Despite the wet weather, families flocked to Birdworld this February half term, with the UK’s largest bird park welcoming a 70% increase in visitor numbers compared to the same time last year.

Having recently launched its multi-million-pound indoor and outdoor play spaces, Birdworld ensured children and adults alike could enjoy the Park in all weathers. The newly enhanced bird habitats also provide immersive, colourful environments designed to support learning in a fun and engaging way and has proven a huge hit with young and old alike.

Adding to the excitement, families were invited to step into a winter wonderland for Squid and Friends’ Challenge – a half term Penguin trail created in partnership with Bordon-based creative studio Iconic Bricks. Known for transforming much-loved characters and stories into intricate brick-built displays, the collaboration brought playful storytelling to life across the Park, including a special guest appearance from Squid who was immortalised in brick form and will be staying permanently at Penguin Beach.

The event tied in seamlessly with Birdworld’s Naturally Playful ethos, encouraging visitors of all ages to learn through play – not only about its 181 bird species, but also about the positive impact of global conservation.

Matt Hill, Director of Birdworld, said: “Seeing families return in such great numbers this Half-Term has been fantastic, and it’s been a real joy to see so many happy faces around the Park. The busy week also gave us a chance to learn a lot – from what’s working brilliantly to where we can improve. At one point we even ran out of parking spaces, which is a good problem to have, and it just means we can make sure everything runs even more smoothly in time for Easter.”

The Half-Term success marks another positive step for Birdworld as it continues to create experiences that bring families closer to nature, while generating the income needed to reinvest in its birds, conservation work and education programmes.

Matt added: “We’ve got a jam-packed events calendar ahead this year, from egg hunts at Easter to dinosaur meet-and-greets. As we move into spring, many of our birds will also be entering breeding season, so visitors can expect courtship displays, nest building and hopefully some new arrivals too. It’s a really special time of year at the Park and we can’t wait to welcome families back to experience it with us.”