Escape to the wilderness with a trip to Trentham Monkey Forest – a brilliant spot to mingle with endangered monkeys. Follow a mile-long woodland trail through the heart of Trentham Estate, which is also home to these idyllic Italian-style gardens, and immerse yourself in the everyday antics of the Barbary macaques.
Originally from the mountainous regions of Morocco and Algeria, the monkeys are pretty well acclimatised to the UK’s often miserable climate. And with no cages or bars, the monkeys are free to live wild, almost exactly as they would back home, at the largest primate enclosure in the UK. Watch as they swing from trees and play with their pals – and be prepared to share the path. (Primates have right of way, of course.)
Sadly, the number of wild Barbary macaques has dropped by more than 50% in the last 30 years. There are now only about 8,000 of them left. Trentham Monkey Forest is home to 140 Barbary macaques, and the woodland focuses solely on the conservation of this endangered primate – with each visit contributing to their conservation and protection.
On a positive note, since opening in 2005, the conservation site has witnessed almost 100 births (And we certainly hope to see a lot more of these adorable faces in the future…) It’s also the only place in the UK where you can walk freely with this species. Plus, an extra special ‘Morning with Monkeys’ package lets you enter the monkey enclosure before opening hours and help feed them their nutritious breakfast!
Monkeys aside, the forest is also gorgeous in its own right – and there are over 60 acres of ancient woodland to explore. Scattered along the paths, find wild experts roaming that so you can stop and ask any questions you might have. It’s also definitely worth trying to catch one of the hourly feeding sessions, where rangers will teach you all about these cheeky monkeys.
What elese is there at Trentham Monkey Forest?
On top of the cheeky Barbary macaques, Trentham Monkey Forest is home to two primate-themed outdoor play spaces, a monkey-shaped willow maze, a tranquil meadow walk and nature pond, an interactive conservation room, and a cinema room with a nine-minute documentary style film. Plus, swing by the Banana Café for sandwiches and hot food, and make sure to grab your Monkey Forest souvenirs from the Jungle Shop.
How do I get there from Birmingham?
You’ll find the Monkey Forest on the Trentham Estate outside of Stoke-on-Trent. It takes around an hour from Birmingham by car via the M6. If you’d prefer to take public transport, hop on a train from Birmingham New Street to Stafford, where you can grab the 101 bus. Tickets and more info here.