Tilgate Park extends over 162 hectares in the south of Crawley and is the town's most popular green space offering endless enjoyment throughout the year.
The heritage parkland comprises lawns, lakes and tree and shrub collections which are at their best in spring when the extensive Rhododendrons bloom. There’s a range of gardens including the Walled Garden and Peace Garden commemorating the end of WW2. A large children's play area sits next to Go Ape Treetop Adventures and Smith and Western restaurant and overlooks the lawn and the lake which is home to Tilgate Watersports and the Café by the Lake.
Tilgate Nature Centre is home to exciting wildlife species including Lemurs, Tapir and Capybara, Wallabies, Mongoose and Meerkats, Reindeer, Owls and Otters, as well as familiar favourites such as goats, pigs, guinea pigs and rabbits. Investment between 2015 and 2020 included the opening of Australasia, Madagascar and Americas zones. Opportunities to get up close and personal with some animals includes the chance to meet the Meerkats and also Alfie the Tapir! There are also indoor exhibits giving visitors the chance to learn some amazing animal facts and public talks explaining more about the animals, as well as their everyday lives in the care of the friendly zookeepers. Close by the Walled Garden and its Community Café, is a popular resting point.
Visiting Tilgate Park off-peak is recommended as it becomes very busy at weekends and during holidays. The Nature Centre opens every day (except Christmas Day) 10.00-16.00 GMT (winter) and 10.00-18.00 (Summer). For latest updates, like us on Facebook (Tilgate Park).