Considering the fact that many (if not most) of us on this forum are on the autistic spectrum or are otherwise neurodivergent, I would tend to suggest you are actually in the majority where this point is concerned
Your Five Favourite UK Zoos
- Thread starter snowleopard
- Start date
Considering the fact that many (if not most) of us on this forum are on the autistic spectrum or are otherwise neurodivergent, I would tend to suggest you are actually in the majority where this point is concerned
Considering the fact that many (if not most) of us on this forum are on the autistic spectrum or are otherwise neurodivergent, I would tend to suggest you are actually in the majority where this point is concerned
I don't think we want to go that road making such claims, which you cannot back up. Sure plenty of zoochatters are on the spectrum, but let's not out a number on that. Many sounds reasonable, but most....
I’m not a animal expert but I like going to zoos it’s my happy place so my top 5 are just places me and my family like to go especially when it’s not school holidays lol
1 Chester not to far to go and some brilliant animals
2 Yorkshire have been going for a few yrs now and love the open spaces
3 wolds whilst it’s not a massive place we really like it there.
4 Dudley quite local for us love the chairlift lol and love how it’s improving a lot of enclosure developments love the orangutans.
5 Woburn love the drive through so much less hassle than West Midlands love the bears there.
1 Chester not to far to go and some brilliant animals
2 Yorkshire have been going for a few yrs now and love the open spaces
3 wolds whilst it’s not a massive place we really like it there.
4 Dudley quite local for us love the chairlift lol and love how it’s improving a lot of enclosure developments love the orangutans.
5 Woburn love the drive through so much less hassle than West Midlands love the bears there.
My favourite 5 at the moment.
1 Chester - Great range of animals and some fantastic exhibits. Things like Islands or Realm of the Red Ape were beyond what I would have expected from a zoo exhibit.
2 Exmoor - A great range of small to medium size animals. Many rarities that are not commonly held elsewhere.
3 Cotswold - Very picturesque grounds.Has the right mix of animals for a medium size zoo in that it has some large species, but not too many so that it gives what it does have good size enclosures. Great reptile house and lemur exhibit.
4 Whipsnade - Great range of megafauna in large exhibits. In my opinion it is the zoo that should rival Chester and although it is very good, I feel there is potential for more.
5 Beale Park - This is actually the nearest zoo to me but I didn't visit for the first time until just over a year ago. In the last few years it has switched focus from rare farm/domestic breeds to unusual exotics. Each visit there is something new as the collection is developing at quite a rate.
1 Chester - Great range of animals and some fantastic exhibits. Things like Islands or Realm of the Red Ape were beyond what I would have expected from a zoo exhibit.
2 Exmoor - A great range of small to medium size animals. Many rarities that are not commonly held elsewhere.
3 Cotswold - Very picturesque grounds.Has the right mix of animals for a medium size zoo in that it has some large species, but not too many so that it gives what it does have good size enclosures. Great reptile house and lemur exhibit.
4 Whipsnade - Great range of megafauna in large exhibits. In my opinion it is the zoo that should rival Chester and although it is very good, I feel there is potential for more.
5 Beale Park - This is actually the nearest zoo to me but I didn't visit for the first time until just over a year ago. In the last few years it has switched focus from rare farm/domestic breeds to unusual exotics. Each visit there is something new as the collection is developing at quite a rate.
With the side note that I haven't visit a vast amount of zoos in the UK and two of my favorites closed down recently (Bristol Zoo and Living Coasts) this is my list:
1. Chester: world class zoo, many great exhibits and also some very nice species
2. Cotswold: what an unique atmosphere and what is more UK than a rhino in front of a manor and aviaries in the middle of a beautiful English garden. But also nice exhibits and some interesting species.
3. Exmoor: very interesting species list, but liked also the feel the zoo gave me
4. WWT Slimbridge: great exhibits, many special species, nice mix with birdwatching areas and great zoo shop.
5. Paignton: good species list and nice diverse set of exhibits
1. Chester: world class zoo, many great exhibits and also some very nice species
2. Cotswold: what an unique atmosphere and what is more UK than a rhino in front of a manor and aviaries in the middle of a beautiful English garden. But also nice exhibits and some interesting species.
3. Exmoor: very interesting species list, but liked also the feel the zoo gave me
4. WWT Slimbridge: great exhibits, many special species, nice mix with birdwatching areas and great zoo shop.
5. Paignton: good species list and nice diverse set of exhibits
I haven't been to as many as I'd like but this is my current top 5:
5 - Whipsnade: I only visited Whipsnade once over 5 years ago and unfortunately didn't get around to the entire zoo. The visit has always stuck with me because of the sheer scale of things, all the enclosures were huge and many times there were very little barriers in sight... I really need to get back, this was also the first time I saw either hippo species.
