The park was originally opened in 1925 as a tea room and a small collection of rescued animals.
It operates as a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA).
The zoo's 'Lory Landing' exhibit allows visitors to walk through a large aviary filled with free-flying lorikeets.
The park hosts an annual 'Zoo Academy' program for teenagers interested in zookeeping careers.
Several of the animal enclosures are designed to mimic the natural South American rainforest habitat.
The site includes a dedicated static display of a retired steam locomotive for children to climb on.
The park is home to a colony of Humboldt penguins, which are listed as vulnerable in the wild.
Drusillas Park is a combined zoo and amusement park located in the South Downs National Park in East Sussex. It specializes in small-animal conservation, housing species such as sloths, lemurs, and penguins. The park features a large outdoor adventure playground area and indoor play centers designed for younger children. Interactive animal enclosures allow for close-up viewing through glass panels or open-air paths. The site includes the 'Go Safari' attraction, which hosts small-scale amusement rides. Educational displays are integrated throughout the zoo grounds to explain conservation efforts and native species. The park layout is designed as a circular path to ensure all animal exhibits are accessible. It functions primarily as a family-oriented destination for children aged 2 to 10.
The raised viewing platform at the penguin enclosure.
Wear footwear suitable for walking on a mix of gravel paths, wooden decking, and grass.
Check the daily timetable boards upon arrival to catch specific animal feeding demonstrations.
Bring a change of clothes if visiting during warm weather, as the splash pad area is popular with children.
Attempting to see every single animal exhibit immediately upon entry; follow the recommended loop to avoid bottlenecks.
Open daily year-round except for a brief closure during the Christmas period.
Maintain quiet around animal enclosures; do not feed the animals or cross safety barriers.
