Howletts which one?

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howletts

Well both are within stricking distance of London Victoria - so anyone been to either/both - how do they compare, are they worth a visit and just how are they for a photographer?

[Malcolm_Stewart]

I recall Aspinall having a somewhat chequered reputation in this field.

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Look after yourself!

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I think I'll avoid the chimps = seems they are the ones that have it in for the visiters

[DaveM399]

Myself and the family are fairly regular visitors to Howletts, which is the park just outside Canterbury. The other "Howletts" is Port Lympne which is south of Ashford on the edge of Romney Marsh. We haven't been to this one as often but did visit last month.

The range of animals at each park is broadly the same, with a bit more choice at Port Lympne

With regards to photo opportunities, there is not a lot to choose between them but I would say Port Lympne has the edge. There are also some excellent views over the Channel and Romney Marsh from the top of the park. Neither park has that many clear viewing panels.

One thing to consider about Port Lympne is that it is by far the largest of the two parks and is set on a slope overlooking Romney Marsh. My legs were aching for several days after our recent visit.

I'm not too sure on getting to either park via public transport from the nearest stations. If going to Ashford, then London Charing Cross is the station to go for. If travelling to Canterbury, it is served by trains from both Victoria and Charing Cross.

Dave

[beejaybee]

I think I'll avoid the chimps = seems they are the ones that have it in for the visiters

You'd probably do the same if they locked you in a cold draughty cage.

[john_g]

I don't like zoos, so it takes quite a bit for me to recommend visiting one... I know they do a lot of good work nowadays, but to see so many animals in cages, often repeatedly walking to and fro is, in my view, just depressing.

However...

I've been to Howletts a couple of times and Port Lympne many times. My lasting impression of Howletts is that it is a fairly typical zoo... animals in cages, albeit less cramped than is often the case. Port Lympne, on the other hand, is a place I positively enjoy visiting. It has an open feel to it with fields and large enclosures, and I get the sense that the animals are content. I've never been able to reconcile the fact that they are both part of the same organisation... chalk and cheese in my view.

Oh, and try to be at Port Lympne around closing time to hear the wolf packs kick-off as they realise that feeding time is nigh.

[Overread]

I think I'll avoid the chimps = seems they are the ones that have it in for the visiters

You'd probably do the same if they locked you in a cold draughty cage.

hmm if I make few holes in the wall this student room might count

Thanks for the input - sounds like Port Lympne is the best bet for a trip. I agree that zoos can feel very cagey - Colchester Zoo has a very similar feel, though what I think harms them the most is when they try to attract kids with funpark rides and such since you get the wrong sort of atmosphere at the place from the visiters (parents and kids banging on the glass)