Must-Try Foods In Howletts Wild Animal Park (Canterbury) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Howletts Wild Animal Park, Canterbury

The history of food at Howletts Wild Animal Park in Canterbury isn't just about the meals for its visitors, but it's also extensively dedicated to the dietary management of the wide variety of animals housed in the park. The park focuses on providing natural diets for the animals under their care to ensure their health and well-being.

For human visitors, the park offers a variety of dining options that reflect the local Kentish produce. Over the years, Howletts has offered food that is not only a treat to the palate but also endeavours to be sustainably sourced and environmentally conscious. They often focus on providing homemade dishes, fresh snacks, and a variety of options for visitors with different dietary preferences, including vegetarian dishes.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Howletts Wild Animal Park

While the park itself may not be renowned for a large variety of traditional dishes, Canterbury and its surrounding areas in Kent offer a range of British favourites. Here are top 10 dishes visitors should try when in the region:

1. Fish and Chips – Non-Veg: A classic British dish, often enjoyed with a tartare sauce and a side of mushy peas.
2. Kentish Rarebit – Veg: A variant of the traditional Welsh rarebit, adding a local twist with the addition of a local Kentish cheese.
3. Ploughman’s Lunch – Veg/Non-Veg Options: A cold meal consisting of cheese, pickles, and bread. Non-vegetarian options may include slices of ham or other cold meats.
4. Roasted Vegetable Tart – Veg: A delightful mix of seasonal vegetables in a shortcrust pastry.
5. Potted Shrimps – Non-Veg: A traditional British appetizer, usually seasoned with nutmeg and mace, and served with toast.
6. Shepherd's Pie – Non-Veg: A hearty dish made from minced lamb topped with mashed potatoes.
7. Bubble and Squeak – Veg: A dish made with leftover vegetables from a roast dinner, commonly potatoes and cabbages, fried together.
8. Cream Tea – Veg: A quintessential British treat where scones are served with clotted cream and jam accompanied by a pot of tea.
9. Eton Mess – Veg: A traditional English dessert consisting of a mix of strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped double cream.
10. Kentish Huffkins – Veg: A traditional Kentish bread roll with a unique thumbprint in the middle, typically enjoyed with butter or cheese.

Top Famous Restaurants in Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park has an on-site eatery for visitors:

• Pavilion Restaurant: Located within the park, this restaurant offers a range of meal options including sandwiches, hot lunches, and a selection of drinks.
  Pavilion Restaurant,
  Bekesbourne Lane,
  Littlebourne, Canterbury CT4 5EL

  Famous Food: The menu may vary, but often includes hot dishes, sandwiches, and kid-friendly meals. They typically provide a mix of Veg and Non-Veg options to cater to a diverse crowd.

Please note that while the Pavilion Restaurant is the main eatery within Howletts Wild Animal Park, those looking for a wider array of dining choices may consider visiting nearby Canterbury city center, where numerous restaurants offer the rich tastes of British and international cuisine.