Twycross Zoo's multi-million-pound Gruffalo Discovery Land to open soon

Doesn’t he know? There’s no such thing as a Gruffalo!

Twycross Zoo has been working on a brand-new Gruffalo experience.

The multi-million-pound attraction will be aimed at inspiring the next generation to protect and preserve our wildlife and endangered species.

The Gruffalo Discovery Land is a UK first and will be opening to the public on Saturday, April 9, 2022.

It will send visitors on the interactive journey of the Mouse through the deep dark wood, as he encounters the Gruffalo.

Dr Sharon Redrobe OBE, CEO of Twycross Zoo, said: “Much-loved children’s books, such as The Gruffalo, can inspire the imaginations of young children and encourage them to learn more about the natural world around them.

"Recent global reports have highlighted the need for urgent action and we’re committed to educating more young people than ever before about the part they can play in protecting our planet - each one of us can make a real difference.”

The much-loved characters will be brought to life, straight from the pages of bestselling children’s book The Gruffalo, written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

What’s more is tickets are now on sale to the public, with entry to the land included in the Zoo’s daily admission price.

It is recommended that visitors book soon to avoid disappointment over the Easter holidays!

Developed in partnership with Magic Light Pictures, the aim is to bring together this evergreen children’s character and a conservation organisation that exists to protect wildlife, preserve endangered species and educate the next generation on the importance of protecting our planet.

The discovery land is set to include a Gruffalo animatronic that’s over 2m tall and real-life animal shows featuring the land’s most important inhabitants; owls, snakes, mice and more. Visitors can head to the Treetop House play area, wander around Butterfly Paradise and enjoy a feast in the Oh Crumbs! Café.

The Gruffalo Discovery Land is a real celebration of both children’s love for animals and nature and we’re so excited to bring these wonderful creatures to life here at Twycross Zoo.

Newly commissioned research conducted by Twycross Zoo, reveals that over three quarters of children as young as four, have a good understanding of extinction or endangered animals.

But more needs to be done to educate them on the solution and how they can help to protect these animals and our planet.

Parents think a good imagination is essential as it enables children to be curious (68%), engaged with the world around them (63%) and become better learners (61%).

The vast majority of parents (85%) say that imaginary characters from books and films are important to stimulate their child’s imagination. Figures such as The Gruffalo are considered popular natural ambassadors.

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Written by Aimee Culverhouse

Currently interning for Niche Magazine, Aimee is keen to grow her portfolio in journalism whilst studying her Master’s degree at De Montfort University, in Fashion Management with Marketing. She enjoys writing about upcoming events, sustainable fashion and retail.