Beale Park – A wonderful place for tourism!
Beale Park is one of the best of Berkshire’s hidden gems. It covers an impressive 350 acres of land. Thus, making it a spacious and scenic destination for visitors Because it is accessible by car or public transport, it is the perfect spot for a day trip. But if you want to know why it is a must-visit destination for families, animal lovers, and anyone looking for a fun-filled day out, you must read this blog till the end. After all, we will talk about everything you can do here, and everything that this park is famous for. Here we go…
Beale Park – Everything you need to know!
Beale Park is a wildlife park that is in Lower Basildon, Reading. As aforementioned, it is one of the best tourist spots in Reading for a day out. Whether you want to hang around with family or do a solo trip, there are so many activities that you can do here – so many attractions that you will see.
Beale Park Information | Beale Park Details |
Ticket Prices | Adult: £14.95, Child (2-15): £10.95, Senior: £13.95, Family (2A+2C): £49.95 |
Opening Hours | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 3:30 PM) |
Online Discount | 10% off ticket prices when booked online in advance |
Picnics | Allowed, with picnic tables and benches available |
Food Options | The Wild Café on site, offering hot and cold food and drinks |
Car Parking | Free parking available |
Wheelchair Accessibility | Yes, with wheelchair and mobility scooter hire available |
Animal Encounters | Daily animal encounters and feeding sessions |
Play Areas | Outdoor play areas, including a petting zoo and adventure playground |
Did you know?
The history of Beale Park dates to the 1950s. It was originally a farm. Over the years, it evolved to become a wildlife park. The focus of this wildlife park is on conservation and education.
Route to the Beale Park and Admission
If you want to get to the Beale Park, you only need to take the M4 motorway and follow the signs to Lower Basildon. The timings of this wildlife park are from 10 am to 5 pm. Clearly, getting to the park is as simple as a breeze. Moreover, the admission prices start from £10 for adults and £8 for children. If you are with children who are under 2 years old, then you do not have to pay for their ticket. That’s right! Under 2s go free. Thus, making it an excellent value-for-money destination for families. What’s more, be sure to take advantage of the park’s discounted rates for online bookings. Here’s how you can book your ticket online:
- Visit the Beale Park website.
- Click on the “Book Tickets” or “Buy Tickets” button.
- Select the date and time of your visit.
- Choose the type and number of tickets you want to purchase (adult, child, senior, or family tickets).
- Fill in your contact details and payment information.
- Review and confirm your booking.
- Print or download your tickets (mobile tickets are also accepted).
The best reason to book your ticket online is to avoid queuing at the gate and ensure a smooth entry to the park. Additionally, you should know that Beale Park often offers special promotions and discounts for online bookings. So, if there are any on-going discounts and deals, you will find them on the website as well.
Travelling Tip:
Always plan your visit according to the park’s opening hours and admission prices. Beale Park even has a customer service team for assistance if you have any questions or issues.
Animal Encounters inside Beale Park
Another thing that you should know about this park is that it is home to a diverse range of animals from around the world. As aforementioned, it is a wildlife park. So, when you visit it, you will get up close and personal with fascinating creatures. For example, lemurs, monkeys, and meerkats.
But animals are not all there is to see, this park is also home to a variety of birds. For example, owls, parrots, and eagles. In fact, you should know that the walk-through aviary is the highlight of the park. So, you are sure to see a wide range of colorful birds in Beale Park.
If you are visiting with family, the park’s animal encounters can be both fun and educational for children. The park has a knowledgeable staff. If you have any questions or need insights on the wildlife habitats and behaviors, they will assist you in the best way possible. Additionally, you must check the park’s website for the latest information on animal encounters and feeding sessions. This way, you can plan your trip in the best season possible when the wildlife is more willing to interact with tourists.
