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Places of interest

The Living Rainforest

4.3 · 661 reviews
Humid, lush, and educational.
The Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys, Thatcham RG18 0TN, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The facility uses a biomass heating system that consumes wood chips sourced from local sustainable forestry.

2

Several plant species housed here are listed as endangered or extinct in their native wild habitats.

3

The glasshouse structure is designed to optimize natural light intake to maintain specific humidity levels required for tropical biodiversity.

4

The centre hosts a dedicated 'Life Support' area that explains the water cycles and carbon sequestration roles of rainforests.

5

Many of the animal inhabitants, such as the two-toed sloths, are part of international breeding programs.

Overview

The Living Rainforest is a registered charity-run indoor rainforest facility housing over 700 species of plants and animals under 20,000 square feet of glasshouses. It operates as an educational centre focused on rainforest conservation and sustainable development. Visitors walk through controlled-climate zones that simulate tropical ecosystems, including the Amazonian and South East Asian environments. The facility is powered significantly by renewable energy, including an on-site wood-chip boiler and solar panels. Key animal residents include Goeldi's monkeys, pygmy marmosets, and free-roaming birds. The site features a research-based approach to demonstrating how tropical ecosystems provide essential resources for human survival. It functions as both a visitor attraction and a working ecological laboratory for plant preservation.

Photo spot

The elevated viewing bridge that allows for eye-level photos of canopy birds and primates.

Insider tips

Wear layers, as the indoor temperature is kept at high, tropical levels regardless of the weather outside.

Walk slowly and look up; many of the animals, including monkeys and birds, are often resting in the canopy overhead.

Bring a camera with a high ISO capability as the lighting can be dim in certain canopy areas.

What to avoid

Do not rush through the exhibit; the smaller, camouflaged animals require patient observation to spot.

Good to know

Closed on December 24th, 25th, and 26th.

Etiquette

Do not touch the plants or attempt to feed the animals; remain on designated footpaths at all times.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, to avoid crowds and observe animals when they are most active during their first feeding cycles.
Address
The Living Rainforest, Hampstead Norreys, Thatcham RG18 0TN, United Kingdom
51.482, -1.219
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsGoeldi's monkeys, two-toed sloths, and endangered tropical flora

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings, to avoid crowds and observe animals when they are most active during their first feeding cycles..

The elevated viewing bridge that allows for eye-level photos of canopy birds and primates.

Close by you'll find Basildon Park, Beale Wildlife Park, Donnington Castle.