MARION SAUVEBOIS visits Wild Place, near Bristol

FIELDS and woods as far the eye can see are certainly not what you would expect stepping through the gates at a zoo.

But then again Wild Place is not a typical attraction with lions or gorillas kept behind glass closures watched by scores of eager families huddled behind the window for a glimpse of the exotic animals.

As soon as we entered the wildlife park, we were welcomed by zebras and eland roaming freely in a large meadow, with just a small fence to remind us that we were not in the African jungle but just a few miles from Bristol.

From this first encounter, we were invited to wander around the various ecosystems recreated on the patch of countryside, chancing upon the okapi pen and catching a glimpse of a pack of young wolves keeping watch over their territory in the depths of the forest.

Adventures did not stop there and if staring straight into a wolf’s hypnotic eyes were not enough of a thrill, a terrifying climbing wall is at dardevils’ disposal.

For those of us more comfortable on firm ground, the barefoot path was slightly more inviting.

It might sound dull, compared to the prospect of scaling a 30m high structure, but it was, in fact, one of the highlights of our visit. One should never underestimate the pleasure of feeling earth, sand, and even shards of polished glass on their bare skin – not to mention the exfoliating benefits.

Shoes back on, the Madagascan walkthrough, complete with its village and education centre, and its lemur colony awaited. There the lemurs are given free reign, hopping from branch to branch so close to our faces – with no fence, gate or wire to spoil the experience, the temptation to reach out to them was almost irresistible.

I challenge anyone to leave the lemurs behind without a smile stretching from ear to ear.

We felt at the heart of action, truly among the animals.

More intimate, free and accessible, Wild Place is like no other in the region. Go to see for yourself.

Need to know

Wild Place is at Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP.

Tickets cost £7.50 for adults and £6 for children. Children under two go free. Annual passes are £26 for adults and £17 for children. The park is open every day from 10am. Call 0117 980 7175 or go to www.wild place.org.uk