Bristol: Swimming with Crocodiles coffee and cake

Imagine standing poolside in Bristol, eye-to-eye with a crocodile, feeling the thrill of touching such a formidable creature, and then sharing a cup of coffee and a slice of cake in a cozy cafe. This is exactly what the “Swimming with Crocodiles, Coffee and Cake” tour offers—a mix of adrenaline, education, and a dash of humor. Priced at around $407 for a group of up to four, this experience is not your typical day out.

We love how this tour combines hands-on reptile interaction with a relaxed cafe break, giving you a chance to connect with these ancient animals in a safe, controlled environment. The guided tour of venomous snakes adds an extra layer of excitement and learning, broadening your understanding of the diverse world of reptiles. Plus, the souvenir photo with a gator means you’ll have something to remember this wild day.

A possible consideration? The activity requires physical participation, including handling, moving cages, and swimming in season, so it might not suit everyone—particularly those with health concerns or a fear of handling animals. But for anyone with a sense of adventure and curiosity about crocodiles, this tour offers close-up encounters that you won’t find in typical zoo visits.

This experience is ideal for animal enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and families with older children (9+), who are prepared for some physical activity and a bit of a thrill. If you’re looking for a memorable, interactive, and educational outing in Bristol that pushes the boundaries of a traditional tour, this one’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Close encounter with crocodiles in a Bristol pool
• Guided reptile tour including venomous snakes
• Swim with a crocodile in season for a unique adrenaline rush
• Souvenir photo with a gator to take home
• Relaxing coffee and cake at the Croc Cafe
• Educational insight into different crocodile species and their characters

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting the Scene: Bristol’s Reptile Encounter

Nestled in Gloucestershire, this tour offers an unusual blend of excitement and education. For just over four hundred dollars, you and your travel companions gain access to Crocs R Us, a facility dedicated to crocodile care and conservation. The highlight? A 30-minute swim with a crocodile. Imagine the adrenaline of being in the water alongside one of these ancient predators, feeling the power of their muscular bodies, all under expert supervision.

The experience begins with a guided tour of the collection, which includes a variety of crocodile species and venomous snakes. Here, your guide will introduce you to the different characters of the reptiles—some mood swings, some surprisingly docile, and others downright feisty. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guides explained the animals’ behaviors and personalities, making it more than just a photo op.”

Handling and Moving Crocodiles

Beyond swimming, you’ll get a chance to handle the crocodiles, feed them, and assist with cage maintenance. This isn’t just a superficial experience—it’s designed to give you a genuine sense of what it takes to care for these creatures. You might find yourself sorting cages or helping to move the animals, which adds an authentic touch to the day.

One review mentions, “Seeing how interactive and responsive the crocodiles are really changed how I think about them—these are not just scary reptiles, but complex creatures with personalities.” This hands-on approach appeals particularly to those interested in wildlife conservation or curious about the day-to-day life of a crocodile keeper.

The Thrill of Swimming in Season

The 30-minute swim is the tour’s pièce de résistance. You will be in a controlled pool environment, supervised by professionals, but it’s still a moment that can make your heart race. Be sure to bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel, as recommended. The sensation of being in the water with a crocodile is something few experience firsthand, making it one of those stories you’ll tell for years.

Some travelers may worry about safety, but the staff emphasizes that safety is paramount, with all activities carefully managed. For those who have concerns or health issues, it’s worth noting that the experience isn’t suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or people with heart problems.

Snakes and Surprises

The guided tour of venomous snakes adds educational depth. You’ll learn about different species, their behaviors, and their roles in the ecosystem. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share insights, making it a fascinating part of the day.

Expect some surprises along the way—perhaps the reptiles’ interactive behaviors or unexpected reactions. As one guest put it, “The snakes were more expressive than I thought, and the guides made it really interesting without being scary.”

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Refreshing Break at the Croc Cafe

After the adrenaline-fueled activities, you can relax at the Croc Cafe. Enjoy a coffee and cake, offering a moment to unwind and chat about the day’s adventures. It’s a thoughtful addition that rounds out the experience, giving you time to reflect and take in the surroundings.

The Souvenir Photo

No animal encounter is complete without a keepsake. You’ll get a printed photograph with a gator in a photo wallet, a fun and tangible reminder of your adventure. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated this personal touch—an easy way to share your experience with friends or keep as a memento.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour runs in scheduled slots, so arriving 5 minutes early is advised. The entire experience lasts roughly several hours, from the initial introduction to the cafe break and photo collection. It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for physical activity, including cage handling and swimming.

Regarding cost, at $407, this experience is an investment. But considering the unique nature of the activities, the guided expertise, and the opportunity for genuine animal interaction, many find it to be good value—especially for those seeking a memorable adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for close animal encounters and hands-on activities. Families with children over 9, and those with an interest in reptiles or wildlife care, will find it particularly engaging. It’s also appealing for anyone craving something more than a typical sightseeing tour—a chance to get real with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

For travelers looking to push boundaries and experience something genuinely different, this tour offers a rare combination of education, adrenaline, and fun. The opportunity to handle crocodiles, swim with them, and learn about venomous snakes** makes it stand out among Bristol’s usual attractions. The friendly guides and well-structured activities ensure safety while delivering a genuine sense of connection with the animals.

However, it’s not for everyone. The physical demands—handling animals, moving cages, swimming—mean it’s best for those in good health and with a basic sense of adventure. If you’re not comfortable around reptiles or have health restrictions, this might not be the right choice.

This experience provides value through its unique activities and expert guidance. It’s a memorable, slightly wild addition to any Bristol itinerary—ideal for animal lovers, thrill-seekers, or curious travelers who want a story worth telling.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 9 years old, so older kids and teenagers can enjoy the activity if they’re comfortable with handling reptiles and swimming.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel, as the activity involves swimming and handling animals.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women or people with heart problems due to the physical nature of the activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility for your travel plans.

Is photography allowed during the activities?
Flash photography is not permitted, so plan to use natural light or ask the staff if you want to take pictures during the session.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Croc Cafe, with instructions to arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled slot, and ends back at the same meeting point.

This tour offers a genuine, hands-on experience that’s perfect for those craving a daring encounter with nature’s reptiles. If you’re ready for a day of discovery, excitement, and a splash of humor, it’s bound to be a highlight of your Bristol visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: