Barbary macaques are the only wild primate species found on the European continent.
The forest participates in the European Endangered Species Programme to support the survival of the breed.
The macaques here are semi-wild and do not receive food from visitors, preserving their natural foraging instincts.
The park was established in 2005 to educate the public and protect the species from extinction.
The woodland enclosure is specifically managed to provide the monkeys with varied terrain for climbing and social interaction.
There are no physical barriers between the public footpath and the animals, though boundaries are maintained by the monkeys' natural avoidance of the path.
Trentham Monkey Forest is a 60-acre woodland wildlife park in Stoke-on-Trent housing approximately 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques. Unlike traditional zoos, the macaques live in an enclosure mimicking their natural Moroccan habitat without cages or bars. Visitors walk along a 0.75-mile pathway through the forest where the primates move freely around and above them. The forest acts as an international conservation center, contributing to the protection of this endangered species. The monkeys exhibit natural social behaviors and are not trained or kept in captivity for performances. The site is situated within the wider Trentham Estate, which also features historic gardens and a lake.
The mid-point of the woodland path offers the best elevation to capture monkeys grooming or playing in the canopy.
Keep your distance and do not attempt to touch or feed the macaques at any time.
Stay on the designated pathway to avoid startling the animals or stepping on vegetation.
Avoid bringing pushchairs or strollers if possible, as the terrain is woodland-based and easier to navigate on foot.
Do not leave bags or food items unattended, as the curious macaques may attempt to inspect them.
The forest is closed during the winter months for the welfare of the macaques; check seasonal reopening dates before travel.
Do not touch, feed, or approach the monkeys; keep voices low to avoid agitating the animals; wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes.
