Monkey Forest ·
review ·
Trentham Estate ·
West Midlands
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Walk Amongst The Monkeys At Monkey Forest, Trentham
Even though we live in the North West we seem to spend a lot of time round the Midlands and the South. We love traveling and exploring new cities and attractions. This Summer we spent a lot of time in Stoke and Stafford area visiting Alton Towers, Trentham Gardens and the Monkey Forest. We had heard great reviews and it's somewhere we have planned to visit over the years but never got round to it. I'm so glad we managed to fit it in this Summer as it's a great family day out.
What To Expect at Monkey Forest, Trentham Estate, Stone Rd, Tittensor, Stoke-on-Trent ST12 9HR
The forest boasts that it is the only place in the whole of the UK where you can walk amongst 140 Barbary Macaque monkeys. The monkeys live in large groups and we saw this on our visit. They have their own tress and areas and don't seem to cross over to other areas. Within some of the areas there is up to 6 generations co-existing and we were able to see some baby monkeys on our visit.
Can You Really Walk Amongst The Monkeys?
Yes! I was a little sceptical thinking that you really wouldn't be amongst the monkeys but yes you are. Visitors are free to walk amongst the monkeys on the 3/4 of a mile path through the woodlands whilst the monkeys roam free. You are not allowed to touch or feed the monkeys and we found the monkeys did not come that close to us anyway to be within reach.
How Long Does It Take To Walk Around?
The walk took us just under 1 hour and that included watching the monkey feed talk (which I would highly recommend) and stopping along the way to see the monkeys up close and taking pictures. However you are free to spend as much time as you like within the monkey area and also re-enter as many times as you like during your visit. There are interactive knowledge boards along the woodland path with lots of information and questions about monkeys and staff on hand to answer any questions.
What Else Can We Do?
The Monkey area is just one section of the Monkey Forest. We enjoyed spending time outside of the monkey area too.
Play Areas
There are different play areas. Each play area had its own unique equipment including monkey bars, basket swings, climbing frames and slides.
We spent a lot of time in the play area. There was a woodland area which was great for climbing and swinging. It also had picnic benches to sit at whilst the boys played.
The Banana Cafe
The Banana Cafe serves a selection of both warm and cold meals and snacks for when you’re feeling a bit peckish. Relax on the terrace with an ice cream or cup of coffee. There is plenty of seating available in and around the Banana Cafe with tables and chairs and there is also lots of grass space. There is a menu online and prices where what you would expect from this type of attraction.
We picked some cakes and a hot drink which were delicious.
The Jungle Shop
The Jungle Shop is packed full with monkey memorabilia. We headed straight to monkey themed stationary where we picked up a pencil, rubber and pencil sharpener.
Willow Maze
Designed in the shape of a Barbary Monkey the Willow Maze will keep you and your family entertained as you enter through the mouth and leave through the bum!
This was lots of fun and you can easily see the end from the beginning however we enjoyed it. You can also see through so no chance of getting stuck.
Can You Take Your Own Food?
Yes you can take your own food however you cannot take it in the monkey enclosure. There are plenty of spots to enjoy a picnic and it is recommended to either leave your picnic in the car until after you have seen the monkeys or eat it beforehand.
We didn't have to pop back the car but if you do you just let the staff know at the entrance and they will stamp your hand which let's them know you are just popping the car.
How Much Is Car Parking?
Car parking is free and there are plenty of spaces with an overflow car park too. There are disabled bays available too closer to the entrance.
How Accessible Is The Monkey Enclosure?
The 3/4 mile path is suitable for wheelchairs and mobilty scooters however there was a small section that had a very steep slope. We saw a wheelchair struggle on this part of the walk, however there was not much to see here anyway.
The path isn't one way however people did tend to walk the same way but it wouldn't be a problem if you have a wheelchair or mobility scooter if you needed to turn around. There are wide paths,
What Are The Opening Times and Prices?
Opening times vary depending on the time of year however it is usually closed from around the beginning of November until February half term.
Ticket prices are cheaper if you buy in advance with adults priced at £10 and children priced at £8. Concessions and over 65's can enter at a reduced rate of £9.50. Carers and under 2's go free.
You can check out the full opening times calendar and price guide visiting Monkey Forest.
What Else Is Local?
There are quite a few local attractions that you could visit on the same day.
Trentham Gardens
Adjacent to the Monkey Forest, Trentham Gardens offers a stunning landscape with beautiful flower displays, lakes, and gardens. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the tranquility of this picturesque setting.
Trentham Estate
The Trentham Estate boasts a variety of attractions, including a shopping village, outdoor adventure playground, and a lakeside walk. It's the perfect destination for a day of exploration and relaxation.
We loved our day and I can see us heading back there next year as it was a nice relaxed day out. We loved seeing the Monkeys and little J enjoyed the play area too.
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Michelle