Hannah, one of our presenters here at SN Radio, was invited to an exclusive preview of the new attraction at Twycross Zoo – Gruffalo Discovery Land!

Hannah took her daughter along on a rather wintery day to be the first little girl to set foot in Gruffalo Discovery Land which was very exciting for both of them. Hannah takes up the story …
The attraction is spread over 4 acres and you can see live animals, take part in interactive activities and learn about habitats and conservation. The adventure begins in spectacular fashion in the Butterfly Paradise and as you follow the path, you walk in Mouse’s footsteps through Fox’s Underground House, Owl’s Tree-top House and come face to face with a real snake, aptly named David Boa! You can get up close to a group of very cute pygmy goats and watch shows in the outside auditorium. Take a break at the lovely café or rest your legs sitting at one of the picnic tables whilst the children explore the play area.


Gruffalo Discovery Land hopes to educate young children in the importance of conservation through the famous story book by Julia Donaldson. Axel Scheffler’s illustrations are really brought to life as you walk through cleverly planted pathways which makes you feel you are indeed Mouse himself! The journey ends as you come face to face with a creature with “terrible claws and terrible teeth in his terrible jaws! Oh help! Oh no! It’s a Gruffalo!”
Hannah’s daughter thoroughly enjoyed the day and gave it a 10 out of 10! She especially liked the tropical butterfly paradise!
As well as discovering the new attraction, Hannah spoke to Twycross Zoo’s Director of Conservation Dr Rebecca Biddle about the important work being done by zoos across the world to save many endangered species, and also asked Dr Biddle about how youngsters with an interest in nature and animals could eventually end up with a job like hers!
Dr. Rebecca Biddle, Director of Conservation at Twycross Zoo (Photo: Twycross Zoo)
Photos : Hannah Young
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