Head to Twycross Zoo this February half term and be one of the first to set eyes on its newest arrival. Then hang around for the rest of the half term fun they’ve got planned.

New born Pileated Gibbon, Twycross Zoo
Guess who at Twycross Zoo this February half term?
First of all, congratulations to the new mama after the birth of Twycross Zoo’s first baby of 2026. And not just any baby, an adorable little Pileated Gibbon: one of the world’s most threatened primates. With wild populations at severe risk across Southeast Asia, this birth is momentous, as well as undeniably feel good.
It also underscores Twycross Zoo’s work as a conservation charity, and particular expertise in primate genetics. If you want more on the science, it’s here.
Meanwhile, we’re going shamelessly down the cute route by telling you that both mum and baby can be seen right now at the zoo’s Gibbon Forest, which might very well be the most cheering up news you’ll get this wet, wet February.
Last chance to light up with Lanterns of the Wild
If seeing new babies isn’t exciting enough, Twycross are pulling out all sorts of other stops this half term too.
For a start it’s your last chance to experience Lanterns of the Wild. The interactive light trail that’s been mesmerising kids (and parents) after dark since mid-November 2025 is in its final week. Made up of more than 2,000 hand-crafted lanterns and stretching for a mile, the trail also includes The Gruffalo Lanterns (a world first), as well as 10 illuminated wild habitats, enormous installations and a 25m high Mount Rushmore: that might be worth a visit alone.
Don’t forget to book ahead for Lanterns of the Wild.

One determined Zoo Crew kid, Twycross Zoo
Bring your crew for the Zoo Crew challenge at Twycross
Sticking with daylight hours, Zoo Crew is back for half term with a brand new interactive trail around the 100-acre zoo that’s punctuated by discovery points where keen little zoologists can learn about anything from rainforest handprints to hidden nests.
This one is packed with fun learning, and comes with an exclusive badge at the end, but only if you complete the challenge. Who can resist a gauntlet throwdown like that?

Get ready for a wild 2026 at Twycross Zoo
25% off ticket prices and zoo news all through 2026
Also, February half term is a great time to find out what else Twycross is up to in 2026, and it’s a lot.
Not only are two fully reimagined wildlife habitats re-opening this Easter, The Gruffalo Discovery Land launches in spring and throughout the rest of the year there are four more Zoo Crew challenges to look forward to. That’s all before the new animal arrivals: this one’s a tease, but it’s Twycross so it will definitely be exciting.
One more thing, this February half term you get 25% of a range of Twycross tickets, and they all include the option of 12-months’ access to the zoo. Great excuse to go more often, which might be even more feel-good than a baby gibbon, because you know you’re supporting a charity that saves species worldwide. OK, it’s not more feel-good than a tiny baby gibbon, but it’s close.
Make It Happen
How to get there
By car: 50 minutes north of Birmingham on the M42
Where to stay
Appleby Inn Hotel, Quadruple Room (2 adults, 2 children) B&B from £132 per night
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