New Forest Reptile Centre

Adders can be seen at the New Forest Reptile Centre

A wide range of local and not so local reptiles can be seen at the New Forest Reptile Centre.

Situated close to the A35, 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) south-west of Lyndhurst, the New Forest Reptile Centre offers the potential for good close views of adders, grass snakes, smooth snakes, slow worms, sand lizards, common lizards and more.

All are housed outdoors in relatively natural conditions that largely replicate the reptiles' preferred habitat, conditions that often provide great opportunities to observe these otherwise elusive creatures at relatively close quarters.

As these animals hibernate in winter and at other seasons often shelter out of sight when it is cold or wet, visits to the Reptile Centre on warm, sunny days from April to October are likely to be the most rewarding, although to avoid 'over heating', reptiles may seek shade during periods of excessive warmth. (Adders, in particular, can, however, often be seen on warm, sunny days from late February).

Check out the Reptile Centre's opening arrangements here.

The New Forest Reptile Centre is also the location for seasonal exhibitions and events - such as a Date with Nature, an event that provides the opportunity to watch via a CCTV link birds of prey at and around their nests.

There is no entrance fee at the New Forest Reptile Centre, but a donation towards the cost of providing parking facilities is always appreciated.