Can I bring my own food and drinks to Newquay Zoo?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics, and there are various picnic benches and lawn areas available throughout the zoo for enjoyment. However, be aware that local seagulls can be quite bold, especially during peak seasons, so it's advisable to keep an eye on your food.

Does Newquay Zoo offer animal experiences?

While Newquay Zoo no longer offers bookable animal experiences, you can still gain in-depth knowledge and enjoy close encounters with the animals by attending the daily ranger talks and live feeding sessions. These are included with your admission ticket and provide valuable insights into the residents.

Is Newquay Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Newquay Zoo is committed to "Access for All," with around 80% of the site being accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. An accessibility map is available to help navigate the paths, noting that some sections may have slight inclines or rough surfaces. Accessible toilets, including a Changing Places facility, are on site, and wheelchairs can be hired.

ZooEngland, GB

Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo, nestled within 13 acres of lush, sub-tropical gardens in the heart of Trenance Leisure Park, offers an engaging and vibrant escape into the world of wildlife.

Official website Open in Maps

About

Newquay Zoo, nestled within 13 acres of lush, sub-tropical gardens in the heart of Trenance Leisure Park, offers an engaging and vibrant escape into the world of wildlife. As Cornwall's largest zoo, it is home to hundreds of animals, including over 100 species, with a strong focus on conservation. Visitors can discover a diverse collection, from elusive big cats like the Carpathian lynx to the playful antics of Humboldt penguins, all while supporting vital breeding programmes for endangered species. The zoo's beautifully themed exhibits, such as the Tropical House and African Savannah, provide intimate encounters with creatures from across the globe, making it a truly special destination.

The zoo's commitment to conservation shines through its thoughtfully designed habitats, including the immersive Gems of the Jungle aviary, housing endangered songbirds, and the unique Philippines zone, dedicated to rare species like the Philippine spotted deer and Visayan warty pig. Guests can marvel at the striking red pandas, one of the zoo's long-standing residents with a successful breeding history, or observe the energetic meerkats. The Tropical House offers an atmospheric experience where exotic birds fly freely, and you might spot snakes, sloths, and vibrant poison dart frogs. Don't miss the chance to see a brown hyena, a species housed in only one other UK zoo, showcasing Newquay Zoo's dedication to rare and often overlooked animals.

Beyond animal viewing, Newquay Zoo creates memorable experiences through daily ranger talks and feeding sessions, offering fascinating insights into animal behaviour and conservation efforts. With its blend of exotic wildlife, award-winning botanical gardens (receiving a Britain in Bloom Gold award in 2025), and family-friendly facilities like play areas and the Tarzan Trail, the zoo is an inspiring and educational adventure for all ages. Every visit directly contributes to the zoo's crucial conservation work, both in the UK and overseas, making a trip here not just fun, but also impactful. Turn your visit into a safari! Use the Snappit app to scan and log wildlife sightings here.

Newquay Zoo originated in the 1950s as Newquay Children's Zoo, a smaller seasonal attraction located within the rose garden area of Trenance Gardens. In the late 1960s, plans were approved to relocate and expand the zoo to its current site within Trenance Leisure Park, officially opening its doors on May 26, 1969, under the management of the local council. After years as a council-run entity, the zoo transitioned to private ownership in 1994. A significant milestone occurred in 2003 when Newquay Zoo became part of the Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust (later Wild Planet Trust), joining Paignton Zoo and strengthening its focus on conservation and education. The zoo continued to evolve, expanding its footprint in 2009 with an African Savannah area and later developing a Philippines zone. In a new chapter, the Dutch leisure company Libéma acquired Newquay Zoo in December 2025, assuming operational control in January 2026, with plans for substantial investment in habitats and visitor experiences.

What to do here

Attend daily ranger talks and feeding sessions for educational insights into the animals. Explore the children's play area and challenge yourself on the Tarzan Trail obstacle course. Wander through the award-winning botanical gardens, or navigate the fun Dragon Maze.

Seasonal info

Seasonal events and activities are regularly held, so check the zoo's website for upcoming highlights. During busy summer months, be mindful of local seagulls if bringing a picnic.

Accessibility

Newquay Zoo is largely wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with approximately 80% of the attraction accessible. An accessibility map is available, highlighting paths, some of which may have slight inclines or rough surfaces. The zoo provides accessible toilets, including a Changing Places facility with a hoist system and adult-sized changing bench near the entrance. Five disabled parking spaces are available in the adjacent council car park (charges apply unless exempt), and registered assistance dogs are welcome. Complimentary admission is offered for one accompanying carer of a disabled visitor.

Don't miss

Tropical House

An atmospheric indoor exhibit where birds fly freely, and you can discover sloths, snakes, and colourful poison dart frogs.

African Savannah

Observe zebras and wildebeests roaming in a spacious exhibit.

Gems of the Jungle

A walkthrough aviary featuring endangered songbirds from Southeast Asia.

Philippines Zone

Home to critically endangered species such as the Philippine spotted deer, Visayan warty pig, and fishing cat.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

African Lion

Red Panda

Indian Peafowl

Capybara

Meerkat

Nyala

Scarlet Macaw

Pygmy Marmoset

Capuchin Monkey

Radiated Tortoise

Leopard Tortoise

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Book Online

Purchase your tickets online in advance to potentially save money and guarantee your entry.

Arrive Early

To fully experience all the zoo has to offer, including talks and play areas, plan to arrive when it opens and allow for a full day's visit.

Check Talk Times

Consult the zoo's website or the map upon arrival for the daily schedule of ranger talks and feeding sessions to plan your route around these engaging events.

Consider Sustainable Travel

If staying locally, consider walking or using public transport like the bus or land train, as visitors arriving via sustainable methods may receive a discount on entry. Parking is available but charged.

Pack a Picnic (with caution)

Taking your own food is allowed, with many picnic spots available. Remember to secure your food from opportunistic seagulls, especially during busy periods.

Utilise the Map

Grab a detailed map at the entrance or download it beforehand to locate specific animals, exhibits, play areas, and facilities, helping you navigate efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

: Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics, and there are various picnic benches and lawn areas available throughout the zoo for enjoyment. However, be aware that local seagulls can be quite bold, especially during peak seasons, so it's advisable to keep an eye on your food.
: While Newquay Zoo no longer offers bookable animal experiences, you can still gain in-depth knowledge and enjoy close encounters with the animals by attending the daily ranger talks and live feeding sessions. These are included with your admission ticket and provide valuable insights into the residents.
: Newquay Zoo is committed to "Access for All," with around 80% of the site being accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs. An accessibility map is available to help navigate the paths, noting that some sections may have slight inclines or rough surfaces. Accessible toilets, including a Changing Places facility, are on site, and wheelchairs can be hired.