Lets Go to Marwell (Marwell Zoological Park)

Member Name: Daisy_ttfn

Product:	Marwell Zoological Park
Date:	23/08/07 (118 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: loads to do, lots of endangered species, easy to get to

Disadvantages: a long way to walk around

OVERVIEW:

Marwell Zoological Park is a large zoo with over 200 species of animals. It is set in 100 acres of land and surrounds Marwell Hall. It was set up in 1972 by John Knowles realised there was a need to save certain animals from extinction. Because of this you are likely to see animals that are becoming extinct such as White Rhinos and Tigers.

LOCATION:

This zoo is NOT IN LONDON. It is situated between Winchester and Southampton in Hampshire. It is very easy to find as it is sign posted from both the M27 and the M3. The park has a huge free car park, and if you live in the local are there is a bus stop for local buses.

OPENING TIMES AND PRICES:

The zoo opens everyday except Christmas day between 10am and 6pm in the summer and 10am and 4pm in the winter. (November - March) Last entry is 1 ½ hours before closing.

It costs £14.25 for adults and £10.25 for children. There are also cheaper prices for families (2 adults + 2 children), senior citizens and students. There is the opportunity to purchase annual passes which cost £45 for adults and £30 for children. These passes give unlimited admission for 12 months to Marwell zoo and 9 other zoos across the country.

FACILITIES:

The zoo has great facilities for people of all ages and abilities. The can provide electric scooters and wheelchairs for a small cost to make it easier for those less able to get around.

There are several places to eat dotted around the zoo, selling all kinds of sandwiches and hot food. A new restaurant is also opening in 2009. There are also carts selling drinks and ice creams, and vending machines. There are also several picnic areas if you wish to bring your own food.

There are also plenty of toilets and baby changing areas.

GETTING AROUND THE ZOO:

The zoo is very big and can easily take the whole day to get around. A free map is available as you enter is you want one but the zoo is also well sign posted.

There are several land train stops where you can ride to train around the zoo if you don’t want to walk. This is free of charge to all visitors. There is also a rail train that travels around the zoo and you can board this for a small charge.

Walking is however the best way to get around because on the trains you will miss some of the exhibits and may not have time to take photos etc.

ANIMALS:

The zoo is separated into several sections although you don’t have to visit them all or you can just visit part of one. The sections are; Tropical World, World of Lemurs, Penguin World, Heart of Africa and Giraffe Walkway.

There are several talks around the zoo at different time about various animals. These talks give you the opportunity to speak to the keeper and ask them questions.

CONCLUSIONS:

This a great place to see plenty of endangered species. There is plenty to do and see and will keep you occupied for the entire day. It is easy to get to, so well worth a visit.

Summary: A great day out for the family