for a break during your visit. You can also enjoy our picnic areas, ideal for a family-friendly meal.

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