Twycross Zoo, located in Atherstone, England, is a renowned zoo in England that offers a unique blend of family-friendly attractions and a strong commitment to animal conservation. Nestled in the heart of the Midlands, this wildlife park is not just a place to see animals but also a leading primate center. A visit to Twycross Zoo promises a great day out filled with exciting animal encounters, educational exhibits, and fun activities for all ages.
History of Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo was established in 1963 by pet shop owners Molly Badham and Nathalie Evans. Initially, it was a comparatively small collection of pets and rescued animals, but it has since grown into a 80-acre wildlife park that houses around 500 animals from over 125 species, including many endangered ones. The zoo is particularly famous for its primate collection, which is one of the largest in the western world.
Attractions at Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo offers a wide range of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Some of the highlights include:
- The Chimpanzee Eden: This is a state-of-the-art habitat designed to mimic the natural environment of chimpanzees.
- The Asian Elephant Walkway: Here, visitors can get up close with the zoo’s herd of Asian elephants.
- The Butterfly Forest: This tropical greenhouse is home to a variety of exotic butterflies, birds, and fish.
- The Wetland Discovery Zone: This area features flamingos, cranes, and other wetland species.
- The Lorikeet Landing: Here, visitors can feed nectar to colorful lorikeets.
What to Expect
Visitors to Twycross Zoo can expect a fun-filled day of animal encounters and learning. The zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as keeper talks, feeding sessions, and animal handling opportunities. There are also several play areas for children, including a water play area and a soft play jungle. In addition, the zoo has several cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy a meal or a snack.
Tours and Admission
Twycross Zoo offers a variety of guided tours that provide deeper insights into the lives of the animals and the zoo’s conservation efforts. The admission fee for adults is £19.95, for children (2-16 years) it’s £14.95, and under 2s go free. There are also family tickets and group discounts available. It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak times.
Tips for Tourists
Here are some tips for tourists planning to visit Twycross Zoo:
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Check the daily schedule upon arrival to plan your day around the feeding times and keeper talks.
- Don’t miss the chance to feed the lorikeets – it’s a unique experience!
- Bring a change of clothes for children if they plan to use the water play area.
Practical Information
Twycross Zoo is open every day of the year except Christmas Day. The opening hours are from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm in the summer and until 5:00 pm in the winter. The zoo is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, and wheelchairs can be hired at the entrance. There are also plenty of picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food.
