Member hour early opening dates

See the Zoo in a different light from 9am

Join us this year as we’re inviting our Gold members, Fellows and Patrons into the Zoo early to get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of zoo life before we open the gates to the public at 10am.

Swing by on three selected Sundays a week before school holidays to get a hour's long sneak peek of what happens at the Zoo before general opening. See the animals slowly waking up and going about their own morning routine, whilst our team of zookeepers, staff and volunteers get the Zoo ready to welcome visitors. Whether it's keepers opening the habitats, catering teams whizzing baguettes over to the cafes, or retail teams getting the stores ready – expect to get a true behind-the-scenes peek! Plus, we’ll be bringing you right up-close to a different species for each of the early opening dates with additional activities and talks!

There is no need to pre-book, simply pop in between 9.00 – 9.30am on the selected Sundays below and show your membership card at to our team at the gates.

Sunday 19 May 2024

Witness breakfast being served to our tower of giraffes first thing at 9.00am. On the menu is locally supplied browse from sustainable forest land, which our zookeepers bring up to high level trees using winches in the outside space. The giraffes will reach the browse by using their long necks which replicates their natural browsing behaviour. Experience this great opportunity, all accompanied by special talks from the presenters team!

Mark Sunday 14 July 2024 and Sunday 20 October 2024 down in your calendars too for the next early Zoo openings, and keep your eyes peeled on here for more information closer to the time!

Would you like to attend the exclusive Gold members, Fellow and Patron early openings at Whipsnade Zoo instead?

whipsnade zoo EARLY OPENINGS
 

Additional information

• Early entry is for Gold members, Fellows, Patrons and their allocated guests only. 
• This is a free non-ticketed activity. Simply show your membership card at the main gate as usual.
• Early entry is only between 9.00 – 9.30am.
• Please note, most of the catering outlets and shops and some of the animal habitats will only open at 10am. The Reptile Kiosk and Zoo Treats cafe at the main entrance will be open.