24 July 2023
The school holidays areunderway! Are you looking for things to do with kids this summer?
With more than 10,000 animals to discover, extra special events, and extended openings, there's fun for the whole family at Whipsnade Zoo.
1. Go wild at Whipsnade Zoo with Beano
The kids of Beanotown are set to take you on a BLAM-tastic adventure this summer, as the world’s longest-running weekly comic comes to life at Whipsnade Zoo. From 22 July - 4 September, Dennis and friends will help to inspire the next generation of conservationists with a whole host of activities – from a scooter park to making a seed bomb – all included in Zoo entry or membership and perfect for children aged 5+.
2. Explore Whipsnade Zoo at sunset
Make the most of the longer evenings with our extended openings. We’re staying open late on four evenings in July and August so you can discover a different side to the Zoo. Enjoy spectacular views as the sun goes down, and see more from animals which are most active around dusk – like our lions and aardvarks. There’s no extra charge – your standard day ticket will include the additional hours. And if you’re a member, there’s no need to book at all, just arrive as usual any time before the last entry (7.30pm for pedestrians, 5pm for car entry).
3. Celebrate lions and tigers and bears…
We've recently welcomed three new lions and three new bears, and we can’t wait for you to meet them this summer! The bears love to play in their pool on a hot day, so look out for them splashing around in the sunshine.
Plus, join us for extra talks, keeper Q&As, and activities as we mark International Tiger Day in July and World Lion Day in August - more details to follow.
4. Sleep over at the Zoo
Ever wondered what happens at the Zoo when all of the visitors have gone home? Experience Whipsnade Zoo after-dark with one of our two overnight experiences. Pitch your tent for Nature Night Camping, or stay over in a cosy lodge this summer to discover what our animals get up to at night. Adult and family nights are available for both experiences.
5. Have a Hullabazoo adventure
Kids will love exploring our outdoor play area, complete with a mini safari jeep, swings, bridges, tunnels, climbing frames, and much more! Little ones can also let off steam in our soft play area - Hullabazoo Indoor Play - bookable online 24 hours in advance of your visit. Don't forget, that there's an exclusive Gold Member slot, every day at 10.30am.
6. Don’t miss daily talks and Birds of the World
Did you know that lemurs like to sunbathe? Or that hippos secrete their own sunscreen? Learn all about our amazing animals and their adaptations in our daily talks, and have the chance to ask an expert your burning questions. Plus, our Birds of the World demonstration is a must-see - you'll be in awe of these majestic birds as they swoop above your head.
7. Enjoy gorgeous views over the Downs
There’s no doubt that our penguins have the best spot in the Zoo, but you can enjoy the stunning scenery too. On a beautiful summer’s day, there’s nothing better than soaking up the blue sky and looking out across the Downs. Pick up a snack or a cold drink from our Viewpoint Deli and sit back and take in the views - there’s 600 acres to explore at Whipsnade, so you’ll have earned a rest! Remember that Gold Members get a 10% discount in our catering outlets and Zoo shop.
Every visit to Whipsnade Zoo helps us to care for wildlife around the world as part of international conservation charity, ZSL.
Join the ZSL family
As a ZSL member, you can enjoy unlimited free entry to Whipsnade and London Zoos the whole year round! Plus, Gold members also receive a whole host of other benefits and discounts.
