Here in Gloucestershire we are blessed with a wide variety of attractions that allow visitors to get up-close to a huge variety of animals, from farm animals to more exotic creatures. Here’s seven great attractions for animal lovers to visit…

Bibury Trout Farm

Located in the stunning Cotswold village of Bibury lies Bibury Trout Farm, a haven for anyone who has an interest in fishing. The farm rears thousands of brown and rainbow trout for domestic fisheries but also grants visitors the chance to try and catch their supper with designated pools available for the keen angler to try their luck. The farm also has a shop that sells fresh fish.

Cotswold Farm Park

If you’re looking for somewhere to take the whole family for a great day out, then the Cotswold Farm Park should be somewhere near the top of your list.  The farm is run by Adam Henson of BBC Countryfile fame and is home to a wide variety of animals including rare breed cows and pigs plus chickens, goats, sheep and many other farm animals. With daily demonstrations and the opportunity to feed the animals, the Cotswold Farm Park gives visitors a wonderful opportunity to get up-close to the animals.

Sudeley Castle

Sudeley Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the south-west. The stunning castle has been home to illustrious figures from the past, including Charles I and Katherine Parr, the last wife of King Henry VIII. The castle is also home to a collection of award-winning gardens which house a collection of 16 rare and endangered species of birds from around the world including Reeves’s pheasants, Crawfurds Kalij, firebacks, Japense green pheasants, true silver pheasants, and blue-and brown-eared pheasants.

Birdland

If the sight of dozens of flamingos sunning themselves in a Cotswold stream appeals to you then a visit to Birdland is a must. Located in the pretty village of Bourton-on-the-Water, Birdland is home to a huge variety of exotic birds. From penguins to flamingos, owls to exotic ducks, if you’re looking to see a thorough collection of stunning birds then a visit to Birdland is recommended.

St James City Farm

Located in the heart of Gloucester city centre, St James City Farm is home to several different types of animals, including cows, horses, goats and sheep plus a hugely popular riding school that gives inner-city children an opportunity to learn how to ride horses. Entry to the farm is free but donations are encouraged to help with the costs associated with keeping the animals.

International Centre for Birds of Prey

Located just a short drive from the town of Newent in the Forest of Dean, the International Centre for Birds of Prey is the oldest dedicated birds of prey centre in the world. There’s over 70 species of birds on show at the centre, ranging from the enormous white-tailed sea eagle to the tiny burrowing owl.

Slimbridge Wetland Centre

The Slimbridge Wetland Centre is a nature reserve open all year and home to thousands of birds, mammals and other wildlife. Exotic birds from all around the world are found in the beautiful grounds set in more than 800 acres of wild reserve. The centre is also home to an award-winning visitor centre.