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

Explore the UK’s only crocodile zoo with over 130 crocodilians, immersive talks, and family-friendly wildlife encounters in Oxfordshire.

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Crocodiles of the World in Carterton, Oxfordshire is the UK’s only dedicated crocodile zoo, home to over 130 crocodilians from 18 species alongside other reptiles and exotic animals. Open daily with immersive keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and interactive exhibits, it offers a unique wildlife adventure for families and animal enthusiasts alike in a tropical climate setting.

A brief summary to Crocodiles of the World

  • Burford Rd, Carterton, Brize Norton, OX18 3NX, GB
  • +441993846353
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 3 to 4 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 keeper experiences, especially during weekends and school holidays.
  • Arrive early for a quieter visit and to catch the daily feeding demonstrations and keeper talks.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo covers a large area with both indoor and outdoor exhibits.
  • Bring a camera for numerous photo opportunities, especially at underwater viewing enclosures.
  • Take advantage of the picnic areas if you prefer to bring your own food, or visit the Croc Cafe for hot and cold meals.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to Crocodiles of the World from Oxford takes approximately 30-40 minutes via A40 and A44. Free ample parking is available on site, including disabled bays near the entrance.

  • Bus and Taxi

    Take a bus from Oxford to Carterton, which takes around 1 hour. From Carterton, a taxi ride of about 10 minutes will get you to the zoo. Bus services vary, so check schedules in advance.

  • Train and Taxi

    The nearest train station is in Oxford. From there, a taxi or rideshare to the zoo takes about 30-40 minutes. This option is suitable for visitors combining train travel with local taxi services.

  • Walking

    For active visitors staying nearby in Brize Norton or Carterton, walking to the zoo is possible but involves rural roads and takes around 45-60 minutes. Suitable only for those comfortable with longer walks and limited pedestrian paths.

Crocodiles of the World location weather suitability

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

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Discover more about Crocodiles of the World

A Unique Sanctuary for Crocodilians and Exotic Wildlife

Crocodiles of the World is the United Kingdom’s only crocodile zoo, located in the village of Brize Norton near Carterton, Oxfordshire. It houses more than 130 crocodilians, including crocodiles, alligators, and caimans, representing 18 different species from around the globe. The zoo is also home to a variety of other reptiles such as snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises, and terrapins, as well as mammals like meerkats, binturongs, tamarin monkeys, and the impressive Komodo dragon, the world’s largest living lizard.

Immersive Experiences and Educational Encounters

Visitors can engage deeply with the animals through daily keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and animal encounters that reveal fascinating insights into crocodilian behavior, hunting techniques, and conservation efforts. The zoo offers special keeper experiences for adults and children, including junior keeper days and VIP encounters, allowing guests to participate in feeding and caring for these prehistoric creatures. The Wildlife Education Zone features interactive displays and a bistro café, enhancing the educational and family-friendly atmosphere.

Facilities and Visitor Comfort

The zoo operates year-round, open daily from 10am to 5pm with last entry at 4pm, except Christmas Day. It maintains a tropical climate inside the enclosures to mimic the natural habitats of its residents. Facilities include accessible toilets, a gift shop, two cafes serving hot and cold meals, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Ample free parking is available, including disabled parking bays near the entrance. The site is wheelchair and pushchair friendly, making it accessible for all visitors.

Conservation and Commitment

Crocodiles of the World is dedicated to the conservation of crocodilian species, many of which are endangered. Through education and breeding programs, the zoo plays a vital role in raising awareness and supporting global efforts to protect these ancient reptiles. Informative boards and staff expertise provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the ecological importance and challenges facing crocodilians worldwide.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

The zoo’s layout encourages a leisurely exploration at your own pace, with underwater viewing areas offering eye-level encounters with swimming crocodiles. The tropical environment, combined with the diversity of species and interactive opportunities, creates an engaging and memorable experience for families, solo travelers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Seasonal events such as Fright Nights add a unique twist to the visit.

Location and Surroundings

Set in the Oxfordshire countryside, Crocodiles of the World is easily accessible by car with a postcode of OX18 3NX for navigation. While public transport options are limited, nearby towns offer connections, and ample parking facilitates convenient visits. The rural setting enhances the feeling of a wildlife escape, distinct from urban zoos, making it an ideal day trip destination.

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