Becoming East Anglia’s Top Wildlife Experience
When Watatunga opened its gates in 2020, we hoped to create something meaningful for conservation. A place where rare and endangered species could thrive and visitors could experience a truly unique wildlife experience in a way that felt peaceful, immersive and respectful.
Five years on, we’re proud to see how far the reserve has come. Thanks to the people who visit us each year, Watatunga is now ranked the number one for Nature & Wildlife Areas in East Anglia, number one for Nature & Wildlife Areas in Norfolk, number one for Nature & Wildlife Areas in King’s Lynn, and number one for Top Attractions in King’s Lynn on Tripadvisor. With a 4.9 star rating and more than 1,036 reviews, we’ve also been awarded Travellers’ Choice again for 2025, after achieving it in 2024 too, placing us among the top-rated wildlife experiences in the UK.
Growing Recognition Beyond The Reserve
As the reserve has grown, so has recognition from wider conservation and media circles.
We’ve been featured on the BBC for the birth of our rare White-Lipped deer calf, spotlighted by local news outlets such as the Lynn News for our ongoing conservation efforts, and most recently, shortlisted for the Great British Wildlife Restoration Award. A national celebration of conservation work across the UK, in which the winner will be decided by votes from MPs and Members of the House of Lords.
These moments aren’t milestones for the sake of it; they’re signs that the work happening quietly in our 170 acres of grassland, woodland, and wetland is resonating far beyond our fences and contributing to Norfolk’s reputation for exceptional wildlife experiences.
Why Tripadvisor Means More Than a Ranking
Reading through reviews, we’re constantly struck by the same themes of the knowledge and passion of our guides, the uniqueness of the experience and the beauty and tranquillity of the reserve. Many describe Watatunga as “a hidden gem,” “calm and immersive,” and “like nothing else in Norfolk.” It’s these messages that remind us why we do what we do, and we’re hugely thankful to everyone who has taken the time to write a review, share photos or recommend us to friends.
While awards and press are important, Tripadvisor holds a special place for us. It reflects the experiences of real people, families, photographers, wildlife lovers, locals, tourists, repeat visitors, all taking the time to share what Watatunga meant to them.
For a reserve built on a hands-off, wildlife-first ethos, it’s a meaningful reminder that ethical conservation and incredible wildlife experiences can go hand-in-hand. Every review helps us grow, refine our tours, and continue shaping Watatunga into something we hope Norfolk can feel proud of.
Looking Ahead
Watatunga has always been about more than the species we protect. It’s about the landscapes that hold them, the people who care for them, and the visitors who come with curiosity, patience and excitement, whether it’s their first visit or their fifteenth.
As we look to the future, we’ll continue strengthening our conservation work and improving guest experiences. We’re looking forward to 2026 and welcoming guests with all our upcoming exciting tours and events. And if you’ve supported us by visiting, reviewing, sharing, or simply cheering us on, thank you! You’re a part of our story.
Ready To See What Makes Us The #1 Wildlife Experience?
Whether you’re discovering Watatunga for the first time or returning to see what’s new, we’d love to welcome you back into the reserve.
Book your next wildlife experience here!