Whipsnade
Whipsnade is now most noted for its Wild Animal Park, arguably England's most famous zoo. Opened on 23rd May 1931 in over over 570 acres of downland, the zoo provides a magnificent setting for the free-ranging menagerie of animals belonging to the Zoological Society of London. The spaciousness of Whipsnade is complemented by the cherry trees which in th espring provide a wide avenue of blossom while the woods are full of bluebells. Whipsnade is generally the home of the society's larger mammals, whilst the smaller ones, requiring temperature-controlled houses, are kept in London Zoo .
Whipsnade runs many breeding programmes and some of the world's most endangered species are on show, including the Indian rhinoceros, the red panda (as rare as its more famous black and white cousin), the Nile lechwe and Przewalski horse. There are a number of free-roaming animals, including the Chinese water deer, wallabies and mara. Most of the animals are kept in large enclosures, separated from the public by a fence or a ditch. Visitors can drive or walk around the zoo or they can ride in a Safari bus or a steam engine.
The zoo presents regular demonstrations throughout the year which include the sea-lions, free-flying birds and elephant encounters while its Discovery Centre encourages offers great educational experiences involving snakes, spiders, ants, frogs and fish as well as other animals. The Run Wild Play Centre and BP Bear Maze offers entertainment for smaller children.
In nearby Whipsnade village,St Mary's Church is worth a visit. Its 16th century brick tower and 18th century nave, make it the only brick church in the county older than the 19th century. A National Trust signpost on the green directs visitors to the Tree Cathedral, an area of 20 acres planted with 25 species of trees in the approximate plan of a cathedral. This rather odd attraction was devised in 1930 by E K Blyth as a living memorial to friends killed in the First World War.