Monkey World Dorset: Our Family Guide to One of Dorset's Best Days Out
Planning A Visit To Monkey World? Here’s Why We Think It’s One Of Dorset’s Best Family Days Out
Some attractions become part of your family’s story.
Monkey World in Dorset is one of those places for us.
Long before we moved to Dorset and founded Curated Cottages, we’d visit the county whenever we could, taking our children. There were plenty of wonderful days out to choose from, but Monkey World always seemed to make the list.
Alongside The Tank Museum nearby, it became one of those places we’d return to time and again. Not because we’d seen everything already, but because every visit felt a little different.
The children loved racing between the enclosures to see their favourite primates. We’d spend far longer than we’d planned listening to keeper talks, and there was always one last stop at the Great Ape Play Area before we headed home.
Years later, Monkey World remains one of the Dorset attractions we most often recommend to families staying in our holiday cottages.
If you’re planning a visit, we hope this guide helps you make the most of your day.
We’ve included practical tips, answers to the questions we’re asked most often, and a few personal recommendations we’ve picked up over several family visits over the years.
As opening times, ticket prices and events occasionally change, we’d always recommend checking the official Monkey World website before travelling.
Monkey World At A Glance
Planning your visit?
Here’s a quick overview to help you dive into the rest of our guide.
đ Location
Longthorns, near Wool, Dorset (around 25 minutes from Weymouth and 20 minutes from Dorchester)
đ Opening Times
Usually open daily from 10 am (closed on Christmas Day)
â±ïž How Long To Allow
Allow around 4â6 hours for a relaxed visit, including keeper talks and the play area.
đšâđ©âđ§ Best For
Families, animal lovers, grandparents, rainy-day alternatives, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation.
đ” Don’t Miss
Chimpanzees, orangutans, keeper talks and the Great Ape Play Area.
đ§ș Our Top Tip
Arrive when the gates open, and bring a picnic if you’re visiting during the school holidays.
đ Combine Your Visit With
The Tank Museum, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, or Corfe Castle.
đĄ Staying Nearby?
Monkey World is ideally placed for exploring the Jurassic Coast, making it an excellent addition to a longer Dorset holiday.
Our Family’s Experience Of Monkey World
We’ve visited Monkey World several times over the years, and each visit has left us with slightly different memories.
Sometimes it was watching the orangutans quietly interact with one another.
Sometimes it was the children’s excitement at feeding time.
Sometimes it was simply about enjoying a picnic while the children disappeared into the play area for “just another five minutes”.
One thing has remained consistent across every visit.
There never seems to be any rush.
Unlike some attractions where you’re constantly moving from one queue to the next, Monkey World feels relaxed. The spacious layout gives you time to wander at your own pace, stop whenever something catches your eye, and simply enjoy being there.
One tip we’ve learnt over the years is to take a picnic if you’re visiting during the school holidays.
The cafés are good, but they can get very busy at lunchtime. Bringing your own food lets you find a quiet spot along the Great Ape Trail, enjoy lunch surrounded by nature, and avoid the queues altogether.
‘s one of those simple tips that makes the day feel a little more relaxed.
To help you get a feel for Monkey World before you visit, we’ve also put together a short video showcasing some of our favourite moments from previous trips.
Why Trust Our Guide?
We’ve visited Monkey World several times over the years with our family, both before and after moving to Dorset. This guide combines our personal experience with practical visitor information to help you make the most of your day.
Our Tips For Visiting Monkey World
Having visited Monkey World several times over the years, we’d happily share these tips with friends visiting for the first time.
- Arrive when the park opens at 10 am, especially during the school holidays.
- Allow at least four to six hours to explore properly.
- Bring a picnic if you’re visiting in summer to avoid lunchtime queues.
- Check the keeper talk schedule as soon as you arrive, then plan your day around it.
- Leave plenty of time for the Great Ape Play Area. It’s often the highlight of the day for young visitors.
- Wear comfortable shoes. Although the paths are easy to follow, you’ll cover far more ground than you might expect.
Curated Tip
If you’re visiting during the summer holidays, arriving as the gates open really does make a difference. The first couple of hours are generally quieter, giving you more space around the enclosures and a much more relaxed start to the day.
