Tilgate Park

Tilgate Park, located in Crawley, West Sussex, is a 60-year-old recreational area offering a variety of attractions for families. The park features expansive grassy lawns, tranquil lakes, and vibrant gardens filled with beautiful flowers, trees, and shrubs. Its extensive woodlands and bridleways invite visitors to enjoy long, leisurely walks. The park is also home to Tilgate Zoo, which houses over 100 animals, including owls, parrots, snakes, reindeer, meerkats, armadillos, and porcupines. Additionally, the Walled Garden offers a hedge maze, a café, and several craft emporiums. The Lakeside Café serves a wide range of snacks, meals, and drinks, with a good selection of vegan and vegetarian items on the menu. The park is accessible by car, with parking available in the main car park and the Fisherman’s car park. Daytime charges apply, and there is a 2.1m height restriction in all Tilgate Park car parks. For public transport, Metrobus service 2 runs to the park on weekends and Bank Holidays, stopping at the main car park. On weekdays, it stops at K2 Crawley, a 15 to 20-minute walk from Tilgate Park. The park is open year-round, with summer hours from 10am to 6pm and winter hours from 10am to 4pm. Last entry to the zoo is 5pm in summer and 3pm in winter. Please note that barbecues are not allowed, and dogs must be kept on a lead around Tilgate Lake at all times. Dogs are not permitted in the zoo, walled garden, or play area. Cycling is allowed on the bridleways on the park’s perimeters and along the roadway to the zoo.