Newquay Zoo

Newquay Zoo is a significant zoological institution located in the coastal town of Newquay, Cornwall, England. Established on May 26, 1969, it has grown from its origins as a small seasonal attraction to become the largest zoo in Cornwall. The zoo currently spans 13 acres and is home to approximately 993 animals representing 36 different species. Since January 2026, it has been operated by the Dutch leisure company Libéma, following its acquisition alongside Paignton Zoo.

History and Development

The zoo's history began in the 1950s as the Newquay Children's Zoo, situated within Trenance Gardens. In the late 1960s, plans were approved to relocate and expand the facility within Trenance Leisure Park, leading to its public opening in 1969. For many years, it was managed by the local council, first as Newquay Urban District Council and later Restormel District Council. During this period, the collection expanded, and notable features like a walk-through aviary were introduced.

In the mid-1980s, the council implemented developments including primate enclosures and a tropical house. The zoo faced challenges during economic downturns, and in 1993, it was purchased by Mike and Jenny Thomas. Under their ownership, Newquay Zoo underwent modernization and focused on education and public engagement, establishing a partnership with St Austell College which contributed to the formation of Cornwall College Newquay. In 2003, the zoo became part of the Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust (now Wild Planet Trust), marking a new phase of investment and development.

Key developments under the Wild Planet Trust included the opening of a 3.5-acre African Savannah exhibit in 2009 and the creation of a Philippines zone. The original 1969 aviary was replaced in 2016 by 'Gems of the Jungle.' In 2024-2025, the zoo was involved in the European ‘Linking Lynx’ initiative, with a zoo-bred Carpathian lynx being a candidate for reintroduction into the wild. The zoo also contributes to the conservation of the Critically Endangered European eel.

Animals and Conservation Focus

Newquay Zoo's collection is curated with an emphasis on small to medium-sized mammals, birds, and reptiles, chosen to suit its footprint and to highlight species of conservation concern. Many of the animals housed are listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. The zoo actively participates in numerous European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) Ex situ Programmes (EEPs), contributing to coordinated breeding efforts for threatened species.

Notable species within the collection include the Carpathian lynx, Philippine spotted deer, Visayan warty pig, red panda, Humboldt penguin, fishing cat, grey slender loris, radiated tortoise, and brown hyena. The zoo's commitment to conservation is further demonstrated by its role in research on species like the Owston's civet and its efforts to promote the use of certified sustainable palm oil, aiming to make Newquay the first Sustainable Palm Oil Town.

Recognition and Future

Newquay Zoo has received accolades for its landscapes, earning a Britain in Bloom Gold award in 2025. It has also been recognized for its environmental management systems, holding an ISO 14001 certificate and a GTBS Green Tourism Business Scheme award. As it enters the Libéma era, the company has announced plans for significant investment, aiming to introduce new species, enhance habitats, and improve visitor facilities while maintaining the zoo's core mission of conservation, education, and biodiversity.