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Crocodiles of the World: The UK’s Premier Crocodile Zoo in Oxfordshire

Explore the UK’s only crocodile zoo in Oxfordshire, home to over 130 crocodilians and immersive animal experiences year-round.

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Crocodiles of the World, located in Brize Norton near Carterton, Oxfordshire, is the UK’s only dedicated crocodile zoo. Home to over 130 crocodilians from 18 species, plus other reptiles and mammals, it offers immersive underwater viewing, daily feeding talks, and keeper experiences. Open daily from 10am to 5pm year-round, it features indoor and outdoor exhibits, cafes, picnic areas, and is family-friendly with accessible facilities.

A brief summary to Crocodiles of the World

  • Burford Rd, Carterton, Brize Norton, OX18 3NX, GB
  • +441993846353
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 3 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book tickets online in advance to secure entry and access to popular feeding sessions and keeper experiences.
  • Arrive early in the day for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities at the glass-fronted enclosures.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo covers a large area with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the outdoor picnic areas or visit one of the two onsite cafes for hot and cold meals.
  • Check the daily feeding schedule at the entrance to catch live feeding talks and animal encounters.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving is the most convenient way to reach Crocodiles of the World. Located near Brize Norton, Oxfordshire, it is accessible via the A40 with ample free parking onsite. Travel times from Oxford or Witney typically range from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Train and Taxi

    Take a train to Hanborough or Charlbury stations, approximately 12 miles from the zoo. From there, taxis provide a 20-30 minute ride to the zoo. Train services are regular but check schedules ahead, especially on weekends.

  • Bus and Taxi

    Stagecoach bus S1 connects Oxford and Witney with stops near Carterton and Brize Norton. From these stops, a short taxi ride of about 5-10 minutes will get you to the zoo. Bus frequency varies, so plan accordingly.

Crocodiles of the World location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Crocodiles of the World

A Unique Sanctuary for Crocodilians and Reptiles

Crocodiles of the World stands as the United Kingdom’s sole crocodile-focused zoo, boasting one of the most extensive collections of crocodilians globally. Situated in the village of Brize Norton near Carterton, Oxfordshire, it houses over 130 crocodiles, alligators, and caimans representing 18 different species. The zoo’s enclosures are thoughtfully designed to replicate natural habitats, including tropical climate conditions maintained year-round, allowing visitors to observe these ancient predators in environments that closely mimic their wild homes.

Engaging Experiences and Educational Opportunities

Visitors can enjoy a full day of exploration with a variety of daily events such as feeding sessions, keeper talks, and animal encounters. The zoo features underwater viewing areas that provide thrilling eye-to-eye encounters with crocodiles, enhancing the immersive experience. Beyond crocodilians, the zoo also hosts other fascinating creatures including meerkats, Binturong, Galapagos tortoises, Komodo dragons—the world's largest living lizard—and various reptiles like snakes, lizards, turtles, and terrapins. Educational zones and interactive exhibits enrich the visit with conservation messages and species facts.

Facilities Designed for Comfort and Convenience

Crocodiles of the World offers visitor amenities including two cafes serving hot and cold meals, picnic areas with benches, and a gift shop. The zoo is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, with accessible toilets and ample free parking including disabled bays near the main entrance. Outdoor play areas provide entertainment for children, making it a family-friendly destination. Visitors are encouraged to bring picnics if preferred, with dedicated picnic spaces available.

Visiting Practicalities and Opening Hours

Open daily from 10am to 5pm throughout the year except Christmas Day, the last entry is at 4pm. Admission prices are moderate, with adult tickets around £12.50 to £15 and concessions and children’s rates available, plus family packages. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to ensure entry and access to special keeper experiences. The zoo offers season tickets for unlimited visits within a year.

Getting There and Accessibility

Located approximately 17 miles west of Oxford, the zoo is easily accessible by car via the A40 with ample free parking. Public transport options include train stations at Hanborough or Charlbury about 12 miles away, from which taxis or buses can be arranged. The zoo is also reachable by bus services connecting nearby towns, though no direct public transit stops at the zoo itself. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for visitors with mobility aids.

Conservation and Community Engagement

Crocodiles of the World is dedicated to the conservation of crocodilian species, including critically endangered ones like the Siamese crocodile. The zoo participates in breeding programs and educational outreach to raise awareness about these reptiles and their habitats. Special events such as keeper experiences and educational visits for schools foster community involvement and deepen visitor understanding of wildlife protection.

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