4 - Yorkshire WP: YWP reminds me of Whipsnade on a smaller scale but with a bit more flair to it, all the enclosures are spacious and naturalistic and there is a lot of great species to see here... The polar bears are of course a huge highlight but I was also very impressed by the sea lion enclosure and just the simplicity of the place. There is no grandiose theming it's just big enclosures with easy viewing and active animals... What is not to love?
3 - Highland WP: I visited HWP a few summers ago and I was blown away by the exhibitry and scenery of the park, being situated in the Cairngorms makes for some incredible enclosures like for the snow leopard and markhor. The focus on colder climate species is also appreciated as it makes it stand out from anything else. The drive through area is also lovely, I was very impressed by the herd of wisent in particular.
2 - Cotswold WP: Beyond what I would consider my two "home zoos" this is the zoo I have visited the most thanks to having family in the area and I feel quite lucky to have done so, there is so much to love about Cotswold. The scenery is fantastic, with beautiful gardening across the entire zoo and of course the famous manor backdrop beyond the rhinos... The walled garden is one of my favourite exhibits in any zoo because of its unique feel. The smaller exhibits are also really good, the reptile and invertebrate houses as well as Little Africa are standouts. I think Cotswold is probably the zoo I've visited I can feel the most relaxed in, it's never felt too busy on any of my visits and it's especially lovely in Summer.
1 - Chester: Obviously not a surprise to anyone but even if Chester wasn't by far the greatest zoo in the country I think it would be my number one favourite, this is my home zoo and it's been a massive part of my life and my personal connection to animals and zoos since I was very young. I feel very lucky to have grown up around such an amazing zoo with a massive array of exciting species and world-class enclosures. I don't think I can add much on to what has already been said about why Chester is so amazing but I did just want to say a big part of it for me is that personal connection I have with it.
Side note: Like many of us, Bristol would have made my list if it was still here.
5 - Whipsnade: I only visited Whipsnade once over 5 years ago and unfortunately didn't get around to the entire zoo. The visit has always stuck with me because of the sheer scale of things, all the enclosures were huge and many times there were very little barriers in sight... I really need to get back, this was also the first time I saw either hippo species.
4 - Yorkshire WP: YWP reminds me of Whipsnade on a smaller scale but with a bit more flair to it, all the enclosures are spacious and naturalistic and there is a lot of great species to see here... The polar bears are of course a huge highlight but I was also very impressed by the sea lion enclosure and just the simplicity of the place. There is no grandiose theming it's just big enclosures with easy viewing and active animals... What is not to love?
3 - Highland WP: I visited HWP a few summers ago and I was blown away by the exhibitry and scenery of the park, being situated in the Cairngorms makes for some incredible enclosures like for the snow leopard and markhor. The focus on colder climate species is also appreciated as it makes it stand out from anything else. The drive through area is also lovely, I was very impressed by the herd of wisent in particular.
2 - Cotswold WP: Beyond what I would consider my two "home zoos" this is the zoo I have visited the most thanks to having family in the area and I feel quite lucky to have done so, there is so much to love about Cotswold. The scenery is fantastic, with beautiful gardening across the entire zoo and of course the famous manor backdrop beyond the rhinos... The walled garden is one of my favourite exhibits in any zoo because of its unique feel. The smaller exhibits are also really good, the reptile and invertebrate houses as well as Little Africa are standouts. I think Cotswold is probably the zoo I've visited I can feel the most relaxed in, it's never felt too busy on any of my visits and it's especially lovely in Summer.
1 - Chester: Obviously not a surprise to anyone but even if Chester wasn't by far the greatest zoo in the country I think it would be my number one favourite, this is my home zoo and it's been a massive part of my life and my personal connection to animals and zoos since I was very young. I feel very lucky to have grown up around such an amazing zoo with a massive array of exciting species and world-class enclosures. I don't think I can add much on to what has already been said about why Chester is so amazing but I did just want to say a big part of it for me is that personal connection I have with it.
Side note: Like many of us, Bristol would have made my list if it was still here.
finally got round to signing up as this thread caught my eye today. my top 2 were a real challenge but top spot goes to Yorkshire Wildlife park reason being I love the layout and I really enjoy the Polar Bears. it's also so good to see such a huge space dedicated to the Sealions.
