BOO at the Zoo at Dartmoor Zoo

Dartmoor Zoo

Available until 26 October 2024

Book now from £16.50

Up to 5% discount with promo code DAYSOUT

Book one of the best Devon Halloween events in 2024 with BOO at the Zoo tickets

It's that time of year again, Halloween returns to Dartmoor Zoo for 2024 and BOO at the Zoo is back! 

For two nights only this Halloween season, Dartmoor Zoo is opening its gates after dark and you're invited to join in on what will be a truly FANG-tastic night at the zoo! 

Visit Dartmoor Zoo on Friday 25th and Saturday 26th of October 2024 for two frightfully good nights filled with shock horrors, hair-raising delights and nail-biting frights. 

Listen out for rustling amongst the trees and peeping eyes as you make your way around the Zoo, meeting characters of the strange, unsavoury and nightmarish kind on your travels…

BOO at the Zoo is suitable for families, although there will be clearly-marked advisories for areas that are not suitable for young children. 

We SCARE you to come! 

Please note: Gates open at 5:30pm and event closes at 8:30pm.

Location

How to find us

Dartmoor Zoo, Sparkwell, Plymouth, PL7 5DG

By bus:

The 59 bus service stops outside the zoo main entrance

By train:

The closest national train station is at Plymouth and the closest local train station is at Ivybridge. There is a taxi service from these stations that can take you to the Zoo.

Facilities
  • Free parking
  • Dedicated disabled parking at the top of the hill (please pay at the entrance gate first)
  • Wonderful views of southern Dartmoor National Park and the South Hams area of outstanding natural beauty
  • Open-fronted cat enclosures for perfect viewing and photos of the amazing predators
  • Gift shop (all proceeds go directly to the Dartmoor Zoological Society charity)
  • Restaurant with a wide range of local and homemade hot and cold food
  • Large picnic area surrounded by big cats!
  • Kiosk with Devon ice creams, snacks and drinks
  • Upcycled materials children’s play area
  • Baby changing in unisex disabled toilets (at the Jaguar Restaurant)
  • Electric mobility scooter and wheelchairs for hire

Please note: While nearly all of the zoo is accessible to wheelchairs and buggies, it is quite rugged and some paths are challenging. Caution should be exercised, and the team are ready to help when you need, just ask. High heels are inadvisable!

More Info
Where do I park at Dartmoor Zoo?

There is free parking at Dartmoor Zoo, adjacent to the main entrance. Accessible parking facilities are also available outside the Jaguar Restaurant at the top of the drive. 

Is Dartmoor Zoo wheelchair-accessible?

While nearly all of the zoo is accessible to wheelchairs and buggies, it is quite rugged and some paths are challenging. Caution should be exercised, and the team are ready to help when you need, just ask. 

Can I bring a picnic to Dartmoor Zoo?

You’re welcome to bring a picnic with you during your visit to Dartmoor Zoo.

Can I smoke at Dartmoor Zoo?

All smoking (including e-cigs/e-cigarettes) is strictly prohibited in or near the following locations: 

  • Animal enclosures
  • Animal demonstration areas
  • Covered spaces or buildings
  • Food or drink outlets
  • Picnic areas
Can I feed or hold the animals at Dartmoor Zoo?

To give the zoo's animals the most natural life possible, and for their welfare, the majority of animals can not be handled or fed.

Are dogs allowed at Dartmoor Zoo?

Dogs are not allowed on-site at Dartmoor Zoo, with the exception of assistance dogs. All assistance dogs must be well-trained and kept under the close control of a responsible handler.

When did Dartmoor Zoo open?

Dartmoor Zoo was opened in 1968 by Ellis Daw, who ran it until its license was revoked and it was forced to close in 2006. The zoo was saved in August 2006 by Benjamin Mee, who reopened it in July 2007.

Who is the owner of Dartmoor Zoo?

The Dartmoor Zoological Society now owns Dartmoor Zoo. The former owner, Benjamin Mee, donated the zoo to the charity in 2015. 

Is We Bought a Zoo based on Dartmoor Zoo?

Yes, the 2011 film starring Matt Damon and Scarlet Johansson was based on the 2008 book of the same name written by the zoo's owner, Benjamin Mee. 

Why is Dartmoor Zoo famous?

Dartmoor Zoo received worldwide fame for being the inspiration behind the 2011 Hollywood film, We Bought a Zoo, based on the 2008 book of the same name, written by the zoo's owner, Benjamin Mee. 

The zoo is also famous for being deeply-committed to wildlife conservation and its involvement with the protection of endangered species. 

Is Dartmoor Zoo a charity?

Yes, Dartmoor Zoo is a registered charity operating under the name Dartmoor Zoological Society. Proceeds from ticket sales and donations go towards the zoo's wildlife care, as well as global conservation projects and support for endangered species.