Marwell Zoo

Few great days out can rival a day at Marwell Zoo, not far from Winchester and on the fringe of the South Downs National Park. More than just a walk in the park, a visit to Marwell Zoo is the chance to get close to the wonders of the natural world – and play a big part in helping to save them. From ring-tailed coatis to poison arrow frogs, frilled lizards to Amur leopards, bat-eared foxes to meerkats and giraffes – the 140 acre zoological park is home to hundreds of exotic and endangered species in beautiful landscaped surroundings.

Experience the African wilderness first hand at Marwell’s biggest exhibit to date, Wild Explorers. Packed with activities, you can also observe white rhinos, scimitar-horned Oryx and Grevy’s zebra through ‘spy in the grass’ cameras! What’s more, it offers covered areas for exhibitions and education sessions, plus a themed play area for children to practice their ranger skills! If you develop a bond with one of Grevy’s zebra or white rhino then why not adopt one? You’ll be making a very welcome contribution to the care of the animals in the zoo. Just by visiting the zoo, you’ll be making a big contribution to this conservation charity’s projects to conserve species and habitats, both in Hampshire and around the world.

Remember to leave time to look out for some very playful primates at Marwell Zoos latest exhibit, which opens in July this year. Lemur Loop is a new walk-through exhibit for summer 2017.  With a beautiful landscaped setting, both indoors and out, the new lemur exhibit is a wonderfully immersive experience.

From the 1st August until the 1st October 2017 Marwell will be the first UK zoo to host a collection of giant LEGO brick animals on an exciting and unique trail to connect children with nature! You can see how over 2 million bricks are used to make the sculptures, including a 1.5 tonne elephant, a life size Bengal tiger and a trio of Giant panda cubs, a red ruffed lemur, a warthog and a mob of meerkats! You can also have a go at making your own animal sculptures in the LEGO brick play area! The Great Brick Safari will be included with general admission to Marwell Zoo.

Pick up your Explorers Trail from the Information Cabin and challenge your inner adventurer by collecting all eight stamps around the park. Don’t forget to enter into Marwell’s prize draw and pick up your Wild Explorer sticker from the gift shop! Marwell Zoo is about being as active or as relaxed as you want. There are three play areas where your children can run wild while you take a well-earned break.

Enjoy spectacular views while you eat and drink at Café Graze, or its attached picnic area. Hop onto the free road train to help you get around, look out for the daily talks and activities and enjoy family-friendly events throughout the year. Best of all, you can combine an unforgettable day out with a chance to learn all about the natural world and the challenges it faces.