Awarded a 2013 Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor, The Isle of Wight Zoo in Sandown on the Isle of Wight is definitely worth a visit when staying on our little Island. And it is open all year round.

The zoo may not be be big but more than makes up for it with the passion given to caring for the animals and educating visitors about their lives, plight and preservation.

The family run zoo has a special interest in tigers and lemurs with their main goals being Care, Conservation and Education. They focus on taking care of the older tigers (four of them coming from circus backgrounds) and giving them a happy retirement.

Built within the ruins of a Victorian Fort built to guard Sandown's coast, means it is located beside one of the Isle of Wight's nicest beaches. In days gone by the zoo owners used to walk tiger cubs on the beach.

There is plenty to see and do at the zoo. Just wander around or join a guided tour to learn more about these animals and endangered cats from their knowledgeable experienced keepers and see them feeding.

Along with tigers, lions and jaguars, the zoo is home to wallabies, birds, monkeys and lemurs. 'Zoo at Home' provides an area to allow for direct handling of some of the friendly animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs and bearded dragons. You can get up close and personal and meet the wallabies, or see Casper, the Isle of Wight's first magnificent white lion.

Why not adopt a tiger and help support the vital work the zoo carries out to aid the preservation and conservation of these magnificent creatures.

Isle of Wight Zoo - 01983 403883