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Longleat Safari Park: 60 Years of Wild Adventures
27 Jun
Summary
- Longleat opened in 1966, the first drive-through safari park outside Africa.
- A keeper is running a marathon in Kenya for wildlife conservation efforts.
- New lionesses have arrived to celebrate the park's 60th anniversary.
Longleat Safari Park, established in 1966, is celebrating its 60th anniversary. It pioneered the drive-through safari concept in Britain, allowing visitors to observe animals from their cars while the wildlife roamed freely. This innovative approach was the vision of Henry Thynne, the 6th Marquess of Bath, aimed at helping to manage estate taxes.
As part of the anniversary, lead carnivore keeper Caleb Hall is running the demanding Lewa marathon in Kenya. He is raising funds for the Tusk Trust, a conservation charity that supports wildlife and habitat protection programs across Africa, with which Longleat collaborates.
The park has also welcomed two new lionesses from Denmark, adding to its two existing prides. Guests are invited to help name these new arrivals. Longleat, which opened its house to the public in 1949, continues its commitment to conservation.
