Description
Finding the best things to do with kids in Newport brings families straight to Monkey Haven, an award-winning primate rescue centre and wildlife sanctuary set in the heart of the Isle of Wight. This unique family attraction allows children to discover rescued monkeys, gibbons, meerkats, and birds of prey through a mix of immersive walkthrough habitats and close-up viewing areas.
Online advance adult ticket prices start from £17.50, while online child tickets start from £15.50. Children under the age of three enter completely free of charge. Visitors can spend hours exploring the leafy sanctuary, watching daily keeper talks, and enjoying interactive play zones.
If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids that combines exotic animal rescues with a relaxed outdoor environment, this Isle of Wight attraction offers brilliant value. Its famous primate enclosures, regular feeding presentations, and hands-on keeper experiences make it a top choice for a memorable family weekend trip.
Beyond the Main Attraction:
- Newport Town Centre: Historic Isle of Wight county town featuring independent shops, local cafes, and historic sites just a short drive away.
- Carisbrooke Castle: Nearby English Heritage medieval fortress located on the outskirts of Newport.
- Robin Hill Country Park Region: Rural walking paths and open countryside situated across the central Isle of Wight area.
What Visitors Love:
- Parents frequently praise the intimate, welcoming atmosphere and the chance to see rescued animals up close.
- Children love watching the cheeky monkeys, feeding experiences, and exploring the outdoor adventure play areas.
- The helpful, friendly staff and engaging daily keeper talks receive positive feedback from visiting families.
- Visitors appreciate that admission fees directly support animal rescue and welfare work.
What Visitors Don't Like:
- Some reviewers note that rainy weather can make outdoor walking paths muddy during winter months.
- Catering queues can get busy during lunchtime hours in the main tearoom.
- The site is relatively compact compared to massive safari parks, though ideal for younger children with shorter attention spans.
- Public transport options require a short walk or taxi connection from Newport bus station.
Park Attractions and Exhibits:
- Primate Enclosures: Multi-level habitats housing capuchins, macaques, marmosets, and gibbons.
- Owl and Raptor Aviaries: Dedicated zones for rescued birds of prey.
- Meerkat Island: Enclosure featuring viewing bubbles and sandy play mounds.
- Reptile and Insect House: Terrariums showcasing exotic reptiles.
- The Lodge: Indoor multi-use space utilised for workshops and private events.
- Outdoor Adventure Play Area: Swings, slides, and climbing structures for children.
- Xhabu's Tearoom: On-site cafe serving meals, cakes, and ice creams.
- Sanctuary Gift Shop: Retail shop selling souvenirs, toys, and animal adoption packs.
- Promise Tree: Interactive conservation installation where kids can hang eco-friendly pledges.
- Quiet Hour Zones: Designated low-sensory times for visitors with additional needs.
New for 2026:
- Enhanced Digital Signage Boards: Updated interactive interpretation boards along animal trails detailing individual rescue stories and conservation statuses.
- Refurbished Sensory Walkways: Upgraded smooth level pathways around primary primate exhibits for improved pushchair and wheelchair access.
- Expanded Seasonal Trail Events: New family-friendly outdoor clue trails integrated into school holiday programmes.
0.87 miles
