Bristol: Venomous Snake handling show and educational talk.

Bristol: Venomous Snake Handling Show and Educational Talk
Location: Gloucestershire, United Kingdom
Country: United Kingdom
Rating: 4
Price: $53.87 per person
Supplier: Crocs R us

Getting a Feel for This Unique Experience
If you’re into wildlife or just looking for something a bit different, this venomous snake handling show is a surprisingly engaging option. We like that it offers a chance to see venomous snakes up close without risking anything—and that it’s led by a professional guide who clearly knows their stuff. Also, the fact that it’s a small group experience makes it feel more personal and less like a crowded spectacle.

One thing to keep in mind is the price—around $54 per person— which might seem a little steep if you’re not that into reptiles or if you’re traveling on a tight budget. But for those curious about snakes or wanting a memorable, educational outing, it could be well worth it. This experience is especially suited to travelers who enjoy learning about wildlife in a safe, controlled environment, and it’s not a bad pick for families with kids over 10 who can handle a bit of excitement.

Key Points

• Close Encounters: Get as close as safely possible to venomous snakes while being protected by secure barriers.
• Educational Focus: Learn about snake behavior, venom, and handling from knowledgeable guides.
• Unique UK Experience: Offers something you can’t find elsewhere in the UK—an up-close look at some of the world’s most dangerous snakes.
• Flexible Booking: You can buy a voucher now and book your date later, which is handy if your plans are still shifting.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and less rushed experience.
• Spectator Option: If you prefer to watch rather than handle, you can buy a spectator ticket to observe the show from the sidelines.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

This snake handling show is quite a special offering in the UK. It’s hosted by Crocs R us, situated at the Croc Cafe, and the whole thing lasts about an hour. The starting point is straightforward—you gather at the cafe, where you’ll be collected and taken to the show location. The itinerary is simple: meet, learn, watch, and then head back to the cafe.

During the show, you’ll see venomous snakes being handled safely by the guide, who explains their characteristics, behavior, and what makes each species interesting. Unlike some reptile encounters where handling is limited or nonexistent, here you get to see the snakes in action and ask questions while they are out. The live commentary from the guide helps demystify these often-misunderstood creatures, making it both educational and engaging.

What really stood out in reviews was the guide’s knowledge. Multiple visitors praised the expertise and clarity of the guide, which helped make what could be intimidating snakes feel approachable and fascinating. We loved the way the guide explained snake behavior and venom facts, making it suitable even for visitors with a curiosity about wildlife but not necessarily reptile experts.

The safety measures are solid, with snakes being interacted with behind barriers, giving peace of mind. If you’re just there to observe, a spectator ticket allows you to enjoy the show without handling—perfect if you’re not comfortable getting that close or if you’re traveling with children who might prefer watching from a safe distance.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The experience kicks off at the Croc Cafe, where you’ll check-in and wait for your pickup. This initial meet-and-greet is casual, and it’s a good opportunity to ask any quick questions beforehand. Once everyone’s gathered, you’ll be transported to the show location, which is set up specifically for this purpose.

The main event is about an hour of close-up snake handling and educational talk. You’ll see some of the most famous venomous snakes, with the guide explaining their unique traits. The highlight is when the snakes are out of their enclosures and being handled safely—this is when you really get to see their size, coloration, and behavior up close.

Throughout the show, the guide is actively chatting, answering questions, and sharing interesting facts. It’s clear they’re passionate and experienced, which makes all the difference. If you’re a photographer, bring your camera—you’ll find plenty of opportunities for some striking shots, but remember to turn off flash as per the rules.

After the show, you’ll return to Croc Cafe, where you can unwind and chat about what you saw. If you buy a voucher, you get the flexibility to schedule the experience at a later date, which adds convenience for planning your trip.

The Price and Its Value

At just under $54, this isn’t the cheapest wildlife experience around, but it offers a lot in return. You’re paying not only for the actual show but for the chance to learn directly from a knowledgeable guide and see some of the world’s most dangerous snakes in a safe environment. For reptile enthusiasts or anyone curious about venomous creatures, the price feels fair, especially considering the personalized attention and safety measures.

It’s also worth noting that the experience can be tailored—if you’re traveling with family or friends, the voucher system means you can coordinate a visit without rushing to pick a date upfront. The small group size makes sure you get plenty of attention and interaction, which is often reflected in positive reviews praising the quality of the guide’s explanations.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning about wildlife, especially reptiles. If you’re comfortable with a bit of excitement and want a safe, educational look at venomous snakes, you’ll find this experience engaging. It’s also good for families with older children (over 10), who can handle the thrill and are interested in animals.

However, if you’re looking for a hands-on reptile handling experience or are traveling with very young children, this may not be the best fit. The emphasis is on education and observation rather than interactive handling for everyone.

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Final Thoughts

This venomous snake handling show offers a well-balanced mix of education, excitement, and safety. It’s a rare opportunity to see some of the most dangerous snakes up close with expert guidance, so it’s quite a memorable experience—particularly for those with an interest in wildlife or reptiles. While the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, the quality of instruction and the uniqueness of the experience justify it for many.

If you’re after a different kind of wildlife encounter and want to add a dose of adventure to your trip, this tour in Gloucestershire is worth considering. It’s compact, informative, and led by guides who clearly care about sharing their knowledge in a way that’s accessible and safe.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children over 10 years old. Younger children might find the snakes intimidating or not be able to handle the length of the experience.

Can I buy a spectator ticket instead of handling a snake?
Absolutely. If you prefer to watch rather than handle, you can purchase a spectator ticket and enjoy the show from the sidelines.

What’s included in the ticket?
The ticket covers the venomous snake show, handling and explanation of venomous snakes, and the chance to ask questions during the demonstration.

Is the experience safe?
Yes. Snakes are handled behind safe barriers, and the guides are professionals, ensuring a secure environment for everyone involved.

How do I book?
You can buy a voucher in advance, which allows you to choose your preferred date later, giving you flexibility.

Where do we meet?
Start at Croc Cafe, where you’ll be collected and taken to the show location. The experience ends back at the same point.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the moments. Flash photography is not allowed.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts about an hour, but check availability for specific start times, as they may vary.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re intrigued by reptiles or just want to try something a little different during your trip, this venomous snake show might just be the highlight you didn’t know you needed. It combines education with a dash of adventure—all within a safe, controlled environment.

You can check availability for your dates here: