Whipsnade Zoo, located in Dunstable, Bedfordshire, England, is a must-visit destination for any zoo touring enthusiast, especially during the month of August. Spanning over 600 acres of lush countryside, the zoo is home to thousands of animals and offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Extended Opening Hours and Overnight Experiences
In August, Whipsnade Zoo offers extended opening hours on specific dates, allowing visitors to enjoy the zoo in the evening and observe animals that are more active during dusk. The zoo’s animal houses close at 8:30 pm, half an hour before the zoo closes, but the catering outlets remain open, serving a delicious range of options.
For those looking to make the most of their visit, Whipsnade Zoo offers two overnight experiences:
- Nature Night Camping: Visitors can pitch their tent on the main lawn and explore the zoo at their leisure, followed by a torchlight walk around the zoo to see who stays up late.
- Lookout Lodges: These private lodges offer a more luxurious experience, with complimentary drinks, dinner at one of the zoo’s restaurants, and a private tour before the zoo opens to the public.
Ticketing and Membership Options
Whipsnade Zoo offers a range of ticketing options to suit different budgets and needs. Adult tickets cost £26.50, while child tickets (aged 3-15) cost £19.50. Family tickets (2 adults and 2 children) are available for £80.00. For those looking to visit the zoo on multiple occasions, annual memberships are available starting from £60.00 for adults and £36.00 for children.
Events and Activities
In addition to the extended opening hours and overnight experiences, Whipsnade Zoo offers a range of events and activities throughout August. These include the Beano Goes Wild activity, which is open until 8 pm, and various talks and demonstrations throughout the day.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to Whipsnade Zoo in August, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, as the zoo can get busy during peak season. Additionally, it is worth noting that the zoo is located in a rural area, and public transportation options may be limited. Therefore, it is recommended to plan transportation in advance or consider staying in one of the nearby accommodations.
Unique Attractions and Exhibits
Whipsnade Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including some unique and rare species. Some of the highlights include:
- The Butterfly House: A tropical oasis filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies.
- The Rhino Savanna: A large, open-air enclosure that allows visitors to get up close with these magnificent creatures.
- The Lemur Walkthrough: An immersive experience where visitors can walk alongside these playful primates.
- The Passage of the Apes: A winding path that takes visitors through the habitats of various ape species.
Dining and Refreshments
Whipsnade Zoo offers a range of catering outlets, serving a variety of food and drinks. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics, but it’s worth noting that the zoo’s restaurants and cafes will be open during the extended opening hours in August.
Accessibility and Facilities
Whipsnade Zoo is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible experience for all visitors. The zoo has a range of facilities, including:
- Wheelchair-accessible paths and buildings
- Disabled parking and drop-off points
- Accessible toilets and changing facilities
- Sensory-friendly quiet spaces
Conclusion
In conclusion, Whipsnade Zoo is a must-visit destination for any zoo touring enthusiast, especially during the month of August. With extended opening hours, unique overnight experiences, a wide range of events and activities, and a diverse collection of animals, Whipsnade Zoo offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
References:
– TripAdvisor. (2024). Whipsnade Zoo – All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g499476-d569516-Reviews-Whipsnade_Zoo-Dunstable_Bedfordshire_England.html
– ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. (2024). Summer Saturdays with extended opening at Whipsnade Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-your-visit/events/summer-saturdays-extended-opening-whipsnade-zoo
– YouTube. (2020). ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, August 2020. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0D_E03cMBqo
– ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. (2023). What’s on – Whipsnade Zoo. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/zoo-stories/events
– ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. (2023). 7 of the best things to do at Whipsnade Zoo this summer. Retrieved from https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/zoo-stories/blog/7-best-things-do-whipsnade-zoo-summer