Whipsnade Zoo
Take the family to Whipsnade Zoo to see more than 2500 animals, from elephants and rhinos to creepie-crawlies, in one of Europe's largest wildlife conservation parks. Many of the amazing creatures from faraway lands are endangered in the wild.
Best for: All ages
Today
61°F
What to Expect:
- Advance tickets
- Cafe/Restaurant
- Educational
- Family tickets
- Farm animals
- Great for babies
- Great for kids 4-12
- Great for teens
- Great for toddlers
- Pay on day
- Picnic areas
- Special events
What to do
Visit some of the most popular animals in the park, including African lions, Asian elephants, Burmese pythons and chimpanzee.
Walk through the Lemurs exhibit trail, letting you get up close to the Madagascan creatures.
Take younger visitors for some petting at the Children’s Farm.
Check out the daily events schedule so as not to miss the likes of Howling with Wolves and Hungry Hippos.
Although you can bring your cars on-site, it’s best to leave them in the car-park (extra charge) and take advantage of the free Safari Bus.
Where to stay
If you’re staying in the capital, see our London destination guide for family-friendly hotels and other accommodation. Or you might choose to stay in Hertfordshire, in which case see our Weekend Breaks page.
Photos
How
Located in the Chiltern Hills, Bedfordshire, Whipsnade is 20 minutes off the M25 and well-signposted from all major routes, including the M25 and M1.
Trains from London St Pancras take approximately 30 minutes; the nearest stations are Luton and Hemel Hempstead , which are linked by bus to the zoo. Look out for special promotions such as 2-for-1 entry when travelling by public transport.
Find out more travel information and directions, see the website.
Eat
There are several food outlets in the park but also plenty of places to sit and eat a picnic.
Cost
Family Saver tickets for four cost in the region of £60 but can only be bought online in advance. Under-3s go free.
Family Holiday Finder
I want to go to....
On this type of family holiday
Explore Destinations
Accommodation choices
- from £279*
A great place to relax and toast marshmallows on warm summer evenings whilst the kids run free...More about New Barn Farm, North Bedfordshire Wolds*for a weekend stay (Fri-Mon) for up to 6 people (max 6 adults). Bed linen extra cost. - from £*
Scheduled to open in spring 2014 in Bedfordshire....More about Center Parcs Woburn Forest*
Special Offer
Free Boden Gift Voucher - up to £40
Book selected family holidays with us and receive a Boden gift voucher worth up to £40.
Find out more
