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Attractions

Visiting the world’s wildlife

Britain, Europe and the rest of the world has an exceptional collection of zoos, wildlife parks, sealife centres, farms and wildfowl reserves, and hundreds of other places where you can watch our native species in the outdoors. This section aims to provide a fantastic resource for deciding where to visit.

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Alladale Wilderness Reserve

Ardgay IV24 3BS, UK

Alladale Wilderness Reserve, Ardgay, IV24 3BS. alladale.com Just one hour north of Inverness, Alladale Wilderness Reserve in the Scottish Highlands is 23,000-acres of rugged mountains, forests, rivers and lochs.  The stunning nature reserve is home to many species including the Scottish Wildcat, Red Squirrel, Golden Eagle, White-Tailed Sea Eagle, Wild Boar and many more. The team at … Read more

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Abbotsbury Swannery

Abbotsbury Swannery in Dorset is the only managed colony of swans in the world where you can enjoy walking through hundreds of nesting and free-flying Mute Swans. The 600-year-old swannery was established by Benedictine Monks who built a monastery at Abbotsbury in the 11th century. The monks farmed the swans to produce food for their lavish … Read more

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Paradise Wildlife Park

Paradise Wildlife Park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, United Kingdom

Paradise Wildlife Park began life as Broxbourne Zoo in the 1960s and was purchased in 1984 by the Sampson family, who have successfully turned the attraction around. They have made it their mission to create more spacious open enclosures and develop an extensive education programme and more hands-on activities.

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Chessington Zoo

Chessington World of Adventures Resort, Leatherhead Road, Chessington, UK

Chessington Zoo was founded in 1931 in the grounds of a mansion of considerable history, which can be traced back to 1348. The estate was acquired by entrepreneur Reginald Goddard, a Flight Lieutenant from the Great War, who needed a place to house his exotic animal collection. The Zoo at Chessington has developed into an … Read more

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Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo, Plymouth, UK

Dartmoor Zoo is set within 33 acres of beautiful parkland just 20 mins from Plymouth, with an impressive collection of big cats, bear, wolves, meerkats, tapir and much more. The Chief Executive Officer Benjamin Mee wrote a book about buying the zoo called, We Bought a Zoo, which later became the subject of a major Hollywood … Read more

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Longleat

Longleat Safari & Adventure Park, Warminster, United Kingdom

In 1966, Longleat became the first location outside Africa to open a drive-through Safari. Over 50 years on, Longleat remains one of the UK’s leading tourist attractions. Boasting animals, Elizabethan architecture, 900 acres of parkland, and easy access from the A350, A36 and A361 Longleat truly is the perfect choice for a day out. A trip to Longleat affords you the chance to … Read more

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Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre

Monkey World - Ape Rescue Centre, Longthorns, Wareham, UK

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre Monkey World, the internationally-acclaimed ape rescue centre, is home to over 250 rescued and endangered monkeys and apes. Opened in 1987 to provide abused Spanish beach chimpanzees with a permanent home, 30 years on the site is now a sanctuary for primates from all over the world including the … Read more

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Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens

Kirkley Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens is part of Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall Campus and was set up as an educational training facility for the college’s Animal Care students, as well as becoming a tourist attraction on weekends and school holidays.

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Ventura Wildlife Park

Ventura Wildlife's Zoological Gardens, Pepper Hill, Ware, United Kingdom

Ventura Wildlife’s Zoological Gardens is one of the UK’s newest and most interactive small zoos. Currently set within approximately two acres of Hertfordshire countryside this unique zoo offers visitors of all ages and abilities the chance to get up close to a variety of wild animals. The zoo is home to many animal species including zebras, … Read more

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Tilgate Park and Nature Centre

Tilgate Nature Centre, Crawley, United Kingdom

Tilgate Park and Nature Centre is run by Crawley Borough Council and has a variety of animals including many exotic, rare and endangered species; conservation is at the forefront of the attraction’s ethos. The centre participates in international breeding programmes with a number of animals including bald ibis, Asian short-clawed otters and Utila’s spiny-tailed iguana. It has also been … Read more

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Barleylands Farm Park

Barleylands Craft Village & Farm Park, Barleylands Road, Billericay, United Kingdom

Full of free range family fun, there’s so much to do at Barleylands Farm in Essex, whatever the weather. Say hello to farmyard friends big and small, meet birds of prey, visit the South East’s largest display collection of reptiles, run wild in the indoor play area, jump aboard the tractor and trailer ride, and join … Read more

