Twycross Zoo, located in Atherstone, is a popular UK zoo known for its commitment to conservation and education and for offering visitors an immersive experience with a wide variety of animals. As we step into 2025, this zoo continues to be a top choice for families looking for a fun and educational day out. Whether you’re visiting from Tamworth, nearby areas, or further afield like us, Twycross Zoo has something for everyone.
We renewed our family’s annual ticket in August last year (the same price as a day pass), meaning we can revisit it free for a year!! We visited again on 3rd January to kick off the New Year. Let’s dive into our comprehensive Twycross Zoo review and explore what makes this family day trip truly special.
A Day at Twycross Zoo: What to Expect in 2025
Primates Galore at Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo is renowned for its chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, and gorillas. The great ape collection is one of the most diverse in the UK, making it a must-see for those fascinated by these intelligent creatures. Hands down, the apes are the biggest pull for us; we spend hours watching them every time we visit. The more we visit, the more we get to know each of their personalities.
The chimpanzees and gorillas are particularly popular with visitors, and their enclosures provide excellent viewing opportunities.
NEW National Science and Conservation Centre
Twycross Zoo is making remarkable strides in its commitment to conservation in 2025, focusing on reversing the decline of 15 threatened species, including the critically endangered Bornean orangutan. Partnering with organisations like the Borneo Nature Foundation, Twycross Zoo is working to protect biodiversity through education, awareness programs, and in situ and ex-situ conservation efforts.
The zoo’s recent £19.9 million funding for a National Science and Conservation Centre underscores its dedication to tackling the global extinction crisis. This cutting-edge facility will serve as a hub for researchers and conservationists worldwide, providing essential resources to advance efforts for orangutans and other endangered species.
Meet the Variety of Animals at Twycross Zoo
In addition to its impressive collection of monkeys and apes, Twycross Zoo is home to various animals, including giraffes, snow leopards, tigers, meerkats, and more. The snow leopard enclosure is a fan favourite, which can be viewed from the comfort of the restaurant and the indoor soft play area, offering a chance to witness the grace of these elusive animals.
I would recommend heading here for the snow leopard feeding time; get there early to grab a seat by the window for the best views.
For fans of smaller creatures, the lemur and tortoise habitats are also must-see exhibits. These animals, along with many others, are part of Twycross Zoo’s breeding programs, ensuring the conservation of endangered species.
A Family Day Out: Fun for All Ages
A trip to Twycross Zoo is perfect for a family day out. The soft play jungle area, located indoors, provides kids with a space to run and explore while parents can relax. Additionally, Gruffalo Discovery Land, based on the beloved children’s character, adds an extra element of fun to the zoo experience with a mini-reptile area and children’s farm. Children will love exploring the Gruffalo trail and interacting with the themed exhibits.
Animal Enclosures and Exhibits: Experience Matters
Twycross Zoo prides itself on creating naturalistic animal enclosures that mimic the animals’ habitats. The penguin and lorikeet enclosures are particularly engaging, offering visitors the chance to interact with these animals up close. While many enclosures are full of life, some visitors have noted there can be lots of empty enclosures at times, which has led to mixed reviews.
From our experience of visiting regularly for the last 2-3 years, there is constant development. If there has been an empty enclosure, there has been a reason—adolescent silverbacks having just left to join a breeding programme elsewhere, spider monkeys moved from an outdoor to an indoor enclosure. During our most recent visit, we noticed the brand-new climbing equipment in the silverback enclosure.
The overall experience reviews remain positive, with most visitors noting how fascinating it is to watch the animals, especially the baby monkeys and giant tortoises.
Food, Drink, and Facilities: Relax and Recharge
No day out is complete without good food and convenient facilities. Twycross Zoo offers a variety of dining options, from cafes to quick bites.
There are plenty of picnic areas scattered throughout the zoo, so you can bring your own food if preferred. The toilet facilities are easily accessible, and baby-changing areas are also available.
Gruffalo Discovery Land: A Magical Experience
One of the standout attractions for young families is the new and improved Gruffalo Discovery Land, where children can embark on a Gruffalo experience through interactive exhibits. This section of the zoo brings the beloved characters from Julia Donaldson’s book to life and adds an extra layer of magic to the overall Twycross Zoo experience.
Practical Information: Planning Your Day at Twycross Zoo
Before visiting, it’s important to plan your day. Booking tickets online in advance saves you 10% on the ticket price, and parking is available in the car park adjacent to the entrance for £3 per day. The zoo is open year-round, with special events held throughout the year. Keep an eye on the zoo’s website for opening times and seasonal promotions.
What we love is that when you buy your day pass, you can visit for free for 12 months, which is a no-brainer, in my opinion!!
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Day at Twycross Zoo
Overall, Twycross Zoo offers a fab experience for families, animal lovers, and conservation enthusiasts alike. From the stunning Snow Leopard to the fun-filled Gruffalo Discovery Land, there’s plenty to see and do for visitors of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been many times before, Twycross Zoo is a family day out that’s worth the trip.
If you’ve visited recently, why not write a review and share your experience with others? Your feedback can help future visitors make the most of their day at Twycross Zoo.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Twycross Zoo and enjoy your day exploring one of the most diverse collections in the UK!