Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
Watatunga Wildlife Reserve
5
About
Watatunga is a stunning new wildlife reserve in west Norfolk. Situated amongst 170 acres of woodland, grassland and lakes, Watatunga provides a unique environment for over twenty types of ungulate and rare bird species to roam at their will. Access to the reserve is via guided tour only and must be pre-booked online via our website. We also offer luxurious self-catering accommodation.
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  • Louise H
    21 contributions
    First visit
    My two adult daughters and I were in Norfolk for a few days. I saw this advertised and as one of them is on a photographic apprentiship I thought it would be ideal. It was easy to book online. On the day, clear instructions on sent regarding location. We were warmly welcomed. The staff were very efficient on checking us in and the instructions for the nominated buggy driver,my elder daughter ( must be over 18 ). A good tour, 90 min. No the animals were not right up close as this is a Nature Reserve. The tour guide, which came through to each buggy through a walkie talkie, was very knowledgeable. At £76 quite costly but a nice experience.
    Thank you so much for taking the time to write to us, we're so glad you had an enjoyable experience. We really appreciate your comments on cost, thank you.
    Written 3 July 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 4 June 2023
  • tiger0863
    7 contributions
    Great experience but needs more animals!
    We went as a family of 4 (mum, dad, kids age 6&8) and loved having our own buggy to tour in. Our guide was fantastic and so knowledgable so A+ to her. Unfortunately the weather was a bit overcast and through the tour in the open space the temperature really dropped and we were freezing so I think it would be good if the buggy’s had blankets for everyone just in case it gets cold. Our only negative was the kids got a bit bored as there were not many animals and so at times there wasn’t much to look at for them. But I think adults would appreciate the tour and the beautiful surroundings much more. Overall we really recommend it and it was something different to do as a family.
    Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review! We're so glad you enjoyed your experience and would recommend to others, this means the world to us! Thank you so much for your comments on the blankets, we will be sure to consider this going forward, however with regards to our animals, we have a maximum stock density that must be adhered to; we must ensure that the reserve is providing sufficient nutrition to all of our species. That being said, we are always exploring ways to manage new species - you can always find this exciting information on our socials!
    Written 17 July 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 15 June 2023
  • Vicky F
    1 contribution
    Very enjoyable tour
    I did the trailer tour on a Sunday afternoon. For £15 it was good value and I really enjoyed it. The guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. We were allowed off the trailer at a couple of points during the tour, which was good too. During the 90 minutes we saw a good range of herbivores and waterfowl. I did feel the welcome at the start in reception could have been a bit warmer, as a solo first time visitor. The gravel track leading from the Watlington road to the reception and parking area is a bit mean when arriving on two wheels; just when you think you've arrived there's around a quarter of a mile of skiddy gravel track to negotiate before you get to reception. This could be quite an obstacle to a family cycling to the venue with young children or a disabled rider. Otherwise it's in an ideal location for cycling; just beyond the end of the reasonably smooth and relatively functional 4 mile cycle path along the A10 from Lynn. A cycle/ pedestrian path to reception would provide for a smooth and comfortable entrance for people visiting without a car. The cycle parking too, whilst it's good that it's been thought of, is the type of wheel racks that mean you can only lock your front wheel and there is a very real risk of your wheel getting bent if your bicycle is blown or falls over. Otherwise all good, and worth a visit. I'll happily go again.
    Visited June 2023
    Travelled solo
    Written 19 July 2023
  • Becki O
    8 contributions
    Enjoyable day out
    I bought the 4 seater buggy tour for my mums 70th we were a family of 2x 70 years 40 year old and 19 year old. I had to re arrange our first date due to a family illness and we swapped it very easily over the phone. We arrived and got shown to our buggy after going through the simple instructions. I tried not to get my hopes up of seeing too many animals but we were very lucky as we saw a lot and were very close to get some amazing pictures. It was very enjoyable and lots of fun driving the buggy. The only negative was that when we arrived we asked if we could swap drivers as myself and my daughter would like to take turns I was told that would be fine as was asked to show both our driving licenses which we did and was told that would be an opportunity half way round for a stop to change. When we stopped half way I then asked our tour guide if we good change over and was told no even after I explained I’d already asked we also had our licences on us to show again. Despite this I would recommend a visit if you enjoy wildlife.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 13 August 2023
  • Amy Wizard Ponter
    1 contribution
    Unique and valuable place