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Trentham Monkey Forest

Trentham Monkey Forest, Swynnerton, Tittensor, United Kingdom

Trentham Monkey Forest, situated in Staffordshire, is completely unique to the UK. With 140 Barbary macaques living freely within the beautiful 60 acre woodland. Walk amongst the monkeys along the ¾ of a mile pathway and watch as the monkey antics unfold right in front of you. With no cages or bars to hinder your … Read more

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Gauntlet Bird of Prey, Eagle and Vulture Park

Gauntlet Birds Of Prey, Manchester Road, Knutsford, United Kingdom

Gauntlet Bird of Prey Eagle and Vulture Park is home to over 120 birds of prey from 46 species, ranging from the smallest owls to the world’s largest eagles, making it the largest collection of its kind in the north west. There are also unusual species such as caracaras, seriemas and storks on display. Regular … Read more

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The Raptor Foundation

Raptor Foundation, Woodhurst PE28 3BT, United Kingdom

The Raptor Foundation in Woodhurst, Cambridgeshire provides a rescue and rehabilitation service for injured birds of prey. It is also a permanent home to over 200 birds, ranging from owls to eagles. Visitors can enjoy close interaction with the birds at one of three daily flying displays, and with 40 different birds on the flying … Read more

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World of Owls

World of Owls, Mount Shalgus Lane, Randalstown, United Kingdom

Get up close to fabulous birds of prey at this great conservation and education centre situated on the edge of Loch Neagh in County Antrim in Northern Ireland. The sanctuary is run voluntarily by staff, so all proceeds from entry  fees go towards the care and conservation of owls from around the world. There are … Read more

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Blithbury Reindeer Lodge

Blithbury Reindeer Lodge, Uttoxeter Road, Blithbury, United Kingdom

Over 150 Reindeer roam freely across our beautiful 30-acre site, which opens to the public for special events throughout the year. We are the only place in the country where visitors can see, fuss and even feed so many Reindeer of varying ages and types; from babies and young calves, to sleigh-pullers and our incredibly … Read more

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Porfell Wildlife Park & Sanctuary

Porfell Wildlife Park & Sanctuary, Liskeard, United Kingdom

Porfell Wildlife Park is a wild family attraction only a few miles from Looe in South East Cornwall. It offers sanctuary to more than 250 animals from around the world. They might be neglected, injured, imported illegally or simply no longer wanted. For whatever reason they come to us, they’re always welcome.

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Five Sisters Zoo

Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder, United Kingdom

Five Sisters Zoo has over 160 different species of mammal, birds and reptiles. There are daily keeper talks, feeding and handling sessions and a large outdoor play & picnic area, the Five Sisters Zoo is a great day out for everyone all year round!

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The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre

Cairngorm Reindeer Centre, Aviemore, United Kingdom

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer found in the Cairngorm mountains in Scotland. These tame and friendly animals are a joy to all who come and see them. Reindeer are not just for Christmas. The centre in Glenmore is open from the February half-term holidays right through the year to early … Read more

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The Reindeer Centre

The Reindeer Centre, Bethersden, Ashford District, United Kingdom

The Reindeer Centre is the home of England’s original ‘Reindeer Grotto’. A few reindeer were imported from Sweden about 14 years ago and they now have in excess of 100 reindeer thanks to their successful breeding programme. The reindeers are English bred and farm reared (some by hand), making them extremely tame and are perfect … Read more

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Lake District Wildlife Park

Lake District Wildlife Park, Keswick, United Kingdom

Wander around our beautiful 24 acre parkland and see over 100 species. The magical Bird of Prey flying displays have been a regular feature since the park opened and we have gathered an eclectic mix of over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra.

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Shepreth Wildlife Park

Shepreth SG8 6PZ, United Kingdom

See animals such as tigers, otters, meerkats, ponies, monkeys and bats. Meet the keepers in Bug City for a really hands on experience, see birds of prey flown, feed the fish and get to see the tigers up close from the high level viewing area. Visit the Discovery Centre to learn more about wildlife and … Read more

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WWT London Wetland Centre

WWT London Wetland Centre, Queen Elizabeth Walk, London, United Kingdom

WWT London Wetland Centre was voted the UK’s Favourite Nature Reserve 2012 by Countryfile magazine. Roam the beautiful walkways amongst the lakes and pools of this 105 acre wildlife haven, perfect for spotting birds and other wildlife. World Wetlands is home to rare birds from around the globe plus a family of otters. Watch wild … Read more

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Chestnut Centre – Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park

Chestnut Centre Otter, Owl & Wildlife, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak District, United Kingdom

The Chestnut Centre is an enjoyable day out, strolling through 50 acres of unspoilt Derbyshire countryside. Encountering four species of otters, over 10 species of deer, foxes, Scottish wildcats, pinemarten and others. The Nature Trail is a natural environment for wildflowers throughout the changing seasons.