2 Whipsnade, it ran YWP very close and it's wide open spaces are so good to see. I can spend day after day walking around there
the Hippos are fascinating and lovely to see both Common and Pygmy
3 Blackpool. it's improved massively over the last few years and the Elephant facility is really good, I can't wait to get back there in the near future to see the new big cat section.
4 London, members there as a family and whilst it's far from perfect I have so many memories of the place and the majority are positive, our children love it and it's a size that doesn't exhaust them too much.
5 tough to pick a 5th but it's going to have to be Howletts for all its faults, the Gorilla group there is impressive and they are my son's favourite animals
outside of this I will take on board some of those mentioned here that I'm yet to visit. I plan to finally get to Chester this year so imagine that will alter my top 5 from all I see here
2 Whipsnade, it ran YWP very close and it's wide open spaces are so good to see. I can spend day after day walking around there
the Hippos are fascinating and lovely to see both Common and Pygmy
3 Blackpool. it's improved massively over the last few years and the Elephant facility is really good, I can't wait to get back there in the near future to see the new big cat section.
4 London, members there as a family and whilst it's far from perfect I have so many memories of the place and the majority are positive, our children love it and it's a size that doesn't exhaust them too much.
5 tough to pick a 5th but it's going to have to be Howletts for all its faults, the Gorilla group there is impressive and they are my son's favourite animals
outside of this I will take on board some of those mentioned here that I'm yet to visit. I plan to finally get to Chester this year so imagine that will alter my top 5 from all I see here
Alwaysevergreen I am delighted to see your thoughts on Linton Zoo. I share your love for the place. I have been a regular visitor for 17 years and have a deep connection to the place. The zoo has a very sentimental meaning to me, it is only the sheer scale of development in the other collections that meant it did not make my top 5.
1. Dudley - I've been visiting since I was a toddler and it always feels like meeting an old friend. A unique setting with both an 11th century castle and the architecturally impressive tectons (not always great for animal husbandry I admit) it has had it's ups and downs over the years but I think there have been a lot of positive changes in recent years both in terms of animal species and enclosures. The staff are always very friendly and helpful and, having done a Keeper for the day Experience a few years ago, really enthusiastic about the animals they care for.
2. Yorkshire Wildlife Park - don't get there as often as I'd like but really enjoy my visits. I like the design of their enclosures and (big plus point) they have polar bears. Sadly, I never got to see the brown bears.
3. Hoo Zoo - small and probably won't be on other people's lists but I really enjoyed it - probably because of the variety of small cat species. I liked the setting, the signage was good and the staff were friendly and helpful.
4. Chester - slightly reluctant to include it as actually I'm not that keen on it. Yes, it's impressive in terms of its enclosures and the variety of species on offer but, personally, I find it too big and too impersonal to be welcoming. Knowing the extensions that have taken place in recent years makes me even more reluctant to go as I doubt I'd see it all in one day.
In the past, I've visited Paignton and Highland Wildlife Park (really liked the latter) but not recently enough to include them on a favourite's list.
2. Yorkshire Wildlife Park - don't get there as often as I'd like but really enjoy my visits. I like the design of their enclosures and (big plus point) they have polar bears. Sadly, I never got to see the brown bears.
3. Hoo Zoo - small and probably won't be on other people's lists but I really enjoyed it - probably because of the variety of small cat species. I liked the setting, the signage was good and the staff were friendly and helpful.
4. Chester - slightly reluctant to include it as actually I'm not that keen on it. Yes, it's impressive in terms of its enclosures and the variety of species on offer but, personally, I find it too big and too impersonal to be welcoming. Knowing the extensions that have taken place in recent years makes me even more reluctant to go as I doubt I'd see it all in one day.
In the past, I've visited Paignton and Highland Wildlife Park (really liked the latter) but not recently enough to include them on a favourite's list.
I try to prevent other people's opinions from skewing my opinion of a collection so I have included the date of my last visit so people can understand my last impression of the zoo.
5 - London Zoo (last visit 2019)
London is on this list purely by the strength of the Blackburn Pavilion. I also like the Old Reptile House and the Aquarium collections and atmosphere as they are very old London but I haven't visited the new Reptile House so I will reserve judgement on those. However London does have it's problems. The newer developments are a overblown such as Tiny Giants (which I thought was an office building) and Land of the Lions (which felt overthemed in every way except the animals). Other exhibits (such as the Mappins, Bird Safari, the Clore Pavilion, the Komodo enclosure) feel a little empty. For it's history and collection on my last visit, it remains number five but I can't help compare it to Berlin and Leipzig and feel a little disappointed.
