Best and worst broadband providers in the UK.

Hey readers,

Choosing a broadband provider can feel like navigating a minefield juggling price, speed, reliability, and customer service. 

With speeds and infrastructure rapidly evolving, updating your knowledge with the latest 2025 data is essential. 

Here’s a breakdown of the current top performers and notable underperformers in UK broadband.

1. Plusnet.

Crowned National Broadband Provider of the Year in the 2025 Uswitch Awards, Plusnet excels across critical metrics: reliability, customer service, and value for money.

It also found that this affirms its strength, naming Plusnet a "Recommended Provider” with a customer satisfaction score of 73%. 

It consistently offers straightforward, fairly priced plans and better-than-average support.

2. Vodafone.

Vodafone continues its winning streak.

 It was the Overall Winner in Expert Reviews Broadband Awards 2025, based on strong scores across value, speed, reliability, and customer service. 

Independent review site Expert Reviews also lists Vodafone as the Best All-Round Provider, with notable satisfaction in customer service 62% and affordability. 

Additionally, it holds the status of the Most Popular Broadband Provider in the Uswitch Awards.

3. Zen Internet.

Zen claims the title of Best for Speed and Value: its customers report a staggering 95% satisfaction with speed and 93% with value.

 Which? Customers rate it top for reliability and customer support, making Zen the leading provider in their customer satisfaction rankings with 77% though its reliability dipped (41%) in one Expert Reviews category.

4. Virgin Media.

Virgin Media shines for reliability. 

It was named the Most Reliable Provider in Expert Reviews’ awards, with a strong 70% satisfaction score. 

It’s known for high speeds and direct control over its cable network.

 However, it struggles with customer service perceptions, scoring just 40% satisfaction.

5. YouFibre.

YouFibre took home Regional Broadband Provider of the Year at the 2025 Uswitch Awards.

 It also introduced ultra-fast 7 Gbps plans under £100/month, including Wi-Fi 7 routers ideal for bandwidth-heavy households.

 As an altnet that’s rapidly expanding, it’s emerging as a strong contender.

6. Community Fibre & Hyperoptic.

Though available in limited regions, both score highly:
Community Fibre is praised for fast, symmetrical full-fibre service, transparent pricing, and a month-to-month contract.

 It also leads with 3 Gbps plans in London.

Hyperoptic boasts full-fibre across many cities and extremely high customer satisfaction.

Independent gives it 100% satisfaction in some metrics. 

Plus, user forums praise its no mid-contract price rises and rollout flexibility.

7. Utility Warehouse (UW).

With a multi-utility bundle offering simplicity and value, UW is a Recommended Provider via Which? With a customer score of 72%. 

It's a solid choice for bundled service convenience.

Worst-Performing/Budget or Problematic Providers.

1. Virgin Media (Customer Support) & NOW Broadband.

Although Virgin Media scores on reliability, it ranks low for customer service across multiple surveys. 

 NOW Broadband (Sky-operated) shares the bottom of the pile poor reliability, limited live support, and unclear contracts. 

2. NOW Broadband 

NOW Broadband rates badly (60%) for customer satisfaction with common complaints about reliability and support. 

3. TalkTalk.

TalkTalk’s reputation is mixed. 

Expert Reviews reveals that its customer service satisfaction is alarmingly low, with less than a third of customers being happy. 

Historical controversies, such as aggressive sales techniques, still linger in public memory. 

4. Broad Marke.

 Dissatisfaction Points
Direct Save ranks lowest for customer satisfaction in a Broadband Genie survey.

Value concerns are also prevalent with providers like BT and Virgin Media, according to the same survey.

The GoCompare survey notes Plusnet leads in perceived reliability (92%), but Virgin’s value for money is less favourably rated.

 Bonus Insights: Speed Leaders.

*Community Fibre delivers ultra-fast 3 Gbps in London.

* **Virgin Media offers up to 2 Gbps with its Gig2 plan.