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British Wildlife Centre

British Wildlife Centre, Eastbourne Road, Newchapel, United Kingdom

This superb wildlife centre is home to the finest collection of native species in the country and you will see and learn about Britain’s own wonderful wildlife. They have over 40 different species of animals and birds from the smallest harvest mice to red deer, snowy owls and buzzards. Visit the cheeky otters, Scottish wildcats … Read more

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The Deep

The Deep, Tower Street, Hull, United Kingdom

Home to a whopping 3,500 fish including Europe’s only pair of green sawfish, spectacular sharks and rays. The Deep is an environmental and conservation charity dedicated to increasing the knowledge and understanding of the world’s oceans, journeying from the birth of the oceans into the future.

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SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth

SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, United Kingdom

At SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth you can see awesome Sharks, cheeky Penguins, creepy Crocodiles and much more – from the rescued to the rare and the enigmatic. And can get closer than ever before. Many of their creatures are on the endangered list, which have been rescued and cannot be released into the wild, or … Read more

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Bristol Aquarium

Bristol Aquarium, Anchor Road, Bristol, United Kingdom

Open daily, Bristol Aquarium is a must see attraction for all the family. Explore the amazon, UK native waters, coral seas and discover over 4,000 aquatic creatures including sharks, stingrays, piranhas, seahorses and clownfish.

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Scottish SEA LIFE Sanctuary

The Scottish SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Oban, United Kingdom

Journey through over 50 marine displays and get up close to majestic sharks, graceful rays and enchanting seahorses. Meet our adorable seals and hear the touching stories behind their rescues or visit our playful otters, Isla and Lewis. Look out for rare red squirrels and other local wildlife as you explore our Nutkins Nature Trail … Read more

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Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary

SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Hunstanton, United Kingdom

Hunstanton SEA LIFE Sanctuary is a state-of-the-art marine aquarium taking visitors on a memorable undersea odyssey filled with amazing close encounters with sea creatures of astonishing variety. Dive in and be wowed by the many strange, beautiful and fascinating creatures of the deep. Combining a spectacular indoor aquarium with a seal hospital and rescue centre, … Read more

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Africa Alive!

Africa Alive, White's Lane, Lowestoft, United Kingdom

Africa Alive! is an award winning animal park in Kessingland where you can experience the sights and sounds of Africa up close. On your visit you’ll see some of the planet’s rarest and most beautiful animals including lions, cheetahs, rhinos, fennec foxes and many more.

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Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary

Scarborough SEA LIFE Sanctuary, Scarborough, United Kingdom

Located on the North Bay of the main headland, within 3 iconic triangular buildings, SEA LIFE Scarborough offers a unique mix of indoor and outdoor exhibits and over 50 displays of marine life including seals, otters and penguins. Enjoy SEA LIFE Europe’s only penguin walkthrough feature, our hands-on rockpool experience and learn some amazing facts … Read more

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SEA LIFE Manchester

Sealife Manchester, Barton Dock Road, Manchester, United Kingdom

Are you a Shark lover or Seahorse fanatic? Perhaps it’s the graceful rays or the clever Octopus that you love the most. Maybe you simply can’t decide! At SEA LIFE Manchester you can make up your mind and see them all – from the curious and the rescued to the rare and the enigmatic. And … Read more

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Banham Zoo

Banham Zoo, Banham, Breckland District, United Kingdom

Banham Zoo is an award winning family attraction and one of the most exciting wildlife attractions in the country with over 2,000 animals from around the world. Throughout the day there are plenty of activities to thrill and entertain families, including daily animal feeding talks and displays, one of the largest ‘Birds of Prey’ displays … Read more

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SEA LIFE Blackpool

SEA LIFE Blackpool, Promenade, Blackpool, United Kingdom

Showcasing more than 50 dazzling displays and more than 2,000 spectacular aquatic creatures including tropical sharks, colourful reef fish, octopus, rays and sea horses, SEA LIFE Blackpool is the perfect way to experience the wonders of underwater life without getting wet!

