Marwell Zoo sits on 140 acres of Hampshire parkland in Colden Common, just outside Winchester, England. Founded in 1972 by Dr John Knowles, it was established as a registered charity with conservation as its founding purpose rather than simple animal display, making it one of the earliest zoos in Europe to prioritize breeding programs for endangered species.
Today the zoo is run by the charity Marwell Wildlife and cares for more than 500 animals across roughly 145 species. It draws close to half a million visitors a year and holds memberships with BIAZA, EAZA, WAZA, and the IUCN, reflecting its ongoing role in international conservation and reintroduction efforts.
Stats at a Glance
- Location: Colden Common, near Winchester, Hampshire, England
- Opened: 1972
- Size: 140 acres (57 hectares)
- Species: About 145 species, 500+ animals
- Annual visitors: About 488,000 (2025)
- Famous for: Breeding programs for Mongolian wild horses, snow leopards, and Siberian tigers
A Conservation-First Zoo
From its earliest years, Marwell built a reputation as a breeding center for species that were rare or already extinct in the wild, including the Mongolian wild horse (Przewalski’s horse), snow leopard, and Siberian tiger. The zoo has also bred and helped reintroduce scimitar-horned oryx, golden lion tamarins, and roan antelope back into native habitats, work that continues through its charitable arm, Marwell Wildlife, with a particular focus on African conservation projects.
History and Growth
Marwell’s public profile grew unexpectedly in 1977 when a giraffe named Victor collapsed and died shortly after arrival, a story that drew international news coverage and, somewhat ironically, turned the young zoo into a major Hampshire tourist attraction. Since then it has expanded its enclosures and educational facilities while keeping its original 140-acre footprint near Winchester, balancing public access with its conservation and breeding mission.
Explore more: More Zoos & Aquariums.
Marwell Zoo FAQs
Where is Marwell Zoo located?
Marwell Zoo is in Colden Common, near Winchester in Hampshire, England.
When did Marwell Zoo open?
It opened in 1972, founded by Dr John Knowles.
What is Marwell Zoo known for?
It is known for conservation breeding programs, having helped save and reintroduce species like the Mongolian wild horse, scimitar-horned oryx, and golden lion tamarin.
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Photo: User:Urshankov / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.