* EE  and Hyperoptic also offer Gbps-class speeds: EE up to 1.6 Gbps, Hyperoptic around 1.13 Gbps. 

* Virgin Media leads in average download speeds (264 Mbps).

* Zen Internet is second (106 Mbps) thanks to significant improvements.

## Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a well-rounded provider, Plusnet and Vodafone are both consistently rewarded across independent surveys for reliability, support, speed, and value

.
Need top-tier speed or ultra-fast fibre? Consider Zen Internet, Community Fibre, or YouFibre, especially if they're available in your area.

If bundles or simplicity are what matter, Utility Warehouse offers convenience, while Virgin Media delivers solid reliability but brace for potential customer service frustrations.

At the lower end, tread carefully with NOW Broadband or TalkTalk unless you’ve vetted their latest support and contract terms. 

And while Virgin may offer hardware you like, know that support issues are still common.

Useful Tips Before You Switch.

1. Check eligibility availability varies by postcode and infrastructure.

2. Look beyond price consider reliability, support, and post-contract pricing.

3. Watch for mid-contract price hikes some providers (like Zen) promise to avoid them, while others don’t.

4. Consider regional altnet if available, providers like YouFibre, Community Fibre, or Hyperoptic can outperform mainstream ISPs.

5. Read independent ratings of Ofcom complaints, Which? Surveys, Uswitch awards, and real user feedback provide reliable insight.

In a rapidly improving broadband landscape with full-fibre coverage passing 78% by mid-2025 and projected to reach 95% by 2027. 

The quality and competition are higher than ever. 

Pick a provider aligned not just to your speed needs, but also to your expectation of service, honesty, and long-term value.

Cheers for reading X

TV Review of I Thought The Law.

Hey readers, 

I Fought the Law is a powerful four‑part drama that airs on ITV and is available to stream on ITVX. 

The show is an Adaptation from Ann Ming’s gripping memoir, For the Love of Julie.

 This true‑story drama unpacks her courageous, 15‑year‑long campaign to overturn the archaic double jeopardy law after her daughter Julie was brutally murdered in 1989.

Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming.

 Heart‑Shattering Performance and at the heart of this drama is Sheridan Smith’s performance, which critics are already hailing as one of her finest.

 The Times calls her portrayal agonisingly raw, especially in the moment Ann discovers her daughter’s body as if you were there with her in that tiny bathroom.

The Guardian adds that no one does this kind of drama better. 

The Financial Times praised her transformation, noting how her performance conveys Ann’s journey from grief to legal reformer, and added that it includes a poignant touch: a cameo from the real Ann Ming herself.

Smith’s ability to embody Ming’s grief, anger, and determination, subtle in some moments, seismic in others, anchors the series emotionally. 

Her presence is stolid and delicate, giving the audience insight into a mother’s unbreakable spirit.

Supporting Cast & Emotional Nuance.

The supporting roles add layers of quiet empathy and strength. 

Daniel York Loh delivers a beautifully nuanced performance as Charlie Ming, Ann’s husband portraying grief that simmers beneath the surface.

Victoria Wyant plays Julie Hogg in flashback, illustrating the life Ann lost.

 

Rather than arming the drama with sensational police procedurals, the show speaks to the emotional toll of legal failure and bureaucratic indifference.

Digital Spy praises this care in tone, noting how flashbacks and hallucinations are cleverly peppered throughout to enrich the storytelling in a moving way.

 These stylistic choices serve the story, offering a brief respite from sorrow while deepening emotional impact.

True Tale, Dramatised with Respect.

The creators balance fidelity to Ann’s memoir with the narrative demands of television. 

The script is rooted deeply in Ann’s book and supported largely by Ming herself.

 

The production even involved reviewing photographs, letters, and scripts with Ming to maintain authenticity.

That said, small alterations like changing certain names such as Julie’s estranged husband from Andrew to Matthew, or merging and streamlining characters have been made for storytelling clarity. 

The drama remains honest to spirit and history, with a clear message that Ann's emotional journey is always foreground over legal technicalities.

