6 UK attractions with EV charging points

Where can you charge your electric car on a day out?

Thinking about going electric? Or already enjoying the benefits of an electric car lease? Either way, you'll be looking for places to charge up while you're out and about.

Say goodbye to range anxiety when you take your electric car out for a spin, with more and more public charging points rapidly being installed around the UK.

There are now more EV charging stations than there are petrol stations. Many attractions and businesses are plugging into this trend too, installing charging points in their car parks.

It's always a good idea to get up to speed with your destination before setting off.

Check if their charging points are working and available for visitors. Remember that charging points could be occupied when you arrive, so planning ahead puts you in the driving seat for a stress-free visit.

For longer journeys, map out charging points along your route or near your destination. There are plenty of charging point apps that can help navigate the growing EV infrastructure with ease.

Whether you've taken the wheel of a Volkswagen ID.7 or a Tesla Model Y lease, we've found six places around the UK where you can enjoy a fantastic day out while your car peacefully charges away.

Chester Zoo

Love animals? Chester Zoo is one of many zoos which have added electric charging points to their parking facilities, and they're miles ahead of the competition.

They have a whopping 26 charging points available for visitors.

All the charging bays have a Type 2 universal socket, and up-to-date costs can be found on the Pod Point app. You can also see live availability of the chargers on the app so you can check whether there's one free before you arrive.

Chester Zoo has the ambition to be a sustainable zoo, and there's no denying that they're on the right track.

And by using their charging points, you’ll be encouraging their future investment in more EV charging points at the zoo.

The Wave, Bristol

Ready to hit the sea? I don't know about you, but we could definitely do with some major practice first.

The Wave is the first inland-surfing destination where people of all ages and abilities can experience the thrill of surfing. You can catch waves, take lessons, eat, drink and there are lots of activities your little ones can take part in too.

Do you know what's even better?

You can do all that while your electric car charges in the car park.

Currently, they only have two charging points, but they have plans to rev up their offering to four dual EV charging points.

The charging points each have Type 2 universal sockets and are expected to deliver 20-30 miles per hour of charging.

The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth

If you've got a thing for cute mules and donkeys, The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth has rescue donkeys in all shapes and sizes.

You can take a walk around all the shelters, visit the miniature donkeys, look in on the barn and check out who's keeping in the shade.

If you get hungry, stop off at The Kitchen and enjoy some good local grub. There are also plenty of picnic areas if you wish to soak in the country views.

You can tootle on to The Donkey Sanctuary in your electric car with complete confidence. There are two EV charging points in the car park that are free to use.

They both have Type 2 universal sockets and are available on a first come, first served basis.

You'll need to request a free one-hour token from the Visitor Centre. During busy periods, they ask that you move your car once it's fully recharged to allow for other visitors to use the chargers too.

Penbryn Beach, Wales

While your car charges up, you can recharge your own batteries at the glorious Penbryn Beach, one of the loveliest golden beaches on Wales' west coast.

Surrounded by flower-covered dunes and majestic cliffs, Penbryn is managed by the National Trust and is popular for surfing, kayaking or simply being a quiet spot to relax.

In the National Trust car park, about 400 metres from the beach, there is one charging point with a Type 2 universal socket opposite the café, so you can charge your electric car while you go for a swim or a stroll.

The charger is free to use, but the National Trust do charge a small parking fee.

If you enjoy visiting National Trust sites, they have charging points at a number of their locations; perfect if you want to explore more of the countryside and charge your car while there.

Thorpe Park

Thrill-seeker? Adrenaline junkie? All of the above.

Visit the thrilling theme park that is Thorpe Park. With an incredible selection of rides and attractions, a visit to Thorpe Park would be a fantastic fun-filled day out for the family.

The park has four electric car charging points, with eight connectors available, all fitted with Type 2 universal sockets.

There are also additional charging points nearby if you find the four at the park occupied and are worried about the drive home. 

RHS Garden Bridgewater

If you're into your gardening, or just like walking around gardens, woodlands and meadows, the RHS Garden Bridgewater is worth a visit.

There's always a tour, an exhibition, or a course going on; you'll have something to do year-round. There are also two cafes where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and a tasty treat when you start feeling peckish.

Don't stress about bringing your electric car - there are three dual charging stations available in the car park, each with Type 2 universal sockets.

So, you can easily charge your car no matter the model, just bring your charging cable.

Parking is free but note that the charging stations are supplied and managed by EV Charge Online, so it is advised that you create an account on their website ahead of your visit in order to use the chargers. They cost 30p/kWh to use.

Charge up your adventures

With the UK accelerating toward an electric future, these attractions are miles ahead when it comes to catering to EV drivers.

From thrilling theme parks to peaceful beaches and gardens, you're in the driving seat when planning days out with your electric vehicle.

Range anxiety needn't put the brakes on your adventure plans.

With a bit of forward planning and the right apps, you can navigate the UK's growing charging network with confidence. The attractions we've highlighted are just the starting point - many more destinations are charging up their facilities every month.

If you're not yet part of the electric revolution, there's never been a better time to make the switch.

Our electric car lease deals offer an affordable way to get behind the wheel of the latest models without the commitment of ownership.