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Dudley Zoo

Dudley Zoological Gardens, Castle Hill, Dudley, United Kingdom

Dudley Zoo is much more than a zoo; hundreds of exotic and endangered animals inhabit an ancient wooded hillside, with a rich geological history, around the ruins of the 11th century Dudley Castle and share a site with the world’s largest single collection of Modernist Tecton structures – and the country’s only vintage chairlift!

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Linton Zoo

Linton Zoological Gardens, Hadstock Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom

Linton Zoo has lots to see including Lion, Tigers, Snow Leopards, Tapir, Zebras, Red Kangaroo, Binturong, Owls, Toucans, Storks, Hornbills, Lemurs, Parrots, Giant Tortoises, Spiders and many others set in 18 acres of spectacular gardens; many featuring aviaries landscaped with rockeries and waterfalls. Linton Zoo also has a play area, keeper talks, animal feeds and … Read more

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Isle of Wight Zoo

Isle Of Wight Zoo, Sandown, United Kingdom

The Isle of Wight Zoo is a family-run zoo with a special interest in big cats and Madagascan animals. The zoo was built within the ruins of a Victorian Fort built to guard Sandown’s coast, which means they face one of Isle of Wight’s nicest beaches.

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Exmoor Zoo

Exmoor Zoo, Barnstaple, United Kingdom

Enjoy a day out in North Devon experiencing wildlife from around the world by visiting Exmoor Zoo! From the creepy crawlies of the Amazon to the wobbly wallaby joeys of Australia there are plenty of hands on activities with our animals for you to take part in.

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Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo

Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, Begelly, United Kingdom

With over 50 different species amounting to more than 250 animals, Folly Farm Zoo in Wales is a whole day out in its own right. Folly Farm is an essential destination for any age group and they have been awarded ‘top paid-for attraction in Wales’ and ‘Best family day out in Wales’ for two years … Read more

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Macduff Marine Aquarium

Macduff Marine Aquarium, High Shore, Macduff, United Kingdom

Situated on Aberdeenshire’s scenic coast in the traditional fishing town of Macduff, Macduff Marine Aquarium features marine life from the Moray Firth, Scotland’s largest bay, in a variety of exciting and innovative exhibits. Visitors come face to face with hundreds of native fish and invertebrates normally only seen by SCUBA divers who brave the chilly … Read more

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Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, United Kingdom

As you step inside Colchester Zoo you are transported into a world full of magnificent animals waiting to be discovered. Learn about the animals as you see them up close and why not watch one of many daily displays. You even get the opportunity to feed the elephants and giraffes yourself and take a ride … Read more

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SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium

Loch Lomond Aquarium, Balloch, United Kingdom

SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium is just 30 minutes from Glasgow, situated on the stunning Loch Lomond Shores. Explore an amazing underwater world and take a fascinating journey from the Loch Lomond shores to the ocean depths through 7 themed zones, including our Tropical Ocean Tunnel. Get up close to over 1500 creatures, including Scotland’s … Read more

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Oceanarium Bournemouth

Oceanarium, The Bournemouth Aquarium, Bournemouth, United Kingdom

The award-winning Oceanarium, Bournemouth takes you on a spectacular underwater adventure. Come face to face with stunning sharks, curious rare green sea turtles and brightly coloured clownfish, to menacing piranhas, venomous lionfish and the weirdly wonderful octopus – they are all waiting to be discovered! With feeding demonstrations, the world’s first interactive dive cage, touch … Read more

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SEA LIFE Brighton

SEA LIFE Brighton, Marine Parade, Brighton, United Kingdom

Let us take you on a fascinating journey through the original Victorian architecture of the oldest operating aquarium in the world from the coastline to the depths of the ocean. Discover a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. Every step will reveal something new, from a face to face encounter … Read more

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Twycross Zoo

Twycross Zoo, Burton Road, Atherstone, United Kingdom

Set in more than 80-acres, Twycross Zoo have around 500 animals of almost 150 species to see, including many endangered animals and native species in the Zoo’s Nature Reserve. Twycross Zoo was founded in 1963 and is now renowned as a World Primate Centre and has a wide variety of monkeys and apes including the … Read more

