Tilgate Nature Centre

Tilgate Park was purchased in 1966 by Crawley Borough Council with the Nature Centre eventually opening in 1973. Initially it was used to breed ducklings for introduction into the three lakes at Tilgate, namely Campbells, Silt and Titmus. The zoo's focus changed over the years, and it now houses an impressive animal collection including reindeer, owls, parrots, mongooses, snakes, tarantulas, lizards and various invertebrates. Tilgate Zoo is, and has been, involved in several programmes for threatened species such as the Scottish wild cat, the harvest mouse and the radiated tortoise. Notably it also participated in fen raft spider (Dolomedes plantarius) reintroduction efforts.

There are around 74 animal species on view (2026), and "Tapir Time" experiences. They also offer educational visits for schools and animal-themed birthday parties for wildlife-loving youngsters. In April 2018, the Americas Zone opened, featuring Brazilian tapirs, capybaras, macaws, greater rheas, marabou storks, and Jamaican boas. In 2025 Tilgate Nature Centre rebranded as Tilgate Zoo to reflect the diversity of animals on display. In the same year, it achieved official BIAZA-accreditation (having been a member for many years). The zoo has come to specialise in species that are often overlooked and amongst the animals that are not often to be seen in zoos are the gundi (Ctenodactylus…