Creepy-Crawlies and Conservation: A Family Day Out at The Bug Parc, Norfolk
If you are looking for a unique day out in Norfolk that perfectly blends learning, exotic, and hands-on fun, The Bug Parc is an unforgettable stop! Tucked away in the Norfolk countryside in Lenwade, this invertebrate zoo is not just home to one of Europe’s largest collection of bugs, but also a passion project that has been years in the making. We were kindly gifted a visit and spent the day exploring everything from beautiful butterflies to glowing scorpions - and we left buzzing with excitement (pun intended!).
A Dream Turned Reality
The Bug Parc is the vision of Martin French, starting over 20 years ago. It started with a passion for creepy-crawlies, initially sparked by the purchase of a few praying mantises as a hobby. However, as passions often do, it quickly grew legs. Within a short period, Martin’s collection expanded, and in 2020, he took the plunge and brought The Bug Parc to life, a fully-fledged invertebrate zoo where visitors can meet some of the most fascinating creatures.
A Family-Friendly Bug Adventure
An excellent trip out to enjoy during a Norfolk holiday, The Bug Parc is a brilliant day trip for all ages. This is no ordinary animal park; you are immediately greeted by lush green surroundings, well-designed enclosures, and knowledgeable staff who are clearly passionate about their work.
One of our standout experiences was the new Tropical Butterfly House, a beautifully warm and colourful space where over 400 butterflies from over 30 different species freely flutter around. Our personal favourite must be the large blue Morpho butterflies, which slowly and gracefully fly around, a mesmerising sight.
Glowing Scorpions
Another exciting moment was viewing the shining scorpion’s exhibit. Here, the scorpions are initially almost invisible in their natural environment until suddenly lit up under UV light. One moment you are staring at what looks like a blank rock, the next - a glowing creature emerges! A simple trick of nature and science, but one that was captivating - the children loved flicking the switches, seemingly like a game of peekaboo with the scorpions!
A Collection Like No Other
The sheer variety and scale of the Bug Parc sets this apart. It is home to Europe’s largest invertebrate collection, ranging from scorpions and tarantulas to beetles, millipedes, and stick insects. All the enclosures are designed excellently, showcasing the creatures in environments that allow them to thrive by mimicking their natural habitats.
The Bug Parc isn’t just a place to observe - it incorporates interaction and education. One of the most special parts of the day was the bug handling session, where we got hands-on with some creepy-crawlies! We met a giant snail, a spindly stick insect, and a tickly millipede, and were guided by a knowledgeable keeper who shared fascinating facts about each one. The sessions were exceptionally managed, safe, and hand-washing facilities were available afterwards.
Conservation in Action
Beyond the fun, The Bug Parc plays an active role in the conservation and breeding of tropical invertebrates, helping to develop understanding and best practices in caring for these creatures. By breeding and studying insects in captivity, The Bug Parc contributes to wider conservation and raising awareness. It is truly inspiring to see a local family-run attraction making such a meaningful impact.
Final Thoughts
The Bug Parc sparks curiosity, encourages learning, and gets you closer than you could imagine to some of the planet's smallest and most fascinating creatures. Whether your children are creepy-crawly-crazy or a little unsure about bugs, this experience can gently open minds and eyes in a fun way. From the thrill of holding a millipede to observing the flutter of a butterfly, The Bug Parc is a celebration of the mini beasts that we share our world with.
So, if you fancy a day out that is a little different during your Norfolk holiday, then book tickets to The Bug Parc! You will leave with a new appreciation for creepy crawlies!