Can you touch or feed the monkeys at Trentham Monkey Forest?

A: No, for the safety of both visitors and the animals, you are strictly prohibited from touching or feeding the Barbary macaques. Visitors are asked to keep at least a 2-meter distance and stick to the designated paths.

Is Trentham Monkey Forest suitable for visitors with accessibility needs?

A: Yes, Trentham Monkey Forest is largely wheelchair and mobility-scooter friendly, with accessible paths throughout the ¾-mile trail. Accessible facilities, including toilets, the Banana Café, and Jungle Shop, are available. However, some sections of the path may have steeper inclines that could be challenging for certain wheelchair users. Guide dogs are not permitted within the monkey enclosure but arrangements can be made for their care.

ZooEngland, GB

Trentham Monkey Forest

Trentham Monkey Forest offers an unparalleled opportunity to step into the world of free-roaming Barbary macaques, right in the heart of Staffordshire, England.

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About

Trentham Monkey Forest offers an unparalleled opportunity to step into the world of free-roaming Barbary macaques, right in the heart of Staffordshire, England. This unique 60-acre ancient woodland is home to approximately 140 of these endangered primates, allowing visitors to observe their natural behaviors up close and without barriers. It's the only place in the UK where you can walk among monkeys as they go about their daily lives, providing an immersive experience that feels a world away from traditional zoos.

As you journey along the ¾-mile woodland path, you'll encounter the Barbary macaques playing, grooming, and interacting with each other, just as they would in their native Moroccan and Algerian habitats. Knowledgeable guides are stationed throughout the forest, eager to share insights during hourly feeding talks and answer any questions about these fascinating creatures and the vital conservation work being done. Beyond the main monkey trail, the forest also features engaging primate-themed play areas for children, a tranquil Meadow Walk, and a nature pond, enriching the experience for all ages.

A visit to Trentham Monkey Forest is more than just a day out; it's an educational adventure that deeply connects you with nature and conservation. Each visit directly supports the protection of Barbary macaques, a species facing significant threats in the wild. Whether you're captivated by the antics of baby monkeys born in late spring and early summer, or fascinated by the complex social structures of the adults, the chance to observe these intelligent primates in such a natural setting makes for an unforgettable and truly memorable experience. Be ready to snap and learn! Get the Snappit app to identify any nature species you find here.

Trentham Monkey Forest opened to the public in 2005, established as the UK's largest primate habitat. Its inception involved relocating two groups of Barbary macaques from sister sites in Europe, creating an environment that closely mimics their natural mountainous habitats in Morocco and Algeria. Since its founding, the forest has focused exclusively on the conservation of this endangered species. It has also become a significant research facility, with a substantial portion of current knowledge about Barbary macaque behavior deriving from studies conducted within its parks.

What to do here

Walk patiently along the path, stopping frequently to observe the macaques playing, grooming, and interacting.

Attend one of the hourly feeding talks for engaging commentary from expert guides.

Look out for baby monkeys clinging to their mothers or playing with others, especially during warmer months.

Explore the children's play areas and the Monkey-Shaped Willow Maze.

Visit the Conservation Centre and watch the monkey documentary in the video room.

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Meadow Walk.

Seasonal info

Spring/Summer: Ideal for seeing baby monkeys and enjoying the lush woodland. Dragonflies are active around the nature pond.

Autumn: Experience the beautiful changing foliage of the ancient woodland.

Winter: Offers a unique experience as macaques thrive in cold and snow, showcasing their resilience with their thick fur. Special "Winter Walks" may be available.

Accessibility

The 3/4-mile pathway through the monkey enclosure is largely wheelchair and mobility-scooter friendly. Accessible toilets, the Banana Café, and the Jungle Shop are also accessible. However, some steeper slopes might be challenging for certain wheelchair users. Guide dogs are prohibited inside the monkey enclosure due to the macaques viewing them as predators, but arrangements can be made for them to stay in the office during your visit.

Plan your visit

Suggested duration: Allow at least 2-4 hours to fully enjoy the experience. Visitors can re-enter the monkey enclosure multiple times throughout the day, which is recommended to observe different behaviors.
Best time to visit: Trentham Monkey Forest is a year-round attraction, as Barbary macaques are well-adapted to cooler climates, including snow. However, late spring and early summer are particularly special, as this is when baby monkeys are typically born, offering the chance to see adorable new arrivals. Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can often be quieter.
Location: England, GB
Species in this guide: 3

Best for

Families With Children Of All AgesNature And Wildlife EnthusiastsPhotography EnthusiastsThose Interested In Primate Conservation And Education

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Don't miss

The Woodland Trail

A ¾-mile path where you walk directly among the free-roaming Barbary macaques.

Hourly Feeding Talks

Informative sessions led by guides where you can learn about the monkeys and watch them feed.

Baby Monkeys

Especially during late spring and early summer, spotting the playful young macaques is a delight.

Primate-themed Play Areas

Two large play areas for children located outside the main enclosure.

Wildlife you might spot

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Good to know before you go

Be Patient and Observe

The monkeys are wild, so take your time, find a bench, and quietly observe their natural behaviors. You'll be rewarded with fascinating moments.

Attend Feeding Talks

Plan your visit to coincide with one of the hourly feeding talks. These provide excellent photo opportunities and insightful commentary from the guides.

Visit Multiple Times

You can enter the monkey enclosure as many times as you like on the day of your visit. Consider re-entering before or after lunch for varied observations.

Look for Babies

If visiting in late spring or early summer, be patient and look carefully for the adorable baby macaques, often clinging to their mothers.

Wear Appropriate Footwear

While paths are well-surfaced, you'll be walking through a woodland, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Leave Food in Your Car

Do not bring food or drinks into the monkey enclosure, as this can encourage monkeys to approach you and is against the rules.

Frequently asked questions

: A: No, for the safety of both visitors and the animals, you are strictly prohibited from touching or feeding the Barbary macaques. Visitors are asked to keep at least a 2-meter distance and stick to the designated paths.
: A: Most visitors spend between 2 to 4 hours exploring Trentham Monkey Forest. You can re-enter the monkey enclosure as many times as you like on the day of your visit, allowing for extended observation and a chance to see different behaviors.
: A: Yes, Trentham Monkey Forest is largely wheelchair and mobility-scooter friendly, with accessible paths throughout the ¾-mile trail. Accessible facilities, including toilets, the Banana Café, and Jungle Shop, are available. However, some sections of the path may have steeper inclines that could be challenging for certain wheelchair users. Guide dogs are not permitted within the monkey enclosure but arrangements can be made for their care.