Marwell Zoo

Marwell Wildlife Park, Hampshire

Marwell Zoo, located in Hampshire, is a popular 140-acre zoological park dedicated to wildlife conservation and education. Home to over 1,200 animals from 135 species, the park provides visitors with the chance to encounter a wide range of exotic and endangered animals in naturalistic habitats. Marwell is known for its focus on biodiversity and sustainability, as well as its involvement in international breeding programs to protect vulnerable species.

Some of the park’s standout inhabitants include giraffes, Amur tigers, snow leopards, and endangered species like Grevy’s zebras and rhinos. The "Lemur Loop" allows visitors to walk through a habitat shared by several species of lemurs, while "Tropical House" offers an immersive experience, with a rainforest setting that includes free-flying birds and butterflies. Marwell also has a "Wild Explorers" area, where visitors can observe endangered species such as white rhinos and scimitar-horned oryx, in a safari-like environment.

In addition to animal exhibits, Marwell offers a variety of educational programs and interactive experiences for children and adults, aimed at raising awareness about conservation efforts. The park is highly involved in breeding programs and habitat restoration projects, contributing to global efforts to save endangered species.

Set within beautifully landscaped gardens, Marwell provides a full day of exploration for families, including a children’s adventure playground, cafes, and picnic areas. Its commitment to conservation, coupled with a wide range of exhibits and activities, makes it one of Hampshire’s top attractions for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

Images on this page are courtesy of Marwell Wildlife.

There are three childrens play areas at Marwell, the Cafe Graze has a wide range of food and refreshments and has great views across the African Valley section of the park too, alternatively there is a dedicated picnic area.

Marwell Park has a free Road Train and the Princess Anne Railway to help get around the site easier. The road train is pulled by tractor and has a wheelchair accesible carriage, plus a carriage for transporting buggies at the rear, the round trip takes 35 minutes but you can get on and off at various stops around the park.

The train leaves from Black Swan Pond and makes a 15 minute round trip passing many of the enclosures and has an informative commentary. There is an additional charge to ride on the train but all proceeds go to Marwell's animal conservation programmes, passengers under 3 travel free.

Marwell House

Marwell House, located within the grounds of Marwell Wildlife in Hampshire, has a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. Originally, the manor was built as a residence for the Bishops of Winchester, who often used the estate as a country retreat. It remained an ecclesiastical property for several centuries, serving as a place of rest and seclusion for the bishops.

During the English Civil War in the 17th century, Marwell House was reportedly used as a headquarters by Royalist forces. It was later sold into private ownership after the decline of the church's influence over such properties. Over the years, the house underwent various modifications and changes, reflecting the tastes of its successive owners.

In the 20th century, Marwell House became part of the estate that was transformed into Marwell Wildlife, when conservationist and philanthropist John Knowles purchased the land in 1972. Knowles founded Marwell Zoo with the vision of creating a haven for endangered species. While the zoo has grown into a significant conservation site, Marwell House remains a notable historical structure on the estate.

Marwell Hotel

If you need accomodation, there is a Hotel at Marwell Zoo directly opposite the Wildlife Park. Marwell Hotel has 66 bedrooms located in the four Safari Lodges. All rooms have en-suite bathroom, broadband connection and satellite TV, click here for more details of the Marwell Hotel

All images displayed on this page are used courtesy of Marwell Wildlife.

Marwell Wildlife Winchester:

  • Address: Marwell Wildlife Park, Colden Common, near Winchester, SO21 1JH
  • Telephone: 01962 777407
  • Marwell opens every day (except Christmas and Boxing Day) 10:00 - 17:00
  • Directions:
  • From M3: Junction 11 northbound and junction 11 southbound
  • From M27: Junction 10 westbound and junction 5 eastbound
  • Marwell is situated just off the B2177 (between Colden Common and Bishops Waltham)
  • Visit the official Marwell Wildlife Website
Marwell Zoo, Hampshire Marwell Zoo near Portsmouth