4 - Axe Valley Wildlife Park (last visit 2022)
This visit was a fun one with two other members. I thoroughly enjoyed this visit because the collection of small mammals and waterbirds, especially ibises. The maned wolf and seriema enclosures were particularly impressive but the education building and reptile house let the zoo down a little. But the ongoing developments and collection put this zoo firmly in fourth place.
3 - WWT Slimbridge (last visit 2022)
I love waterfowl and no public collection has the diversity as Slimbridge. I wish WWT placed more interest in preserving the vast waterfowl of yesteryear but recent developments such as 'Back from the Brink' and 'Wildscapes' are incredible impressive. The wild reserves are hoaching with interesting animals, particularly the beautiful reintroduced cranes. I would like to see some more investment in the collection but it is still in good shape.
2 - Highland Wildlife Park (last visit 2017)
This park seems to have shot up in popularity in recent years and deservedly so. The enclosures here are unmatched in the UK, especially the Japanese macaques, polar bears and drive-through safari. The overall collection is relatively smaller but the hoofstock collection is fantastic. In terms of conservation, their wildcats and pine flies projects are very important. RZSS seems to be placing greater stock in HWP over Edinburgh Zoo and I am happy they are. So because of the stunning setting, interesting conservation and collection, they are my top selection for Scotland, and mainland UK.
1 - Jersey Zoo (last visit 2018)
The undisputed monarch of the conservation zoo. The collection here is incredibly good and the exhibitry is great, especially from the animals' point-of-view. I do think the Zoo struggled with it's identity after the collapse of the Jersey's tourist industry and the death of Gerald Durrell but they seem to have turned a corner in that regard. Due to the collection, high quality care and exhibitry and commitment to conservation, Jersey gets the top spot.
5 - London Zoo (last visit 2019)
London is on this list purely by the strength of the Blackburn Pavilion. I also like the Old Reptile House and the Aquarium collections and atmosphere as they are very old London but I haven't visited the new Reptile House so I will reserve judgement on those. However London does have it's problems. The newer developments are a overblown such as Tiny Giants (which I thought was an office building) and Land of the Lions (which felt overthemed in every way except the animals). Other exhibits (such as the Mappins, Bird Safari, the Clore Pavilion, the Komodo enclosure) feel a little empty. For it's history and collection on my last visit, it remains number five but I can't help compare it to Berlin and Leipzig and feel a little disappointed.
4 - Axe Valley Wildlife Park (last visit 2022)
This visit was a fun one with two other members. I thoroughly enjoyed this visit because the collection of small mammals and waterbirds, especially ibises. The maned wolf and seriema enclosures were particularly impressive but the education building and reptile house let the zoo down a little. But the ongoing developments and collection put this zoo firmly in fourth place.
3 - WWT Slimbridge (last visit 2022)
I love waterfowl and no public collection has the diversity as Slimbridge. I wish WWT placed more interest in preserving the vast waterfowl of yesteryear but recent developments such as 'Back from the Brink' and 'Wildscapes' are incredible impressive. The wild reserves are hoaching with interesting animals, particularly the beautiful reintroduced cranes. I would like to see some more investment in the collection but it is still in good shape.
2 - Highland Wildlife Park (last visit 2017)
This park seems to have shot up in popularity in recent years and deservedly so. The enclosures here are unmatched in the UK, especially the Japanese macaques, polar bears and drive-through safari. The overall collection is relatively smaller but the hoofstock collection is fantastic. In terms of conservation, their wildcats and pine flies projects are very important. RZSS seems to be placing greater stock in HWP over Edinburgh Zoo and I am happy they are. So because of the stunning setting, interesting conservation and collection, they are my top selection for Scotland, and mainland UK.
1 - Jersey Zoo (last visit 2018)
The undisputed monarch of the conservation zoo. The collection here is incredibly good and the exhibitry is great, especially from the animals' point-of-view. I do think the Zoo struggled with it's identity after the collapse of the Jersey's tourist industry and the death of Gerald Durrell but they seem to have turned a corner in that regard. Due to the collection, high quality care and exhibitry and commitment to conservation, Jersey gets the top spot.
Great reviews - personally, like you, I don’t think London comes anywhere close to Berlin or Leipzig (for me the best Zoo I have been to).
