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. Henry VIII is said to have been a frequent visitor. Local legend likes us to believe that he and his third wife, Jane Seymour, were married here.
The original logo contains the scimitar-horned oryx, which became extinct in the wild and is part of the conservation work Marwell do to conserve species and habitats. This species is still resident today.
Amongst over 170 species are also ring-tailed coatis, endangered tigers and pygmy hippos across a 140-acre site.
A broad portfolio of conservation activities includes managing individuals and populations of threatened species, and the restoration of endangered wildlife and ecosystems. Marwell develops partnerships with like-minded organisations to implement its conservation and scientific work both in the UK and internationally, and work with local communities to find sustainable ways of living alongside wildlife.
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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.
Wildlife you might see at Marwell Wildlife
Amur Tiger
Known to travel up to 1,000 km (620 mi), they inhabit mainly the Sikhote Alin mountain region with a small…
Arabian Oryx
A medium-sized antelope with long, straight horns, and a tufted tail. Extinct in the wild by the early 1970s, but…
Giraffe
A large African mammal with a very long neck and forelegs, having a coat patterned with brown patches separated by…
Grevy’s Zebra
It is the largest and most endangered of the three species of zebra. Found in Kenya and Ethiopia, it is…
Pygmy Hippo
It is a small hippopotamid, half the size of the common hippopotamus, native to the forests and swamps of West…
Ring-tailed Lemur
Endemic to the island of Madagascar and highly recognised for its long, black and white ringed tail. Despite being the…
Ring-tailed Coatis
Found widespread in tropical and subtropical South America. Its colour is variable and has distinctive rings on its tail. They…
Scimitar-horned Oryx
Now extinct in the world, they are bred in captivity in reserves in Tunisia, Morocco and Senegal. Distinguished for their…
White Rhino
The largest and most numerous species of two-horned African rhinoceros. Has a broad, straight mouth and the widest set nostrils…
Family and group offers at Marwell Wildlife
Families
Discounted rates for family day tickets – all our guests share the same benefits!
Groups
Group rates are available and are up to 20% off full prices.
1 adult goes free for every 12 places booked.
Familiarisation visits can be booked at no cost for group organisers.
Parking, lunch and admission is free for coach drivers bringing groups.