Skip to main content

Zoo Wonders – May Half Term

Zoo Wonders – May Half Term

23 May 2026 to 31 May 2026

10am to 5pm


Get ready for a host of family fun as you discover what it really takes to run a modern zoo this May half term, Saturday 23rd – Sunday 31 May.

Zoo Wonders invites you to step into the boots of the Marwell team and explore what it really takes to run a modern zoo. From caring for animals and preparing their food, to maintaining habitats and supporting conservation work.

As you journey around the zoo, you’ll uncover the many different jobs that help Marwell thrive and discover just how many people it takes to keep everything working, caring and growing every single day.

Try hands-on activities at the interactive Discovery Hub, inspired by real zoo tasks. Have a go at weighing animal food like a keeper, solving maintenance challenges and sorting recycling, while learning more about sustainability and the important role zoos can play in protecting wildlife and the natural world.

There will also be plenty of opportunities to capture memories along the way, including themed photo spots across the zoo and the chance to meet some of the hardworking ‘Marwell Machines’, including Little Blue the tractor.

Alongside the half term activities, visitors can enjoy everything Marwell Zoo has to offer, from majestic Rothschild’s giraffes and snow leopards to playful penguins, tropical birds and spacious outdoor habitats set within 140 acres of beautiful parkland.

Additional experiences will also be available throughout the event, including animal-themed glitter tattoos, the immersive virtual reality experience Under the Asian Canopies, and Afternoon Tea at the historic Marwell Hall on selected dates.

Daily animal feeds and talks will take place throughout the week, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the animals from the people who care for them.

Download the Marwell Zoo app to check feed times, explore the interactive map and plan your day.

Every visit helps support Marwell Wildlife’s conservation work in the UK and around the world, protecting endangered species and inspiring people to care for nature. Book online to save.

Zoo Wonders runs from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 31 May 2026, with annual members able to enjoy the event as part of their membership.

*Terms and conditions apply. All activities subject to availability.

Details

Start: 23 May 2026
End: 31 May 2026

Location Details

Location Marwell Wildlife Thompsons Lane Colden Common Winchester
Postcode SO21 1JH

Organiser Details

Organiser's Name Marwell Zoo
Organiser's Website https://www.marwell.org.uk/plan-your-visit/zoo-events/may-half-term/
Organiser's Email sashae@marwell.org.uk
Organiser's Telephone 01962777407

"The Downs...too much for one pair of eyes, enough to float a whole population in happiness."