Aroma Pets

'Luxury' giraffe hotel set to open in Kent as visitor waiting list hits 9,000

A luxury hotel where guests can come face-to-face with giraffes has been given the green light to open in the UK.

The first of its kind in the western hemisphere, Giraffe Hall in Kent will offer guests the chance to make friends with their giraffe neighbours.

The new project, which is part of Port Lympne Reserve, is yet to open its doors, but 9,000 people have already signed up to the waiting list, Kent Online reports.

A Grade II listed house is set to be restored into a hotel and 10 luxury en-suite bedrooms will be built, alongside five pods in the Aspinall Foundation-owned grounds for up to 40 guests.

Guests will have front row seats as giraffes wander up the bedroom windows.

New pathways suitable for both guests and giraffes will be built, and the existing "Lapa" restaurant at the wildlife park will also be extended to provide a new decking area and additional bar and restaurant space.

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."

The plans were approved by Folkestone and Hythe District Council despite objections from nearby residents over traffic, noise and damage to the area.

Reference: Evening Standard: Imogen Braddick 10 hrs ago: 28th August 2020