An exclusive experience at The Big Cat Sanctuary.
Set within one of the UK’s leading conservation centres, The Retreat combines luxury lodge accommodation, exceptional dining, expert-guided wildlife experiences and meaningful conservation impact. Every stay directly supports our work in conservation, rescue, welfare, breeding and education for endangered cats around the world.
With limited guest numbers and private access to the Sanctuary, this is a truly unique escape where unforgettable wildlife encounters meet luxury hospitality, just an hour from London.
Book NowLuxury open-plan lodge accommodation within the private grounds of The Big Cat Sanctuary. Designed to feel calm and connected to nature, each lodge offers an open-plan living space creating a sense of being immersed in the Sanctuary.
Your stay includes two-day Sanctuary access and an expert-guided tour, giving you behind-the-scenes insight into our conservation, rescue and breeding programmes while meeting some of the world’s most endangered cats.
Enjoy breakfast and dinner at Heritage Restaurant, plus access to our outdoor fire pit areas, all within a limited guest experience.
Itinerary:
- Arrive from 9:30 am
- Check in lodge from 1:30 pm
- Tour of key areas of the Sanctuary at 2:15 pm
- Dinner from 6 pm
- Breakfast the following day at 8 am
Included: Wi-Fi, Smart TV, bathrobes, towels, slippers, toiletries, tea & coffee facilities, Dyson hairdryer, iron & ironing board, Elemis toiletries, air con and heating
Book NowEvery stay includes a guided tour of The Big Cat Sanctuary, offering unique insight into the conservation work your visit helps support.
Learn about our global conservation projects, rescue missions, welfare and breeding programmes, and education initiatives while meeting some of the world’s most endangered cats.
Home to more than 30 cats across over 14 species, every booking directly supports our work to protect wild cats for future generations.
Included with every stay, enjoy breakfast and dinner while overlooking our lion habitat in our Heritage Restaurant, which showcases the very best of Kent produce in a relaxed yet refined setting.
From locally sourced ingredients to seasonal menus, every meal celebrates both our county’s rich food heritage and our commitment to sustainability.
Guests can add a range of exclusive experiences to their stay, including:
- Big Cat Encounters: keeper-led 60 minute experience with one of our incredible cats including a hand feed
- Photography Days: exclusive access to learn and capture stunning wildlife imagery
- Paul Hollywood Afternoon Tea: a unique afternoon tea experience within the sanctuary grounds
- Lunch Beside Lions: unforgettable dining with views across our lion habitat
- Additional Guided Tours: A 90 minute specialist tour exploring different areas of the Sanctuary
All experiences are subject to availability, and advance booking is recommended.
1 bedroom lodge – Max 2 People
From £595 per night (Sunday – Thursday, off-peak)
From £695 per night (Sunday – Thursday, peak)
From £695 per night (Friday & Saturday, off-peak)
From £795 per night (Friday & Saturday, peak)
Prices are based on two guests sharing and include accommodation, breakfast, dinner, sanctuary access and a guided tour.
2 bedroom lodge – Max 4 People
From £1190 per night (Sunday – Thursday, off-peak)
From £1390 per night (Sunday – Thursday, peak)
From £1390 per night (Friday & Saturday, off-peak)
From £1590 per night (Friday & Saturday, peak)
- All guests must check in at the reception before arrival
- Dining is included as part of your stay (three-course dinner and breakfast)
- Menu selections must be submitted at least two weeks prior to arrival
- Dietary requirements and allergens must be provided in advance
- The Retreat is available to guests aged 11+.
- Guests aged between 11–17 years must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years
- The Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport; pre-booked taxis are strongly recommended
- Closed-toe, weather-appropriate footwear must be worn at all times
- Walking boots or wellingtons are recommended in winter
- Trainers or flat closed-toe shoes are suitable in summer
- Long hair must be tied back in stand-off areas
- Loose clothing (such as scarves) is not permitted in stand-off areas
For extended stays, please contact enquiries@thebigcatsanctuary.org
FAQs