Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo is a wildlife attraction located on the edge of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, offering visitors the chance to explore a diverse collection of animals in a scenic countryside setting. The zoo is home to a wide variety of species from across the animal kingdom, including African lions, Amur tigers, exotic reptiles such as blue iguanas and Madagascar giant day geckos, as well as birds like burrowing owls, ostriches and Luzon bleeding-heart doves. Visitors can also discover fascinating amphibians and invertebrates, including golden mantella frogs, leaf insects and tarantulas. With open enclosures and immersive habitats, Dartmoor Zoo provides a unique opportunity to observe animals up close while learning more about conservation and wildlife care.

During your visit, there are several places to relax and enjoy refreshments. The Meerkat Coffee Bar serves drinks, cakes and light bites, while the Jaguar Restaurant offers a wider selection of hot meals including pizzas, paninis, burgers and vegetarian options. Picnic areas are also available for visitors who prefer to bring their own food while enjoying views across the surrounding countryside.

Dartmoor Zoo offers a number of facilities to support a mobility friendly visit. Free parking is available on site, with dedicated disabled parking spaces located near the Jaguar Restaurant at the top of the drive. Most areas of the zoo are accessible with ramps and level access into buildings, although the site is set on natural terrain and some paths may be steep or uneven. Visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids should exercise caution in steeper areas and staff are available to provide assistance where needed.

Accessible toilet facilities are located within the Jaguar Restaurant and include handrails, wheelchair height sinks and dryers, and space to manoeuvre a wheelchair. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are also available to hire for £5 per day, with a refundable deposit required.

Dartmoor Zoo offers concession pricing for disabled visitors and free entry for one accompanying carer when visiting alongside a paying disabled guest. To receive the concession rate or free carer entry, visitors may be asked to provide supporting evidence such as a Disability Living Allowance letter, Blue Badge or Personal Independence Payment documentation.

Registered assistance dogs are permitted at Dartmoor Zoo under specific conditions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both the zoo animals and the assistance dog. Dogs must be up to date with vaccinations and parasite treatments, remain under close control at all times and must not enter walkthrough exhibits or areas where they may come into direct contact with animals. Dogs are also not permitted to attend animal handling sessions or experiences where their presence could cause distress to zoo animals.

With its mix of wildlife encounters, countryside surroundings and visitor facilities, Dartmoor Zoo offers an engaging and educational day out for families, animal lovers and visitors exploring Devon.