Start your day with a troop of monkeys.. Intrigued? You should be.
Tucked away in the heart of Staffordshire, Trentham Monkey Forest is already a top pick for family days out — but their Morning with Monkeys experience takes things to a whole new level. Think VIP access, up-close animal encounters, and memories your little explorers will be talking about for weeks.
What is Morning with Monkeys?
Before the park opens to the public, a small group (we’re talking super limited spaces — max 2 people!) is invited in for an exclusive guided experience. It’s peaceful, it’s magical, and it feels like you’ve got the forest all to yourself… well, except for the 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques who are already up and about!
You’ll hop aboard a quiet electric buggy with one of the Monkey Forest team, joining them on their morning rounds. As the sun rises through the trees, you’ll help spot the monkey troops and assist with their morning feed — a rare behind-the-scenes look into what life is really like for these fascinating creatures.
Why Families Love It
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🐵 Amazing Animal Encounters – You won’t find this anywhere else in the UK. The monkeys roam free — no cages, no barriers — and seeing them at the start of their day is extra special.
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📸 Instagram-Worthy Moments – If you’ve ever wanted to snap a photo of your child completely awe-struck, this is your chance.
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👨👩👧 Perfect for Quality Time – With just you, your guide, and the monkeys, it’s a calm and quiet experience that makes you feel worlds away from the usual hustle.
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🌿 Full Day Access – After your tour, you’re free to explore the forest and park at your leisure, with play areas, talks, and picnic spots galore.
Good to Know Before You Go
📍 Location:
Trentham Monkey Forest, Stone Road, Tittensor, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST12 9HR
🗓️ Availability:
Selected mornings throughout the season (March–October)
⏰ Time:
Early morning sessions before public opening hours (exact times provided upon booking)
👨👩👧👦 Suitable for:
Families with children aged 8 and above
💷 Prices start at £100 for the first person, and £70 for an additional guest (maximum of 2 per session).
🎟️ Advance booking is essential — this is a limited-space VIP experience and often books up fast.
🚻 There are accessible facilities, and although the buggy does most of the work, a little walking is involved.
Make a Day of It
After your monkey morning, stick around! The woodland trail is beautiful for a relaxed family stroll, and the Banana Café serves up everything from snacks to hot meals (and yes — plenty of ice cream). Don’t miss the new play area for younger kids, where they can swing, climb and scamper like their new primate pals.
There’s also a Jungle Shop packed with plush monkeys and nature-themed goodies — perfect for a souvenir or two.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a day out that’s educational, entertaining, and a little bit magical, Morning with Monkeys at Trentham Monkey Forest is one for the memory books. It’s something different. Something gentle. Something truly wild — in the best possible way.
So whether it’s a birthday surprise, a school holiday treat, or just an excuse to do something unforgettable, we’re calling it: this is one experience you’ll never forget. 🐾
Find out more HERE