Nestled in the vibrant seaside town of Newquay, Newquay Zoo offers a fantastic day out for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to get closer to nature.
As Cornwall’s largest zoo, it’s home to an impressive collection of over 1,000 of the world’s rarest and most endangered animals, set within lush sub-tropical lakeside gardens.
Whether you’re passionate about conservation or simply love animals, Newquay Zoo provides an exciting and educational experience for all ages.
Discovering Newquay Zoo
Newquay Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation, education, and research, playing an active role in global breeding programmes for endangered species.
It offers an immersive journey through various habitats, from the African Savanna to the tropical rainforest, allowing visitors to see and learn about animals from around the world in settings that replicate their natural environments.
Highlights of the Zoo
African Savanna: Meet some of Africa’s most iconic species, including lions, zebras, and wildebeest.
Tropical House: Explore a steamy rainforest environment, home to exotic birds, sloths, and reptiles.
Penguin Pool: Enjoy the antics of the zoo’s playful group of Humboldt penguins during feeding time.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
Newquay Zoo is located in the heart of Newquay, making it easily accessible by car and public transport.
The zoo has a pay-and-display car park, and Newquay’s bus and train stations are just a short walk away.
Tickets and Opening Times
The zoo is open daily, except for Christmas Day, with opening hours varying by season.
It’s wise to check the official Newquay Zoo website for the most up-to-date information.
Booking tickets online in advance is recommended to take advantage of any discounts and to speed up entry on busy days.
Best Times to Visit
While the zoo is a year-round attraction, spring and summer offer the chance to see the animals at their most active, and the gardens in full bloom.
The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, including summer evening openings and Halloween-themed activities.
Maximising Your Experience
Daily Talks and Feeding Times: Don’t miss the scheduled talks and feeding times, which are a great opportunity to learn more about the animals from the zoo’s expert keepers.
Interactive Experiences: For an extra special visit, book one of the zoo’s animal experiences, which offer the chance to get up close and personal with some of your favourite animals under the guidance of a keeper.
Play Areas: The zoo also boasts excellent play areas for children, making it perfect for a family day out.
Tips for Your Visit
Wear Comfortable Shoes: With plenty to see, expect a fair amount of walking. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Check the Weather: Much of the zoo is outdoors, so dress appropriately for the weather, and don’t forget sunscreen on sunny days.
Conservation Support: Consider adopting an animal or making a donation to support the zoo’s conservation work. Every little helps in the fight to protect endangered species.
Nearby Attractions
Blue Reef Aquarium: Located on Newquay’s seafront, this aquarium offers an insight into marine life from Cornish waters and beyond.
Fistral Beach: Famous for its surfing, Fistral Beach is the perfect place to relax after a day at the zoo.
The Eden Project: A short drive from Newquay, the Eden Project is an unforgettable experience with its giant biomes housing plants from around the world.
Conclusion
Newquay Zoo offers a fascinating day out, blending the thrill of seeing exotic animals with the beauty of its botanical gardens.
It provides an engaging platform for learning about conservation and the natural world, making it an essential visit for anyone holidaying in Cornwall.
Whether you’re navigating the leafy pathways of the zoo, enjoying the antics of its animal inhabitants, or participating in an interactive experience, your visit to Newquay Zoo promises to be both fun-filled and enlightening.