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I posted my 10 favourite on another thread only a few days ago but already I can't even remember what I listed as 4 and 5 ! Positions 4-8 are fairly interchangeable depending on my most recent experience. I will have to give some thought to my reasons so will post on here later
1. Cotswold Wildlife park, not for being my local zoo but its quietness not shouting all the time on social media its such a unique zoo with ample spaces and no overcrowding it combines an amazing collection in such humble ways, and if you love plants the gardens are amazing as well, the best collection for reptiles and amphibians as well in my honest opinion, honestly love this place
2. dudley zoo in how it deals with its small acreage and their knowledge and recognition in their concern for their animals knowing that they face challenges surrounding space and animals that they acknowledge this and work so hard for their animals welfares always consistently improving which is great to see
3. tywcross zoo i think its a zoo that is now grabbing the reins and acknowledging that they need to change and trying to do so, apar from the elephant saga, and finally getting rid off the old enclosures, i think this is a zoo that will finally make the right decisions soon enough, great collection of monkeys and apes, i do hope they keep this to heart and improve on their encolousres as they did with the gibbons and chimpanzees
4 Hamerton zoo, is such an undervalued zoo, i hope its popularity keeps going as this zoo is such a diamond for unique animals, and its always adding such a great zoo, reminds me of noahs ark zoo in where i would palce these two together, defintly zoo's to visit again in a few years to see where they go
5, chester zoo only because its holds a vast array of animals that many uk zoos not hold, down side its expensive and silly to say its massive
this may change as i want to get
2. dudley zoo in how it deals with its small acreage and their knowledge and recognition in their concern for their animals knowing that they face challenges surrounding space and animals that they acknowledge this and work so hard for their animals welfares always consistently improving which is great to see
3. tywcross zoo i think its a zoo that is now grabbing the reins and acknowledging that they need to change and trying to do so, apar from the elephant saga, and finally getting rid off the old enclosures, i think this is a zoo that will finally make the right decisions soon enough, great collection of monkeys and apes, i do hope they keep this to heart and improve on their encolousres as they did with the gibbons and chimpanzees
4 Hamerton zoo, is such an undervalued zoo, i hope its popularity keeps going as this zoo is such a diamond for unique animals, and its always adding such a great zoo, reminds me of noahs ark zoo in where i would palce these two together, defintly zoo's to visit again in a few years to see where they go
5, chester zoo only because its holds a vast array of animals that many uk zoos not hold, down side its expensive and silly to say its massive
this may change as i want to get
Considering the fact that many (if not most) of us on this forum are on the autistic spectrum or are otherwise neurodivergent, I would tend to suggest you are actually in the majority where this point is concerned
Without wishing to send this thread off on a wild tangent, I wholeheartedly agree with @lintworm. For sure, there is a higher percentage of ZooChatters who are on the autistic spectrum and we know that because of the kindness and honesty of many members on this site. However, I've met at least 30 members in person, and know of a lot of others on this site, and to say that most on this forum are on the spectrum is pure hyperbole.
There are a few thousand members of ZooChat and even if one was being generous and stated that a few hundred were on the spectrum then that would still only be approximately 10% of the overall members. (Which would be far higher than the general population and thus makes sense) I really enjoy the contributions from those individuals on the spectrum, as it adds to the depth and complexity of the site, but I know of hundreds of folks who simply visit zoos as a passion or hobby. There are a staggering number of zoo directors, zookeepers, scientists, teachers, botanists, etc., on ZooChat who are nowhere near the spectrum.
On another note, there are many brilliant postings so far. Exmoor has moved up in the past few years!
5. Twycross Zoo, My local zoo so this may have some influence on my opinion. A lot of the enclosures may be old and unsuitable and it definitely seems more 'commercial' than other zoos but I have memories from when I was four or five at Twycross and can't help but love the place. As the zoo continues to develop and change over the coming years, I'm sure it will become a more enjoyable place to visit. The Amur leopards and giraffes are where i spend most of my time. There are definitely lots of improvements to be made but I feel that is happening, perhaps much slower than other places but I can't really complain about that. I do find the tiny reptile collection to be something that drags the zoo down for me personally and aside from the 4 great apes, there doesn't seem to be much that stands out about Twycross but I'm sure the average zoo visitor doesn't really care too much about this.
4. Paignton Zoo, I haven't visited Paignton for a few years now but I have some great memories here. Personally for me, the atmosphere and environment at Paignton is what makes it stand out. The enclosures are mostly great and very unique, the animal collection is pretty great too but as i haven't visited for such a long time it may not live up to expectations anymore but I'm sure it's still an amazing zoo.
3. Chester Zoo, Pretty self explanatory, huge diverse and unique collection of animals. Personally I prefer the smaller zoos where you can see everything you want to and still have time to breathe, Chester would certainly be more enjoyable as a 2 day trip. Species like the Komodo dragon, Rothschild's giraffe,Asiatic lion and okapi are definitely my personal favorite things to see at Chester. One reason why it isn't my favorite zoo is because i always find it to be incredibly busy and challenging to get good views of anything, particularly the Sumatran tigers, Bornean orangutans and jaguars.
