Whipsnade, Dunstable LU6 2LF
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
Whipsnade Zoo, formerly known as ZSL Whipsnade Zoo and Whipsnade Wild Animal Park, is a zoo and safari park located at Whipsnade, near Dunstable in Bedfordshire, England.
Location
About
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is a wildlife conservation park located in Whipsnade, England. Established in 1931, it is the largest zoo in the UK and one of the largest in Europe, covering an area of 600 acres. The zoo is run by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), a charity dedicated to the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats.
Visitors to ZSL Whipsnade Zoo can experience close encounters with a variety of species from around the world, including elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, and many others. The zoo is home to over 2,500 animals and offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages, including interactive shows, animal talks, and guided tours.
One of the standout features of the zoo is the "Into Africa" exhibit, where visitors can get an up-close look at African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and rhinos, and learn about the conservation efforts underway to protect these species. Another popular attraction is the "Butterfly House," which showcases the beauty and diversity of butterfly species from around the world.
In addition to providing visitors with a fun and educational day out, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo also plays an important role in wildlife conservation. The zoo is a member of the European Endangered Species Programme and participates in breeding programs for endangered species, including the Asian elephant and the black rhinoceros.
Visitors to the zoo can also learn about the ZSL's conservation efforts and how they can get involved by visiting the zoo's conservation center. Here, visitors can find out about the various projects that the zoo is involved in and how they can help support these initiatives.
In conclusion, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation. With its beautiful grounds, diverse animal collection, and educational exhibits, it offers a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages. By visiting the zoo, you can support the efforts of the Zoological Society of London to protect endangered species and their habitats for future generations to enjoy.
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Things to do nearby
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK, attracting visitors from all over the world. Located in Bedfordshire, just 40 miles north of London, this sprawling zoo is home to over 3,500 animals across 600 acres of beautiful countryside. While the zoo itself is undoubtedly the main attraction, there are plenty of other things to see and do in the surrounding area. Here are some of the best places and activities to enjoy nearby.
1. The Chiltern Hills
The Chiltern Hills are a beautiful range of hills that stretch from Bedfordshire to Oxfordshire. With stunning scenery, quaint villages and a variety of walking trails, this is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Chilterns Gateway Centre is located just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo and offers a range of information on the area as well as walking maps and guided tours.
2. Dunstable Downs
Dunstable Downs is an area of chalk hills and grassland, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The downs are also a popular destination for paragliders and hang gliders, and there is a visitor centre with a cafe and gift shop.
3. Whipsnade Tree Cathedral
Located just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, the Whipsnade Tree Cathedral is a beautiful and unique attraction. This stunning outdoor cathedral is made up of a series of trees, which have been planted in the shape of a traditional cathedral. It is a peaceful and tranquil place to visit and is open to the public all year round.
4. Stockwood Discovery Centre
The Stockwood Discovery Centre is a museum and art gallery located in Luton, just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The centre is home to a range of exhibits, including local history, archaeology, and geology. There is also a beautiful formal garden and a cafe on site.
5. Woburn Abbey
Woburn Abbey is a historic country house and estate located just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The house is open to the public and visitors can explore the stunning gardens, deer park and safari park. There is also a gift shop and restaurant on site.
6. Ashridge Estate
The Ashridge Estate is a National Trust property located just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The estate is home to over 5,000 acres of woodland, meadows and chalk downland, as well as a number of historic buildings and monuments. There are plenty of walking and cycling trails to explore, as well as a visitor centre with a cafe and gift shop.
7. Tring Museum
The Tring Museum is part of the Natural History Museum in London and is located in Tring, just a few miles from ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. The museum is home to over 4 million specimens, including birds, mammals and insects. There are also interactive exhibits, a gift shop and a cafe.
In conclusion, there are plenty of places and things to do nearby ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, making it the perfect destination for a day out or a weekend away. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, there is something for everyone in this beautiful part of the UK.
Opening Hours
| Tuesday | 10 am–5 pm |
|---|---|
| Wednesday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Thursday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Friday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Saturday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Sunday | 10 am–5 pm |
| Monday | 10 am–5 pm |