Marwell Zoo - gray rodent
1 / 10

Marwell Zoo

4.4
·10k reviews·Colden Common, United Kingdom

Explore 140 acres of wild adventure with hundreds of exotic animals, playgrounds, and magical light trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
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Marwell Zoo - gray rodent

Marwell Zoo

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more active animals

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore 140 acres of wild adventure with hundreds of exotic animals, playgrounds, and magical light trails.

4.4
(10k reviews)

"A great zoo with plenty of animals and areas for little ones to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The zoo is 140 acres on a hill. Prepare for lots of walking!

🚂 Ride the Mini-Train

A fun way to see more animals and save energy, especially for kids.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Majestic Giraffes

Majestic Giraffes

Giraffe House

Witness these gentle giants up close, including recent new arrivals. A truly awe-inspiring sight!

Playful Penguins

Playful Penguins

Penguin enclosure

Watch these charming birds dive and waddle. A perennial favorite for all ages!

Snow Leopard's Grace

Snow Leopard's Grace

Snow Leopard enclosure

Marvel at the elusive beauty of the snow leopard, often seen rolling in the sun.

TikTok
Tropical House Wonders

Tropical House Wonders

Tropical House

Explore a vibrant world of sloths, free-flying birds, and a 70,000-litre aquarium.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Prepare for a Wild Walk

Marwell Zoo spans 140 acres, so wear comfortable shoes! Many visitors mention the zoo is on a steep hill, so be ready for some inclines. Consider the mini-train to save little legs or cover more ground. Reddit+1

Check for Special Events

Marwell Zoo hosts seasonal events like the magical 'Glow Marwell' light trail, which has been a hit with families. Check their schedule before your visit for unique experiences beyond the animal encounters. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings (event dependent)
Why
Magical light trails
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Busy but lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We had the most amazing time at @marwellzooofficial Glowmarwell, the rain did not stop us having the most magical time ❤️
@sophiena_official
16.9K likes • 228.8K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The zoo is 140 acres on a hill. Prepare for lots of walking! Reddit+1

🚂 Ride the Mini-Train

A fun way to see more animals and save energy, especially for kids. InstagramReddit

We were very kindly invited by MarwellZoo to celebrate this years #GlowMarwell 🎄🎅🏼 honestly this was beyond magicial and i cannot believe how lucky we are to have been asked to come down, videos and pictures will just not do it justice is so pretty not just for children but the whole family 🥰 Thank you so much for having us ❤️ #gifted
@sophiena_official
4.2K likes • 64.7K views
Step into a wild adventure at @marwellzoo 🦓 Explore 140 acres of stunning parkland and get up close to hundreds of amazing animals, from majestic giraffes to playful meerkats and magnificent Amur tigers! 🐅🐒 Discover the incredible Energy for Life: Tropical House, home to sloths and free-flying birds, and be amazed by the 70,000-litre aquarium! Stroll through the wonderful Wallaby Walkthrough and ...
hantstopdaysout
245 likes • 9.6K views

🧺 Picnic Power!

Bring your own food; some visitors find food options limited. Reddit

✨ Check for Events

Look out for special light trails like Glow Marwell! TikTokInstagram

The secret’s out! 🦒⁠ ⁠ If you’ve visited Marwell over the last week, you may have noticed the giraffe house was closed and we’re thrilled to be able to announce why...⁠ ⁠ Learn more: Link in bio⁠ ⁠ Ruby, one of our female Rothschild’s giraffe, has given birth to a miraculous baby boy. After a challenging start, both Ruby and her little one are doing well thanks to our amazing Hoofstock and Veterin...
marwellzoo
2.9K likes • 45.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes

The zoo is 140 acres on a hill. Prepare for lots of walking! Reddit+1

🚂 Ride the Mini-Train

A fun way to see more animals and save energy, especially for kids. InstagramReddit

🧺 Picnic Power!

Bring your own food; some visitors find food options limited. Reddit

✨ Check for Events

Look out for special light trails like Glow Marwell! TikTokInstagram

👶 Free for Under 3s

Great value for families with very young children. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.4
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise Marwell Zoo for its spacious animal enclosures and the variety of species, with giraffes, penguins, and snow leopards being particular highlights. The zoo's family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and a mini-train, are well-received. However, some guests find the food options limited and the zoo's hilly terrain challenging for extensive walking.