Did You Know?
One of the things that makes Monkey World so special is that it isn’t merely a zoo.
Every primate living here has either been rescued or rehabilitated, or is part of an internationally recognised conservation programme.
Many have been saved from illegal wildlife trafficking, poor conditions in captivity, or exploitation in the entertainment industry. Your visit supports the centre’s ongoing rescue, rehabilitation and conservation work, making it a day out that genuinely contributes to animal welfare.
What Is Monkey World?
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is exactly what its name suggests, a working rescue centre and sanctuary for primates, set within 65 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside near Wool.
The centre was founded in 1987 by the late Jim Cronin after the Spanish authorities asked him to help rescue chimpanzees that had been illegally taken from the wild and used as photographic props on beaches.
What began with a handful of rescued chimpanzees has grown into one of the world’s leading primate rescue organisations.
Today, Monkey World cares for more than 260 primates representing over 20 species. Many have been rescued from neglect, the illegal wildlife trade, laboratories, or unsuitable private ownership, and have been given the opportunity to live in stable social groups within spacious, naturalistic enclosures.
Monkey World is also home to Europe’s official orangutan crĂšche and remains an important contributor to international conservation breeding programmes.
Many people will already know the centre through the Channel 5 television series Monkey Life and Monkey Business, which have followed the remarkable stories of the animals and the dedicated team caring for them.
For us, that’s one of the reasons Monkey World feels different from many other attractions.
Yes, it’s a fantastic day out for the family.
But you also leave with a genuine appreciation for the incredible conservation work underway here in Dorset.
Where Is Monkey World?
Monkey World Ape Rescue Centre is at Longthorns, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 6HH, on the A31 between Bere Regis and Wool.
It’s ideally placed for exploring many of Dorset’s best-known attractions and can be easily combined with visits to places such as The Tank Museum, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Corfe Castle, making it an excellent addition to a longer Dorset holiday.
Approximate journey times include:
- Dorchester: 20â25 minutes (12 miles)
- Weymouth: 25â30 minutes (17 miles)
- Poole: 35â40 minutes
- Bournemouth: Around 50 minutes
Its central location makes Monkey World one of the easiest family attractions to include on a holiday exploring Dorset.
Which Animals Can You See At Monkey World?
One of the questions we’re most often asked by guests staying with us is:
“Will we actually see many animals?”
The simple answer is yes.
Monkey World is home to more than 260 primates from over 20 species, making it one of the largest collections of rescued primates anywhere in the world.
Of course, every visit is different.
The animals decide where they want to spend their time, whether that’s relaxing outdoors, exploring their enclosures, or disappearing inside for a while. That’s all part of what makes Monkey World feel so natural.
Here are some of the residents you’ll almost certainly want to watch out for.
Chimpanzees
Chimpanzees have always felt like the heart of Monkey World.
They’re incredibly expressive and endlessly fascinating to watch.
During our visits, we’ve often found ourselves standing at the enclosure far longer than we’d intended, simply watching them interact with one another.
Keeper talks make these encounters even more interesting, as you come to understand the personalities and stories behind individual animals.
Orangutans
If we had to choose one area our children always wanted to return to, it would probably be been the orangutans.
They’re captivating.
Whether they’re climbing, quietly observing visitors, or simply relaxing high above the ground, there’s something deeply peaceful about watching them.
Knowing that Monkey World is home to Europe’s official orangutan crĂšche makes these encounters feel even more special.
Gibbons
You may hear them before you see them.
Their unmistakable calls often echo across the park, particularly in the morning.
Watching them swing effortlessly through the trees is always a highlight and never fails to stop visitors in their tracks.
Capuchin Monkeys
Capuchins seem perpetually busy.
They’re curious, intelligent and endlessly entertaining.
Children, especially, enjoy watching them investigate enrichment puzzles created by the keepers.
Marmosets And Tamarins
These tiny primates are surprisingly easy to overlook.
They’re incredibly quick and constantly on the move, making them one of the park’s favourite “spotting challenges” for younger visitors.
Curated Tip
Don’t worry if you don’t spot every animal immediately.
Some of our favourite moments have happened simply because we stopped for a few extra minutes at an enclosure.
