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Vets in Action at Whipsnade Zoo this February half-term

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Bedfordshire

Best prices online - be sure to book in advance!

14 February - 22 February

Suitable for 0-100 years

Best Bits

Enjoy a unique February half term family event at Whipsnade Zoo, where children can step into the role of a vet and discover how animals are cared for both at the Zoo and in the wild.

As part of a brilliant family day out at the UK’s biggest zoo, Vets in Action invites young animal lovers to explore the fascinating world of veterinary science through interactive, hands-on activities inspired by the real work of ZSL’s vets, vet nurses and zookeepers.

This free, drop-in event runs throughout February half term and combines learning, play and conservation stories in a fun and memorable way.

Become a Junior Vet this February Half Term

Young vets in training will begin their journey at a specially created zoo vet centre, where they’ll examine, diagnose and treat toy animals, gaining hands-on insight into the wide range of veterinary care carried out every day at the Zoo. There is a mixture of self led and free play activities in this area.
From here, junior vets can choose their next mission:

  • Assist with a chimp heart health check, learning how ZSL monitors and protects primate health
  • Go to the Rainforest Room which themed as the Gir National Park to help with a lion health check, exploring how ZSL vets work in the field to protect endangered species
(All health checks are delivered using toy animals and models, making the experience engaging and age-appropriate.)

Discover How They Care for Animals at the Zoo and Beyond
Throughout the week, additional vet-themed talks, conservation case study and guided Vets in Action activities will take families deeper into the world of animal health and conservation. Learn how animal training supports veterinary care, why health monitoring is vital, and how science-led conservation helps protect wildlife around the globe.

In 2025, 87% of visitors said they learned more about ZSL’s conservation and animal care work, with many children inspired by the chance to role-play as real vets.

Get set for adventure as you explore the UK's biggest zoo: 600 acres of wide-open space and more than 11,000 animals including ever-popular elephants, giraffes and penguins. With extensive outdoor play facilities, steam train rides* and set amongst the beautiful Chiltern Hills countryside, Whipsnade Zoo is a full-day experience for the whole family, perfect for escaping the urban jungle.

LittleBird Top Tip

Plan your day with the Whipsnade Zoo app to get the most from your visit. Explore with step-by-step navigation to your favourite animals, habitats, eateries, and all the latest talk times so your won't miss a thing. Find out more here.

Dates and Prices

Pricing: 

Off peak

Adult - £30.50 with donation / £27.70 without
Disabled Adult - £28.50 with donation / £25.90 without
Senior - £28.50 with donation / £25.90 without
Student - £28.50 with donation /  £25.90 without
Child - £21.35 with donation / £19.40 without
Disabled Child - £21.35 with donation  / £19.40 without
Under 3 - £0.00

Peak
Adult - £32.00 with donation / £29.00 without
Disabled Adult - £30.00 with donation / £27.20 without
Senior - £30.00 with donation / £27.20 without
Student - £30.00 with donation / £27.20 without
Child - £22.40 with donation / £20.30 without
Disabled Child - £22.40 with donation / £20.30 without
Under 3 - £0.00 

Need to Know

Vets in Action FAQ's:

Is the event included in my ticket price?

Yes, the event is free for all visitors.

Do I need to book?

No. These are free drop-in sessions running throughout the day.

Are there any real animals used in the event?

There are no real animals used in the event. Soft, plush toy animal are used in most activities for visitors to interact with. The under 7’s activity uses a very realistic, “breathing” animatronic lion

How do I gain access to the relaxed opening?

Visitors who wish to access this should download a Penguin pass queue hopper here:  Accessibility | Whipsnade Zoo

Ear defenders will also be available to borrow throughout the event.

How long will I be in the event?

The event activities will last around 25 minutes. You will have time to access the self-led activities before moving on to a vet scenario.

Can I re-enter the event during the day?

You may re-enter at any point during the day within the timed sessions advertised. Please note they are expecting a large amount of visitors so there may be a wait time before you can enter the event. 

For opening times, see here.

Plan your Visit

Address and Contact Info

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo
Dunstable
Bedfordshire
LU6 2LF

Nearest Park: Sallowsprings Nature Reserve