You Won’t Believe What’s Hiding in the Zoo This Easter – Meet the Easter Hare in Newquay

Storytelling, Egg Hunts and a Day Out with a Difference

Families heading to Newquay Zoo this Easter are in for a wild surprise as a brand-new character hops into town for the first time.

From 5th to 26th April 2025, Newquay zoo will be home to a packed schedule of egg-themed activities, wildlife experiences and live storytelling – all centred around the mischievous and magical Easter Hare.

Meet the Easter Hare

Appearing on selected dates – 10th, 11th, 13th, 14th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th and 21st April – the Easter Hare will take centre stage in two daily storytelling sessions at 1:30pm and 3:30pm.

Visitors will discover the unusual origins of the Easter Bunny, with tales revealing its history as a mis-identified ‘egg-laying’ hare. Created by performer Rob Copeland, whose past characters like Professor Seymour Stuff have entertained visitors across the UK, the Easter Hare promises to bring laughs and learning in equal measure.

“We’re really looking forward to introducing the Easter Hare to Newquay Zoo for the first time,” said Natalie Timms, Visitor Experience and Retail Manager. “In the past, characters like Professor Seymour Stuff have been a big hit with both kids and adults, and we’re sure the Hare’s storytelling sessions will be just as popular. There’s a great mix of activities for all ages, whether you want to follow the egg trail, catch a ranger talk, or just enjoy a day out surrounded by wildlife.”

Explore the Zoo on an Egg Trail

Running throughout the Easter period, families can collect a free trail sheet at the entrance and take part in an egg hunt across the zoo. As they search for hidden eggs and crack the secret word, they’ll come face to face with some of the zoo’s rarest egg-laying residents – including penguins, warty pigs, lynx, lemurs and an eye-catching variety of birds.

Solving the trail will lead to a special prize, adding extra excitement for younger visitors.

Ranger Talks and Hands-On Activities

Newquay Zoo’s expert Rangers will be running daily talks, animal feeds and interactive Easter-themed activities to help visitors get closer to the animals and learn more about their behaviours and habitats.

Highlights include insights into the zoo’s egg-laying penguins, with fun facts and opportunities to ask questions during feedings.

Discover Cornwall’s Wildlife Too

Visitors can also take a quieter moment in the Bird Hide’s nature activity hub, where colouring sheets, puzzles and views of the zoo’s vasa parrots await. The space also gives guests a chance to learn more about Cornwall’s native species as spring begins to bloom.

Treats and Eats

When it’s time to recharge, Café Lemur will be serving a homemade Easter Scotch egg, while Tippy’s Takeaway offers grab-and-go food perfect for a sunny zoo picnic. There’s also Ices for anyone craving something sweet – with scoops of your favourite ice cream flavours ready to go.

Plan Your Visit To Newquay Zoo

• Admission: Adults £19.00 | Children £14.25 | Under 3s go free

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10am | Last entry at 4.00pm | Closes at 5.00pm

• Parking: Cornwall Council pay & display car park next to the zoo

• Accessibility: Fully accessible

• Food & Drink: On-site cafés, takeaway options and ice cream

Booking online is available and encouraged. Every visit supports the Wild Planet Trust and its conservation efforts in the UK and overseas. Gift Aid ticket options help raise even more funds at no extra cost to visitors.

To book tickets or find out more, visit newquayzoo.org.uk.

The Easter Hare character is brought to life by Copeland.life, a creative company specialising in immersive family storytelling experiences. Newquay Zoo is part of the Wild Planet Trust, which also includes Paignton Zoo and several nature reserves.