"Went for my birthday as I love animals! The last time I went was when I was a young child. I Was really happy to see the penguins were still there, and I got to see the monkeys, snow leopard, lemurs and some beautiful birds. Sadly wasn't able to see the sloth or the tiger. Staff were very kind, and generally the place is accessibility friendly."

Mahesh Sharma

"lovely day out with the little one. thoroughly enjoyed.
lots of animals to see and lots of areas for the little one to explore.
some food bars with "normal" food would be nice. chips, hotdogs, burgers etc.
but bought own picnic so was ok."

Claire

"What a great Zoo as Zoos go. Animals have plenty of space in their enclosures with many of them being out to be seen.
The Lego feature currently on show is great with guess the mammoth bring much entertainment.
The little zoo tour on the overland train is worth doing.

Be prepared to walk a few steps and enjoy."

Jack Field

What People Like

Spacious animal enclosures
Variety of animals
Family-friendly facilities

What People Dislike

Limited food options
Hilly terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marwell Zoo is located in Hampshire. Visitors often drive, and there's free parking available. Instagram For those using public transport, you can take a train to Winchester or Southampton and then a bus or taxi to the zoo. Some visitors have found the zoo layout not very intuitive, so planning your route is recommended. Reddit

Yes, Marwell Zoo is generally considered accessibility friendly. Many reviewers note that the grounds are well-maintained, though be aware it's on a steep hill. Reddit+1

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Marwell Zoo website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.

Yes, Marwell Zoo offers free parking for visitors, which is a significant plus for those driving to the attraction. Instagram

Unfortunately, Marwell Zoo does not permit pets, with the exception of assistance dogs. This is to ensure the welfare of the resident animals.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but some visitors have found great deals, with adult tickets sometimes as low as £10. Instagram It's always recommended to book tickets online in advance, as this can sometimes offer better rates and guarantee entry, especially during peak times or special events.

Yes, Marwell Zoo offers free entry for children under 3 years old. Instagram Keep an eye on their website for potential seasonal offers or family packages. Booking in advance online is often the best way to secure the best prices.

While it's usually possible to purchase tickets at the gate, booking online in advance is highly recommended. This helps avoid disappointment, especially during busy periods, and can sometimes offer a better price.

Refund policies can vary depending on how and when you book. It's advisable to check the specific terms and conditions on the Marwell Zoo website or your booking confirmation for details on cancellations or changes.

During peak seasons or for special events, booking a timed entry slot might be required to manage visitor numbers. Always check the Marwell Zoo website for the latest requirements before your visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors rave about the giraffes, penguins, and snow leopards. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the playful meerkats and the fascinating Tropical House with sloths and birds. Instagram Many animals have ample space in their enclosures. Reddit

Yes, Marwell Zoo boasts five playgrounds, offering plenty of opportunities for kids to burn off energy and have fun. Instagram

Absolutely! Marwell Zoo has a mini-train that circles the park, which is a fantastic way to see more animals and rest your feet, especially for younger visitors. InstagramReddit

Glow Marwell is a popular after-dark event featuring a magical nature light trail with stunning displays and interactive experiences. It's been described as 'beyond magical' and is a hit for the whole family. TikTokInstagram+2

Given its 140-acre size, a full visit can take several hours. Many visitors recommend dedicating at least half a day, or even a full day, to explore thoroughly. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Marwell Zoo has catering facilities, including a restaurant. However, some visitors suggest bringing your own picnic as they'd prefer more 'normal' food options like chips and burgers. Reddit

While specific menus can change, most zoo restaurants offer a range of options. It's advisable to check the Marwell Zoo website or inquire upon arrival for the most current vegetarian and vegan choices.

Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great option, and many visitors do so to save money or cater to specific dietary needs. Reddit

Yes, there are cafes and snack bars located within the zoo grounds, offering refreshments and light bites throughout your visit.

Catering prices at Marwell Zoo are generally considered reasonable by visitors. Reddit Bringing a picnic can be a more budget-friendly alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The giraffe enclosure offers stunning opportunities, especially with the open landscape. The snow leopard enclosure, when the animal is visible, can also yield dramatic shots. TikTok The Tropical House provides lush backdrops for bird and sloth photography. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use at Marwell Zoo. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or staff instructions, especially regarding flash photography near sensitive animals.

