Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

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Summary

Plan your visit to Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre, one of Dorset's most popular family attractions. Home to more than 250 rescued monkeys and apes across 65 acres of woodland, Monkey World offers unforgettable wildlife encounters, daily keeper talks, adventure play areas and inspiring conservation work. Discover ticket prices, opening times, facilities, accessibility and everything you need to enjoy one of the best days out near Wareham and the Jurassic Coast.

Location
Information
Address

Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre
Longthorns
Wareham
Dorset
BH20 6HH

Opening hours
Daily
10:00 - 17:00
Last Entry
15:00
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Overview

Located near Wareham in the heart of Dorset, Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is one of the UK's leading primate rescue organisations and one of the county's most popular visitor attractions.

Set within 65 acres of beautiful woodland, the centre provides a permanent home for more than 250 rescued monkeys and apes representing over 20 different species. Many of the primates have been rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, laboratories, circuses, television productions and private ownership, where they could no longer be properly cared for.

A visit to Monkey World is far more than a day out, it's an opportunity to learn about conservation while supporting one of the world's leading primate rescue charities.

Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

A World-Leading Rescue Centre

Monkey World was founded in 1987 by Jim Cronin MBE to provide sanctuary for abused and neglected chimpanzees from Spain.

Since then, the rescue centre has grown into an internationally recognised conservation organisation, working with governments and wildlife agencies around the world to rescue primates in need.

Today, Monkey World continues to rescue monkeys and apes from across Europe and beyond while campaigning against the illegal wildlife trade and poor captive conditions.

What You'll Discover

Visitors can explore spacious naturalistic enclosures and discover a wide variety of fascinating primate species, including:

  • Chimpanzees
  • Orangutans
  • Gorillas
  • Gibbons
  • Capuchin monkeys
  • Woolly monkeys
  • Spider monkeys
  • Ring-tailed lemurs
  • Barbary macaques
  • Marmosets
  • Tamarins
  • Many more rescued primates

Throughout the day, visitors can also enjoy free keeper talks that share each group's rescue story, behaviour and ongoing care.

Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

Family-Friendly Fun

Monkey World is one of Dorset's best family attractions.

Children can enjoy:

  • Two large adventure playgrounds
  • Indoor play areas
  • Picnic spaces
  • Daily keeper talks
  • Educational displays
  • Wildlife trails

School holiday activities and special educational events are held throughout the year, making every visit slightly different.

The park is suitable for visitors of all ages and comfortably fills a full day.

Conservation That Makes a Difference

Unlike many wildlife attractions, every visit to Monkey World directly supports international rescue and conservation work.

Admission income helps fund:

  • Rescue missions
  • Veterinary care
  • Specialist diets
  • Enclosure improvements
  • Conservation projects
  • Lifelong care for rescued primates

Visitors leave knowing their day out has contributed to protecting endangered animals around the world.

Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

Facilities

Visitors can enjoy a full range of facilities including:

  • Café serving hot meals, snacks and refreshments
  • Picnic areas
  • Gift shop
  • Public toilets
  • Baby changing facilities
  • Indoor seating
  • Free daily keeper talks
  • Adventure playgrounds
  • Free parking
  • Electric vehicle charging points (subject to availability)

Ticket Prices

Tickets can be booked online in advance or purchased on arrival, subject to availability.

Annual Passes are also available, allowing unlimited visits for 12 months and offering excellent value for regular visitors.

Current ticket prices are available on the official Monkey World website, and advance online booking is recommended during weekends and school holidays.

Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

Are Dogs Allowed

Dogs are not permitted inside Monkey World, with the exception of registered assistance dogs.

This policy helps protect the welfare of the rescued primates.

Parking

Free on-site parking is available for visitors.

Accessible parking spaces are located close to the main entrance.

Electric vehicle charging points are also available.

Accessibility

Monkey World aims to make the park accessible to as many visitors as possible.

Facilities include:

  • Accessible parking
  • Accessible toilets
  • Step-free access across much of the park
  • Wheelchair-friendly pathways
  • Mobility scooter hire (subject to availability)
  • Seating throughout the site

Some woodland paths include gentle gradients.

Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

Events Throughout the Year

Monkey World hosts a variety of events and educational experiences throughout the year, including:

  • Autism Friendly Days
  • Keeper experiences
  • School holiday activities
  • Educational workshops
  • Conservation awareness events
  • Seasonal family activities

Daily keeper talks also take place throughout the visitor season and are included with admission.

Nearby Attractions

Why not combine your visit with some of Dorset's other fantastic attractions nearby?

  • The Tank Museum
  • Lulworth Cove
  • Durdle Door
  • Wareham
  • Corfe Castle
  • Sculpture by the Lakes
  • Dorset Adventure Park
Monkey World - Dorset's Award-Winning, Primate Rescue Centre

Why Visit Monkey World

Monkey World offers one of the most rewarding days out in Dorset.

Combining unforgettable wildlife encounters with genuine conservation, it provides visitors with the rare opportunity to see rescued primates living in safe, spacious environments while learning about the challenges facing endangered species around the world.

Whether you're visiting with children, passionate about wildlife or simply looking for an inspiring day out, Monkey World is an attraction you'll remember long after you leave.

Visitor Tips

  • Allow 4–6 hours to explore the park at a relaxed pace.
  • Download the daily keeper talk timetable on arrival so you don't miss your favourite species.
  • Book online in advance during weekends and school holidays.
  • Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the site covers a large woodland area.
  • Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch in the on-site café.
  • Don't forget your camera—Monkey World offers some of Dorset's best wildlife photography opportunities.
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