After decades of enchanting audiences and animal lovers alike, Heythrop Zoo in the Cotswolds has closed its gates permanently. This private zoo, never open to the general public, gained fame as a one-of-a-kind wildlife and film facility, featuring in numerous classic British productions, including the Harry Potter series, Mission: Impossible, and many more.
Founded in 1977 by Jim Clubb through his venture Amazing Animals, the purpose-built Heythrop Zoo opened in 1988 as a sanctuary and film set. Over the years, it became a central hub for Europe’s animal needs in film and television, hosting productions such as The Mummy Returns, Stardust, Nativity, Sweeney Todd, The Golden Compass, The Legend of Tarzan, and Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle. The latest film Jim contributed to was Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, due for release this July.
Clubb, now 71, announced the closure in March as he steps into retirement. The decision was heartfelt, coming after more than 45 years of dedication. “It has been my entire life,” Clubb reflected. “The zoo was truly unique—the only one of its kind worldwide. I designed the giraffe house based on the historic London Zoo building, combining classic architecture with modern animal welfare.”
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Beyond its film legacy, Heythrop Zoo was known for its community spirit. Clubb brought animals to local care homes and hospices—highlighted by memorable visits from the zoo’s penguins—brightening lives beyond the camera lens.
Though never open as a public zoo, Heythrop welcomed visitors for special encounters, parties, and open days, generating immense joy for residents near and far. Despite closing, the outpouring of support and requests for visits has remained strong.
All animals have been safely rehomed across other UK zoos and private collections, with the beloved penguins placed with a private collector. Looking ahead, Clubb plans to enjoy his retirement caring for reptiles and tropical fish and continuing his passion for writing historical animal books alongside his son, Jamie.
The iconic Cotswold stone buildings that housed Heythrop Zoo will now be repurposed into storage units, marking a new chapter for the beloved site.