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  • 9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos 1
  • 9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos 2
  • 9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos 3
  • 9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos 4
  • 9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos 5

9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles UK 2024 | Ideal for Snakes, Lizards, Turtles and Geckos

Terrariums are the land animal version of an aquarium, so buying one is essential if you plan on housing any kind of reptile, whether that's a snake, lizard, gecko or turtle. How do you know which type will make a good habitat for your pet though? Well, you’ll be happy to know that we’ve done the digging online for you when it comes to setting up your mini zoo space! 


Regardless of the species you aim to home, all terrariums must be safe, secure and big enough for the animal as well as all of the necessary décor and equipment. In addition to the size, you’ll need to consider the openings, the height and the materials used in the manufacturing process. So, if this is your first time buying this type of product, read on to get the whistle-stop tour on all things vital for an enclosed vivarium.  

Last updated 25/03/2024

Quick List - Top Terrariums for Reptiles

1

Exo Terra

Glass Natural Terrarium
Glass Natural Terrarium

Pretty Spacious, Very Durable and Well Worth the High Price

2

Zilla

Micro Habitats Arboreal
Micro Habitats Arboreal

An Online Cult Classic

3

Repti-Life

Flat-Pack Vivarium
Flat-Pack Vivarium

One for Bigger Pets Who Need More Space

4

Keweni

Terrarium Containers
Terrarium Containers

A Standalone Unit That's Stackable Too

5

Monkfield

Terrarium
Terrarium

Ideal for Snakes, Geckos and Many Other Species

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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Terrarium for Reptiles in the UK

Key Points to Consider
  1. Select a Size That Is at Least Three Times Your Pet’s Length
  2. Choose a Low Design to Accommodate Larger Animals or a High Design for Smaller Reptiles That Enjoy Climbing
  3. Opt For a Front Opening if You Have a Snake or Lizard, but a Top Opening if You Have a Turtle or Gecko 
  4. Consider Glass Over Plastic if You Want the Most Durable Option, but Plastic Is Typically Less Expensive
1

Make Sure to Choose a Size That's at Least Three Times the Length of the Reptile

Make Sure to Choose a Size That's at Least Three Times the Length of the Reptile

Naturally, the first thing to consider is the capacity of the terrarium. If you’re opting for a small tank that is going to house small geckos and snakes, then generally companies don’t provide capacity information. Therefore, you might want to refer to the dimensions to get a better idea of the size.

 
When it comes to terrariums designed for larger animals, capacity measurements are usually included. As you’d imagine, there is a full range of sizes from as little as 20L up to over 100L. The best way to know which capacity will be suitable for your pet is to check their measurements or research the average measurements of their species if you don't have them at home yet.

 
However, there are some rules of thumb for each species. For lizards, the tank should be 2-3 times the length of their body, from snout to tail. For snakes, a terrarium should be around ¾ of their total body length. Those who own turtles need to make sure that there is plenty of space for them to walk around, so roughly 4-5 times their body length should suffice.


Got a hamster that's in need of a new home? Explore our best hamster cages here!

2

Select a Low Design to Provide More Floor Space for Larger Animals, or a High Design for Smaller Reptiles That Like to Climb

Select a Low Design to Provide More Floor Space for Larger Animals, or a High Design for Smaller Reptiles That Like to Climb

The next factor to consider is whether you want to opt for a low or high design. Again, this will depend on the species of reptile. Generally speaking, if you’re looking to buy a larger animal then you’ll likely require a low design. What this means is that the terrarium sits horizontally and is wider, rather than taller, providing more floor space than height. 


However, when it comes to smaller reptiles, many of them like to climb. So, having a tank that can accommodate this activity is essential. Of course, you’ll have to provide the decoration and equipment to facilitate this as well. Choosing between a high or low design is all about understanding your reptile's natural habits, so this research must be done before you start shopping for an enclosure.


Discover our selection of fish tanks to give your fishes a lovely home!

3

Consider a Front Opening if You Have a Pet Snake or Lizard, but You Can Go for a Top Opening if You're Keeping a Turtle or Gecko

Consider a Front Opening if You Have a Pet Snake or Lizard, but You Can Go for a Top Opening if You're Keeping a Turtle or Gecko

Another feature that needs considering is the opening and, more importantly, where it's situated. If you have a pet snake or lizard, then front openings are usually a better idea. This allows you entry into the terrarium without appearing threatening, as a hand coming down from the top could easily be mistaken for a predatory bird. 