    An important place to visit and so very valuable too. The work the people working here are doing is quite something in providing a beautiful and special habitat for these incredible animals. The park itself is stunning and just ideal for the rare and endangered animals who roam freely and live peacefully within it. The animals themselves are a sight to behold. One can be forgiven for thinking they have been transported to a faraway location with what you are able to witness in this park. Yet, the fact it is in the U.K. makes it quite amazing. The only downside is the terrain for the buggies which is extremely difficult to cope with if you have compromised health as I do, but that is my issue and the others in my party were just fine. If you can go, do. It is worth coming to the area to visit the park alone and from there you have so many other places close by anyway. Norfolk is a lovely county and made even more so by this stunning wildlife park. I would be surprised if anyone was disappointed by this as there is nowhere else in the world you would see the mix of species you do at Watatunga. It is entirely unique.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 20 August 2023
  • Suzie C
    1 contribution
    A fun but bumpy ride!
    The tour was very good although the track was VERY uneven making it an extremely bumpy ride. Plus you definitely need binoculars as most of the animals are quite some distance away. If you’re driving the buggy it’s difficult to see much as you have to concentrate on navigating the path and following the buggy in front. It was fun though and the guide was very knowledgeable. Beautiful setting and a worthwhile cause.
    Visited August 2023
    Travelled with family
    Written 24 August 2023
  • Sandra
    5 contributions
    Afternoon visit
    Went on guided buggy tour at 4pm. It had been raining heavily the day before so some of the road was very wet and muddy. The animals were few and far between to start but once we neared the lake got to see some of them and flocks of birds. Amazing seeing such beautiful creatures in a natural setting. Guide was very informative and helpful Two of our party had to sit facing backwards in the buggy and they kept missing out on seeing some of the animals. Would have been better in the other type of buggy that had all forward facing seats. Good experience and hope they go on to achieve their goals.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 13 September 2023
  • Sue W
    1 contribution
    An excellent and fun experience!
    Very enjoyable. Staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable. It was nice to be able to have a coffee (reasonably priced at £2) while we waited for the tours to start. It was wonderful to see the animals in a natural setting, rather than in a zoo. There was plenty of space for the animals and their welfare was obviously a prime concern. The buggies were easy to drive and comfortable, apart from the fact that the seats were very wet. This was obviously due to the fact that there had been torrential rain the night before. If we had been warned about this in advance, we would’ve been happy to bring something dry to sit on. It was great fun taking turns to drive the buggy. A lot of consideration had been given to the safety of the passengers. It was amazing to be able to get up so close to the wild animals. It was impressive to learn about all the different animals and how well they are cared for and how new animals are introduced to the reserve. The guides commentary over the radio was really interesting, however we weren’t able to hear every detail, mainly when we were going over rougher terrain. Excellent facilities for disabled visitors. The only reason we didn’t give five stars is because of the wet seats and the fact that it wasn’t possible to ask questions during the tour. Overall, we all really enjoyed the tour. It went far too quickly and we can’t wait to go again.
    Visited September 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 21 September 2023
  • Darren
    Saxmundham, United Kingdom377 contributions
    A novel way to spend a few hours
    You can never predict what wildlife will do, and driving through the reserve you need to keep en eye out. Our guide was talking a little too much for my liking, information is good, but it was constant throughout the drive, and over walkie talkies, so it wasn’t great quality. Be aware that it’s bumpy and if you have bad back, either drive at a snails pace or be prepared for a very bumpy ride. You are not allowed to use your phones whilst driving the buggy. They are doing good work here and it should be applauded and supported.
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled as a couple
    Written 7 October 2023
  • Colin G
    1 contribution
    Unexpected Pleasures
    Very lucky to see some animals that may otherwise have been hidden in woodland. Very impressed with the existing reserve and pleased to hear how it will be extended in the future. Perhaps some preparation of the buggies would be handy as, when we got to the end of the tour, I realised that the seats were very wet and had rather a damp posterior (bum). Overall, a tour we would love to do again in another season.
    Visited October 2023
    Travelled with friends
    Written 25 October 2023
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Photofrenzy
Norfolk15 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Second stay at Majors Lodge Watatunga , again just for a few nights, had a fabulous time, very restful, enjoyed the animals, & talking to the very lovely, knowledgeable staff, . Took lots of great photos. Highly recommend x
Written 26 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

