The Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire is one of Britain’s most respected wildlife attractions, home to hundreds of animals from around the world. Best known for its extensive primate collection, the zoo combines conservation, education and family-friendly experiences. This guide explains everything you need to know before visiting – from ticket prices and parking to accessibility and the best times to visit.
History and overview of Twycross Zoo
Twycross Zoo was founded in 1963 by Molly Badham and Nathalie Evans, two dedicated animal lovers with a passion for primate care. Starting as a modest collection of monkeys, the zoo quickly gained a reputation for pioneering animal welfare and breeding programmes. Over the decades, it has developed into one of the UK’s leading conservation-focused zoos.
The zoo’s founders were early advocates of ethical animal care and helped raise public awareness about endangered species. They worked closely with conservation projects around the world, and their commitment continues to shape Twycross Zoo’s mission today. It remains home to the only group of all four great ape species – chimpanzee, gorilla, orangutan and bonobo – in the UK.
In recent years, Twycross has invested heavily in new facilities such as the Gruffalo Discovery Land and the state-of-the-art Aquarium and Conservation Centre. These areas have made the zoo more interactive for children and families, blending education with play. Visitors can watch daily talks, feeding sessions and keeper demonstrations that offer fascinating insights into animal behaviour.
Beyond its exhibits, Twycross Zoo is also a research hub, working with universities and wildlife charities to protect species under threat. It continues to evolve, with future plans including an ambitious National Science and Conservation Centre designed to expand its educational reach even further.
What to see and do at Twycross Zoo
The zoo is spread across more than 100 acres and houses over 400 animals representing 80 species. Highlights include the chimpanzee habitat, where a multi-level enclosure allows for impressive viewing opportunities, and the gorilla house, home to a small family group. The elephant reserve and snow leopard enclosure are also major draws.
Families particularly enjoy the themed play zones and splash park during the summer months. The Gruffalo Discovery Land brings the popular children’s story to life with interactive displays and costumed characters, while the butterfly house offers a more tranquil experience.
Animal lovers can book behind-the-scenes experiences, such as becoming a “Keeper for a Day” or feeding penguins. These sessions often sell out in advance, so it’s best to secure your spot early.
Ticket prices and opening hours
As of October 2025, ticket prices for online bookings are £26.95 for adults and £19.75 for children aged 2 to 16. Children under two enter free.
The zoo’s opening hours vary by the season. In the summer school holidays, it’s usually open from 9.30am to 5pm while in winter the hours go down to 11am to 3pm. Checking ahead before your visit is recommended.
Parking and how to get there
Parking at Twycross Zoo costs £3.50 and located next to the main entrance. There are clearly marked accessible bays close to the gate. The zoo sits between Birmingham and Leicester, about 10 minutes from Junction 11 of the M42, making it easy to reach by car. For public transport users, the nearest train stations are Atherstone and Tamworth, both a short taxi ride away.
Best times to visit Twycross Zoo
Weekdays outside of school holidays tend to be the quietest times, allowing for more relaxed viewing of the animals. Arriving early in the morning gives the best chance to see the primates and big cats at their most active. On sunny days, the outdoor enclosures and play areas can get busy, so consider visiting midweek or during cooler months for fewer crowds.
Facilities and accessibility information
The zoo is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with accessible toilets, step-free pathways and mobility scooter hire available on site. Assistance dogs are welcome in most areas except for animal enclosures. There are several cafés and kiosks serving meals, snacks and drinks, plus a large picnic area for those bringing their own food.
Useful information and FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Where is Twycross Zoo located? | Burton Road, Atherstone, Warwickshire CV9 3PX. |
| What are the ticket prices? | Adults £26.95, Children £19.75, under 2s free. Book here. |
| When is it open? | Daily from 9.30am to 5pm in summer, last entry 4pm. |
| Is parking available? | Yes, parking is available close to the entrance, costing £3.50 and with accessible bays. |
| Are the paths wheelchair-friendly? | Yes, most areas are accessible with step-free routes and mobility hire options. |
| Are there cafés or restaurants on site? | Yes, several cafés and food kiosks serve a range of hot and cold meals. |
| How long should I allow for a visit? | At least three to four hours to see the main enclosures and enjoy the shows. |
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More East Midlands travel
Other East Midlands travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- The extraordinary sacrifices of the Eyam plague village.
- Planning a visit to the Cromford Mills in Derbyshire.
- A practical guide to visiting Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle.
- Belvoir Castle visitor guide.
- The 6 best things to do in Loughborough.