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Amazonia

M&D's, Motherwell, United Kingdom

Amazonia, Scotland’s indoor rainforest, is a unique place for children to come and learn about more than 70 different species. Themed on the Amazon rainforest in South America, you can see monkeys, parrots, snakes, frogs, tarantulas, butterflies and more at the attraction. A nocturnal area features bats, kinkajou, snakes, frogs and fish. Situated at M & D’s … Read more

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Kielder Water and Forest Park

Kielder Water & Forest Park, United Kingdom

Kielder Water and Forest Park, which was awarded England’s Best Tourism Experience 2013, lies within Northumberland National Park and stretches for 250 square miles. You’ll find some real treats here, including the opportunity to observe ospreys in the wild. This rare bird of prey returned to Kielder in 2009 for the first time in two centuries … Read more

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BRAND NEW! Green Dragon Rare Breeds Farm & Eco Centre

Green Dragon Rare Breeds Farm & Eco Centre, Aylesbury Vale District, United Kingdom

The Green Dragon Rare Breeds Farm & Eco Centre is a new animal attraction in Buckinghamshire that opened in March 2015. Visitors to the farm can bottle-feed new born lambs and meet goats Tom, Dick and Harry, dexter cattle and calves, chickens, and two female Oxford Sandy & Blacks piglets (called gilts). These are a rare traditional breed … Read more

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Kent Life Heritage Farm Park

Kent Life, Lock Lane, Sandling, Maidstone, United Kingdom

As well as being a year-round family attraction, award-winning Kent Life Heritage Farm Park, near Maidstone, is also a real working farm where farm animals are showcased and bred. Kent Life’s free-range livestock include sheep, cattle, pigs, horses, donkeys, goats, poultry, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, ducks, geese and, most recently, alpacas – all housed in historic outhouse barns. Wherever … Read more

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The Stratford Butterfly Farm

Stratford Butterfly Farm, Swans Nest, Stratford-upon-Avon, United Kingdom

Firmly positioned as Britain’s largest and most successful butterfly farm, the Stratford Butterfly Farm attracts over 100,000 visitors each year. Set in a large tropical greenhouse, landscaped with waterfalls, ponds and tropical plants, visitors can see thousands of exotic butterflies from all over the world fly within the greenhouse.  To avoid the butterflies landing on visitors and … Read more

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Scottish Seabird Centre

Scottish Seabird Centre, North Berwick, United Kingdom

The Scottish Seabird Centre is an independent visitor attraction, conservation and education charity, dedicated to inspiring people to enjoy, learn about and look after our wildlife and natural environment. In addition to its role as a visitor attraction and environmental education charity, the Scottish Seabird Centre is a campaigning charity which focuses on the conservation … Read more

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International Centre for Birds of Prey

Boulsdon House, Newent, Gloucesterhire, GL18 1JJ

Achieving charitable status in January 2015, the International Centre for Birds of Prey offers a wonderful day out for any age! Get close to the birds for spectacular photographic opportunities, watch eagles soar, falcons stoop, owls amuse, and hawks and vultures entertain. There are daily flying demonstrations – whatever the weather – during which the passionate staff will … Read more

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Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre

Tropical Butterfly House Wildlife And Falconry Centre, Woodsetts Road, North Anston, United Kingdom

The Tropical Butterfly House is open daily and is located just five minutes from the M1, junction 31. Encounter the exotic and discover a wild family day out. Meet meerkats, owls, snakes and other amazing animals during unforgettable Animal Encounters throughout the day. Free-flying bird displays take place daily, featuring spectacular birds of prey, parrots and … Read more

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Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre

Monkey World, Wareham, United Kingdom

If you’re looking for a fun-filled, fascinating, family day out, Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre in Dorset is the place to go. Home to the stars of TV’s Monkey Business and Monkey Life, the park provides sanctuary for over 250 rescued and endangered primates of more than 20 different species from around the world. … Read more

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Berlin Zoological Garden

Berlin Zoologischer Garten, Charlottenburg, Germany

The Berlin Zoological Garden is the oldest and best known zoo in Germany. Opened in 1844 it covers 34 hectares (84 acres) and is located in Berlin’s Tiergarten. With about 1,500 different species and almost 20,500 animals the zoo presents the most comprehensive collection of species in the world.

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Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, United Kingdom

The eccentric millionaire Herbert Whitley founded Paignton Zoo in Devon in 1923 and today it is one of the UK’s leading zoos, an important conservation charity and a great family day out. Thousands of animals are housed in a range of different global habitats, from desert to rainforest, all set in an 80-acre park.