John E
Webridge26 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Everything was excellent, from the check in at our accommodation with the special treats on arrival, to the tour with Karen and the fabulous experience of self driving around the wildlife reserve.
Written 25 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

yetti2014
Norwich, UK2 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
Great visit from start to finish.
We stayed in the Gate Lodge with our elderly mother. It was clean , cosy and had everything we needed. There were some pleasant additions, some local treats in the kitchen and shower accessories. We were able to have an open fire in the evenings which added to the experience.
We woke up to deer and antelope on our doorstep each morning, a beautiful Autumnal view.
Mum was easily able to climb on board the electric buggy with the help and care of the staff. We had a very enjoyable informative tour on our first morning around the reserve meeting the animals.
Our highlight was being able to drive around the reserve on our own. Early morning sunshine, peace and quiet, beautiful animals and wonderful views.
We look forward to visiting again.
Written 20 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jess S
4 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Wow. We booked a private tour and saw lots of beautiful animals and watched some feed up close. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and took us to guaranteed spots. 100% recommend!
Written 18 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Trip798116
3 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
We booked the Gate Lodge to celebrate a couple of big birthdays with friends. The cottage is cosy and very comfortable. Everything we need was provided and the Norfolk food goodies left in the kitchen were very appreciated. Our private tour of the reserve with Julian was absolutely amazing. His knowledge and passion for conservation was inspirational. It was such a privilege to get close to the animals.
Written 14 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Joanna U
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Friends
Wonderful experience, on every turn, there were "wow"s and interest. All the family absolutely loved it.
Written 12 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Helen F
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Family
Wow - what a truly spectacular weekend we had. The rain certainly did not detract from our stay. It really felt like we had travelled all the way to Africa. The majors Lodge was just lovely and accommodated the 6 of us and was extreme well equipped. Being able to use the buggies and go out pretty much when we wanted to drive around the reserve sporting the animals was a magical experience and seeing the animals up close was amazing. We had a wonderful outdoor bbq with Chef Lucy who did an absolutely marvellous job despite the floods and we had a wonderfully memorable meal- the food was divine! Nothing was too much trouble for anyone.Julian and Molly were amazing and so very helpful, all the little touches to make our stay so special were very much appreciated. Thank you so very much to you all for making my birthday weekend so very special for all the family. I really hope that we can visit again, we all loved it!
Written 9 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Dawn B
Ipswich, UK7 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
A birthday present for my husband and son who are avid wildlife fans. We had a private tour with Julian who is amazing. His knowledge and passion were unbounded and he kept us fascinated throughout a very wet and cold tour.

Gate Lodge was extremely cosy and comfortable and Julian kept us stocked with logs and kindling.

A lovely weekend.
Written 7 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Faith M
1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
The most incredible experience! From start to finish an amazing eye opening trip and pure bliss all in one day. The golf buggies were so much fun and we loved riding around the reserve in them! Special mention to our amazing tour guide Sheena, who made the trip that little bit more extra special :) x
Written 5 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Abi Nicole D
Wisbech, UK153 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Watatunga is 170 acres of pure wildlife indulgence! We have been many times now and have loved every visit from first arriving to leaving with a huge smile.

Watatunga wildlife reserve works very hard to preserve and protect many different species of Deer and local birds. The reserve has free roaming deer and different wildlife that is a pleasure to come and see. Every visit has been different our tour guides are so knowledgeable and amazing!

I could go on and on with a long review but you just need to visit and see for yourself all the hard work that the team put in.

Please check the website and the Facebook page to see what’s going on.
Written 4 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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WATATUNGA WILDLIFE RESERVE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Frequently Asked Questions about Watatunga Wildlife Reserve