Reptile experience
A unique behind-the-scenes experience for young reptile enthusiasts
The Junior Reptile Keeper Experience gives one young participant, recommended for ages from 6 - 16 years, the opportunity to shadow our Reptile Keeper and learn about the daily care of our reptiles inside the reptile house.
During the experience, participants will follow the Reptile Keeper through daily husbandry routines. They will help change water in selected enclosures, take temperature readings, and assist with basic enclosure cleaning where required. Participants will also learn about reptile behaviour, care, and welfare. This is not a handling experience, and all activities are carefully designed to prioritise animal welfare.
As part of the experience, participants will have the opportunity to touch and take photos with large snake sheds. They will also help feed lizards in the reptile room and assist with feeding terrapins and the ocellated lizard outdoors.
What you need to know
The Junior Reptile Keeper Experience runs seasonally from April to August, aligning with the period when reptiles are naturally most active. Sessions take place from 12:00 to 12:30 pm on Tuesdays, which coincides with the warmest part of the day when reptiles are typically basking and most active. All activities meet approved Visitor Animal Experience (VAE) guidelines.
During school holidays, sessions will run twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 to 12:30 pm.
Pricing
The cost is £70 for one child and one adult. This includes general admission for both and the Junior Reptile Keeper Experience for the child.
The cost is £120 for two children and one adult. This includes general admission for all participants and the experience for both children.
Any additional adults will need to purchase a standard admission ticket.
Important Information
Each session is limited to one booking. Children must be accompanied on site by a responsible adult, although adults do not take part in the experience. Suitable clothing and closed-toe footwear must be worn.
Your participation helps us provide top-notch care for our reptiles and supports our conservation efforts.