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Marwell Wildlife

Marwell Wildlife, Owslebury, United Kingdom

The zoo near Winchester opened in 1972, with conservation very much at its heart. It is set within the environs of Marwell Hall, which was built in the early 14th century (around 1320) by Walter Woodlock, a relative of the Bishop of Winchester and subsequently owned by the Seymour family.

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Whipsnade Zoo

Whipsnade Zoo, Whipsnade, Dunstable, United Kingdom

The Zoological Society of London runs ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire. Set in over 600 acres of parkland, the zoo has over 2,500 animals including lions, tigers, elephants, hippos and giraffe in huge outdoor enclosures.

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Yorkshire Wildlife Park

Yorkshire Wildlife Park - Home of the Yorkshire Wildlife Park Foundation, Branton, United Kingdom

The 70-acre Yorkshire Wildlife Park near Doncaster is the UK’s fastest growing attraction, and is constantly adding new experiences for visitors. For 2014, the first polar bear in England will arrive to live in a 10-acre reserve divided into four sections, featuring landscaped hills, valleys and a main lake with streams, pools and waterfalls.

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Woburn Safari Park

Woburn Safari Park, Crawley Road, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom

Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire has over 80 species of wild animal roaming across 300 acres. The park has a long history of species conservation, and was established by the 13th Duke of Bedford in the grounds of Woburn Abbey, opening in 1970.

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Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park

Weymouth Sea Life Tower, Weymouth, United Kingdom

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park opened in 1983 with six tank buildings aiming to present and educate visitors about local marine conservation. Since then, the park has tripled in size and now houses over 1,000 marine creatures from penguins, seals, otters, sharks and crocodiles.

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West Midland Safari & Leisure Park

West Midland Safari & Leisure Park, Bewdley, United Kingdom

The origins of West Midland Safari & Leisure Park can be traced back to the 18th century and Spring Grove House, which still stands at the attraction, but the estate first opened as the safari park in 1973. The park boasts 1,700 animal encounters along with some great family fun rides and attractions, all set in 200 acres of leafy Worcestershire.

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Welsh Mountain Zoo

Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay, United Kingdom

The National Zoological Society of Wales runs the Welsh Mountain Zoo – the National Zoo of Wales in Conwy, North Wales. Amongst the society’s successful research projects has been an investigation into the possibility of the captive breeding and release of red squirrels as an aid to the species’ survival in the British Isles.

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The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham

National Sea Life Centre, Brindley Place, Birmingham, United Kingdom

The Penguin Ice Adventure at the National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham features 12 Gentoo penguins. The birds are classified as near-threatened on the IUCN Red List, and have been bred together at the SEA LIFE Centre Melbourne as part of the Breed, Rescue, Protect programme.

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Seaview Wildlife Encounter

Seaview Wildlife Encounter, Oakhill Road, Seaview, United Kingdom

Seaview Wildlife Encounter on the Isle of Wight is the only attraction on the island offering one-on-one Penguin and Meerkat Encounters. Found on the north east coast of the island, on the outskirts of the yachting village of Seaview, it is a hidden gem.

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SeaQuarium Weston-Super-Mare

Seaquarium, Marine Parade, Weston-super-Mare, United Kingdom

In 2001, West Midland Safari and Leisure Park purchased two ex-Sea Life Centres to diversify the business following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth. Renamed Seaquarium, both sites occupy coastal positions, one at Rhyl, North Wales, the other at Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset.

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SeaQuarium Rhyl

Seaquarium, East Parade, Rhyl, United Kingdom

In 2001, West Midland Safari and Leisure Park purchased two ex-Sea Life Centres to diversify the business following the outbreak of Foot and Mouth. Renamed Seaquarium, both sites occupy coastal positions, one at Rhyl, North Wales, the other at Weston-Super-Mare, North Somerset.

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SEA LIFE London Aquarium

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Westminster Bridge Road, London, United Kingdom

SEA LIFE London Aquarium, within the County Hall building on the South Bank, boasts over 500 species from across the globe in two million litres of water.

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Port Lympne Reserve

Port Lympne, Wild Animal Park (N-bound), Lympne, United Kingdom

In Kent, Port Lympne Wild Animal Park is popular with visitors, and is run by the Aspinall Foundation along with Howletts Wild Animal Park. John Aspinall purchased Port Lympne in 1973 to support his growing animal collection, with it opening to the public in 1976.

