Whipsnade Zoo, located in Bedfordshire, England, is a popular destination for families and nature enthusiasts. In addition to the diverse array of animal exhibits, the zoo offers a variety of dining options to cater to the needs and preferences of its visitors. From casual cafes to fine dining experiences, Whipsnade Zoo’s restaurants and food options provide a delightful culinary journey.
Base Camp Restaurant: Locally Sourced, Seasonal Fare
The Base Camp Restaurant at Whipsnade Zoo is a family-friendly eatery that focuses on serving up tasty, locally sourced, and seasonal dishes. The restaurant offers a comfortable, modern setting where visitors can enjoy a hearty meal. Hot food is available until an hour before the zoo closes, and the restaurant itself closes half an hour before the zoo’s closing time.
River Cottage Kitchen and Deli: Seasonal Ingredients and Dietary Accommodations
Opened in partnership with renowned food writer and campaigner Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, the River Cottage Kitchen and Deli at Whipsnade Zoo showcases the best of seasonal ingredients. The eatery offers adult dishes in full-size and smaller portions for little ones, catering to a range of dietary needs. The River Cottage Kitchen closes two hours before the zoo closes, while the Deli closes one hour before the zoo’s closing time.
Visitor Centre Cafe: Convenient Snacks and Drinks
Situated at the entrance of the zoo, the Visitor Centre Cafe serves a variety of deli sandwiches, hot savoury snacks, sausage rolls, pies, and a selection of hot and cold drinks. This cafe is a convenient option for visitors looking to grab a quick bite or refreshment before or after their zoo experience. The Visitor Centre Cafe closes at the same time as the zoo.
Hullabazoo Kids Café: Dedicated to Little Ones
The Hullabazoo Kids Café caters specifically to the younger visitors of Whipsnade Zoo. This café offers a “Kids’ Bites” offer, where you can get five items for £5, as well as house-prepared sandwiches, salads, bakery items, and hot and cold drinks. The Hullabazoo Kids Café opens at 10 am and closes in line with the last play session.
Station Store Picnic Shop: Grab-and-Go Options
Located within the Station Store next to the Great Whipsnade Railway, the Station Store Picnic Shop offers a selection of sandwiches, bakery items, and hot and cold drinks. This is a convenient option for visitors who want to grab a quick snack or picnic item to enjoy during their zoo visit. The Station Store Picnic Shop opens on weekends and school holidays and closes one hour before the zoo closes.
Africa Outpost: Satisfying Sweet Cravings
For those with a sweet tooth, the Africa Outpost is the place to go. This eatery sells waffles, ice creams, and other sweet treats, as well as a range of drinks to help visitors warm up on colder days. The Africa Outpost’s opening times are weather-dependent.
Whipsnade Zoo has made efforts to reduce plastic waste by stopping the sale of single-use plastic water bottles and offering a sustainable alternative in a can. Visitors can also refill their water bottles in catering outlets across the zoo.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal, a quick snack, or a sweet treat, Whipsnade Zoo’s diverse range of restaurants and food options cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its visitors. With a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and dietary accommodations, the zoo’s culinary offerings provide a delightful addition to the overall zoo experience.
References:
– https://www.whipsnadezoo.org/plan-your-visit/food-and-drink
– https://www.experiencebedfordshire.co.uk/food-and-drink/dining-at-zsl-whipsnade-zoo-p1102691
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g499476-d569516-r630708281-Whipsnade_Zoo-Dunstable_Bedfordshire_England.html
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g3383584-d14931986-Reviews-River_Cottage_Restaurant-Whipsnade_Bedfordshire_England.html
– https://cms.whipsnadezoo.org/sites/default/files/2022-12/Viewpoint%20Restaurant%20Menu%20October%202022%20%281%29.pdf