The Monkey Sanctuary

Monkeys have always delighted humans, their intelligence and physical features so recognisably close to our own. Yet they have been victims of abuse and neglect by hunters and misguided pet owners and the result is many thousands of animals that have to be rescued and looked after. That’s where the fabulous Monkey Sanctuary near Looe comes in. Nestled into the side of the South Cornish coast, the sanctuary looks after residents like Joey the black capped capuchin monkey who was forced to live in a small cage in a flat in Camden Town for nine years and as a result became severely disabled. Now more than 40 years old, the sanctuary houses many primates rescued from the UK and international primate pet trades. It’s a great place to learn more about monkeys, hear expert talks and take a gentle stroll around the lovely wooded gardens while you are there. There is also a bat zone on site, which has a camera linked up to film the colony of the lesser horseshoe bats which have taken up resident under the gothic Murrayton House. Children will love the play area and arts and crafts activity centre while there’s a lunch stop at the Tree Top Café (or you can bring your own picnic).

The Monkey Sanctuary is part of the following Editors' Picks:

Top Ten Family Days Out by Olivia Greenway

"What child does not find a monkey delightful? Set up originally to provide homes for unwanted pet monkeys, the sanctuary now provides refuge for primates rescued from the UK and international pet trade. Apart from 28 monkeys, the sanctuary has an adventure playground and wildlife garden. Attractive café. Family ticket £25. Open Easter to autumn, Sunday to Thursday. (See website for occasional Fri and Sat opening days)."

Cornwall's Top Ten Family Attractions by Dinah Hatch

"Meet the sanctuary’s 28 very individual resident monkeys and learn all about their characters and foibles during keeper talks. Then try to stay calm during a walk through the Bat Cave – home of the endangered Lesser Horseshoe species. Enjoy your picnic in the really quite lovely wildlife gardens and then let your own monkeys loose in the huge play area. A great day out."

Places to Stay & Visit in CornwallPlaces to Stay & Visit in or near Looe

Official Photos

Information on The Monkey Sanctuary , Murrayton House , Looe

Events & Special Offers

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Father's Day at The Monkey Sanctuary (send email about this offer)  (telephone about this offer)

Sun 16 Jun 2013 – Sun 16 Jun 2013

Come to The Monkey Sanctuary for Father’s Day and enjoy some special offers for a special Father!

Dads go free today as well being able to get involved in our bug and bat box making workshops. In the Treetop Cafe we have bangers and mash and discounts on local Ales and Ciders.

Native Wildlife Day at The Monkey Sanctuary (send email about this offer)  (telephone about this offer)

Sat 13 Jul 2013 – Sat 13 Jul 2013

Come to The Monkey Sanctuary for Native Wildlife Day and take part in lots of fun activities such as Bat box and bug box building, talks on various species native to the UK, stands from other animal charities and animal face painting.

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