The East Midlands offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that cater to different interests. Whether you’re a fan of spirits, wildlife, or family adventures, this region has a lot to offer. We especially enjoy the DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour because it’s a rare opportunity to see the largest rum distillery in Europe in action—an impressive feat for British spirits and a chance to taste some unique rums. Meanwhile, animal lovers will appreciate the chance to get up close with foxes at the Ark Wildlife Park or explore a rescue center that cares for over 250 exotic animals. These experiences combine fun, education, and conservation in one package. For practical tips, check out the details and reviews on each tour to see which best suits your style.
Quick Overview
This list features three standout tours in East Midlands, each offering a different perspective on the region:
- DropWorks Rum Distillery: A modern British rum experience on the largest distillery in Europe.
- Fox Encounter for 2 people and park entry: An intimate, hands-on visit with rescued foxes.
- Park Entry for a Family of 4: A family-friendly day at Ark Wildlife Park & Exotic Animal Sanctuary, home to hundreds of rescued animals.
Now, let’s get into the details of each experience to help you decide which fits your trip best.
1. DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour – Largest Rum Distillery in UK!
At number one on our list, the DropWorks Fun Rum Distillery Tour is a one-hour visit to the UK’s biggest rum producer — and the largest in Europe. The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at how modern British rum is crafted on a scale you won’t find anywhere else in the country. You’ll learn about the ingredients that make DropWorks Rums unique, including a world-first element that sets this distillery apart. The tour is both educational and fun, with plenty of tastings to sample the different rums produced here.
What makes this experience stand out is its scale and innovation. Darren, the host, is praised for his welcoming attitude and depth of knowledge, making the visit both engaging and relaxed. The distillery walk exposes you to the process from raw ingredients to finished product, with a generous amount of rum tastings included. The price of around $34.50 per person makes this a very good value for a craft spirits experience. The reviews highlight how well Darren communicates, making even complex distillation processes easy to understand.
Bottom Line: Perfect for spirits enthusiasts or anyone curious about how rum is made — with a friendly atmosphere and a taste of something uniquely British.
2. Fox Encounter for 2 people and park entry
For animal lovers, the Fox Encounter for 2 people and park entry offers a rare chance to interact with rescued foxes in a safe environment. This private experience lasts about 30 minutes and includes entry to the Ark Wildlife Park, where more than 250 animals rescued from the pet trade now reside. After a quick safety briefing, you’ll be invited into the fox enclosure to observe and interact with the animals on their terms.
What makes this tour special is the close-up interaction it offers — you’re not just watching from a distance. The keepers are friendly and happy to answer questions, sharing insights about the foxes’ rescue stories and behaviors. The experience is limited to two participants, making it more personal and quieter than larger zoo encounters. The cost of approximately $138 for two gives you an intimate experience, though some reviews note that prices through third-party sellers can be inflated. Visitors especially love how adorable the foxes are, with one reviewer describing it as “amazing” despite a warning to book directly with the provider.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want an up-close, personal animal encounter and have a keen interest in wildlife rescue stories.
3. Park Entry for a Family of 4
Families can enjoy a full day at Ark Wildlife Park & Exotic Animal Sanctuary, which offers a balanced mix of animal encounters and relaxed exploration. Costing around $54.90 for up to four people, this ticket grants access to a park that’s home to over 250 animals rescued from exotic pet trades. Once inside, you can wander at your own pace, enjoying scheduled shows at 11:30 and 2:30, which give kids a chance to learn more about the animals through engaging demonstrations.
What sets this experience apart is its focus on rescue and rehabilitation, with many animals rarely seen elsewhere in UK zoos. Visitors will see lemurs, reptiles, meerkats, and wild cats, all living in environments tailored to their needs. The park features indoor and outdoor play areas, a café, and seasonal events, making it suitable for a full day’s outing. Reviews highlight how much children enjoy the variety of animals and the opportunity to learn through daily shows.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families seeking an educational and interactive wildlife experience without the crowds, combining fun with a good cause.
How to Choose
When selecting between these tours, consider your budget, interest level, and who you’re traveling with. For a spirits connoisseur or curious adult, the DropWorks Rum Distillery offers a memorable behind-the-scenes look. If you’re traveling with animal enthusiasts or families, the wildlife encounters at Ark Wildlife Park provide memorable, hands-on experiences. The fox encounter is best suited for those seeking a quiet, personal animal experience, while the family pass is perfect for kids and parents wanting a relaxed day exploring rescued animals.
Consider timing as well: the rum tour is best with flexible schedules, while the wildlife experiences work well on weekends or during school holidays. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
The East Midlands offers a rich lineup of unique tours. For spirits lovers, the DropWorks Rum Distillery delivers a fascinating peek into British craft distilling. Animal lovers will find the Ark Wildlife Park and its rescues a rewarding day out, whether they’re participating in a fox encounter or exploring with family. Depending on your interests and travel style, each of these experiences provides a memorable way to enjoy this diverse region. Don’t forget to book early to secure your spot — these popular tours fill up quickly.