Monkey World from Lulworth

Looking for something a little different to do during your stay in Lulworth?

Monkey World – Ape Rescue Centre is a great day trip from Lulworth, particularly for families. Set in 65 acres of Dorset countryside near Wool, the rescue centre is home to more than 230 rescued and endangered primates. 

Unlike a traditional zoo, Monkey World was established as a rescue and rehabilitation centre. Since 1987, the team has worked to rescue primates from illegal trade, abuse and neglect and give them the opportunity to live in natural social groups. 

It’s an easy attraction to combine with a stay around Lulworth and makes a particularly good option if you’re looking for a family-friendly day out away from the coast.

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Where is Monkey World?

Monkey World is on the A31 between Bere Regis and Wool, approximately 1.5 miles from Wool railway station.

The postcode is BH20 6HH and the attraction is well signposted from the surrounding roads. There is a large free car park, including disabled parking. 

From West Lulworth, it’s a straightforward drive inland, making Monkey World a particularly easy day trip if you’re staying in the village.

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What is Monkey World?

Monkey World is an ape rescue centre, rather than a conventional zoo.

The centre provides sanctuary for rescued and endangered primates and works to rehabilitate animals into appropriate social groups.

There are a variety of primates to see around the park, with keeper talks and feeding sessions taking place throughout the day.

The centre also has a strong conservation and education role, so there is plenty to learn as you make your way around the enclosures. 

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How long do you need at Monkey World?

I’d allow at least half a day, although you can easily spend longer here.

There is no prescribed time to leave once you’ve entered, so you can take your time around the park, stop for lunch and explore at your own pace. 

If you’re visiting with children, I’d allow most of the day rather than trying to fit Monkey World into a couple of hours.

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Is Monkey World good for children?

Yes — it’s a particularly good family day out.

There are plenty of animals to see, keeper talks and feeding opportunities throughout the day, and the size of the site gives children plenty of opportunity to explore. There’s a large playground and the food and drink is reasonably priced.

It’s also a good rainy-day option compared with a day spent entirely on the coast, although much of the attraction is outdoors.

Monkey World also runs special events, including autism-friendly days with earlier opening, sensory trails and quieter spaces. 

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Our tip: don’t rush the keeper talks

Check the day’s schedule when you arrive.

Keeper Q&A sessions and feeding activities take place at set times, and they’re a great way to learn more about the individual animals rather than simply walking around the enclosures.

The park map and visitor information will help you plan your route around the talks and feeding sessions. 

If you’re particularly interested in the animals and their stories, you can also book a guided tour in advance. Tours last approximately 1 hour 15 minutes and must be booked ahead. 

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How much does Monkey World cost?

Monkey World currently offers cheaper online admission than paying at the gate, so it’s worth booking ahead if you know you’re going.

Current adult admission (August 2026) is £18 online or £19 at the gate, with reduced prices for children, seniors and students. Children under three and eligible essential carers are free.

Check current Monkey World prices & book tickets

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When is Monkey World open?

Monkey World is currently open every day from 10am to 5pm, except Christmas Day. Last entry is one hour before closing. 

There can be special events and arrangements on particular dates, so it’s worth checking before travelling.

Check Monkey World opening information

Getting to Monkey World from Lulworth

Monkey World is easiest to reach by car.

From West Lulworth, head towards Wool and then follow the signs for Monkey World on the A31.

There is free parking at the attraction, with spaces for cars and coaches and designated disabled parking. There are currently no electric vehicle charging points at Monkey World. 

If you’re travelling without a car, Wool railway station is approximately 1.5 miles from Monkey World, with taxis usually available at the station. A local bus service also serves Monkey World during the summer season, although timetables can change. 

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Food and facilities

You don’t need to leave Monkey World when you’re ready for lunch.

The Treetops Café is open daily, and there are several picnic areas if you’d rather bring your own food.

There are also toilet facilities, a gift shop and other visitor facilities around the park. 

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Accessibility

Monkey World has facilities for visitors with reduced mobility, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired through a local provider when booked in advance.

Because the attraction covers a large outdoor site, some paths and areas may be more challenging than others. If accessibility is important to your visit, check the current information with Monkey World before travelling. 

Autism friendly days are regularly advertised.

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Can you visit Monkey World and Lulworth on the same day?

You can, but I’d recommend giving Monkey World its own half-day rather than trying to squeeze everything in.

If you’re staying for several nights, Monkey World works particularly well as a morning or afternoon trip, leaving you time to explore somewhere else afterwards.

You could combine it with:

• Lulworth Cove
• Lulworth Castle
• Durdle Door
• Tyneham, if the ranges are open
• The Tank Museum at Bovington

For families staying in Lulworth, Monkey World and The Tank Museum can also make a useful combination on a day when the weather isn’t ideal for a long coastal walk.

Explore Things to Do in Lulworth

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Staying in Lulworth

One of the advantages of staying in West Lulworth is that you have a whole range of attractions within easy reach.

Spend one day exploring the Jurassic Coast, another at Lulworth Castle or Tyneham, and head inland to Monkey World when you fancy something completely different.

Where to Stay in Lulworth

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