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Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, Wraxall and Failand, United Kingdom

Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm near Bristol was developed in 1998 from a dairy farm by Anthony Bush, who was a tenant dairy farmer. Amongst its many animals are white rhinos, giraffe, tigers and African lions, and primates including Siamang gibbons and ring-tailed lemurs.

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New Forest Wildlife Park

New Forest Wildlife Park, Marchwood, United Kingdom

New Forest Wildlife Park in Hampshire is owned by Carol and Roger Heap, who are dedicated to wildlife conservation. The park is home to many native or adoptive species, including Eurasian, Asian short-clawed and North American river otters and the endangered giant otter.

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Nausicaa

Nausicaá, Boulevard Sainte-Beuve, Boulogne-sur-Mer, France

NAUSICAA is the French National Sea Life Centre in the coastal town of Boulogne-sur-Mer. There are 36,000 animals from 1,000 different species living at NAUSICAA. It is a member of the World Ocean Network and recently opened a new exhibition, At Sea On Board the Thalassa.

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National Marine Aquarium

National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth, United Kingdom

The National Marine Aquarium is a charity dedicated to conservation, research and education. Its mission is to drive marine conservation through engagement. It is committed to conserving the marine environment and encouraging others to do the same.

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Manor House Wildlife Park

Saint Florence SA70 8RJ, United Kingdom

Anna’s Welsh Zoo was created when designer Anna Ryder Richardson and her husband Colin bought Manor House Wildlife Park in West Wales in 2008. A faded attraction, it required serious investment to improve the conditions for the animals and the park has since been transformed into a modern zoo set in 52 acres of Pembrokeshire parkland.

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Living Coasts

Living Coasts, Beacon Hill, Torquay, United Kingdom

Living Coasts in Torquay, run by the Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust, is the best in Europe for breeding a number of key species including African penguins, blue spotted stingrays and Inca terns, for which the attraction manages the European studbook.

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Knowsley Safari Park

Knowsley Safari Park, Prescot, United Kingdom

Knowsley Safari Park in Merseyside is situated around Knowsley Hall on the ancestral estate of the Earl of Derby. Edward Stanley, the 18th Earl opened the park to the public in 1971 and it now offers over 700 animals from peacocks to elephants and white rhino.

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Howletts Wild Animal Park

Howletts Wild Animal Park, Bridge, United Kingdom

John Aspinall purchased Howletts in 1957 to support his growing animal collection, with Howletts opening to the public in 1975. Aspinall ultimately believed that animals belonged in the wild and endeavoured to return them to safe areas where possible.

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Highland Wildlife Park

Highland Wildlife Park, Kincraig, United Kingdom

At the Highland Wildlife Park visitors can discover animals native to Scotland as well as endangered species from the world’s mountains and tundra in a spectacular setting. Based in the Cairngorms National Park, the park is home over 200 animals from red pandas to grey wolves and the UK’s only polar bear.

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Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo, Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Zoo is owned by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which was founded in 1909, with the zoo opening in 1913. Set in 82 acres, over 1,000 rare and endangered animals are looked after here.

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Durrell Wildlife Park

Durrell Wildlife Park, Trinity, Jersey

On the Channel Island of Jersey, the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust was founded by author and naturalist Gerald Durrell in 1963. Durrell was at the forefront of introducing the role of conservation to zoos in the UK.

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Drusillas Park

Drusillas Park, Alfriston Road, Alfriston, United Kingdom

Drusillas Park near Alfriston in East Sussex is a family-run business, founded in 1922 when the late Captain Ann bought a derelict farm and 20 acres of land and opened a tea room, named after his first wife, Drusilla, adding attractions and animals to help boost trade.

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Drayton Manor Zoo

Drayton Manor Zoo, Tamworth, United Kingdom

A much loved part of Drayton Manor Theme Park in Staffordshire, Drayton Manor Zoo has over 100 different species of animal. Originally started in 1957 to provide an educational aspect to trips by visiting school children, the zoo now covers 15 acres and is home to endangered species such as a pair of black leopards.

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Curraghs Wildlife Park

Curraghs Wildlife park, United Kingdom

Curraghs Wildlife Park on the Isle of Man was opened in 1965 and has over 50 acres; 26 acres with large open walk-through enclosures, some smaller constructed enclosures, play areas, a cafe and a shop. The rest of the park is a nature reserve with a wooden walkway.

