Bristol: Crocodile Swimming Experience coffee and cake

If you’re looking for a truly unique adventure in the UK, the Crocodile Swimming Experience near Bristol promises just that. This two-hour excursion combines the thrill of swimming with a relaxed visit to see some fascinating reptiles, topped off with coffee and cake at the Croc Cafe. While it might sound a little wild to some, it’s a carefully curated experience that balances excitement with education.

What really drew our attention is the personalized small-group setting, the chance to meet and interact with relaxed crocodiles and venomous snakes, and the opportunity to walk away with a souvenir photo. The knowledgeable guides make this experience approachable for newcomers, ensuring safety and fun are front and center. The cushion of comfort offered by the after-activity café is a nice touch, providing a relaxed spot to process the adventure.

One possible consideration? The experience is tailored for those over 9 years old, pregnant women, or anyone with heart problems might need to think twice before booking. It’s definitely a hands-on experience that’s best suited for curious, active travelers who want a mix of adrenaline and education.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or those simply wanting a story to tell. If you’re open to something a little unconventional and love animals, it’s worth considering.

Good To Know

• Unique experience swimming with a crocodile in a controlled environment
• Guided tour of crocodiles and venomous snakes enhances learning
• Small groups ensure personalized attention and safety
• Photo souvenir offers a memorable keepsake of your adventure
• Relaxed crocodiles enjoy human interaction, making the experience more approachable
• Coffee and cake at Croc Cafe provides a comforting end to the visit

You can check if your dates are available here:

An adventure with a twist: what to expect

When you arrive at the Croc Cafe in Gloucestershire, you’ll meet your guide and prepare for a 2-hour adventure filled with excitement, education, and a touch of the wild. The experience starts with a 45-minute swim with a crocodile in a pool. The crocodiles here are known to be relaxed and tolerant of human interaction, which adds a reassuring element for those nervous about getting in the water.

Swimmers are advised to bring swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof camera (but avoid flash photography). The guides, praised for their friendly and knowledgeable demeanor, will give clear instructions and ensure safety throughout the swim. The crocodiles are accustomed to human presence, making the interaction less intimidating and more of an opportunity to feel close to these ancient creatures.

After the swim, you’ll be taken on a guided tour of the crocodile enclosures and venomous snake areas. The guides do a good job of sharing insights about the animals, highlighting their behavior and care routines. One reviewer noted that the guides are funny, friendly, and know their stuff, making the tour both informative and entertaining.

The final stop is the Croc Cafe, where you can enjoy a main course and a cold drink in a relaxed environment. Sample options include burgers and wedges, offering a satisfying end to your visit. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the coffee and cake complement the morning’s adrenaline nicely.

Detailed itinerary and experience breakdown

Starting point: Croc Cafe

Your adventure begins at the Croc Cafe, which is conveniently located next to the reptile center. Arrive about five minutes before your scheduled slot to ensure a smooth start.

Swim with a crocodile

The highlight of the experience is the 45-minute crocodile swim. Expect to be in a safe, enclosed pool with a relaxed crocodile. The guides are well-trained and personable, making sure everyone feels comfortable. Multiple reviews mention that the crocodiles “enjoy human interaction,” which helps dispel some common fears.

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Guided reptile tour

Post-swim, the guided tour introduces you to various crocodiles and venomous snakes. The knowledgeable guides share interesting facts and stories, making it more than just a walk around enclosures. One comment highlighted that the guides are super friendly and funny, creating a relaxed environment.

Croc Cafe

The final stop is the Croc Cafe. You’ll sit down for a main course like a burger, paired with a cold drink. It’s a great chance to unwind and chat about the experience with fellow participants. The café’s proximity to the reptile center makes for an easy, casual finish.

Pricing and value analysis

At $270 for a group of up to two people, this experience may seem pricey at first glance. However, when you consider that it includes a 45-minute crocodile swim, guided reptile and snake tours, a souvenir photo, and a meal, it’s a package that offers a lot of value. Unique animal encounters like this are rare in the UK, making it a memorable story worth the cost.

Reviewers consistently note the quality of guides and the overall well-maintained, respectful environment. The fact that the crocodiles are well cared for and that the guides are both fun and informative adds to the value.

Who will love this experience?

This tour is best suited for adventure lovers eager to try something different. Animal enthusiasts will enjoy the up-close interaction with relaxed crocodiles and venomous snakes. It’s also a great choice for families with older children (over 9), especially those interested in wildlife.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, young children, or people with heart conditions, due to the nature of the activity. The small group size (limited to six participants) ensures a more intimate, safe experience, which many reviewers appreciated.

Final thoughts

The Crocodile Swimming Experience at Gloucestershire offers a genuinely one-of-a-kind adventure, blending a daring water encounter with educational insights and a cozy café break. It’s a fantastic way to learn about and interact with some of the most fascinating animals in a controlled, friendly environment.

While the price might be a consideration—especially if you’re on a tight budget—the memories made here are likely to last a lifetime. From the knowledgeable guides to the relaxed crocodiles, every element is designed with safety, fun, and authenticity in mind.

If you’re seeking an offbeat activity that combines adventure with a chance to learn about nature, this tour could be a perfect fit. Just remember to pack your waterproof camera and be prepared for a wild, memorable day.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, but only for those over 9 years old. It’s designed for curious, active participants ready for a hands-on reptile adventure.

Can I bring my own photos?
Yes, you can bring a waterproof camera to capture your swim, but flash photography is not allowed.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full experience runs for approximately 2 hours, including swimming, touring, and relaxing at the café.

Is it safe to swim with a crocodile?
Yes, the crocodiles are relaxed and used to human interaction, and the guides are experienced in ensuring safety.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel. It’s recommended to arrive prepared for water-based activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, a main course and a cold drink are included at the Croc Cafe after the activity.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the experience is limited to 6 participants to ensure personalized attention and safety.

What animals will I see during the tour?
You’ll see crocodiles and venomous snakes, with guides sharing insights on their care and behavior.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your preferred time slot, especially during peak seasons.

This crocodile swimming and reptile experience offers something quite different for travelers in Gloucestershire. It’s a blend of adrenaline, education, and comfort—perfect for animal lovers and adventure seekers who want an authentic, memorable story to tell. With friendly guides, relaxed animals, and a relaxing café, the experience manages to be both fun and respectful of the animals’ well-being.

While it’s not a typical sightseeing tour, it’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone in a safe setting and gain a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures. For those craving an adventure with a genuine connection to wildlife, this tour is well worth considering.

You can check if your dates are available here: