Zoos Around Oxford: Heythrop Zoological Gardens

Heythrop Zoological Gardens

Heythrop Zoological Gardens is located in the Oxfordshire countryside and is known for its role as a private zoo and training centre.

Established as a sanctuary for a variety of exotic animals, Heythrop Zoological Gardens provides a safe and enriching environment for creatures ranging from big cats to reptiles. The gardens are particularly renowned for their work in film and television, where animals are trained for appearances in media productions. 

Heythrop Zoological Gardens is not generally open to the public for regular visits. However, they do offer specialized tours, educational experiences, and private events by appointment. These tours are usually focused on providing insights into animal care, training, and the role of animals in film and television. If you’re interested in visiting, it’s best to contact them directly to inquire about available tours or experiences that may be scheduled.

Why Visit this Zoo

Heythrop Zoological Gardens houses a wide variety of exotic animals, including big cats, primates, reptiles, birds, and other wildlife. The facility is known for its role in training animals for film and television, so visitors on specialized tours may see animals that have appeared in media productions.

The gardens offer a unique opportunity to learn about animal behaviour, training, and care in a setting that’s not typically open to the public. Each tour or experience is designed to educate visitors about the animals and their habitats.

How to Visit Heythrop Zoological Gardens from Oxford

The gardens are located in the Oxfordshire countryside, about 20 miles northwest of Oxford. The best way to reach Heythrop is by car, which takes approximately 40-50 minutes via the A44. If you’re interested in visiting, contact Heythrop Zoological Gardens directly to inquire about available tours or educational experiences, as these are typically arranged by appointment only. Public transport options are limited, so driving is recommended.

Oxford’s prettiest parks, meadows, and nature reserves, how to get there, why to go, and what to bring to have the perfect picnic, walk, date, or sports day. 

Oxford Parks & Meadows: Florence Park

Florence Park

Florence Park is a popular green space in East Oxford. It offers a welcoming environment for relaxation and recreation.

Shotover Country Park in Oxford

Shotover Country Park

Brasenose Wood is a woodland park featuring quiet walking paths and diverse flora. It’s also part of a larger nature reserve in Oxford.

Oxford Parks and Meadows: Grandpont Park

Grandpont Park

Grandpont Park is a lovely green space located in the southern part of Oxford, offering a peaceful retreat for locals and visitors.

Oxford Parks & Meadows: South Park

South Park

One of the most striking features of South Park is its elevated position, which provides some of the best views of Oxford’s famous spires.

Oxford castles, quads, and locks. 

Oxford Churches and Temples: St. Ebbe's Church

St. Ebbe’s Church

St. Ebbe’s Church is a historic church located in Oxford known for its medieval origins, architectural features, and historical significance.

Historical Oxford Buildings: The Observatory Tower

The Observatory Tower

The Observatory Tower is a prominent and historically significant part of the Radcliffe Observatory complex at Green Templeton College.

Oxford Castle and Prison - Image courtesy of Meraj Chhaya

Oxford Castle & Prison

Oxford Castle is a partly ruined Norman medieval castle on the centre of Oxford. The castle then became a prison which closed in 1996.

World-renowned museums and art galleries.

Aidan Meller Gallery - Oxford Museums and Art Galleries

Aidan Meller Gallery

Aidan Meller Gallery is one of Oxford’s longest-established specialist art galleries. They showcase modern, contemporary and old masters.

Museum of Oxford

Museum of Oxford

The Museum of Oxford is dedicated to telling the story of the city and its people. It has classical and modern art, artifacts, and tools.

Looking for things to do and enjoy while you’re in Oxford? Here are some suggestions, from quirky shops to escape rooms, art galleries, and sports. 

Oxford Cafés and Ice Cream: Swoon Gelato - My Review

Swoon Gelato

Swoon Gelato is a highly regarded gelateria located in the heart of Oxford, offering an indulgent selection of artisan gelato and sorbetto.

Read More >
Oxford Antique Shops: Sanders of Oxford

Sanders of Oxford

Sanders of Oxford is one of Oxford’s most esteemed and long-standing print and antiquarian bookshops. It is located on High Street.

Read More >
Oxford Antiques Shops: Norah's Antiques

Norah’s Antiques

Norah’s Antiques is a charming and well-loved antique shop offering a delightful blend of old-world charm and carefully curated treasures.

Read More >