Centenarians Join Drusillas Park For 100th Birthday Celebrations

A group of Sussex and Kent centenarians enjoyed a very special day out this week as Drusillas Park marked its 100th anniversary with a VIP celebration.

The event, held on Monday (8th September) welcomed guests aged 100 and over — along with their carers — for free entry to the zoo, animal encounters, and a nostalgic afternoon cream tea.

Managing Director Cassie Poland said the milestone felt extra special:

“What makes Drusillas so special is the way it’s been part of family traditions for generations. 

"We wanted to celebrate our centenary with others who share this incredible milestone — and create a magical day to honour their stories and memories.”

Guests were treated to visits with some of the park’s animal residents, including the ever-popular lemurs, which have been part of Drusillas for the full century. 

At 3pm, centenarians enjoyed a traditional cream tea — a tribute to the zoo’s origins in 1925 as a roadside Tea Cottage.

Visitors also explored the park’s History Room, which showcases how Drusillas has grown over the decades into one of the South’s most popular attractions.

Founded in 1925 by Captain Douglas Ann and his wife Drusilla, the site has been through three generations of family ownership and remains run today by Cassie Poland and Ollie Smith, the children of Laurence and Christine Smith.

📸 Photos and more about Drusillas’ centenary celebrations are available at drusillas.co.uk/centenary