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Family days out

Messingham Zoo

A small, family-run zoo offering close-up animal encounters, ideal for families and educational visits.

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Messingham Zoo, located on Butterwick Road near Scunthorpe in North Lincolnshire, is a family-run wildlife attraction that offers a unique and intimate experience for visitors of all ages. Unlike larger zoos and wildlife parks, Messingham Zoo focuses on close-up encounters with smaller, friendlier animals, making it especially appealing to families and young children. The zoo is designed to be accessible and engaging, with a strong emphasis on education and animal welfare.

The zoo features a diverse collection of animals, ranging from exotic species to familiar farmyard favourites. Visitors can meet meerkats, reptiles, birds, and small mammals in environments carefully designed to mimic their natural habitats. The layout of the zoo allows for easy navigation, ensuring that even the youngest guests can enjoy the full experience without feeling overwhelmed. Interactive exhibits and feeding sessions add to the hands-on appeal, encouraging curiosity and learning.

Education is central to Messingham Zoo’s mission. The team offers tailored programs for school groups, families, and wildlife enthusiasts, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of animal care, conservation, and biodiversity. Knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer questions and share insights, making each visit both fun and informative. The zoo also supports conservation initiatives, helping protect endangered species and promote sustainable practices.

Animal welfare is a top priority at Messingham Zoo. The facility adheres to strict standards of care, ensuring that all animals receive proper nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary attention. This commitment not only benefits the animals but also reassures visitors that they are supporting a responsible and ethical institution. The zoo continues to grow, with new animal arrivals and attractions being added regularly.

Opening hours

Opening 7 days a week from 10am-4pm.

Facilities

  • Accessible
  • Café
  • Parking
  • Restrooms
  • Shop/gift shop

Contact details

Messingham Zoo, Butterwick Rd, Messingham, Scunthorpe DN17 3PN

Messingham Zoo gallery...

White-faced capuchin monkey sitting on a wooden platform inside an enclosed habitat at Messingham Zoo.
Wallaby resting on sandy ground among eucalyptus branches within an animal enclosure at Messingham Zoo.
A ring-tailed lemur eating food out of a person's open palm