Marwell Zoo is a 140-acre wildlife park located in Winchester, Hampshire, England. It is a popular destination for families looking for a fun day out, with over 200 species of exotic and endangered animals to see. Marwell Zoo is dedicated to animal conservation and education, and is home to some of the world’s most endangered species.
History
Marwell Zoo was founded in 1972 by John Knowles, a passionate conservationist and animal lover. The zoo was originally located on the grounds of Marwell Hall, an 18th-century manor house. In 1988, the zoo was moved to its current location in Winchester, Hampshire. Marwell Zoo is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hampshire, with over 500,000 visitors each year.
Attractions
Marwell Zoo offers a range of experiences for visitors of all ages. Here is a list of some of the attractions:
- Over 200 species of animals, including giraffes, tigers, penguins, and zebras
- Animal encounters – get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s cutest residents
- Educational talks and feeding demonstrations
- Adventure playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Gift shops
What to Expect
When you visit Marwell Zoo, you can expect a fun and educational day out. There are plenty of things to do and see, from feeding demonstrations and animal encounters to adventure playgrounds and gift shops. The zoo is well-maintained and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable.
Tours
Marwell Zoo offers a variety of guided tours, including a Behind the Scenes tour, a Nocturnal Animals tour, and a Safari tour. The tours are a great way to learn more about the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts.
Admission
Marwell Zoo offers a range of ticket options, including day tickets, annual passes, and group tickets. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear comfortable shoes – the zoo is 140 acres, so you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
- Bring sunscreen and a hat – the zoo is open-air and can get quite hot in the summer.
- Pack a picnic – there are plenty of picnic areas to enjoy a bite to eat.
- Check the website for special events – Marwell Zoo hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
Practical Information
- Address: Marwell Zoo, Colden Common, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 1JH, UK
- Opening hours: 10am – 6pm daily (closed Christmas Day)
- Parking: Free parking is available on-site
- Website: www.marwell.org.uk/zoo
Conclusion
Marwell Zoo is a great destination for a family day out in Winchester, Hampshire. With over 200 species of animals, animal encounters, educational talks, and adventure playgrounds, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a chance to learn more about animal conservation, Marwell Zoo is the perfect place to visit.
