The estate was the former residence of Sir Gilbert Greenall, the first Baron Daresbury.
The children's zoo originated as a small collection of pets and has expanded to include a variety of exotic and farm animals.
The conservatory building dates back to the 19th century and houses a collection of Mediterranean plants.
The site includes a 'Living History' trail that explores the heritage of the Greenall family.
The gardens feature a unique selection of specimen trees and a formal rose garden layout.
The zoo includes a dedicated area for rescued birds and small mammals managed by animal care staff.
Walton Hall and Gardens is a historic country estate featuring an integrated children's zoo and 32 acres of landscaped grounds. The zoo focuses on small animals and farm species, including donkeys, pygmy goats, alpacas, and birds of prey. The original Hall, dating to 1836, serves as a backdrop to the estate's formal gardens, heritage conservatory, and outdoor play areas. The site is owned and managed by Warrington Borough Council. Visitors can explore a butterfly house, a pitch-and-putt golf course, and a high-ropes adventure course. It serves as a community hub with dedicated picnic lawns and woodland trails. The zoo area is specifically designed for family engagement and educational interaction with domestic and exotic small animals.
The front terrace of Walton Hall overlooking the formal rose garden and the central fountain.
Bring sturdy footwear as the estate includes extensive woodland paths and gravelled garden trails.
Check the official website for daily animal feeding demonstrations, which are the most active times to visit.
The site is largely outdoors, so prepare for varied North West England weather conditions.
Assuming all estate amenities like the high-ropes course operate in heavy rain or high wind.
The zoo and grounds are generally open daily, but specific attractions like the high-ropes course and conservatory may have reduced operations during winter months.
Do not feed the animals in the zoo; maintain distance from enclosures as instructed by signage.
