Top Reptile & Amphibian Supplies in the UK: Where to Shop, What to Buy, and How to Save

Why choosing the right reptile supplies matters

Bringing a reptile or amphibian into your home is like taking on a tiny, scaly roommate who demands a very specific environment. Get the habitat, heating and food wrong and you’ll see stress, illness, or even worse. But get it right, and you’ll watch brilliant colours, relaxed basking sessions, and healthy growth — worth every minute. In short: quality supplies equal healthier pets and fewer vet trips. Sounds simple, right? Well, it is — if you know what to look for.

Top UK retailers for reptile and amphibian supplies

If you’re shopping in the UK you’ve got a mix of big-name pet stores and specialist retailers to choose from. Some are great for basics and last-minute items, while others are specialist havens for hobbyists. Below are reliable places to start looking:

Pets at Home

Pets at Home is a national chain and a go-to for many reptile owners who want reliable brands and convenience. You’ll find terrariums in common sizes, heat mats, UVA/UVB lighting, and popular substrates. The advantage here is store access across the country — handy for urgent buys like a broken thermometer. Prices can be slightly higher than specialist shops, but the range and accessibility often make up for it.

Jollyes

Jollyes is another UK pet retailer offering a decent reptile range and helpful staff in store. It’s solid for essentials — from hides to heat bulbs — and often runs seasonal deals. If you prefer picking items up in person and comparing products side-by-side, Jollyes is a useful stop on your shopping list.

Just Reptiles

Just Reptiles is a specialist UK retailer that focuses entirely on reptiles and amphibians. Expect a wider choice of specialist brands, custom enclosures, and live food options. These kinds of retailers are gold for beginners who want tailored advice or for keepers seeking species-specific gear for bearded dragons, corn snakes, or dart frogs. The staff are usually enthusiasts themselves, so you get practical tips as well as products.

The Reptile Centre

The Reptile Centre is another specialist outlet, known for its strong range of feeders, supplements and technical equipment like thermostats and advanced lighting systems. If you’re building a vivarium for a specific species, this is the sort of place that stocks the unusual bits you won’t find at general pet chains.

Pangea Reptile and Independent Online Suppliers

Pangea Reptile and similar online-only shops are fantastic for feeding specialist diets, substrates and branded supplements. Independent suppliers often sell things like live insect mixes, specialized moss blends, and bespoke hides. Online retailers can also be cheaper for bulk buys — handy when you’re stocking up on 20 live crickets at a time.

Specialist brands and distributors (Exo Terra, Zoo Med)

Brands like Exo Terra and Zoo Med aren’t stores, but their UK distributors and official retailers are key sources for high-quality terrarium kits, lighting, and décor. Buying from a brand-authorised retailer helps ensure warranties and product authenticity. If you want a complete, all-in-one setup, these brands have tried-and-tested starter kits that make life easier.

What to buy first: habitats and enclosures

Start with the house before you buy the tenant — the enclosure is the foundation of happy reptiles. Think about space, species, and safety. For many beginners a 36 x 18 x 18 inch tank (roughly a 3-foot long tank) works well for species like bearded dragons or adult corn snakes. Smaller species, like dwarf geckos, do fine in 18 x 12 x 12 inch terrariums. Always choose a tank with secure locks and escape-proof tops if necessary.

Glass terrariums are great for visibility and humidity management, while PVC or wooden vivariums can offer better insulation for temperature stability. If you’re planning a bioactive set-up with living plants, choose a deeper tank and prepare for a little gardening — it’s like caring for a tiny jungle.

Heating, lighting and humidity essentials

Temperature, UV lighting and humidity are the holy trinity of reptile husbandry. You’ll typically need a basking lamp, a heat source (like a heat mat or ceramic heater), and a UVB lamp for daytime hours. For basking spots, aim for a basking temperature around 95–105°F for species like bearded dragons — that’s about 95 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit — while cooler hides should sit around 75–85°F depending on the species.

Thermostats and thermometers are non-negotiable. Think of a thermostat as your pet’s thermostat: it prevents the heat source from cooking your reptile. Humidity gauges are equally important for species like chameleons or tropical frogs that need a moist environment. Misting systems or foggers can help maintain humidity without chilling the enclosure.

