The Living Rainforest is an indoor tropical rainforest attraction in Berkshire UK, where visitors can explore a warm, humid environment filled with exotic plants and free-roaming animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Living Rainforest?
Where is The Living Rainforest located?
The Living Rainforest is located in Hampstead Norreys, West Berkshire, making it an easy day trip from Reading, Newbury, and Oxford.
What animals can you see at The Living Rainforest?
Visitors can see a variety of animals including free-flying birds, frogs, and even a sloth, alongside many other tropical species.
See our list of some of the 800+ species here
How long does a visit to The Living Rainforest take?
Most visits to The Living Rainforest last around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the different zones and exhibits. However, many visitors choose to stay longer, taking time to look more closely at the plants and wildlife—spotting hidden creatures, observing behaviour, and fully immersing themselves in everything the rainforest has to offer.
Is The Living Rainforest open all year round?
Yes, it is open throughout the year (except Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day), making it a great attraction to visit in any season, including rainy or cold days.
Is The Living Rainforest indoors?
Yes, it is a fully indoor attraction, allowing you to experience a tropical rainforest climate regardless of the weather outside.
Do you need to book tickets in advance?
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during school holidays, and peak times. Weekdays can also be busy with school visits, which may mean more limited space at certain times. Booking online in advance not only helps secure your preferred entry time but is also cheaper than purchasing tickets on the door.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there is free on-site parking available for visitors.
What plants can you see at The Living Rainforest?
The rainforest is home to over 800 species of plants, including orchids, palms, bananas, carnivorous plants, and the striking jade vine.
Is The Living Rainforest educational?
Yes, it is also an educational charity focused on conservation and environmental awareness, making it popular for school visits and learning experiences.
Book your school tour here
Can you visit The Living Rainforest in bad weather?
Absolutely. As an indoor attraction, it’s a perfect place to visit when it’s raining or cold outside.
What happens if I arrive before or after my booked arrival time?
Please do not worry, especially if you are stuck in traffic, we will do our best to get you in.
Can I bring a buggy or request a wheelchair?
If possible, we kindly ask that buggies are left in our buggy park. If you require a wheelchair, please pre-book by emailing enquiries@livingrainforest.org. Wheelchairs are subject to availability, and booking is essential to ensure they are properly sanitised ahead of your visit. As numbers are limited, we recommend booking early.
Please note that we have a small administrative team, so it may take a little time to respond—thank you for your patience.
Do you accept cash?
If possible, please pay by card. However cash payments are still accepted.
Do Blue Peter badge or Blue Light card holders receive a discount?
We regret that The Living Rainforest does not give discounts to Blue Peter badge or Blue Light card holders.
Can I reschedule my visit if there are traffic problems, or a member of my party is sick on the day I have booked?
Yes, we understand life can be unpredictable. If you are unable to make your visit we will do our best to get you booked in for an alternative date. Simply contact us, suggesting an alternative date for your visit and if space is available we will reschedule it for you.
Can we feed the animals?
Visitors are NOT ALLOWED to feed or touch the animals. Everyday we have animals feeding sessions at 10am and 2pm. Ask a member of staff what animals are being fed when you arrive and they will be happy to show you where to go.
If you do want a more personal experience with our animal, we do offer a keeper experience where you can feed a selection of our animals. However, this does need to be booked in advance and can not be offered on the day.
Is the centre fully accessible for disabled people/pushchairs?
Yes, The Living Rainforest is fully accessible for both wheelchairs and pushchairs. There is a small set of stairs in Amazonica House that wheelchairs cannot use, but an alternative ramp route is available.
A Changing Places toilet is also on site and can be accessed with a key—just ask our staff for assistance.