Newquay Zoo
Newquay, South West England
Set near Cornwall’s northern coast, Newquay Zoo offers a wildlife experience that’s perfect for families. Home to over 130 species, including red pandas, penguins, meerkats, and lemurs, the zoo blends conservation efforts with interactive exhibits. Visitors can spot colorful creatures in tropical habitats, attend talks, and watch feeding sessions too, making it a must for animal lovers exploring Cornwall.
The basics
Newquay Zoo consists of different themed zones, such as the Tropical House and the Penguin Pool, with most visitors spending 2–3 hours exploring all the habitats. Start at Lemur Island and follow the loop around to the African Savannah. Be sure to check the daily schedule for ranger talks and feeding sessions, and pick up a map to guide you through the enclosures, eventually leading back to the entrance.
Things to know before you go
- The zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some routes might have a steep incline that’s challenging for manual wheelchairs.
- There are five accessible parking spaces beside the zoo’s main entrance.
- Food outlets and a gift shop are on-site.
- All major credit and debit cards are accepted at the zoo, other than American Express.
- Please note that bikes, scooters, and skateboards can’t be brought into the zoo.
How to get there
Newquay Zoo is easy to find, located off the A3058 on Edgcumbe Avenue. From Newquay Train Station, it’s around a 4-minute drive or a 12-minute walk; by public transportation, it takes around 8 minutes. You can also take the #85 bus from the Great Western Hotel stop to Newquay Zoo. If you’re driving, lots of parking is available on-site.
When to get there
The zoo is typically open daily throughout the year, but there may be closures for public holidays and special events. It’s best to go on a weekday morning, as the weekends can be busiest, especially during July and August.
Where to eat at Newquay Zoo
A number of food options are available at the zoo. Café Lemur, open year-round, offers burgers, sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and children’s picnic boxes. In the summertime, Tippy’s Takeaway sells sandwiches, wraps, and ice cream, while Meerkat Munchies is the spot for frozen treats.
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