Key Highlights
- Twycross Zoo is a lesser-known gem just 30 minutes from Birmingham.
- The visit during February half-term was surprisingly manageable and enjoyable despite initial expectations of crowdedness.
- Highlights include the Gruffalo Discovery Land, which captivated both the author’s daughter and adults alike.
- Tickets start at £22.45 for adults and £16.45 for children under 12 with free admission for under-twos.
A Hidden Gem in Twycross, Birmingham
You might think this is new, but Twycross Zoo has been around long enough to merit a revisit after years of neglect. Located just 30 minutes from Birmingham, it’s a bit of a drive that feels like a day trip away. I visited with my little girl who had turned one year old, and we can’t wait to return.
Manageable Crowds and Abundant Wildlife
And with its close proximity to Birmingham (around a 30 minute drive give or take), I don’t know why I haven’t been back sooner. Now that my own little girl is here, I will most definitely be back more regularly. Visiting at the start of February half-term, I expected the zoo to be really busy, but we actually found the crowds quite manageable.
The Gruffalo Discovery Land
One of our favorite parts was the Gruffalo Discovery Land. You can journey into the deep, dark wood meeting interactive characters from the much-loved The Gruffalo story—currently a firm favourite in our house! As you walk round there’s plenty of interactive sections, as you meet Mouse, Fox, Owl, Snake and, of course, the Gruffalo.
Animal Encounters
We saw so many animals during our visit – gorillas, gibbons, chimpanzees, tigers, giraffes, leopards, zebras, penguins, birds, meerkats—you name it. The only animals we didn’t spot were the rhinos and flamingos, which were being kept indoors for safety.
Value for Money
Twycross Zoo is great value for money, there’s so much to see and do. It might become our new favourite family day out. Tickets start from £22.45 for adults and children’s tickets are £16.45 while under-twos are free. Day admission tickets also include free return visits for a whole 12 months.
Parking Costs
Parking costs only £3.50 per vehicle, but you can find out more and book tickets here. Twycross Zoo is located off Burton Road, in Atherstone, CV9 3PX.