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Cotswold Birdland Park & Garden

Birdland Park and Gardens, Rissington Road, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cotswold, United Kingdom

At Birdland in the Cotswolds a host of bird life is on display such as flamingos, pelicans, cranes, storks, cassowary and waterfowl in the riverside habitat with parrots, owls, pheasants, hornbills, touracos and many more inhabiting over 50 aviaries.

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Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park

Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park, Combe Martin, United Kingdom

The privately-owned Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is based around Higher Leigh Manor, a Victorian estate in North Devon. it is one of only two places in the UK that has white Hudson Bay wolves on public display.

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Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, United Kingdom

Chester Zoo is one of the top 15 zoos in the world. It was opened in 1931 by George Mottershead after he bought Oakfield Manor and seven acres of land for £3,500. With him, he brought a group of animals from a zoo at Shavington near Crewe – the first animals of Chester Zoo.

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Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol, United Kingdom

First opened nearly 180 years ago, Bristol Zoo Gardens is first and foremost a conservation charity, protecting species both in the UK and across the globe. It allows visitors to learn more about animals in the wild – especially endangered ones.

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Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth

Blue Reef Aquarium, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom

Over 40 living displays reveal the variety of life in the deep at Blue Reef Aquarium Tynemouth. A range of creatures are on view including stingrays, tropical sharks, otters, frogs and seahorses.

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Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth

Blue Reef Aquarium, Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, United Kingdom

Blue Reef Aquarium Portsmouth can be found on Clarence Esplanade in Southsea. At the aquarium’s heart is the giant ocean tank where an underwater tunnel offers close encounters with puffer fish, triggerfish and hundreds of vibrant tropical fish amind a recreated coral reef.

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Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay

Blue Reef Aquarium, Towan Promenade, Newquay, United Kingdom

At Blue Reef Aquarium Newquay, over 40 living displays reveal the sheer variety of life in the deep; from tropical sharks and lobsters to seahorses and tropical fish.

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Blue Planet Aquarium

Blue Planet Aquarium, Longlooms Road, Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom

Opened in Cheshire in 1998, Blue Planet Aquarium is part of the new generation of wildlife attractions that aim to inspire a deeper understanding of the aquatic world by taking visitors on a fascinating journey of discovery.

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London Zoo

London Zoo, London, United Kingdom

One of the UK’s flagship attractions, ZSL London Zoo, is run by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Founded in 1826, the society’s mission is to promote and achieve the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.

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Cotswold Wildlife Park

Cotswold WildLife Park, Burford, United Kingdom

Cotswold Wildlife Park in Oxfordshire was the brainchild of John Heyworth, who in 1969, transformed the overgrown Bradwell Grove Estate into a wildlife park, which has seen over 12 million visitors since it officially opened in 1970.

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Blair Drummond Safari Park

Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, Stirling, United Kingdom

Opened in 1970 and still in the family, Blair Drummond Safari Park in Stirling in Scotland was created by Sir John Muir and Jimmy Chipperfield and built on Sir John Muir’s estate.

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Blackpool Zoo

Blackpool Zoo, Blackpool, United Kingdom

Blackpool Zoo won the Large Visitor Attraction award at the Lancashire Tourism Awards in 2013, proving its main focuses of education, conservation, recreation and research are working well.

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Belfast Zoological Gardens

Antrim Rd, Belfast, Antrim, BT36 7PN

Belfast Zoological Gardens is one of the oldest visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, and has been home to animals since 1934.

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Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings

Blue Reef Aquarium, Rock-A-Nore Road, Hastings, United Kingdom

Blue Reef Aquarium Hastings sits on the Old Town seafront in the East Sussex town and over 30 naturally themed habitats transport you from the shoreline of Hastings to the tropical waters of the deep ocean.

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Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo, Newquay, United Kingdom

As well as being a great family day out, Newquay Zoo is an education, research and conservation charity which is dedicated to protecting global wildlife heritage. We hope to inspire a life long respect for animals and the environment amongst our many visitors. Newquay Zoo was first opened in 1969, run by Restormel Council until 1994 when it was … Read more

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Wildfowl & Wetland Trust

Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, Slimbridge, Stroud District, United Kingdom

The Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust (WWT) was founded in 1946 by ornithologist and artist Sir Peter Scott, son of Scott of the Antarctic. Today, the trust manages nine visitor centres and reserves across Britain and is a world leader in the protection of ducks, geese, swans, flamingos and the wetlands they inhabit.

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