A football star and his family have celebrated a “very special” stay at a Kent animal park which has become a celebrity hotspot.

Rio Ferdinand, best known for his career with Manchester United and England, and wife Kate shared images of their recent visit to Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, near Hythe.

The pair visited over the weekend for son Cree’s fourth birthday, coming face-to-face with tigers in a luxurious lodge.

In one video, the 81-time England-capped defender and his family were left in awe as the majestic animals paraded in front of their window.

They also got to feed giraffes, with Kate cheekily likening Rio to one thanks to his 6ft 2ins frame.

It is not the first time the 46-year-old has enjoyed hospitality from the people of Kent, having been spotted at a Rainham cafe last year tucking into bacon, eggs and toast.

He was also part of the opening of the Ballerz football dome at Bluewater shopping centre earlier this year.

Port Lympne is rapidly getting a reputation as a celebrity hotspot.

Actor Ashley Walters and TV stars Alison Hammond, Kelly Brook and Megan McKenna have all enjoyed a stay at the Hythe resort this year.

Last year, former Little Mix singer Jesse Nelson shared a video of her close encounter with the animals.

Other famous faces have also shared their experiences including The Only Way is Essex star Gemma Collins, who says she fell in love with the park after her trip there and Radio 1 presenter Greg James who spent his honeymoon at the park in 2018.

Last year, a KentOnline reporter enjoyed a stay under the stars in the site’s newest accommodation – The Lookout Bubble.

Described as a transparent, round tent, it offers views over the Kent countryside.