After Bristol Zoo announced that it will be closing its Clifton site, the public learnt of plans to create two major new areas for its animals at the expanded Wild Place site in South Gloucestershire, which will be renamed as the new Bristol Zoo when it all opens in 2024.
The huge conservation park is promoted as a haven for animals and hosts a wide range of different areas for furry friends such as meerkats, baboons and more. However, without a doubt the main attraction is the huge 'Bear Wood'.
It is an open space where the bears roam, which visitors can watch over from the 700m raised walkway. And as if bears weren't exciting enough they also live alongside wolves, lynxes and wolverines.
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However, this month (Tuesday, April 19) another group of bears will be coming face to face with their namesake. Bristol's well-loved Bristol Bears first team will be heading to the Wild Place to meet not only their animal match but also any fans.
Players from the team previously visited Bear Wood soon after it opened in 2019, however this will be their first return since covid forced Wild Place Project to close for much of 2020 and 2021.
James Kitto, Head of Commercial Operations at Wild Place Project, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the Bristol Bears players back to reunite with their four-legged counterparts after almost three years, and to offer our members the chance to meet the city’s two sets of bears at the same time!”
The Wild Place makes for the perfect family day out even if your kids aren't sporting fanatics - and any parents that are big rugby fans can certainly use the excuse to meet some sporting idols. The team will be signing autographs and posing for photos from 12.30 until 1.15pm on the day.
The meet and greet event is free but usual Wild Place admission prices apply. It is recommended that those interested pre-book tickets for entry.
