Twycross Zoo Day Trip: Guide from Burton upon Trent

Plan the Ultimate Twycross Zoo Day Trip from Burton upon Trent

Whether you are planning a weekend escape with the children or a wildlife-focused short break, Twycross Zoo is one of the premier animal attractions in the Midlands. Situated roughly 13 miles southeast of Burton upon Trent, the zoo is within an easy 20 to 25-minute drive along the scenic A444 corridor. Basing yourself in Burton gives you the advantage of relaxed travel, easy road access, and convenient amenities right on your doorstep.

At Three Queens Hotel & Lodge, situated on Bridge Street in Burton upon Trent, we offer the ideal resting spot before and after your day with the animals. With free on-site parking and a range of spacious rooms, you can focus on making memories without the stress of long commutes.

What to See and Do at Twycross Zoo

Founded in 1963, Twycross Zoo has earned international acclaim as a world centre for primate conservation. It is the only zoo in the UK—and one of the few in the world—to care for all four types of great ape: gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans. Walking through the primate habitats provides an extraordinary glimpse into the lives and behaviours of our closest animal relatives.

Beyond the great apes, Twycross Zoo spans over 100 acres and is home to hundreds of species from across the globe:

• The Gruffalo Discovery Land: A multi-million-pound interactive adventure created in partnership with brand-owner Magic Light Pictures. Aimed at younger visitors, this four-acre zone brings Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved characters to life through animatronics, sensory play, and conservation-themed trails.
• Big Cats: Visit the magnificent snow leopards and eastern black rhinos, observing dedicated conservation breeding programmes in action.
• Gibbon Forest: A large, multi-level habitat showcasing the remarkable agility and songs of various gibbon species as they swing overhead.
• Walk-Through Enclosures: Immerse yourself in environments like the Butterfly Forest and Lemur Walk-Through, where you can observe vibrant wildlife up close.

Practical Tips for Your Day at the Zoo

To make the most of your day trip from Burton upon Trent, keep these helpful planning tips in mind:

• Book in Advance: Twycross Zoo offers date-specific ticketing online. Booking ahead often secures the best entry rates and guarantees entry during peak holiday periods.
• Timing Your Arrival: The zoo generally opens at 10:00 am. Leaving Burton around 9:15 am to 9:30 am allows for an easy drive down the A444, ensuring you arrive just as the gates open.
• Wear Comfortable Footwear: The zoo grounds are extensive. A comfortable pair of walking shoes or trainers is essential for exploring all the outdoor pathways and indoor viewing houses.
• Check Talk Schedules: Upon arrival, check the daily schedule of keeper talks and feeding presentations. These offer fascinating insights into animal care, diet, and wild habitat protection.

Dining Out in Burton upon Trent

Exploring 100 acres of zoo exhibits is bound to build up an appetite. While the zoo provides several on-site cafes and food kiosks during your visit, returning to Burton gives you an exceptional array of evening dining options.

Three Queens Hotel is situated just a 5-minute walk from Burton upon Trent’s vibrant town centre. Stroll into town to discover charming independent bistros, family-friendly pizzerias, classic British pubs, and a rich selection of international cuisines, from authentic Indian curries to hearty gastropub favourites. For early risers looking to start the day right before driving to Twycross, the surrounding streets and nearby shopping precincts feature a great choice of local coffee shops, bakeries, and cafes where you can pick up a morning bite.

Relax and Recharge at Three Queens Hotel

After a full day on your feet at Twycross Zoo, unwind in comfort at Three Queens Hotel & Lodge. Situated on Bridge Street, our hotel features 62 well-appointed rooms designed to suit solo travellers, couples, and families alike.

We offer a broad selection of layouts to meet your travel needs, including Standard Double and Twin rooms, Executive options, spacious Family and Quadruple rooms, a private Mews Apartment, and a four-poster Suite. You can explore all our accommodation choices on our rooms page.

Every room at Three Queens Hotel includes:

• A private en-suite bathroom with complimentary toiletries and a hair dryer
• A flat-screen television featuring Freeview channels and radio
• Complimentary in-room tea and coffee making facilities
• Free high-speed WiFi to plan your routes and share your holiday photos
• A direct dial telephone

To ensure a hassle-free trip, guests enjoy free on-site car parking throughout their stay, making loading pushchairs, bags, and zoo essentials effortless. Our reception desk is staffed daily from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, supported by a dedicated night porter from 10:00 pm to 8:00 am. We also provide daily housekeeping and a 24-hour dry cleaning and laundry service.

Getting Here and Getting to Twycross Zoo

Located on the busy A38 corridor and just 1 mile from Burton railway station, Three Queens Hotel is straightforward to reach from Birmingham, Derby, Lichfield, and beyond. Setting off for Twycross Zoo from our front gate takes you directly across the River Trent onto the A444, guiding you through the South Derbyshire and Leicestershire countryside straight to the zoo gates.

Ready to meet the great apes, explore the Gruffalo Discovery Land, and enjoy a relaxing family escape in Staffordshire? Book your stay at Three Queens Hotel today to secure your room at the best available rate.

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