During the half-term break this February, our family had the pleasure of revisiting Twycross Zoo, a place we’ve grown fond of since first visiting over 5 years ago. We purchased an annual pass last August and fully intend to make the most of it. Our excitement was palpable as we anticipated seeing how the animals, particularly our favourite primates, had changed since our last visit.
Primate Wonders
The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the primate exhibits. We spent a considerable amount of time observing the chimpanzees at feeding time. The zoo’s hairless alpha male chimp was a sight to behold, his distinct appearance commanding attention and respect from his fellow chimps and us, the fascinated onlookers. Watching the social dynamics at play was intriguing, giving us a rare glimpse into their world.
The bonobos, too, were a source of fascination, especially when they showed a keen interest in our cameras and phones, coming up close to the glass. These moments were captured in some of our favourite photographs, showcasing their human-like qualities. A visit to the gibbon house offered an educational experience, where we could see and compare the skulls of various primates, highlighting their similarities and differences with humans.
In the Gibbon House, we were excited to see the new Mum with one of her babies. When we last visited in August, they were only a week old. It would appear they are still just as sleepy now as they were then!
A Comfortable Experience
Despite being half-term, the zoo wasn’t overly crowded, making it a comfortable visit. Our arrival at noon was smooth, with no queues to dampen our spirits. The only area that felt slightly crowded was Chimpanzee Eden, primarily due to the narrow pathways and pushchairs going in opposite directions. Still, I have been that Mum, so I completely understand.
However, the weather had left its mark. The aftermath of heavy rains resulted in muddy and wet conditions underfoot, a factor we hadn’t fully anticipated. This made navigating certain areas, like the tunnel under the tigers and the path towards the giraffe enclosure, a bit challenging. A piece of advice to future visitors: be prepared for muddy conditions, especially after rainy days!
Souvenir Shop Surprises
Our trip concluded with a visit to the zoo’s souvenir shop, which pleasantly surprised us with a new range of sweatshirts and t-shirts. I treated myself to a lovely navy chimpanzee sweatshirt. The shop also offered a variety of ‘pocket money toys,’ which were a hit with the children. With his birthday money, Albie found himself spoiled for choice, ultimately deciding to save his money for another day when the stress of decision-making became too much.
Final Thoughts
Twycross Zoo gave us yet another delightful day filled with educational insights, laughter, and memorable moments. It’s a testament to the zoo’s ability to offer a unique experience with each visit. For families planning a trip here, remember to check the weather forecast, wear appropriate footwear, and perhaps arrive a bit earlier to enjoy the day fully.
Practical Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
Based on our experiences, here are some key recommendations for those planning a visit to Twycross Zoo:
- Check the Weather: The days leading up to your visit can significantly impact your experience, especially in terms of ground conditions. Be prepared for mud if it’s been raining.
- Dress Appropriately: Layer your clothing for comfort, as the weather can be unpredictable. Most importantly, wear sensible footwear like walking boots or wellies. This will allow you to explore all areas of the zoo without any restrictions.
- Plan for Multiple Rounds: To fully appreciate the diverse range of animals, consider walking around the zoo at least twice. Animals have different activity patterns throughout the day, so a second round could offer new sights and experiences.
- Don’t Miss the Gibbon House: Make sure to visit the Gibbon House to see the mother and her adorable babies – it’s a heartwarming sight.
- A Trick for the Butterfly House: If you’re eager for butterflies to land on you, wear red! They seem irresistibly drawn to this colour, as we discovered with my Mum’s red coat and hoodie.
- Time Your Visit: The zoo closes at 4 pm, so arriving early enough is crucial, especially if you wish to tour the zoo twice and enjoy a relaxed lunch.
- For Families with Younger Children: There’s a fantastic soft play area located near the restaurant in the main building. It’s perfect for little ones to burn off some energy while parents can enjoy a well-deserved break.
- Save Money: If you book your tickets through TopCashBack you can get 5.25% cashback on your tickets.
These tips, coupled with the zoo’s fascinating animal exhibits and educational opportunities, make for a delightful day out for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
