This Day in History: 1966-04-05

1966 – Horningsham & Longbridge Deverill (Longleat) – The first safari park outside of the African Continent opened its gates to the public.  The park covers 9000 acres surrounding the historical Longleat House, seat of the Marquesses of Bath.  The drive through Safari Park was opened by Henry Thynne, the 6th Marquess and was the brainchild of Jimmy Chipperfield of the circus dynasty.  The park has developed tremendously since the introduction of its first pride of lions and is at the forefront of many conservation projects.  Currently the park is the filming location of Animal Park aired on the BBC.  Center Parcs Adventure Resorts opened a facility here in 1994.  The safari park includes, the East African Reserve, a lake featuring a jungle cruise with an island which is home to large primates, Monkey Temple, Animal Adventure including Pets Corner and the Longleat Railway.  The animal population is added to on regular occasions.  The park is also the home of Anne the circus elephant rescued after years of abuse, the old lady (estimated to be over 60 years old) has a purpose built home and is still undergoing rehabilitation, she is not an official attraction at the park but visitors may be lucky to get a glimpse of her in her paddock.