2. Wild Place Project, I remember visiting a few years ago before the addition of bear wood and i absolutely fell in love with the place and try to visit at least once a year. While the animal collection isn't particularly diverse (I'm sure this will change with the development of the new Bristol zoo) I always find every visit thoroughly enjoyable. In particular, the enclosure design is definitely one of Wild Place's strengths with both animals and visitors feeling like a priority. You can always get a great view of the giraffes both at ground and eye level and bear wood is absolutely fantastic. Okapi were certainly my favorite part of Wild Place and i really hope they hold them again soon as they're not kept in many UK collections but even without them, I still enjoy every visit here.
1. Dudley Zoo, easily my favorite zoo without a doubt. Just some of the reasons include the zoos fascinating history, unique setting and enclosures and I've found myself particularly fond of certain individuals there like Josie and Kira the giraffes and Daseep and Joao the Sumatran tigers. As a huge reptile fan i could find myself spending all in the reptile house and the zoo are always constantly upgrading or building new enclosures and bringing in new species so there's always something different to look out for each visit.
Bristol zoo would have certainly had a place on this list had it still been open. I'm yet to visit Jersey but I feel it may take the #2 spot behind Dudley once I hopefully get to visit soon.
4. Paignton Zoo, I haven't visited Paignton for a few years now but I have some great memories here. Personally for me, the atmosphere and environment at Paignton is what makes it stand out. The enclosures are mostly great and very unique, the animal collection is pretty great too but as i haven't visited for such a long time it may not live up to expectations anymore but I'm sure it's still an amazing zoo.
3. Chester Zoo, Pretty self explanatory, huge diverse and unique collection of animals. Personally I prefer the smaller zoos where you can see everything you want to and still have time to breathe, Chester would certainly be more enjoyable as a 2 day trip. Species like the Komodo dragon, Rothschild's giraffe,Asiatic lion and okapi are definitely my personal favorite things to see at Chester. One reason why it isn't my favorite zoo is because i always find it to be incredibly busy and challenging to get good views of anything, particularly the Sumatran tigers, Bornean orangutans and jaguars.
2. Wild Place Project, I remember visiting a few years ago before the addition of bear wood and i absolutely fell in love with the place and try to visit at least once a year. While the animal collection isn't particularly diverse (I'm sure this will change with the development of the new Bristol zoo) I always find every visit thoroughly enjoyable. In particular, the enclosure design is definitely one of Wild Place's strengths with both animals and visitors feeling like a priority. You can always get a great view of the giraffes both at ground and eye level and bear wood is absolutely fantastic. Okapi were certainly my favorite part of Wild Place and i really hope they hold them again soon as they're not kept in many UK collections but even without them, I still enjoy every visit here.
1. Dudley Zoo, easily my favorite zoo without a doubt. Just some of the reasons include the zoos fascinating history, unique setting and enclosures and I've found myself particularly fond of certain individuals there like Josie and Kira the giraffes and Daseep and Joao the Sumatran tigers. As a huge reptile fan i could find myself spending all in the reptile house and the zoo are always constantly upgrading or building new enclosures and bringing in new species so there's always something different to look out for each visit.
Bristol zoo would have certainly had a place on this list had it still been open. I'm yet to visit Jersey but I feel it may take the #2 spot behind Dudley once I hopefully get to visit soon.
There are, however, only a few hundred active and participating members, and I spoke of neurodiversity as a whole (which includes things like OCD, dyslexia, social anxiety, ADHD and so forth) rather than merely the autistic spectrum
I thought it would be obvious that I wasn't including inactive/former members and those who merely lurk, and spoke of the active community, but perhaps not. Certainly there will be fewer members diagnosed with some form of neurodiversity than the true number, too, especially where older generations are concerned - there may be an element of spotting the traits I recognise within my own autism in others But at any rate, as you note this is all off-topic and needs no further discussion; the digression was purely intended to forestall any sentiment/fear from AEG that he was an anomaly and provide empathy
ZooAtHome
Well-Known Member
Top 5 favourite zoos.
1) Chester - by far the best zoo in the UK, one of the few 'European/World standard' zoos. Brilliant enclosures, always under development, diverse species collection that regularly has breeding success. An excellent zoo for nerds and normies alike. Can't really say much more than that, it speaks for itself. Not to mention any zoo that has Tuatara needs to be high on a list!
2) Hamerton - Not sure which comes second out of 2 and 3 on my list but I will put Hamerton first due to its unique species selection. It is not the most modern looking zoo, and it does not have the funds to develop like Chester and other heavy hitters. It probably isn't that popular with 'normies' due to limited ABC animals, and limited infrastructure (play areas and the like). HOWEVER for a zoo/animal nerd it is a haven. The species held are mind boggling, and the animals all look well cared for and happy and they have good breeding success. I feel a kinship to this zoo due to my own diverse private collection of animals and always trying to have the more unusual and seldom seen species. Hamerton is essentially the zoo I have dreamt of owning since I was a child, and should my life ever go in that direction, I feel that is what my collection would look like and I would be so incredibly proud of that.
3) Cotswolds WP - Cotswolds has always been a huge favourite of mine, it is just such a lovely place to be. The gardens are beautiful, particularly the walled garden. The species held are a nice mix of smaller species, with some more unusual mammals eg. Sifaka, and a very good bird selection. Enclosures are all pretty good, the only downfall being the reptile house (needs a MAJOR equipment upgrade).
4) Paignton - Paignton again is a lovely place to be, the gardens are lovely and the 'old' tropical and desert reptile buildings are great. However it is starting to look a bit rundown in some areas unfortunately. Though it does seem there are plans in development. Another nice collection of animals, relatively diverse, with some unique species (Bruce the Echidna being my favourite) along with a nice array of ABC animals.
5) Colchester - I had Newquay as my number 5, but I have been thinking about Colchester a lot this last week or so following there big plan announcement and have decided it does deserve to be on my top 5 list. Despite the layout being a nightmare, the fact every time I visit it is beyond busy that it is uncomfortable, and the limited number of 'specialist interest species' it has. I feel it deserves to be on the list due to the fact that I like going! The species selection is a bit of everything, relatively basic but a few highlights for me, the Hyenas being a favourite as I love Hyenas. The enclosures are all pretty good across the board, nothing is particularly breathtaking, but nothing is a real concern. It is a good collection to take friends to that aren't super zoology nerds, they always come away happy, whereas often taking friends to other zoos on the this list I have had a great day and they leave a bit underwhelmed (sorry Hamerton and Cotswolds).
Honorary mentions: Newquay, Beale, Banham, Marwell.
Bristol would be on this list at number 3 if it was still open, I LOVED Bristol zoo. I have not yet been to Wild Place, part of me wishes to wait a few years so it has more to see in a day.
If I was asked this in the early 00s both ZSL collections would feature on the list, but now often I leave their disappointed and therefore I cannot put the word 'favourite' anywhere near them.
Early 00s list would be London, Chester, Bristol, Whipsnade, Marwell.
Disclaimer: I have not (yet) been to either Aspinall collection, Longleat, Exmoor, Blackpool, Dudley or YWP.
Exmoor is high on my to-visit-list and based on how it comes across in images and others reviews of it I imagine it will feature in my favourite lists!
(From a fellow neurodivergent)
1) Chester - by far the best zoo in the UK, one of the few 'European/World standard' zoos. Brilliant enclosures, always under development, diverse species collection that regularly has breeding success. An excellent zoo for nerds and normies alike. Can't really say much more than that, it speaks for itself. Not to mention any zoo that has Tuatara needs to be high on a list!
2) Hamerton - Not sure which comes second out of 2 and 3 on my list but I will put Hamerton first due to its unique species selection. It is not the most modern looking zoo, and it does not have the funds to develop like Chester and other heavy hitters. It probably isn't that popular with 'normies' due to limited ABC animals, and limited infrastructure (play areas and the like). HOWEVER for a zoo/animal nerd it is a haven. The species held are mind boggling, and the animals all look well cared for and happy and they have good breeding success. I feel a kinship to this zoo due to my own diverse private collection of animals and always trying to have the more unusual and seldom seen species. Hamerton is essentially the zoo I have dreamt of owning since I was a child, and should my life ever go in that direction, I feel that is what my collection would look like and I would be so incredibly proud of that.
3) Cotswolds WP - Cotswolds has always been a huge favourite of mine, it is just such a lovely place to be. The gardens are beautiful, particularly the walled garden. The species held are a nice mix of smaller species, with some more unusual mammals eg. Sifaka, and a very good bird selection. Enclosures are all pretty good, the only downfall being the reptile house (needs a MAJOR equipment upgrade).
4) Paignton - Paignton again is a lovely place to be, the gardens are lovely and the 'old' tropical and desert reptile buildings are great. However it is starting to look a bit rundown in some areas unfortunately. Though it does seem there are plans in development. Another nice collection of animals, relatively diverse, with some unique species (Bruce the Echidna being my favourite) along with a nice array of ABC animals.