The Emotional Core: Grief, Injustice, and Triumph. 

The show’s emotional core centres on the intersection of personal tragedy and systemic failure. 

Two miss trials left Julie’s killer, William ‘Billy’ Dunlop, free to boast of his immunity under the double jeopardy law. 

For years, Ann refused to be sidelined, confronting police, the Crown Prosecution Service, government officials, and even the Justice system itself to force legal change.

Eventually, her perseverance paid off: the law changed in 2005, allowing retrials upon new evidence.

 Dunlop became the first person convicted under the revised law in 2006. 

In recognition of her efforts, Ann Ming was awarded an MBE in 2007.

Technical Craft and Direction.

Under the guidance of writer Jamie Crichton (All Creatures Great and Small, Grantchester) and director Erik Richter Strand (The Crown), the series achieves a respectful, understated tone that refrains from sensationalism. 

Its pacing, atmosphere, and muted visual style underscore the solemnity and gravity of the story.

Filming took place in the North East of England in locations like Teesside, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, and Newcastle to anchor the drama in the real landscape where these events unfolded. 

The local authenticity adds texture to the narrative, reflecting regional character and lived history.

Emotional Resonance with Audiences and Critics.

Across the board, the show has received widespread acclaim:

The Times calls it unforgettable, naming Smith’s performance as one of her best ever.

The Guardian praises its emotional resonance and authenticity, especially balancing grief and legal history.

Financial Times emphasises the drama’s power and Smith’s standout performance but also its refusal to shy from grief and resilience.

Digital Spy hails it as hard and heart‑wrenching yet impossibly compelling.

Final Thoughts.

I Fought the Law is not a flashy true‑crime spectacle; it’s a sombre, dignified, and deeply human meditation on justice, suffering, and perseverance.

 Sheridan Smith leads with a performance that is both heart‑shattering and galvanising, and she’s well‑supported by a cast that understands the weight of real‑life grief.

The production values, the writing, the grounding in authentic emotion and place all contribute to a respectful and compelling piece of storytelling. 

This is a drama that centres on the human cost of injustice and the power of one woman’s resilience, offering a lesson in dignity, courage, and change.

 Cheers for reading X 

Review of Netflix's Con Mum.

Hey readers,

Netflix’s Con Mum (2025), directed by BAFTA-nominated filmmaker Nick Green, is a gripping true-crime documentary that delves into the devastating story of Graham Hornigold, a celebrated British pastry chef, and his reunion with a woman named Dionne, who claimed to be his long-lost biological mother. 

Released on March 25, 2025, this 88-minute film has captivated audiences with its blend of emotional vulnerability, shocking twists, and a cautionary narrative about trust and manipulation. 

This review explores the documentary’s storytelling, emotional impact, societal reflections, and its place within Netflix’s true-crime catalogue while critically examining its strengths and shortcomings.

 A Story That Hits Close to Home.

At its core, Con Mum is a deeply personal story.

Graham Hornigold, known for appearances on MasterChef: The Professionals and Junior Bake Off, grew up without knowing his biological mother. 

Born in 1974 on a British Army base in Germany, he was raised in the UK by his father, whom he describes as abusive, and a stepmother.

 This absence left a void, a “yearning” for connection that Hornigold articulates poignantly in the documentary: “It’s quite painful, not knowing your mother. 

You haven’t got your mum.” In 2020, at the height of his professional success and with his partner Heather Kaniuk expecting their first child, Hornigold received an email from Dionne, who claimed to be his mother, taken from her when he was two years old.

The documentary unfolds with a mix of real footage, voice notes, and interviews, chronicling Hornigold’s initial excitement.

 Dionne, presenting herself as a wealthy heiress with ties to the Sultan of Brunei, showered him with lavish gifts a Range Rover, stays in luxury hotels, and promises of a vast inheritance. 

She also claimed to have terminal brain and bone marrow cancer, with only six months to live, adding urgency to their reunion. 