Monkey World rewards patience.
Feeding Times And Keeper Talks
If there’s one piece of advice we’d offer anyone visiting Monkey World, it’s this:
Plan your day around the keeper talks.
They’re one of the things that make Monkey World so distinct from many wildlife attractions.
Rather than simply reading the information boards, you’ll hear directly from the people who care for these remarkable animals every day.
The keepers share fascinating stories about individual primates, explain their rescue journeys, and answer visitors’ questions.
It’s these stories that often linger with you long after your visit.
Scatter feeds usually take place alongside the talks, giving you a wonderful opportunity to watch the primates forage naturally and interact with each other.
Before you start exploring, we’d always recommend checking the day’s schedule so you don’t miss any.
Monkey World also offers guided tours for visitors seeking an even deeper insight into its conservation work, together with an audio guide that you can download and enjoy at your own pace.
The Great Ape Play Area
Ask most children what their favourite part of Monkey World was, and there’s a good chance they’ll say the play area.
Ours certainly did.
Designed for climbing, scrambling and swinging, it’s the perfect place for children to burn off any remaining energy after exploring the park.
More than once, we’ve smiled as the children declared they were “just going on one more time” before disappearing for another twenty minutes.
For parents, it’s also a welcome opportunity to sit down with a coffee while little adventurers continue to enjoy themselves.
There’s a second, smaller play area near the Watering Hole CafĂ©, making it easy to break up the day for younger visitors who need a chance to let off steam.
Cafés, Picnics And Facilities
Monkey World has a couple of cafés serving hot meals, sandwiches, drinks and ice cream throughout the day.
They’re well worth visiting, but during the school holidays they can become particularly busy at lunchtime.
That’s why we nearly always recommend bringing a picnic.
There are plenty of picnic benches and grassy areas dotted throughout the park, especially along the Great Ape Trail.
Packing lunch gives you much more flexibility, avoids the busiest queues, and often makes the day feel that little bit more relaxed.
Sometimes the simplest ideas really are the best.
Our Perfect Monkey World Day
If we were planning a first visit all over again, this is exactly how we’d spend the day.
10:00 am â Arrive as the gates open to enjoy the quieter atmosphere.
10:30 am â Explore the chimpanzees, orangutans and nearby enclosures before they get busier.
12:00 pm â Stop for a picnic or an early lunch.
12:30 pmâ3:00 pm â Follow the keeper talks and scatter feed around the park.
3:00 pm â Let the children loose in the Great Ape Play Area.
4:00 pm â Enjoy an ice cream or a coffee before taking one final stroll around your favourite enclosures.
It’s an easy-going itinerary that never feels rushed, giving you plenty of time to enjoy everything Monkey World has to offer.
Monkey World And The Best Attractions Nearby
One of the reasons we often recommend Monkey World to our guests is its fantastic location. Rather than simply being a great day out on its own, it’s perfectly placed for exploring some of Dorset’s best-loved attractions. If you’re spending a few days in the county, it’s easy to build an itinerary around this part of Dorset.
Here are a few places we’d definitely recommend adding to your list.
The Tank Museum
Less than two miles from Monkey World lies The Tank Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of armoured fighting vehicles.
At first glance, it might seem completely different from Monkey Worldâand it isâbut that’s exactly why the two attractions complement each other so well.
We’ve often recommended visiting both on the same holiday because they appeal to a wide range of interests. While one offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, the other brings history to life through interactive exhibitions, live displays and nearly 300 historic military vehicles.
Curated Tip.
If you’re staying nearby for a few days, we’d suggest spending a day at each attraction. That way, there’s no need to rush, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy everything each has to offer.
Lulworth Cove And Durdle Door
No visit to Dorset feels complete without seeing two of the county’s most iconic landmarks.
Just 20 minutes from Monkey World, Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door offer some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the UK.
Whether you’re looking for a gentle stroll around the cove, a longer walk to Durdle Door or simply somewhere to sit with an ice cream while taking in the views, it’s a fantastic way to spend part of the day.
We’ve lost count of how many times we’ve visited over the years, yet it never seems to lose its magic.
Corfe Castle And The Swanage Railway
Corfe Castle is one of those places that always seems to capture the public’s imagination.
