Cheryl Tweedy organised a poignant and memorable New Year's treat for her eight-year-old son, Bear Payne, taking him on a special safari adventure to honour the memory of his late father, Liam Payne.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Liam
Following the tragic death of former One Direction singer Liam Payne in October 2024, Cheryl was determined to create a joyful Christmas period for their young son. Liam Payne died at the age of 31 after a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, almost fifteen months prior to this festive trip.
Knowing that both Bear and Liam shared a deep love for animals, Cheryl planned the perfect outing. She took Bear to Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent for a three-night stay, ensuring the experience would be both exciting and a touching tribute to his father.
An Ultimate Safari Experience
Dressed warmly in a grey puffer jacket and bobble hat against the winter chill, Bear embarked on the park's 'Ultimate Safari' experience, which costs £110 per person and lasts for two and a half hours. The adventure took place in an open-sided Land Rover, with Cheryl, her mother Joan, and her younger brother Garry also joining the trip.
The family group were reportedly mesmerised by the wildlife. Onlookers told The Mail on Sunday that Bear 'looked thrilled' and was 'not able to soak up enough of what he was seeing'. The highlight for the young boy appeared to be the African section, where he fed the park's statuesque Nubian giraffes, looking up in amazement as they bowed their heads.
Luxury Lodging and Lasting Memories
Despite Cheryl's commitment to raising Bear without spoiling him, the accommodation was luxurious. The family stayed in an exclusive £3,000-a-night glass-sided 'Tiger Lodge', where guests can observe the majestic creatures roaming close by. The park, owned by the Aspinall Foundation conservation charity, also offered an illuminated walk, a vintage funfair, and light installations.
A particularly touching moment came when Bear saw the park's model dinosaurs, a sight that would have held special significance. Liam had bought three similar dinosaur statues on eBay for their Buckinghamshire mansion garden, and father and son would spend hours playing with them, with Bear often 'giggling his head off'.
Since Liam's passing, Cheryl has made concerted efforts to keep his memory alive for Bear. She ensures he remains close to Liam's parents and sisters, and incorporates reminders of his father into their daily life. This safari trip, blending adventure with a heartfelt connection to Liam's passions, was a powerful part of that ongoing legacy.