Hornigold, driven by a “cellular level need for acceptance,” as he puts it, was drawn into her world, travelling to Zurich to help manage her supposed fortune. 

What followed was a devastating spiral of financial ruin, emotional manipulation, and the unravelling of his personal life.

Emotional Depth and Psychological Insight.

Con Mum excels in portraying the psychological complexity of its central figure. 

Hornigold’s vulnerability is palpable, rooted in a lifelong desire for maternal connection.

 The documentary, through expert commentary like that of psychologist Feinblatt, underscores how scammers exploit such emotional needs: “Reuniting with a lost parent taps into deep psychological needs for connection and origin.” 

This insight frames Hornigold not as gullible but as human, caught in a “trauma bond” exacerbated by Dionne’s fabricated terminal illness.

The film’s emotional weight is heaviest in its portrayal of collateral damage.

 Heather Kaniuk, Hornigold’s partner, emerges as a sympathetic figure, enduring postpartum isolation while Hornigold spent months in Zurich, missing the birth and early months of their son.

 The strain on their relationship, culminating in their separation and Kaniuk’s relocation to New Zealand with their child, is heart-wrenching. 

Social media reactions, particularly on Reddit, reflect this sentiment, with users expressing rage on Kaniuk’s behalf: “First-time mum with a newborn and her partner fucks off to Switzerland for months… Absolute insanity.” 

This betrayal, though unintentional, underscores the ripple effects of Dionne’s con.

Dionne herself remains an enigma. Described as a British-Asian woman with a history of aliases (Dionne Marie Hanna, Theresa Haton Mahmud), she declined to participate in the documentary, leaving her motives unclear. 

Was she driven by greed, malice, or a compulsion to control? 

The film’s refusal to speculate excessively preserves its authenticity but leaves viewers craving more about her backstory. 

Her arrest in Singapore in April 2025, charged with five counts of fraud, adds a belated sense of justice, though her whereabouts remain unknown as of the documentary’s release.

Strengths.

 A Cautionary Tale with Broad Appeal

Con Mum*l stands out in Netflix’s true-crime lineup for its intimate focus. 

Unlike sprawling exposés on cults or corporate fraud, this documentary zooms in on a single, relatable victim, making it accessible and emotionally resonant.

 The pacing is tight, with twists like the DNA confirmation that Dionne was indeed Hornigold’s biological mother delivered with devastating impact.

 As one reviewer noted, “The moment… hit me like a wrecking ball.” 

The film’s production quality, with its sleek editing and evocative use of Hornigold’s voice notes, enhances its cinematic feel.

The documentary also serves as a public service, highlighting the sophistication of emotional scams. 

Hornigold’s story, as Feinblatt notes, dispels the myth that “only gullible people get scammed.” 

His financial losses of £300,000 in debts from loans, credit cards, and car financing illustrate how cons exploit trust, not stupidity. 

The film’s warning resonates: “Always verify identity and financial claims before giving money even to someone who feels like family.”

Critiques Missed Opportunities and Unanswered Questions.

Despite its strengths, Con Mum has flaws.

 Critics on platforms like Reddit have lambasted the filmmakers for “lazy” research, particularly regarding Dionne’s network of supposed bankers and lawyers in Zurich.

 Were they complicit, actors, or victims themselves?

 The documentary’s failure to investigate these figures leaves a gap, as one user questioned: “Phone calls could easily be faked, but real bodies at ‘meetings’ were they paid actors or other victims?”

 This lack of depth frustrates viewers seeking a comprehensive exposé.

Additionally, the film has sparked debate about Hornigold’s culpability. 

Some viewers, like a Reddit commenter, argue he was “blinded by his money-boner,” prioritising potential wealth over his family. 

His decision to stay in Zurich for months, despite Kaniuk’s pleas and his initial dismissal of her warnings about Dionne paints him as complicit in his downfall. 

The documentary could have explored this tension more critically, perhaps by delving into Hornigold’s reflections on his greed or naivety. 

