Highland Wildlife Park visitors set for a roaring good time

Visitors to the Highland Wildlife Park are guaranteed to have a unique Scottish experience this St Andrew’s Day.

Despite the chilly November conditions, keepers will be donning their kilts to celebrate Scotland’s national holiday.

Mr Douglas Richardson, Head of Living Collections for the Highland Wildlife Park, said: “Believe it or not, wearing a kilt for the day is not as hazardous as it may seem.

"A few of the animals might be intrigued by the change in uniform or variety of colours, but the only problem would be if it decides to snow again.

"Thick woollen socks are the best defence against the biting winter wind.”

The park will be offering visitors two-for-one entry for the day, as part of the Scottish Government’s St Andrew’s Day campaign.

In order to participate in the offer, visitors must visit www.scotland.org/vouchers to download and print their voucher prior to visiting the Park.

Daska Mackintosh, Visitor Services Manager for the Highland Wildlife Park, said: “We are delighted to be taking part in the celebrations for St Andrews Day and it is going to be a great day out for the family.

"With winter almost upon us, this is one of the most beautiful times of year to visit the Park and see the snow capping the surrounding Cairngorms.”

The day also marks the grand opening of the park’s new walkway which is to be christened St Andrew’s Walkway.

The walkway extends through the front reserve and will allow pedestrians easier access to the park, without needing to arrive by car.

Mr Eddie Orbell, one of the previous Directors of Highland Wildlife Park, will be cutting the ribbon at 12 noon, officially opening St Andrew’s Walkway to visitors.

The walkway features a 150 metre long raised viewing platform, giving visitors stunning views of the Cairngorms as well as the chance to get up close to the yak, Bactrian camels and Eastern kiang that live in the front reserve.

The main visitor centre will be staying open until 5pm, when visitors and staff will be joined by very special guest, Santa, for the annual switching on of the park’s Christmas lights.

Walker, the polar bear mascot, will be joining Santa to greet visitors, with mince pies and mulled wine being served.

There will also be a selection of arts and crafts made by local artists on offer throughout the day.

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.