Heythrop Zoo, a cherished Cotswolds institution known for its exotic animals and role in numerous iconic British films and TV shows, has permanently closed. The zoo, described by its founder as “the only one of its kind in the world,” ceased operations in March following the retirement of Jim Clubb, its devoted owner and animal trainer.
Jim Clubb, now 71, first gained recognition with his television series Amazing Animals in 1977. Inspired by his passion, he established Heythrop Zoo in 1988 as a specially designed facility that served both as a home for exotic species and a dynamic filming location.
Over the years, Heythrop Zoo became a vital hub for Europe’s animal needs in the film industry. Its residents appeared in blockbuster productions such as the Harry Potter series, Mission: Impossible, The Mummy Returns, Stardust, Nativity, Sweeney Todd, and The Golden Compass. Most recently, Clubb contributed to Christopher Nolan’s upcoming film The Odyssey, set for release this July.
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Clubb founded the zoo alongside his late ex-wife Sally with the dream of running a private zoo that supported itself. He designed the giraffe house to echo the classic architecture of London Zoo, blending traditional aesthetics with state-of-the-art animal care. This unique combination made Heythrop an ideal location for the entertainment industry, hosting productions like The Legend of Tarzan and Mowgli: Legend of the Jungle.
Though Heythrop was never a public zoo, it offered exclusive encounters, parties, and open days that delighted visitors. Clubb was also known for his outreach efforts, famously bringing penguins to visit local care homes and hospices—a testament to his dedication to community engagement.
The decision to close the zoo was difficult but necessary. Clubb expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support received over the decades. All animals have been responsibly rehomed to other zoos and private collections across the UK, with the penguins scheduled to join a private collector.
Looking ahead, Clubb plans to dedicate his retirement to caring for his reptiles and tropical fish and collaborating with his son Jamie on writing historical animal books. The iconic Cotswold stone buildings of the former zoo will be repurposed as storage units, signaling the end of an era but the continuation of new projects inspired by a lifelong passion.