Instead, it leans heavily on his victimhood, which feels one-sided at times.

Finally, the film’s ending lacks closure. 

While Dionne’s arrest provides some resolution, the absence of a redemption arc for Hornigold, no triumphant return to *MasterChef* or reconciliation with Kaniuk, leaves a sombre aftertaste. 

As The Telegraph noted, “Normally with films like this one there is some kind of redemption arc… But not here.”

 This rawness is both a strength and a weakness, mirroring life’s messiness but potentially alienating viewers accustomed to tidy conclusions.

Cultural and Social Reflections.

Con Mum taps into broader societal anxieties about trust in an era of digital scams and fractured families. 

Hornigold’s story, as The Independent frames it, is “a living nightmare” that underscores the fragility of emotional bonds. 

The documentary also exposes flaws in legal systems, as Dionne faced no charges in the UK due to her familial relationship with Hornigold, a loophole that outraged viewers: “What’s truly disturbing is that there are no criminal charges. 

Why is this being silently allowed?”

The film’s virality, trending at number one on Netflix, reflects its universal appeal. 

Posts on X and Reddit show polarised reactions, from empathy for Hornigold’s trauma to scepticism about his motives, highlighting how personal biases shape our interpretation of victimhood.

 This discourse enriches the viewing experience, inviting reflection on family, greed, and resilience.

 Final Thoughts.

 A Must-Watch with Lingering Questions

Con Mum is a compelling addition to Netflix’s true-crime catalogue, blending raw emotion with a chilling cautionary tale. 

Its focus on Hornigold’s personal tragedy, coupled with its exploration of psychological manipulation, makes it a standout. 

However, its investigative gaps and reluctance to fully critique Hornigold’s choices prevent it from reaching the heights of genre-defining documentaries like The Tinder Swindler. 

For fans of true crime, emotional dramas, or stories of betrayal, it’s a must-watch, but don’t expect all the answers.

As Hornigold rebuilds his life, speaking out to “break Dionne’s vicious cycle,” Con Mum leaves us with a sobering reminder: even the closest bonds can hide the deepest deceptions. 

Stream it on Netflix, brace for the twists, and prepare to question who you’d trust with your heart and your wallet.

Cheers for reading X

Minecraft is coming to London.

Hey readers, 

Minecraft, the best-selling video game of all time, has captivated millions with its limitless creativity and exploration.

 Now, fans in London have the unique opportunity to step directly into this blocky universe with the upcoming Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue. 

This immersive event is set to open on April 4, 2025, at Corner Corner, a new exhibition venue in Canada Water.

Embarking on the Adventure.

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue offers participants an interactive journey that brings the game's iconic elements to life. 

The adventure begins in a lush forest biome, where attendees are introduced to their mission: a peaceful village has been overrun by zombies, and it's up to the participants to find a cure and save the villagers. 

Guided by two unique characters, Tobin and Dayo, adventurers will navigate through seven intricately designed rooms, each representing different biomes from the game. 

From verdant forests to lava-lit mines, these environments are crafted to immerse guests fully into the Minecraft world.

 The Orb of Interaction.

Central to the experience is the Orb of Interaction, a glowing handheld device that serves as the primary tool for participants.

 This innovative gadget allows users to engage with the environment by mining resources, battling hostile mobs, and constructing essential structures. 

The orb provides haptic feedback and visual cues, enhancing the tactile sensation of interacting with the Minecraft universe. 

Whether breaking blocks or fending off skeletons, the Orb of Interaction ensures that every action feels authentic and responsive.

Collaborative Gameplay.

True to the multiplayer spirit of Minecraft, the Villager Rescue experience emphasizes teamwork.

 Participants are grouped into teams and must collaborate to solve puzzles, gather resources, and combat enemies. 

This collective effort is crucial, as challenges are designed to test both individual skills and group coordination. 

The dynamic nature of the tasks ensures that each team member plays a vital role in the mission's success.

Tickets and Packages.