Food, feeders and supplements

Live feeders are central to many reptile diets. Crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches and waxworms are common staples. Specialist retailers and online stores often sell live food in bulk — a cost-saver if you’re feeding frequently. For amphibians, look for gut-loaded insects and calcium-phosphorus balance in feeders.

Supplements matter: calcium powder with vitamin D3 and a general multivitamin dusting once or twice a week can prevent metabolic bone disease, especially in growing reptiles. Different species have different supplement needs, so double-check a species-specific care guide before choosing a regimen.

Substrates and décor: safety first

Substrate choice can make or break a setup. For desert species, reptile carpet, paper towels, or calcium sand alternatives reduce the risk of impaction. Tropical species often benefit from coconut coir or orchid bark mixed with live moss for humidity control. Always avoid fine sand for species that might ingest it, and be cautious with wood shavings — some contain oils that irritate respiratory systems.

Decor is about enrichment. Climbing branches, hides, and foliage create secure zones and encourage natural behaviour. Think of décor as furnishing a tiny hotel: the more comfortable and varied the rooms, the happier the guests.

Accessories and enrichment

Don’t forget the little extras that make life easier and more interesting. Digital hygrometers, dual-zone thermostats, reptile-safe plants, and feeding tongs can all upgrade daily care. A hide on both the warm and cool side of the terrarium gives your pet a choice and reduces stress. Enrichment toys like climbing structures and foraging boxes keep intelligent species mentally stimulated — a bored reptile is a risky reptile.

Budgeting and where to save (and splurge)

Setting up a proper terrarium needn’t break the bank, but there are places to splurge and places to save. Spend on reliable heating and lighting — these are the systems that keep your pet alive. Save on décor by using natural branches and DIY hides (properly cleaned and safe). Buying substrates and live food in bulk from specialist online retailers can cut costs by a noticeable margin. If you’re on a tight budget, prioritise essentials: good lighting, stable heat, and secure housing.

Buying second-hand: pros and cons

Second-hand tanks and décor can be a smart way to save money, but there are caveats. Used glass tanks are great if they’re free of leaks and scratches; used lighting and heating should be avoided unless from a trusted seller because cables and bulbs degrade. Always clean and disinfect used items thoroughly and replace any old electrical gear. Think of second-hand shopping like buying a refurbished car — it’s fine with checks, but you wouldn’t skip a safety inspection.

Tips for buying online safely in the UK

Online shopping opens up specialist stock and better prices, but it comes with risks. Always buy from reputable retailers with clear product descriptions and good customer reviews. Look for secure checkout (HTTPS), clear returns information, and a contact address. If you’re ordering live food, check shipping times and packaging methods — insects stress quickly, and slow shipping equals stress for your feeders and your reptile’s diet.

Comparison sites can help you find the best prices across multiple retailers, but always click through to the retailer to verify stock and warranty information. Keep an eye on postage times during wet or colder months when live food transit needs extra care.

Seasonal considerations: keeping reptiles comfortable year-round

In the UK, winters can demand extra attention. Homes cool down at night and central heating cycles can create large temperature swings. Consider insulated vivariums or programmable thermostats in winter and ensure UVB is on a regular daytime schedule — household light cycles can confuse diurnal species. In summer, monitor temperatures carefully to avoid overheating; simple shade solutions and adjustable basking lamps can prevent a dangerous rise in tank temperatures.

Where to find expert advice and community support

Reptile expos, local herpetology clubs, and online forums are invaluable. Ask questions, learn from seasoned keepers, and see setups in real life. Many specialist shops offer care sheets and species-specific advice — don’t be shy about asking. Think of these resources as your reptile support network: they’ll save you hours of trial and error and help you avoid common beginner mistakes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right reptile and amphibian supplies in the UK comes down to knowing your species, prioritising safety and quality, and using a mix of specialist and general retailers to get the best value. Whether you shop at a national chain for convenience or at a specialist retailer for bespoke advice and niche products, focus on good heating, correct lighting, safe substrate and proper nutrition. With the right foundation, your scaly or slimy companion will thrive — and you’ll enjoy a rewarding pet-keeping experience that’s part science, part art, and all heart.