There's quite a range of animal experiences in Sussex, and also others in neighbouring counties Kent, Surrey and Hampshire if you're willing and able to get there.  Horse drawn carriage driving, bee-keeping, husky experiences, reptiles and more - there's plenty to choose from. 

One of the great things about animal experiences is that you can often see things you wouldn't usually see, and they can provide a great chance to find out more about the animals and get really close up and personal with them!

Meet the Red Pandas at Drusillas Park (£75 for one person)

Enjoy 40 minutes with these endangered animals, learning about them and assisting with the feeding.  You can then explore the rest of the park!   Climb over to Red Letter Days for more information

Wildlife Experience in West Sussex

Enjoy an exclusive guided wildlife tour of the Cowdray Estate near Midhurst.   What will you see?   Well, there's indigenous wildlife in its natural habitat, badgers, hares, Roe deer, and rabbits.  Go in the evening, and you could see bats and badgers. For £140 from Into the Blue

Falconry Handling in West Sussex near Chichester

You'll see and handle a selection of owls including Barn Owls and European Eagle Owls.  You can choose from a half day or a full day.  This is a chance to gain a unique insight into the handling and training of birds of prey.  Spread your wings and fly off to Into the Blue for further details. 

Pairs Horse Drawn Carriage Driving Lesson in West Sussex (£160)

Meet the horses, and then groom and get them ready for the drive ahead.  Then it's off through the countryside!  Take the reins and drive the horses as you go.  There's expert guidance from a BDS level four certified instructor.  Canter off to Red Letter Days.

Try an Introductory Polo Lesson in SURREY

Learn the rules and tactics, and then the polo swing, along with the four basic shos of the game.  Then mount up - and learn to ride a polo pony!  For £95.00.  Canter off to Buy a Gift.  

Big Cat Encounter in Kent

Go on the prowl to KENT and meet some big cats!  The Big Cat Sanctuary is home to over 50 cat species, including African lions, Sumatran tigers, jaguars and snow leopards.  Take a tour, find out what is being done to preserve these majestic animals - and hand-feed one yourself!  Go on a weekday for £199.  From Virgin Experience Days 
(Other options are available, e.g. weekends)

Introduction to Owl Handling for Two in KENT

An experienced owl handler will guide you in your handling of the birds. Meet and greet some of the owls, and find out about their habitats in the wild.  You'll hold and fly a selection of owls.   After your handling session, you can explore the rest of the park.   This was £178 but it's on offer for only £89 from Virgin Experience Days.

Farm Animal Keeper Experience for Two, East Sussex

Shadow a farm animal keeper, helping out with daily tasks such as preparing food and feeding the animals.  Meet animals including ponies, wallabies, llamas and giant rabbits. Normally £80, this is on offer for £49.00. Hop off to Red Letter Days for more information.