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing clear shots of animals from a distance. A wider lens can be useful for landscape shots of the enclosures and the zoo grounds. Instagram

Yes, drone usage is typically prohibited at zoos and wildlife parks to avoid disturbing the animals and for safety reasons. Always check Marwell Zoo's official policy on drone usage.

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best natural light for photography, with softer shadows. This is also when animals are often most active. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marwell Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. With five playgrounds, there are ample opportunities for children to play and burn off energy. Instagram The mini-train is a huge hit with kids, offering a fun way to see the animals and rest little legs. InstagramReddit Many reviewers mention their children thoroughly enjoying the day, from seeing the penguins and meerkats to exploring the different animal enclosures. InstagramReddit Remember to bring snacks and drinks, or a picnic, as this can be a budget-friendly option for families. Reddit Plus, with free entry for under 3s, it's a great value outing. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Marwell Zoo can be a great value, especially if you plan ahead. Look out for online booking deals, as some visitors have snagged tickets for as low as £10 per adult. Instagram Bringing your own picnic is highly recommended to save on food costs, as on-site catering can add up. Reddit The free parking is also a significant saving for those driving. Instagram Consider visiting on a weekday morning to potentially avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience without the weekend premium.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Marwell Zoo offers diverse subjects. The open enclosures for giraffes and rhinos provide excellent opportunities for capturing animals in naturalistic settings. Instagram+1 A telephoto lens is a must for getting close-ups of species like the snow leopard TikTok or the various bird species in the Tropical House. Instagram Early morning or late afternoon light will yield the best results, with softer shadows and more active animals. Be patient, as some animals can be elusive, but the payoff is worth it when you capture that perfect shot.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Marwell Zoo Experience: More Than Just Animals

Marwell Zoo is not just about observing animals; it's an immersive experience spread across 140 acres of beautiful parkland. Visitors often highlight the spacious enclosures that allow animals like giraffes and rhinos plenty of room to roam, contributing to their well-being and providing excellent viewing opportunities. InstagramReddit Beyond the animal encounters, the zoo offers a variety of amenities to enhance your visit. There are five playgrounds scattered throughout the grounds, perfect for children to expend energy. Instagram The popular mini-train offers a charming way to navigate the expansive site, making it easier for families and those with mobility concerns to see more of the zoo. InstagramReddit

Marwell Zoo also hosts special events that transform the visitor experience. The 'Glow Marwell' event, for instance, turns the zoo into a magical wonderland after dark with a spectacular light trail featuring interactive displays. TikTokInstagram+2 This event has been a significant draw, with visitors describing it as 'utterly magical' and suitable for the whole family, even in chilly weather. Instagram+1 These events add a unique dimension to a typical zoo visit, offering something different throughout the year.

While the primary focus is on the incredible diversity of species, from majestic Amur tigers to characterful penguins, the zoo's layout and facilities are designed to make the day enjoyable. Instagram However, some guests have noted that the food options could be more varied, with a desire for more 'normal' food choices like burgers and hot dogs, leading some to opt for picnics. Reddit Despite this, the overall sentiment is positive, with staff often described as friendly and helpful, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Reddit+1

Navigating Marwell Zoo: Tips for a Smooth Visit

Planning your visit to Marwell Zoo is key to making the most of your day, especially considering its size and terrain. The zoo is situated on a fairly steep hill, meaning comfortable footwear is essential. Reddit Many visitors recommend wearing trainers or walking shoes to comfortably tackle the inclines and explore the 140 acres. Reddit To help manage the walking, especially for families with young children, the zoo operates a mini-train service. This is a popular option, allowing visitors to cover more ground and see a wider array of animals without excessive walking. InstagramReddit

When it comes to sustenance, while Marwell Zoo does offer catering facilities, some visitors have expressed a preference for more traditional 'pub grub' style food. Reddit Consequently, bringing your own picnic is a frequently suggested tip, allowing for flexibility and potentially saving costs. There are designated areas where you can enjoy your packed lunch. Reddit For those who prefer to purchase food on-site, the prices are generally considered reasonable. Reddit

Beyond the practicalities, Marwell Zoo offers a rich experience with its diverse animal collection. From the playful penguins and majestic giraffes to the elusive snow leopards, there's always something to capture your attention. TikTokInstagram The Tropical House, with its sloths and free-flying birds, is another highlight, offering a different kind of immersive environment. Instagram Remember to check the zoo's schedule for any special talks or feeding times, which can add an extra layer of engagement to your visit.

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