If you’re opting for a turtle or smaller geckos then you have the choice of either, as these species are more tolerant of being picked up from the top. Plus, a front opening may encourage smaller pets to attempt to escape from their enclosure, meaning you’ll have to spend your afternoon searching the nooks and crannies of your home trying to find them!

4

Pick Glass Material if You Want the Most Durable Option, but Plastic Tends to Be Cheaper

Pick Glass Material if You Want the Most Durable Option, but Plastic Tends to Be Cheaper

Finally, you'll need to decide on a material. Glass remains the most popular option due to its durability and superior visibility — after all, you want to be able to see your exotic pets! They're also easier to keep in tip-top shape, as they clean more thoroughly. That said, they will be much heavier, so keep this in mind if you plan to move the enclosure around.


Plastic terrariums are more compact and are designed for smaller pets, as not many people like to keep a big and potentially dangerous snake behind some acrylic! While this material is inexpensive, terrariums made from plastic can become discoloured and streaky over time, so they won't look as aesthetically pleasing as glass.


Check out our best indoor bird cages here!

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

9 Best Terrariums for Reptiles in the UK

This ranking has been compiled by the writing team at mybest UK via careful evaluation of the points made in the buying guide and thorough research of each product and comparing multiple verified customer reviews across the EC sites used.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

Exo Terra

Glass Natural Terrarium

Exo Terra Glass Natural Terrarium 1

Pretty Spacious, Very Durable and Well Worth the High Price

2

Zilla

Micro Habitats Arboreal

Zilla Micro Habitats Arboreal 1

An Online Cult Classic

3

Repti-Life

Flat-Pack Vivarium

Repti-Life Flat-Pack Vivarium  1

One for Bigger Pets Who Need More Space

4

Keweni

Terrarium Containers

Keweni Terrarium Containers 1

A Standalone Unit That's Stackable Too

5

Monkfield

Terrarium

Monkfield Terrarium 1

Ideal for Snakes, Geckos and Many Other Species

6

Repti-Life

Vivarium Flatpacked In Oak

Repti-Life Vivarium Flatpacked In Oak 1

Fits Snugly Into All Kinds of Spaces and is Stackable

7

Boyu

Glass Reptile Terrarium Vivarium Tank

Boyu Glass Reptile Terrarium Vivarium Tank 1

Great Ventilation and Visibility

8

Vivexotic

Repti-Home

Vivexotic Repti-Home 1

Stylish and Suitable for Contemporary Homes

9

Aujelly

Reptile Terrarium Box

Aujelly Reptile Terrarium Box 1

Enjoy the 360-Degree View

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Exo Terra
Glass Natural Terrarium

Glass Natural Terrarium 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£173.75
High Mid
Reference price
£173.75
High Mid

Pretty Spacious, Very Durable and Well Worth the High Price

Granted, this might be the most expensive option in our ranking but sometimes in life, you get what you pay for! In this instance, the price provides you with an incredibly durable glass terrarium that features two front openings as well as one top entrance


While this might seem like a lot of entry points, it's nice to have the option depending on why you're going into the tank. We love that the back wall already comes decorated— this addition doesn't just save you money, it also creates a more authentic place for your pet to live. This is the best terrarium around, hands down!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

Zilla
Micro Habitats Arboreal

Micro Habitats Arboreal 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Micro Habitats Arboreal 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.27
Low Mid
Reference price
£15.27
Low Mid

An Online Cult Classic

This affordable plastic terrarium from Zilla is a brilliant buy for small reptiles and amphibians or invertebrates. The 100% see-through material ensures that you have a 360-degree view of your pets, while clever locking handles keep every creature safely where they should be. 


Again, the design is stackable. However, this time it's high-style (vertical) which may be more convenient for some owners, depending on the space you have available at home. It's a cult classic among Amazon reviewers, who are a hard bunch to please, so we rate this product very highly!

No.3

Repti-Life
Flat-Pack Vivarium

Flat-Pack Vivarium  1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Flat-Pack Vivarium  2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£81.99
Mid
Reference price
£81.99
Mid

One for Bigger Pets Who Need More Space

If you need plenty of space because you've got a big pet, then this 131L capacity tank will surely be of interest to you. It comes with a lovely black finish and is a low design with two front entrances. The size and style seem to suggest that this would be ideal for large snakes or lizards. It would also work as a massive utopian space for smaller animals if you have the room!


This design has a solid back, which is vital if you have larger animals, but it does also come with a ventilation area to ensure a decent airflow. Best of all, this terrarium has an excellent build quality, thanks to the durable yet affordable materials used.

