Twycross Zoo Day Trip from Burton upon Trent Guide

Located just on the edge of the scenic East Midlands countryside, Twycross Zoo is one of the United Kingdom’s premier conservation charities and an outstanding day trip destination for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and couples. If you are staying in Burton upon Trent, you are ideally placed for a stress-free excursion. Situated approximately 12 miles away, the zoo is accessible within a brief 20- to 25-minute drive, making Burton an exceptional base for a weekend getaway.

Why Visit Twycross Zoo?

Founded in 1963, Twycross Zoo is celebrated internationally for its primate conservation work. It is famously the only zoo in the UK—and one of only a few in the entire world—to house all four types of great ape: chimpanzees, bonobos, western lowland gorillas, and Bornean orangutans. Beyond its famous primates, the 100-acre site is home to over 400 animals representing more than 100 different species, many of which are critically endangered.

Whether you want to witness agile gibbons swinging through the canopy in the Gibbon Forest, walk alongside free-flying butterflies in the tropical butterfly house, or marvel at the powerful Amur leopards, Twycross Zoo provides engaging animal experiences designed with welfare and education at the core.

Top Attractions at the Zoo

To make the most of your visit, plan your route around these popular zones and exhibits:

• The Great Apes: Spend time exploring the spacious habitats dedicated to gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans. Informative keeper talks and feeding sessions throughout the day provide fascinating insights into their social structures and conservation challenges.
• Gruffalo Discovery Land: A massive hit for younger visitors, this multi-million-pound immersive area brings Julia Donaldson’s beloved storybook characters to life through interactive trails, animatronics, and themed play areas.
• Tiger Tropics & Leopards: View magnificent big cats in specially designed natural enclosures featuring viewing windows that bring you face-to-face with these majestic predators.
• Giraffe Savannah: Stroll along elevated walkways to see the zoo’s herd of Rothschild’s giraffes at eye level as they graze across their outdoor paddocks.
• Wetland & Penguin Walkthrough: Get close to the lively Humboldt penguin colony and watch them dive and glide effortlessly through their aquatic pool.

Getting from Burton upon Trent to Twycross Zoo

Travel between Burton upon Trent and Twycross Zoo is straightforward and rapid. The most direct route takes you out of Burton across the River Trent and onto the A444 heading south towards Twycross. The drive takes around 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. Guests staying at Three Queens Hotel benefit from our convenient location on the A38 corridor and free on-site parking, ensuring your journey gets underway quickly without parking delays.

If you are travelling without a car, local bus connections link Burton to nearby towns such as Swadlincote and Ashby-de-la-Zouch, where connecting local services and taxis can take you the remaining distance to the zoo entrance.

Planning Your Itinerary: Practical Tips

A full day is recommended to explore the zoo thoroughly without rushing. Here are some key tips to ensure your day runs smoothly:

• Pre-Book Tickets: Twycross Zoo operates timed entry slots during peak holiday periods. Booking your tickets online in advance guarantees entry and often secures discounted admission rates.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear: The park covers 100 acres with numerous outdoor trails and walking circuits, so supportive walking shoes are essential.
• Check the Daily Schedule: Pick up a map upon arrival or download the park app to check the timings for educational talks, penguin feeds, and animal demonstrations.

Dining in Burton upon Trent After Your Day Out

After a full day wandering the exhibits and outdoor trails, head back into Burton upon Trent to experience the town’s diverse food and drink scene. As the historic brewing capital of the world, Burton is packed with characterful traditional pubs, modern gastropubs, independent bistros, and international restaurants.

From authentic Italian pizzerias and Indian cuisine to classic British tavern dining along the riverside, the bustling town centre offers plentiful dining options to satisfy every appetite. Situated just a 5-minute walk from the town centre, Three Queens Hotel allows you to leave your car parked on site while you stroll into town for dinner and an evening drink.

Relax at Three Queens Hotel

After your wildlife adventure, unwind in comfort at Three Queens Hotel. Our property on Bridge Street features 62 well-appointed rooms, making it easy to accommodate solo adventurers, couples, and large family groups.

We offer a versatile selection of accommodation options, including Single, Standard Double, Executive Double, Standard Twin, Executive Twin, Family, Quadruple rooms, a spacious Mews Apartment, and an elegant four-poster Suite. Take a look at our comfortable guest rooms to choose the layout that best fits your travel party.

Every room is fully en-suite with a private bathroom, complimentary toiletries, a hair dryer, flat-screen TV with Freeview and radio, direct dial phone, and convenient in-room tea and coffee making facilities. Guests also enjoy free high-speed WiFi throughout the hotel, daily housekeeping, and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service. Our reception is staffed from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, with a night porter on duty from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am to assist you at any time.

Book Your Staffordshire Getaway Today

Whether you are planning a weekend family treat or an educational animal adventure, Burton upon Trent is the perfect launchpad for your trip to Twycross Zoo. Contact our friendly team on 01283 523800, email us at frontdesk@3queenshotel.co.uk, or visit our online booking page to book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today.

Planning a visit? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge.