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Zoos #5 in Cowes

Monkey Haven - Primate Rescue Centre

4.7 · 2,713 reviews
Educational and compassionate.
Monkey Haven - Primate Rescue Centre, Five Acres Farm, Staplers Rd, Newport PO30 2NB, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

Many of the residents were rescued from the illegal pet trade or circuses.

2

The sanctuary holds Gold Awards from Visit Isle of Wight for best attraction.

3

The site features a dedicated 'reptile lodge' housing snakes, lizards, and tortoises.

4

It is a registered charity supported by public donations and visitor entrance fees.

5

The facility includes a 'Xhabu’s Trail' play area named after one of their rescued gibbons.

6

Some primates at the centre are retired from the research industry.

7

The sanctuary participates in international rescue missions for animals in distress.

8

Every animal at the haven has a unique medical and social profile managed by the keeper team.

Overview

Monkey Haven is an award-winning primate rescue centre and sanctuary located on the Isle of Wight. It provides a permanent home for rescued monkeys, apes, and other exotic animals, including meerkats and reptiles. The facility focuses on animal welfare rather than breeding or commercial exploitation. Visitors follow woodland paths to view the enclosures and habitats integrated into the farm setting. It operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to rehabilitation and education. The site includes a play area for children and a tea room. Education staff provide keeper talks to explain the individual histories of the rescued animals. The centre is situated within Five Acres Farm near Newport. The layout emphasizes naturalistic environments for its primate residents.

Photo spot

The viewing platform near the Siamang gibbon enclosure offers clear, elevated sightlines.

Insider tips

Check the daily keeper talk schedule upon arrival to learn the specific stories of the rescued primates.

Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the sanctuary is set on farm grounds with uneven paths.

Allow extra time to read the signage at each enclosure, which details the rescue history of the specific individuals living there.

What to avoid

Do not arrive expecting a traditional zoo experience with active performance shows; this is a sanctuary prioritizing animal rest.

Good to know

Closed during the winter months; check website for seasonal reopening dates in early spring.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet volume near enclosures to avoid stressing the animals; do not attempt to feed the primates.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3.5 hours
Best time to visit
Mid-morning on weekdays during the shoulder season to avoid peak summer holiday crowds and ensure quieter animal viewing.
Address
Monkey Haven - Primate Rescue Centre, Five Acres Farm, Staplers Rd, Newport PO30 2NB, United Kingdom
50.706, -1.263
Get directions
Details
Key ResidentsGibbons, Capuchins, Marmosets, Meerkats, and various reptiles.
FocusAnimal rescue, rehabilitation, and wildlife education.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Mid-morning on weekdays during the shoulder season to avoid peak summer holiday crowds and ensure quieter animal viewing..

The viewing platform near the Siamang gibbon enclosure offers clear, elevated sightlines.

Close by you'll find Robin Hill, Isle of Wight Steam Railway - Havenstreet Station, Carisbrooke Castle.