The UK farm run by Jamie Oliver's best friend - polar bears and 'better than London Zoo'

If you're seeking a day out that's a little different, there are plenty of unexpected experiences across the UK. Often, the most memorable trips are the ones you wouldn't initially think of. One destination that has captured attention for both its charm and its memorable surprises is Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park, where you can encounter polar bears.

Nestled in the Suffolk countryside, the story of Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park began as a small rare-breed farm run by Jimmy Doherty, allegedly the best friend of celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. They have been friends since childhood and their shared love of food and farming has kept them close over the years, with Jimmy often appearing on Jamie's shows and projects.

Over the years, Jimmy's farm has become a thriving wildlife park, home to animals including wolves, reindeer, and polar bears. It now spans 16 acres.

According to its Instagram page, Jimmy's Farm rescued its first polar bears after learning that Orsa Predator Park in Sweden was closing, and its animals faced being put down. Acting quickly, the farm constructed Europe's largest polar bear reserve in the south of England, called the "Lost Lands of the Tundra", to provide a naturalistic home with woodland, lakes, and open pastures. The project aims to stress the importance of protecting disappearing habitats, reflecting the farm's ongoing commitment to animal rescue and conservation.

Lucky travellers on the Great Eastern Main Line in Suffolk might even see the polar bears between Manningtree and Ipswich. A viral TikTok revealed that the polar bear enclosure at Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park backs directly onto the railway, giving passengers a perfect view of the animals as they wander around their habitat. The sight even features on Trainline's top list of wonderful things to spot from the train.

Many visitors on Tripadvisor said the farm is better than zoos and creates a happier environment for the bears.

One visitor said: "The animal enclosures seemed a lot better than other bigger zoos. Really enjoyed watching the polar bears."

Another wrote: "The last time I saw a polar bear was probably 50 years ago at London Zoo where it looked distinctly unhappy. The four bears at Jimmy's looked very content and were happily rolling around on the grass. They even know their names as the keeper called them."

A person on Google Reviews said: "Jimmy's farm was a great day out! Saw lots of animals that I haven't even seen at London Zoo! The enclosure were huge compared to lots of other zoo/farms. Only think is that I think a childs ticket is too expensive compared to the adults one! But facilities for kids were good. Would happily visit again."