With a waiting list of over 9,000 already, ‘Giraffe Hall’ will be situated at the Port Lympne Hotel & Reserve – Kent’s largest wild animal park.
Already home to fully immersive experience stays ‘Lion Lodge’ and ‘Tiger Lodge’, which give guests the opportunity to sleep amongst the wild animals with just a pane of glass in-between, Giraffe Hall is thought to be the first experience of its kind in the Western hemisphere.
This new part of the reserve is located in a 15th century Grade II listed building and will boast 10 en-suite bedrooms and five luxury cabins.
Port Lympne’s managing director, Tony Kelly, told Kent Online: “We are delighted that the application was approved and will now start the detailed work to restore and develop the French House into Giraffe Hall to add to our portfolio of luxury accommodation here at Port Lympne.
“It is too early to announce an opening date at this stage as there is much work to do. We expect Giraffe Hall to be exceptionally popular as we already have a wait list of over 9,000 people.”
The waiting list opened in May last year, after the project was announced by conservation charity Aspinall Foundation.
“Once opened, Giraffe Hall will not only offer a once in a lifetime holiday destination but will also become a sought-after venue for weddings and private parties,” the organisation said at the time.
“The gardens are also undergoing improvements which will not only include a route for the giraffe to wander the grounds but also a cabana style retreat, where guests can take in the stunning views, whilst relaxing with a drink.
“Once completed, the hotel will offer a luxury safari feel, whilst incorporating the comforts and décor of an English stately home.”
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