The UK's largest bird park, Birdworld in Farnham has announced multi-million-pound plans to transform into a year-round destination - with loveable creatures called ‘The Spriglets,’ inspired by the local natural landscape, taking a starring role.
Through an enchanting forest concept, families will have opportunities to learn and play throughout the 26-acre park, including an indoor 1,500-square-foot café and play area for younger children, making it the largest indoor play zone in the region.
The indoor area will be filled with birdhouses, slides, and tunnels across multiple levels, including a dedicated toddler zone for safe exploration, a large net play area with soft elements, interconnected platforms and sensory ‘Spriglet’ houses with puzzle boards and interactive features.
Outdoors, Birdworld’s play scheme will blend with the natural landscape, using the park’s trees to create an immersive environment. Featuring bird nest towers, connecting bridges, and a spiral clamber net, the area will let children explore as if they were part of the woodland. The magical ‘Spriglet Village’ will also include accessible pathways at varying heights, ensuring a welcoming space for all abilities.
“We want Birdworld to be a place of wonder and learning for all families,” says Matt Hill, Birdworld director. “Our new play areas are designed to spark imagination and joy while remaining accessible to everyone.”
As part of the redevelopment, Birdworld will close Jenny Wren Farm, a park feature since 1990. This will allow Birdworld to fully focus on its core mission of avian conservation and education.
"While it’s a difficult decision, the closure of Jenny Wren Farm allows us to dedicate our efforts to enhancing our play areas, bird habitats and advancing our conservation initiatives," says Matt. “We’re ensuring all of the farm’s animals are rehomed in carefully selected environments where they’ll continue to thrive.”
Home to more than 1,000 birds across 181 species, Birdworld will strengthen its commitment to conservation through expanded breeding programmes, prioritised support for endangered species, and professional development for its team.
The park’s grounds will feature upgraded facilities to support both public and private breeding efforts, fostering new collaborations with zoological and conservation organisations worldwide.
Birdworld will also partner on global initiatives, including reforestation, anti-poaching, and habitat restoration, while enhancing educational outreach through schools and digital platforms, focusing on working with local communities to encourage participation in restoration and citizen science projects.
“We’re excited to welcome our loyal visitors and friends of Birdworld into this new chapter. It’s a hugely exciting time, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone who’s been part of our journey so far,” concludes Matt.
- For more information about Birdworld, visit birdworld.co.uk
Did you know?
- Birdworld is one of the largest bird parks in the country. The 26 acres of landscaped park and gardens are home to over 1,000 birds and 181 species from around the world.
- Birdworld is located on the Hampshire/Surrey border only two miles south of Farnham within an hour’s drive of London.
- Birdworld opened in 1968 and was bought by Haskins Group LTD in 2020.
- There are daily talks and feeds which are led by the bird keepers.
- Opportunities for individual visitors to experience the birds and other animals up close include Penguin Feeding and bird adoptions. Many visitors and supporters join the Birdworld Annual Membership Scheme, which offers unlimited visits, member-only events, and special offers.
- Birdworld is an active member of BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquaria).
