Event type
Early opening
Event status
Open
Dates
19 May
14 July
20 October
14 July
20 October
Duration
1h
Location
Whipsnade Zoo
Price
Gold members, Fellows and Patrons only
This year, we’re inviting our Gold members, Fellows and Patrons into the Zoo early to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of what happens at the Zoo before we open the gates to the public.
Swing by on three selected Sundays a week before the school holidays start, to get a sneak peek of life at the Zoo before our gates open to the public at 10am. See the animals slowly waking up and going about their own morning routine, whilst our team of zookeepers, staff and volunteers get the Zoo ready to welcome visitors. Whether it's keepers opening the habitats, catering teams whizzing baguettes over to the cafes, or retail teams getting the stores ready – expect to get a true behind-the-scenes peek! Plus, you'll be getting right up-close to a different species for each of the early opening dates with additional activities and talks!
There is no need to pre-book, simply pop over between 9.00 – 9.30am on the selected days and show your membership card at to our admissions team.
Sunday 19 May 2024
See our European bison herd going about their morning routine! Did you know, these huge and hardy animals are the heaviest wild animal in Europe? They once roamed the forests and grasslands of Northern Europe. As they mainly feed on leaves, fruits of high-growing woody plants, soft shoots and shrubs, our team of keepers will put out a special browse feed for the herbivores in their paddock while the keepers will service the yard. You’ll then be able to watch the herd having their second course of their breakfast menu when they’re back in their yard, all accompanied by special talks from the presenters team!
Make sure to mark Sunday 14 July 2024 and Sunday 20 October 2024 in your calendars for the next early Zoo openings too, and keep your eyes peeled on here for more information closer to the time!
Fancy attending the exclusive early openings at London Zoo instead?
Additional information
- Early entry is for Gold members, Fellows, Patrons and their allocated guests only.
- This is a free non-ticketed activity. Simply show your membership card at the main gate as usual.
- Early entry is only between 9.00 – 9.30am.
- Please note, most of the catering outlets and shops and some of the animal habitats will only open at 10am. The cafe at the Visitor Center will be open.
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Zoo Membership
Become a Zoo member today for a whole year of unlimited wonderful days out! Make your support go even further to help wildlife conservation by becoming a Patron. Or, if wildlife conservation and science is your profession, find out more about Fellowship.