Tickets for Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue are available for purchase, with prices starting at £20 for children (ages 3-15) and £24 for adults (16 and over).

 For enthusiasts seeking a more enriched experience, the Obsidian Package is offered at £54.

 This premium package includes exclusive merchandise such as a Minecraft poster, lanyard, pin, pen, a branded gift box, and a digital photo pass, allowing guests to commemorate their adventure with personalized photos set against iconic Minecraft backdrops.

 Additionally, all attendees will receive a code for an exclusive in-game cape, serving as a digital memento of their real-world adventure. 

 Venue Details.

Corner Corner, the event's venue, is London's newest exhibition space located in Canada Water. 

Designed to host interactive and immersive events, it provides the perfect setting for the Minecraft Experience.

 The venue is easily accessible via public transportation, ensuring that guests can conveniently attend from various parts of the city and beyond.

A Broader Minecraft Universe.

The launch of Villager Rescue in London coincides with the release of A Minecraft Movie, slated to hit cinemas on April 4, 2025.

 This simultaneous debut offers fans a comprehensive Minecraft experience, bridging the gap between interactive entertainment and cinematic storytelling.

 Moreover, plans are underway for additional Minecraft-themed attractions, including rides and immersive experiences, set to open in both the UK and the US between 2026 and 2027. 

These forthcoming attractions aim to further expand the physical presence of the Minecraft universe, providing fans with diverse ways to engage with their favourite game. 

Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue is poised to be a landmark event for fans of all ages. 

By seamlessly blending the game's beloved mechanics with real-world interaction, it offers a unique adventure that transcends the screen.

 Whether you're a seasoned builder or new to the world of Minecraft, this experience promises to ignite your imagination and immerse you in a universe where creativity knows no bounds.

 Don't miss the chance to be part of this ground-breaking event in London this spring.

Cheers for reading X 

A day out at Twycross Zoo.

Hey readers, 

Planning a day out with kids can be quite an adventure, especially when it involves visiting a zoo. 

Zoos offer a great opportunity for children to learn about wildlife, appreciate nature, and spend quality time outdoors. 

Twycross Zoo is one such destination that promises a fun-filled day for families. 

In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about visiting Twycross Zoo with kids, from essential planning tips to attractions you won't want to miss.

Location and Hours.

Twycross Zoo is conveniently located on the A444 which can be accessed via the A5 and the M42 junction 11. Look out for the brown zoo signage on the roads on your journey. 

Locations such as Coventry, Leicester and Hinckley make it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. 

The zoo is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it’s always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours, especially on holidays or during inclement weather. 

Admission Fees.

Admission fees at Twycross Zoo are quite reasonable, especially considering the range of activities and exhibits available. Includes New & Improved Gruffalo Discovery Land! Book in advance for the best prices, as you get 10% off when booking in advance. 

 Prices are generally structured by age groups:

Adults - £26.95.

Child (3-17 years) - £19.75.

Under 3's - Free.

There are also often family packages and seasonal discounts, so it's worth looking out for those. 

Membership options provide unlimited access throughout the year, which can be cost-effective if you plan multiple visits.

2. Planning Your Visit.

Best Time to Visit.

For families with young children, mornings are often the best time to visit Twycross Zoo.

 The animals are usually more active in the cooler morning hours, and it's less crowded.

 Weekdays, particularly outside of school holidays, tend to be quieter than weekends. 

What to Bring.

When visiting the zoo with kids, preparation is key. 

Here are some essentials to consider packing:

Snacks and Water.

While the zoo has various food outlets, bringing your own snacks and water bottles can save time and money, especially with picky eaters.

Sunscreen and Hats.

Most of the zoo is outdoors, so sun protection is crucial, even on cloudy days.

Comfortable Shoes.

 Expect to do a lot of walking. Make sure everyone has comfortable footwear to avoid tired, cranky kids (and adults).

Strollers or Wagons.

 For younger children, consider bringing a stroller or renting one at the zoo. The zoo’s terrain can be tiring for little legs.