No.4

Keweni
Terrarium Containers

Terrarium Containers 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Terrarium Containers 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Terrarium Containers 3
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£15.99
Low Mid
Reference price
£15.99
Low Mid

A Standalone Unit That's Stackable Too

Made completely out of transparent acrylic, this terrarium from Kewenit works perfectly as a standalone unit or can be stacked, as the ventilation won't be covered in the process. So, if you're a keen herper and wouldn't mind a small collection of reptiles and amphibians in multiple units, this product could be right up your street.


Included in the design is an anti-escape lock, which enables you to open the box without the risk of your pet(s) slithering their way to freedom! This terrarium is quick and straightforward to assemble, so all you'll need for its arrival is some cosy decorations to make it feel more homely. 

No.5

Monkfield
Terrarium

Terrarium 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£102.95
High Mid
Reference price
£102.95
High Mid

Ideal for Snakes, Geckos and Many Other Species

This offering from Monkfield is ideal for housing geckos, snakes and plenty of other species. It has a top open design with trusty secure clips that lock the hinges, so you don't have to worry about anything escaping. Plus, there are plenty of holes, which are crucial for ensuring proper airflow. 


The bottom of the terrarium is double-layered glass, which means that setting up the heating mat and an insulating tier is much easier, as it will be projected through to the tank without any issues. We think this is a safe, sensible option for owners of smaller reptiles.

No.6

Repti-Life
Vivarium Flatpacked In Oak

Vivarium Flatpacked In Oak 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£142.99
High Mid
Reference price
£142.99
High Mid

Fits Snugly Into All Kinds of Spaces and is Stackable

The dimensions of this vivarium means it's capable of fitting in many of those places around the home that others on our list can't, for example between bookshelves or below windowsills. It's also stackable, which makes for an impressive display if you have a collection of little critters.


The oak finish is solid and will add an earthy look to your space, while the glass is toughened to guarantee safety. Plus, there are large airflow vents at the back which ensures that your inhabitant gets plenty of air.  

No.7

Boyu
Glass Reptile Terrarium Vivarium Tank

Glass Reptile Terrarium Vivarium Tank 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£39.99
Mid
Reference price
£39.99
Mid

Great Ventilation and Visibility

With perforated pure metal netting on two sides and the top, this tank offers great ventilation for your pet. This is an excellent option for smaller reptiles, arachnids, or snakes, but there are also two other bigger sizes available if you have a bigger pet. 


Everything is removable, from the roof to the front door, which makes for easy cleaning. The sliding doors are also lockable, with keys included to ensure safety. However, our only gripe is that some users have reported that this tank may not be as sturdy as the other options on our list. 

No.8

Vivexotic
Repti-Home

Repti-Home 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£61.99
Mid
Reference price
£61.99
Mid

Stylish and Suitable for Contemporary Homes

While we've opted for the smaller option, this terrarium from Vivexotic comes in two different sizes, with a larger one being available if you need it. It has a classy, modern black finish which is sure to be a hit with people who have a contemporary style interior. 


Furthermore, the product will arrive as a flatpack and can be easily assembled at home. However, some of the hardware (the screws mainly) is a little weak so you might want to upgrade it for additional security. 

No.9

Aujelly
Reptile Terrarium Box

Reptile Terrarium Box 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reptile Terrarium Box 2
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£16.79
Low Mid
Reference price
£16.79
Low Mid

Enjoy the 360-Degree View

First up in our ranking, we have this small terrarium box from Aujelly. It's made from acrylic and comes in with pretty standard dimensions for smaller options. It's completely transparent, so you'll be able to view your little reptiles from 360-degrees, and it also has plenty of ventilation holes throughout. 


However, some customers have found that the plastic is a little flimsy. So, you'll want to be especially careful around it, especially if you have young children who are involved in caring for your pet. 

What Is the Difference Between Vivarium and Terrarium?

Traditionally, a vivarium refers to a wooden box with heating and lighting elements for housing animals, whereas a terrarium is a glass container for housing plants. However, recently, glass terrariums have been proven to be the perfect home for reptiles and amphibians too. 

Can Lizards Live in a Terrarium?

Terrariums are great for lizards who prefer to live in open spaces and on the ground, including those who enjoy digging and burrowing. Just remember to make sure that you get a size that's at least 2 to 3 times the length of their body so that they have plenty of space to move about.

Top 5 Terrariums for Reptiles

No. 1: Exo TerraGlass Natural Terrarium

No. 2: ZillaMicro Habitats Arboreal

No. 3: Repti-LifeFlat-Pack Vivarium

No. 4: KeweniTerrarium Containers

No. 5: MonkfieldTerrarium

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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