This summer, if you have some time to spare, why not try this as a holiday diversion? It has always been a pleasure to visit Tilgate Zoo (formerly our nature centre, but it has just grown and grown over the years).
A wide range of animals and other living creatures await! A wonderful learning experience for young people and a joy for everyone.
And at fantastic value. Tilgate Zoo has announced it is taking part in the Great British Summer Saving scheme, offering visitors discounted entry ticket prices until 1 September. Crawley Borough Council is delighted to pass these savings directly on to visitors. It’s a great way to explore the zoo’s diverse collection of more than 100 animals, or join one of the keeper talks, all at a reduced ticket cost.
The newly named Africa by Moonlight enclosure houses our nocturnal animals with firm favourites including the porcupines and armadillos – of whom our new arrival Lily the armadillo was an absolute joy to meet.
Our newest residents the squirrel monkeys are already proving to be really popular and an exciting addition to the collection.
Other new arrivals include a green tree monitor and baby reindeer Lumi. For bird lovers, there have also been the stunning purple glossy starlings and turacos showing off their amazing plumage.
The lemur feed experience is proving really popular where visitors get to see the babies that arrived in February. Participants can feed Magda and her troop treats and learn all about these amazing ring-tailed primates. The experience is available to be booked every day.
Other features include The Broadwalk across the lake, which provides a chance to enjoy a walk across the water. The bees have over the summer generated a good supply of Tilgate Zoo Apiary Honey which is sold in the gift shop.
Also, if you visit over the bank holiday weekend on 29th and 30th August, Tilgate Zoo staff are having a spectacular weekend in aid of TRAFFIC, a charity that has worked tirelessly for the last 50 years to tackle the global illegal trade in wild animals and plants that threatens so many species. Two fun-filled fundraising days full of games, activities, storytime, meet and greets and prizes.
We have some big plans at the council to make the Zoo even better – watch this space – but that’s not all! There are also the events going on elsewhere at Tilgate Park, including (but far from limited to) the observation wheel which will be there until at least the end of August, giving outstanding views of the entire park and surrounds, and a big special music event to celebrate the Park’s 60th anniversary on the 20th September in the Walled Garden.
Cllr Michael Jones
Leader, Crawley Borough Council