Cameras or Smartphones,

Capture those special moments! Just remember to be respectful of the animals and other visitors.

 Navigating the Zoo.

Twycross Zoo is spread over a vast area, so having a map is helpful.

 The zoo provides maps at the entrance, and there’s usually an app available for smartphones.

 Prioritise which exhibits and attractions are most important to you and plan a route accordingly.

 This helps avoid backtracking and keeps the day more manageable for young children.

 3. Must-See Exhibits and Attractions. 

Animal Exhibits.

Twycross Zoo is home to a diverse range of animal species from all around the world. 

Here are some of the must-see exhibits that kids will love:

African Savannah.

 Featuring majestic animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras, this exhibit is always a hit with children. 

The open landscape design allows for great views of the animals in a habitat that closely resembles their natural environment.

Tropical Rainforest.

This indoor exhibit is perfect for a break from the sun or rain. 

It houses various exotic birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

 The lush greenery and misty air make it a captivating experience

Penguin Cove.

 Penguins are always a crowd-pleaser. 

The Penguin Cove at Twycross Zoo has both indoor and outdoor viewing areas where kids can watch these delightful birds waddle and swim. 

Interactive Zones. 

Zoos are increasingly adding interactive elements to enhance the educational experience. 

At Twycross Zoo, there are several hands-on opportunities:

Petting Zoo.

A dedicated area where children can interact with farm animals such as goats, sheep, and rabbits.

 It’s a great place for kids to learn about gentleness and care when interacting with animals.

Bird Feeding Aviary.

 For a small fee, kids can enter an aviary and hand-feed colourful birds. 

This close encounter can be a magical experience for children, allowing them to appreciate birds up close.

Reptile House.

Not just an exhibit, the reptile house often hosts educational talks where children can touch non-venomous snakes and learn more about these misunderstood creatures.

 Shows and Demonstrations. 

Throughout the day, Twycross Zoo offers various animal shows and demonstrations that are both entertaining and educational.

Birds of Prey Show.

A favourite among visitors, this show features hawks, eagles, and owls demonstrating their impressive hunting skills. 

The show includes interesting facts about the birds and conservation efforts to protect them.

Seal and Sea Lion Show.

 Watch these intelligent marine mammals perform tricks and learn about their natural behaviours and the importance of ocean conservation.

Feeding Times and Keeper Talks.

These are scheduled throughout the day and offer insights into the diets and behaviours of different animals. 

It’s a great way for kids to learn more about the animals they’re seeing and ask questions directly to the zookeepers.

 4. Kid-Friendly Amenities.

 Play Areas. 

Twycross Zoo understands that kids need a break from walking and offers several play areas where they can let off some steam. 

These playgrounds often include climbing structures, slides, and sometimes water play features, so bringing a change of clothes might be a good idea.

Stroller and Wagon Rentals. 

For those who prefer not to bring their own, the zoo offers stroller and wagon rentals near the entrance.

 This service is incredibly convenient for families with young children who might tire quickly.

Family Rest Areas and Facilities.

There are several family rest areas throughout the zoo, complete with shaded seating, picnic tables, and restroom facilities equipped with changing tables. 

This makes it easy for families to take breaks, have a snack, and regroup without having to trek back to the entrance.

Dining Options.

The zoo has several dining options, ranging from snack stands to full-service restaurants.

 Kid-friendly menus are widely available, with options like chicken nuggets, fries, fruit cups, and ice cream. 

However, bringing your packed lunch can also be a great way to enjoy a picnic at one of the many designated picnic areas.

  5. Tips for a Smooth Visit. 

Plan for Rest Breaks.

Children can get tired and overwhelmed easily, especially in a stimulating environment like a zoo. 

Plan for frequent breaks to rest, hydrate, and have snacks. This will help keep the day enjoyable for everyone.

Prepare for Weather Changes.

The weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and bring rain gear if necessary. 

Many zoos, including Twycross, have both indoor and outdoor exhibits, so you can adjust your plans according to the weather.

