Twycross Zoo is a renowned zoological park located in Leicestershire, England, known for its exceptional collection of primates and diverse range of animal species. At the heart of this captivating zoo lies the Twycross Zoo House, a unique and fascinating attraction that offers visitors an immersive experience.
What is Twycross Zoo House?
Twycross Zoo House is a dedicated exhibit within the larger Twycross Zoo, designed to showcase the zoo’s impressive primate collection. This specialized facility is home to a wide variety of monkeys, apes, and other primates, including the UK’s only group of bonobos.
Primate Diversity at Twycross Zoo House
Twycross Zoo House boasts an unparalleled collection of primates, with over 150 species represented across the zoo’s 80-acre grounds. Visitors can marvel at the agility and intelligence of these fascinating creatures, including:
- Chimpanzees
- Gorillas
- Orangutans
- Gibbons
- Lemurs
- Marmosets
- Tamarins
The zoo has recorded first UK births for thirteen different primate species, contributing significantly to conservation breeding programs.
Unique Exhibits and Experiences
Twycross Zoo House offers a range of engaging exhibits and experiences for visitors to explore. Some of the highlights include:
Gruffalo Discovery Land
Opened in 2021, the Gruffalo Discovery Land brings the beloved children’s book to life, featuring animals mentioned in the story, such as owls and snakes.
Butterfly Paradise
This 600 m2 walk-through exhibit allows visitors to witness the life cycle of butterflies, from chrysalis to butterfly, in dedicated hatching cabinets.
Himalaya Visitor Centre
The zoo’s main entrance, the Himalaya Visitor Centre, houses conference facilities, a gift shop, and a 300-seat restaurant with a stunning Himalayan mountain scene, home to a family of endangered snow leopards.
Educational Opportunities
Twycross Zoo is renowned for its award-winning education department, which holds the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge. The zoo’s Study Centre provides curriculum-linked educational programs, engaging over 15,000 school children per year.
Visitor Information
Twycross Zoo is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with the exception of Christmas Day. The zoo offers free admission for children under the age of 3 and various ticket options, including day tickets, annual memberships, and group tickets.
For a truly immersive experience, visitors can also book animal encounters, allowing them to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s residents while learning from the knowledgeable keepers.
Conclusion
Twycross Zoo House is a must-visit destination for zoo enthusiasts, offering a unique and unforgettable experience with its exceptional primate collection, interactive exhibits, and educational programs. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family seeking a fun day out, or a student interested in learning more about the animal kingdom, Twycross Zoo House is sure to leave a lasting impression.