Days out in the North East: Butterfly World, Stockton on Tees

Butterfly world, Stockton on Tees is a family friendly hidden gem that you need on your 'to visit' list. It's a bargain attraction and an ideal day trip for surviving the six week holidays. Join us for an immersive experience and incredible day out in the heart of the North East.

Where is Butterfly World?

Butterfly World is based in Stockton on the grounds of Preston Park. As you turn into the grounds and enter the car park it's on the imminent right hand side. You can't miss the giant greenhouse style structure as you enter Preston Park.

Preston Park itself is steeped in history. It offers a picturesque setting, with lush greenery, serene lakes, and meandering pathways, making it the perfect backdrop for adventure. The location of Butterfly World within Preston Park holds great significance. It's strategically placed to maximise exposure to natural light and the ideal temperature required for butterflies. This thoughtfully designed setup ensures that the butterflies thrive in an environment that closely resembles their natural habitats.

You can find butterfly World at the following address: Preston Park, Yarm Road, Stockton on Tees, TS18 3RH

What can you expect to see at Butterfly World?

Butterflies! Without stating the obvious, you can expect to find a variety of butterflies which will fly around you, perhaps even taking a rest on your shoulders. You'll see over 80 different species of butterflies including Blue Morphos, Brimstone's and Swallowtails. You'd be lucky to spot all 80 mind you, as they dart around like a child who's had too much sugar!

As well as butterflies you'll see magnificent koi carp (which you can feed) swimming around an impressive indoor pond. The pond is layers with a top and bottom tier. The top tier is filled by an impressive waterfall which leads into the smaller lower section at the bottom. Koi food is available from the main reception for 20p, offering some wild entertainment from surprisingly yappy fish.

Near the waterfall you'll find a doorway leading to a separate reptile room. This is cooler than the butterfly house and offers a slight bit of respite from the humidity. The reptile house is home to snakes, blue tongued skinks and monitor lizards. You can also find as a slightly out of place, but very cute pygmy marmoset monkey offering lots of character in the entrance. As you walk through the reptile house, at the end you'll see meerkats. The specially built, sandy house holds eight meerkats. As you'd expect there's always one on look out!

Butterfly World is more than just an attraction; it's an experience that combines education and entertainment. You'll find information stations throughout the exhibit, shedding light on the delicate ecosystem that sustains these graceful creatures. Learn about the various plants that support the butterfly population and the conservation efforts in place to protect their natural habitats.

So, venture into the enchanting world of Butterflies. Where butterflies take flight in a soiree of colours, and nature's wonders unfold before your eyes. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a curious mind, or simply seeking a day of delight, this family-friendly gem in Stockton on Tees promises an experience that will stay with you long after your visit.

How much is Butterfly World?

Admission into butterfly world is really reasonable. Ticket prices are for the full day too so you can come and go as you please. You might want to catch a break from the humidity with a visit to the nearby cafe.

• Adults £5.00
• Children £4.00
• Concessions £4.00

Butterfly World opening hours

Opening hours at butterfly world Stockton on Tees are 10:00am - 4:30pm. The last admission is 4.00pm.

Is Butterfly World, Stockton on Tees accessible?

I found Butterfly World to be great in terms of accessibility. I've been with and without the pram and haven't had difficulties. The only thing I'd say is that the doors in and out of the centre hub are quite heavy. This is obviously to retain humidity and temperature levels and whilst I could see this may be an issue, I personally didn't struggle.

Within the centre hub it's really easy to get around. There is a stepped bridge over the pond however this doesn't deter from the experience. It's a decorative shortcut which isn't really that much of a shortcut.

Is there anything else to do nearby?

Located at Preston Park there's plenty for you and your family to enjoy. Butterfly world Stockton on Tees makes a great base for your family day out.

Preston Park museum is a short walk away from Butterly World and well worth a visit. Annual tickets can be picked up for £5 for adult and £3 for kids. It's great all year round, but I'd recommend visiting at Christmas time as it's just so magical.

There's a lovely little cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating. Staff are brilliant and again pricing is really great. I can usually pick up dinner for myself and my two girls for around £10.

The park on site at Preston Park is really impressive too. It's one of my favourites in the area and will provide long lasting entertainment for your kids.

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