Marwell Zoo Extinction Event at Marwell Zoo Winchester Review
DISCLOSURE – THIS EXPERIENCE WAS GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST/S FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW.
Reviewed by Emma Booth
We were lucky enough to be invited to the VIP launch of Marwell Zoo Extinction Event which is running from the 19th of July until the 7th of September. Extinction is about discovering species of animals that have become extinct over the years. There are more than 20 different species to discover all made out of millions of toy bricks.
When we arrived at the park we were handed a trail map which showed us the locations of all the sculptures that were on display, we could then tick them off as we saw them as we made our way round the park. Each board by the sculpture had information such as how long ago it became extinct, how many people built it, how long it took to build, how heavy it is and some information on the animal itself.
The trail maps also had some fun activities like a word search a maze and a chance to enter the competition to design a dodo to try and win tickets to Marwell’s Glow event. As well as the sculptures to find there are also other activities based at Brick Base Camp. Here there was a whole host of activities going on, there was face painting for those who wanted to transform into their favourite animal (extra charges apply), or you could purchase your very own brick creation to make and take home, making a mammoth or a mini dodo.
Or you could join in with the public build of the sabretooth tiger. Here we were able to help build part of the foot. We were all able to join in and we had lots of fun doing this together. Luckily it was all undercover as it was raining when we got there.
It was a really lovely thought to think we have contributed to what’s going to be an amazing sculpture and this was definitely a highlight of the evening.
We also got to try out the new VR experience which is based in the Giraffe House and for those aged five and above with an extra charge of I think £6. We all had a go and it was really good fun. It takes you on a journey across the globe seeing lots of different animals in their natural habitat, it’s like a David Attenborough programme but actually being there in person. We thought it was a great addition but a shame it’s quite expensive.
This event runs throughout the day but they are also holding an event called Extinction Late Explore After Hours, where on a few selected dates you can enjoy the park from 6 o’clock to 9 o’clock when there is a chance to meet the builders and enjoy some extra activities and enjoy a family evening out.
We were here for the evening event and after enjoying some of the activities we had a look round as much of the zoo as we could, but it is so big we couldn’t see it all. What we did enjoy was the Tropical House.
I think because it was so quiet a lot of the animals were all out walking around. We saw so many beautiful birds all so close to us, this had to be my favourite part of the zoo.
We also saw otters, snow leopards, zebras and loads more, far too many to mention. All the animals had large enclosures unlike some zoos where they are all crammed in small enclosures.
We really enjoyed our evening out, it was quality family time and my kids love running ahead to see who could spot the sculpture first.
Marwell zoo is one of Hampshire’s much loved attractions being a 140 acre conservation zoo and charity dedicated to conservation and education around the world. It’s definitely a day out everyone can enjoy and a perfect summer holiday day out.
A big 5/5 for a perfect day out
Rating: 5/5
Tickets from £19
For moire information or to book tickets, visit www.marwell.org.uk
Marwell Zoo, Thomason’s Lane, Winchester, SO211JH