Twycross Zoo

Where: Atherstone, Warwickshire. CV9 3PX
Telephone: 01827 880250/880440

What's on offer:

This zoo opened in 1963 and occupies over 50 acres and set in open countryside. Its famous for its primate collection which ranges from tiny Pygmy Marmosets to the impressive silverback Western Lowland Gorillas. Twycross is the only UK zoo to house 'our closest relative' - the BoNobo and also takes part in many captive breeding programmes for endangered animals, about three quarters of the animals housed at Twycross are officially classed as endangered species.

This zoo is a charitable trust and receives no government funds and relies on money spent by its visitors to run and continue its work. Other attractions found at this zoo are Sea Lion and Penguin feeding, Pets' corner, zoo babies, animal talks, exhibitions, children's adventure playground, shops, cafeteria and picnic areas.

No dogs allowed in the zoo or the car park except guide dogs.

Opening Times:

From 10am everyday except Christmas, closing at 5.30 during the summer season and 4pm during the winter.

How to get there:

M5 (The North, Birmingham), leave at junction 4A to join M42, continue with M42 (signposted The North), then join M42 motorway, take middle lanes to junction 9, continue with M42 (The North, East M1, Tamworth), take right hand lane and continue along M42 and then leave at junction 11 (signposted Burton), at roundabout take 5th exit onto Atherstone Road - A444 (signposted Nuneaton) and then follow the brown signs for the zoo

Prices:

Adults £9; Child £5.50; Senior Citizens (65 and over) £6.50; Family Ticket £27 (two adults and 2 children (3 - 14 years). Special Needs - Adult £5; Child £4; Extra carer £5.