5) Colchester - I had Newquay as my number 5, but I have been thinking about Colchester a lot this last week or so following there big plan announcement and have decided it does deserve to be on my top 5 list. Despite the layout being a nightmare, the fact every time I visit it is beyond busy that it is uncomfortable, and the limited number of 'specialist interest species' it has. I feel it deserves to be on the list due to the fact that I like going! The species selection is a bit of everything, relatively basic but a few highlights for me, the Hyenas being a favourite as I love Hyenas. The enclosures are all pretty good across the board, nothing is particularly breathtaking, but nothing is a real concern. It is a good collection to take friends to that aren't super zoology nerds, they always come away happy, whereas often taking friends to other zoos on the this list I have had a great day and they leave a bit underwhelmed (sorry Hamerton and Cotswolds).
Honorary mentions: Newquay, Beale, Banham, Marwell.
Bristol would be on this list at number 3 if it was still open, I LOVED Bristol zoo. I have not yet been to Wild Place, part of me wishes to wait a few years so it has more to see in a day.
If I was asked this in the early 00s both ZSL collections would feature on the list, but now often I leave their disappointed and therefore I cannot put the word 'favourite' anywhere near them.
Early 00s list would be London, Chester, Bristol, Whipsnade, Marwell.
Disclaimer: I have not (yet) been to either Aspinall collection, Longleat, Exmoor, Blackpool, Dudley or YWP.
Exmoor is high on my to-visit-list and based on how it comes across in images and others reviews of it I imagine it will feature in my favourite lists!
(From a fellow neurodivergent)
May I gently point out that the Welsh Mountain Zoo is not "in England".
There's a clue in the name.
Jambi
Well-Known Member
1) Blackpool Zoo - It may not be the best or brightest, but it's a lovely place and I've been itching to go back since my last visit in May last year. It is a shame that they don't have a reptile house any more, but I still love the animals they do have. My favourite things there are the orangutans, elephants, wolves and penguins, and I'm looking forward to seeing the new lion and tiger enclosures when they open this year.
2) Dudley Zoo - While the layout and winding paths are a bit of a pain, I love the animal line-up and enclosure designs, even some of the older ones. My favourite things there are the reptile house, orangutans, fruit bats, and the lorikeet walkthrough.
3) South Lakes Safari Zoo - The closest large zoo to where I live, while it hasn't quite shaken off its "Britain's worst zoo" reputation, the place has improved a huge amount over the last few years, with much better enclosures and happier looking animals. My favourite things there are the giraffes, rhinos, tigers, jaguars, and the "Worldwide Safari" walkthrough that has a load of random animals like kangaroos, capybaras, lemurs, prairie dogs and emu all living together.
4) Lakeland Wildlife Oasis - While this place is only small, only about three acres, I'm impressed by just how much they manage to pack into that small space. My favourite things there are the fruit bats, butterfly walkthrough, coral reef tanks, armadillo and fossa.
5) Edinburgh Zoo - There has been some decline over the years, but I still really enjoy visits to Edinburgh Zoo, and I'm hopeful that they can get better and better in the future. My favourite things there are the giraffes, tigers, koalas, Wee Beasties exhibits, sun bears and penguins.
2) Dudley Zoo - While the layout and winding paths are a bit of a pain, I love the animal line-up and enclosure designs, even some of the older ones. My favourite things there are the reptile house, orangutans, fruit bats, and the lorikeet walkthrough.
3) South Lakes Safari Zoo - The closest large zoo to where I live, while it hasn't quite shaken off its "Britain's worst zoo" reputation, the place has improved a huge amount over the last few years, with much better enclosures and happier looking animals. My favourite things there are the giraffes, rhinos, tigers, jaguars, and the "Worldwide Safari" walkthrough that has a load of random animals like kangaroos, capybaras, lemurs, prairie dogs and emu all living together.
4) Lakeland Wildlife Oasis - While this place is only small, only about three acres, I'm impressed by just how much they manage to pack into that small space. My favourite things there are the fruit bats, butterfly walkthrough, coral reef tanks, armadillo and fossa.
5) Edinburgh Zoo - There has been some decline over the years, but I still really enjoy visits to Edinburgh Zoo, and I'm hopeful that they can get better and better in the future. My favourite things there are the giraffes, tigers, koalas, Wee Beasties exhibits, sun bears and penguins.
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Alwaysevergreen
Well-Known Member
May I gently point out that the Welsh Mountain Zoo is not "in England".
There's a clue in the name.
But the Welsh wish they were English, so we'll allow it