Engage and educate.

Turn your visit into an educational experience by discussing the animals, their habitat, and conservation efforts.

 Many exhibits have informational signs, and the zoo often provides educational materials and activities for children.

Safety First.

Zoos can be crowded, so establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated. 

Keep a close eye on young children, especially near exhibits with water or open viewing areas.

A visit to Twycross Zoo can be a magical and educational experience for children and adults alike.

 With a bit of planning, you can ensure a fun, smooth, and memorable day for the whole family. 

From diverse animal exhibits and interactive zones to engaging shows and child-friendly amenities, Twycross Zoo offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the wonders of the animal kingdom. 

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure your kids won't forget!

Cheers for reading X 

Everything you need to know about The bear Grylls Adventure

Hey readers, 

If you're an adrenaline junkie or someone looking to push their limits, the Bear Grylls Adventure is an absolute must-visit. 

This exhilarating attraction, inspired by the renowned adventurer Bear Grylls, offers a range of heart-pounding activities that will test your courage, resilience, and survival skills.

In this blog post, we'll cover everything you need to know about the Bear Grylls Adventure to ensure you're fully prepared for an unforgettable experience.

The Location. 

The Bear Grylls Adventure is located at the Birmingham NEC in the United Kingdom. 

Its convenient location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the country, whether you're driving or taking public transport.

 The facility spans over 8,000 square meters, providing ample space for all the exciting activities it offers.

Activities. 

1. Indoor Skydiving. 

Get ready to feel the rush of freefalling from 12,000 feet without jumping out of a plane. 

Indoor skydiving at the Bear Grylls Adventure is a safe yet thrilling way to experience the sensation of skydiving.

 You'll be guided by experienced instructors as you float on a cushion of air in a vertical wind tunnel.

2. High Ropes. 

Conquer your fear of heights on the high ropes course. Suspended high above the ground, you'll navigate various obstacles and challenges while harnessed in for safety. 

It's a test of both your physical and mental strength.

3. Escape Rooms. 

The Bear Grylls Adventure features immersive escape rooms that will put your problem-solving skills to the test. 

Solve puzzles and riddles to escape from challenging scenarios inspired by real-life survival situations.

4. Dive. 

Take a plunge into the deep with their diving experience. 

Whether you're a certified diver or a beginner, there's an underwater adventure waiting for you.

 Swim with sharks, explore sunken wrecks, and witness marine life up close.

5. Archery. 

Channel your inner archer and master the art of precision with bow and arrow. 

Expert instructors will guide you through the basics and help you hit the bullseye.

6. Breakout. 

In this thrilling experience, you'll need to escape from a locked room by solving puzzles, deciphering codes, and working as a team. 

The clock is ticking, and your wits are your best weapon.

7. Base camp. 

Learn essential survival skills at the Bear Grylls Basecamp. From fire-making to shelter-building, you'll gain insights into what it takes to survive in the wild.

Safety and Training. 

Your safety is a top priority at the Bear Grylls Adventure. Before participating in any activity, you'll receive thorough training and be equipped with the necessary safety gear.

 Expert instructors are on hand to guide you through each experience, ensuring you're comfortable and confident.

Booking and Packages. 

To plan your visit, it's advisable to book your tickets and activities in advance through their official website. 

They offer various packages and combo deals, allowing you to choose the activities that interest you the most.

 Prices vary depending on the package and activities you select.

Who Can Visit?

The Bear Grylls Adventure is open to adventure enthusiasts of all ages, but some activities may have specific height or age restrictions. 

It's essential to check the requirements for each activity before booking.

The Bear Grylls Adventure is a thrilling and immersive experience that offers a taste of the challenges faced by real-life adventurers. 

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking to step out of your comfort zone, this attraction has something for everyone. 

With top-notch safety measures and expert guidance, you can push your limits and create lasting memories. 

So, gear up, face your fears, and embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Bear Grylls Adventure!

Cheers for reading x