Category | Animals/Birds |
Mammals | Otters, Beavers, Rabbits, Squirrels, Deer (Fallow and Roe) |
Birds | Peacocks, Swans, Geese, Ducks, Herons, Egrets, Kingfishers, Woodpeckers, Owls |
Reptiles | Turtles, Frogs, Toads, Snakes (including Grass Snakes and Adders) |
Amphibians | Frogs, Toads |
Fish | Various species of fish in the lakes and ponds, including Carp, Tench, and Pike |
Invertebrates | Butterflies (including Peacock and Red Admiral), Moths, Bees, Wasps, Dragonflies, Damselflies |
Are there any play areas in Beale Park?
Yes, there is an impressive range of play areas and activities designed to keep kids of all ages entertained in Beale Park. If you were thinking this park is only about wildlife, this is the fun information you needed to plan a day out. When in Beale Park, you must visit The Little Tikes Village. It features climbing frames, playhouses, slides, and ride-on. Additionally, there’s a paddling pool and sandpit perfect for warm summer days here. And if you are visiting with older kids, you can enjoy the adventure play areas. There’s a zip wire, rope bridges, and a treehouse. However, if you are visiting with friends and need an activity aside from animals’ interactions, you can enjoy the park’s mini golf course.
Beale Park Play Area | Description | Most Suited Age Group |
Pettifor Park | A large play area with climbing frames, slides, and rope bridges | 5-12 years |
Toddler’s Cove | A designated area for younger children with soft play, ball pits, and interactive toys | 1-4 years |
Wild Wood | A natural play area with wooden play structures, rope swings, and a zip wire | 5-12 years |
Sensory Garden | A peaceful area with sensory play equipment, water features, and interactive elements | 1-8 years |
Pirate’s Cove | A themed play area with a pirate ship, climbing nets, and interactive elements | 4-10 years |
Farmyard Friends | A play area with a farm theme, featuring tractors, animals, and interactive elements | 2-6 years |
Adventure Playground | A large play area with a variety of play equipment, including climbing frames, slides, and rope bridges | 5-12 years |
Did you know?
Beale Park is home to over 500 animals. There are more than 120 animal species from around the world here.
Gardens and Landscapes in Beale Park
Aside from the animals and play areas, the landscaped gardens of Beale Park are also amazing. Just one leisure stroll through these beautiful gardens is enough to make you happy and excited. There are so many plants and flowers from around the world here. Moreover, the park has a very tranquil atmosphere. Therefore, it is an ideal spot for relaxing picnics and romantic afternoon outings.
Another amazing thing you should know about Beale Park is that there’s a sensory garden here. It is designed to stimulate the senses. So, if you are looking for a calming atmosphere, this sensory garden is a must-visit place for you. It will give you a feeling of calm that is simply unmatched.
Beale Park Areas | Beale Park Area Details |
Garden Areas | Woodland Walk, Sensory Garden, Herb Garden, and Rose Garden |
Plant Collections | National Plant Collections of Crocus, Colchicum, and Hyacinth |
Landscape Features | Lakes, ponds, and water features, including a large lake with a fountain |
Walking Trails | Several walking trails, including a Woodland Walk and a Sensory Garden Trail |
Seating Areas | Benches and seating areas throughout the gardens |
Wildlife | Opportunities to spot wildlife, including birds, fish, and insects |
Garden Events | Seasonal garden events and activities, including plant sales and gardening workshops |
Are there any Food and Drink outlets in Beale Park?
Yes, you can easily refuel at one of Beale Park’s food and drink outlets after a fun-filled day of exploring. From sandwiches to cakes and hot meals – even refreshments – there is so much you can get from these food and drink outlets. There’s a café in this park where you can relax and unwind. Moreover, there are outdoor and indoor sitting areas in this café.