The dramatic castle ruins dominate the village, forming one of Dorset’s most recognisable views.
It’s also home to one of our favourite family experiences, the Swanage Railway.
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about boarding a steam train and travelling through the Purbeck countryside towards the coast.
Even now, it still feels as exciting as it did when our children were younger.
If you’re planning a full day out, we’d recommend exploring Corfe Castle first, then catching the train to Swanage for lunch or a walk along the seafront.
Blue Pool Nature Reserve
If you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter after the excitement of Monkey World, the Blue Pool is an ideal choice.
Hidden among peaceful woodland near Wareham, it’s one of Dorset’s most distinctive beauty spots.
The changing colours of the water are fascinating to watch, while the woodland trails make it the perfect place to slow the pace after a busy morning.
It’s somewhere we’ve returned to countless times over the years, and each visit feels just a little different depending on the season.
Places To Stay Near Monkey World
Monkey World sits in one of the most convenient locations in Dorset for exploring the county.
Within a short drive, you can reach the Jurassic Coast, traditional market towns, sandy beaches, historic castles, and some of Dorset’s best family attractions.
That’s one of the reasons so many of our guests choose to stay close by.
Rather than rushing home after a day out, they use Monkey World as part of a longer Dorset holiday, giving themselves time to explore everything else the county offers.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic escape or a getaway with friends, our handpicked holiday cottages offer the ideal base for exploring this wonderful part of Dorset.
Many are within easy reach of Monkey World, making it easy to combine your visit with other unforgettable days out across the county.
Why We Think Monkey World Is Worth Visiting
Over the years, we’ve been lucky enough to enjoy some wonderful family days out across Dorset. Monkey World remains one of the very best places.
Not simply because of the animals.
Or the play areas.
Or the beautiful woodland setting.
What makes it special is its purpose.
Every enclosure has a story.
Every keeper talk reminds you that the animals you’re watching have been given a second chance.
You leave having enjoyed a fantastic day out, but you also leave with a greater appreciation of the remarkable conservation work underway here.
For us, that’s what makes Monkey World memorable.
We Hope You Enjoy Monkey World As Much As We Have
Long before Curated Cottages existed, Monkey World had become part of our family holidays.
Today, whenever guests ask us for recommendations, it’s still one of the first places we recommend.
We hope this guide helps you enjoy your visit as much as we’ve enjoyed ours over the years.
And if you’re planning a longer stay, we’d love to help you explore even more of Dorset.
From the dramatic Jurassic Coast and historic Corfe Castle to hidden woodland walks and beautiful beaches, there’s so much to explore.
When you’re ready, take a look at our carefully chosen collection of Dorset holiday cottages.
Who knows…
Perhaps Monkey World will become part of your family’s Dorset story as well.
Curated Cottages’ Verdict:
“If you asked us to recommend just one family attraction in Dorset, Monkey World would always be near the top of the list. We’ve visited with our own children over the years and still enjoy returning. It’s far more than a day outâit’s somewhere you’ll leave feeling you’ve learnt something, supported an important conservation charity and created wonderful family memories along the way.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Monkey World is usually open daily from 10 am, except on Christmas Day. We always recommend checking the official website before travelling in case opening times change.
The park normally closes at 5 pm, with last admission usually one hour before closing.
Ticket prices occasionally change, so it’s always worth checking the official website before travelling. Booking online usually saves a little compared with paying at the gate.
We’d recommend allowing four to six hours. That gives you plenty of time to explore the enclosures, watch keeper talks, enjoy lunch, and let the children spend time in the Great Ape Play Area.
Absolutely. Our own children loved visiting when they were younger, particularly the orangutans, the play areas and the interactive keeper talks. There’s plenty of space to explore at your own pace, making it suitable for families with children of all ages.
No. Dogs, including assistance dogs, aren’t permitted because many rescued primates find them distressing. If you’re holidaying with your dog, we’d recommend setting aside another day to enjoy one of Dorset’s many dog-friendly beaches, walks or attractions together.
Without hesitation, we’d say yes. It’s one of those attractions that combines education, conservation and family fun in a way that’s hard to find elsewhere. Even after several visits, we still discover something new each time we return.