Beale Park Café Food Items | Price |
Tuna Mayo Jacket Potato | £7.25 |
Chicken Caesar Wrap | £7.95 |
Veggie Burger | £8.25 |
Chicken and Bacon Salad | £8.95 |
Cream Tea | £9.95 |
Afternoon Tea | £19.95 |
IMPORTANT NOTE: The prices that we have mentioned are subject to change per the rules and regulations of Beale Park café.
Can visitors bring their own food to Beale Park?
Yes, you can bring your own food to Beale Park. There are no rules against visitors bringing their own picnics. In fact, the park provides plenty of picnic tables and benches around the area for you to enjoy your meal. Most visitors recommend bringing your own food as it can be more cost-effective and offer healthier options. However, if you don’t want to put up with cooking and carrying the food, you can simply have your meal at the park’s café.
Best Picnic food for Beale Park | Why it’s a good choice |
Fresh Fruits (e.g. apples, grapes, berries) | Fresh, healthy, and easy to pack |
Sandwiches | Easy to eat, can be made in advance |
Cheese and Crackers | Simple to prepare, easy to eat outdoors |
Trail Mix | A satisfying snack that’s easy to munch on |
Picnic Classics (e.g. scotch eggs, sausage rolls) | Easy to eat, can be made in advance |
Tips for Planning Picnic at Beale Park:
When planning your picnic, be sure to consider the following tips:
- To stay hydrated throughout the day, pack plenty of water.
- Bring a comfortable picnic mat or blanket to sit on.
- Bing food that is easy to eat and won’t make a mess.
- Packing a smart cooler can be helpful.
- Always bring your own cutlery to eat the food.
Are there any Special Events and Activities in Beale Park?
Yes, Beale Park is famous for regularly hosting special events and activities for visitors. For example, animal encounters, feeding sessions, and educational talks. If you want to stay updated about these events, you can check the park’s website for the latest information on upcoming events. Some of the park’s most popular events include the Easter Eggstravaganza, the Summer Fete, and the Halloween Spooktacular.
Did you know?
Beale Park is involved in several conservation breeding programs. For example, the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) and the European Studbook (ESB).
Tips and Essentials for visiting Beale Park
Keep these few essentials in mind before you plan your visit to Beale Park:
- Always wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking too much in them. Additionally, you should wear clothing that is suitable for outdoor activities. The more casually you dress, the more fun you will have at the park. So, keep your clothing as simple and relaxing as possible.
- To protect yourself from the sun, you must bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Because there are too many outdoor activities and strolling, you must do your best to protect your skin from sun damage.
- If you want high quality photos, then you must bring your camera along with your mobile. You will be able to get better pictures with an actual camera.
- One of the downsides of this park is that it has limited toilet facilities. So, you must plan your visits accordingly.
- The best way to enjoy the park’s garden or play areas is to bring a picnic lunch or snacks.
- It is always wise to check the park’s website for any special events or closures before you visit.
Accessibility for Disabled People
Another great thing about this park is the accessibility for disabled people. That’s right! Beale Park is accessible and enjoyable for all visitors – even the ones with disabilities. You can get a wheelchair and mobility scooter higher in the park. Moreover, there are also accessible toilets and parking for the disabled people. And the pathways and walkways in the park are also designed to be wheelchair friendly. Therefore, it is easy for the disabled people to navigate the park on their own.
Did you know?
Beale Park has won several awards over the years. For example, the “Accessibility Award” at the 2018 Oxfordshire Tourism Awards and the “Best Small Attraction” at the 2019 Oxfordshire Tourism Awards.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a Fun-filled day out in Berkshire, then Beale Park is a fantastic destination for you. After all, it offers you a diverse range of animals, play areas, and activities. So, you can say that there’s something for everyone to enjoy here. From families looking for a day out to couples looking for a romantic afternoon, it is a must visit destination for everyone, even the solo travelers who love animals and the outdoors. Now, if you are wondering how to get to the park, you can book your ride with Airport Chauffeurs Reading. With our convenient and affordable service, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. We will take you to Beale Park feeling refreshed and relaxed.