Dartmoor Zoo

Plymouth

Inc. Free Returns for 1 Year!

Valid from your date of purchase

Enjoy free returns for 12 month when you buy Dartmoor Zoo tickets

Looking for things to do in Devon with animals, big views and a proper sense of adventure? Dartmoor Zoo is ready to bring out your wild side.

Set in 33 acres of woodland on the edge of the Dartmoor National Park, this much-loved Devon zoo is home to incredible animals, open-fronted big cat enclosures, family play areas, daily animal talks and plenty of places to pause for snacks, lunch or a picnic.

  • Meet amazing animals including Amur tigers, African lions, Amur leopards, jaguars, lynx, meerkats, tapir, capybara and more
  • Enjoy daily animal talks from the zoo’s knowledgeable team
  • See big cats in open-fronted enclosures designed for brilliant viewing
  • Refuel at the Jaguar Restaurant, Meerkat Coffee Bar or kiosk near the big cats
  • Let little explorers burn off energy in the upcycled materials children’s play area
  • Pay once and enjoy free return visits for 12 months

Whether you’re planning a full family day out, introducing little ones to their favourite animals or looking for a Devon attraction with a story behind it, Dartmoor Zoo is packed with moments worth slowing down for.

Book Dartmoor Zoo tickets for one of the wildest family days out in Devon

Dartmoor Zoo is home to a wide range of exotic and native animals, with some seriously impressive residents waiting to meet you. Big cat fans can look out for species including Amur tiger, African lion, jaguar, Amur leopard, cheetah and lynx, while younger visitors will love spotting meerkats, tapir, capybara, goats, primates, reptiles, birds and plenty more across the zoo.

There’s more to the day than animal spotting too. Make time for the daily talks, where staff and volunteers share stories and facts about the zoo’s residents. 

Feeling peckish? Head to the Jaguar Restaurant for hot meals, sandwiches, pasties, pizzas, children’s options and dietary-friendly choices, or stop by the kiosk for drinks, snacks and Devon ice cream. 

With free parking, accessible parking, wheelchair and mobility scooter hire, baby changing facilities and free return visits for 12 months included with standard admission.

Book your Dartmoor Zoo tickets today and get ready for a day packed with wonderful wildlife in Devon.

Location

Dartmoor Zoo

Sparkwell,
Plymouth,
Devon,
PL7 5DG
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How to find us

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
  • Baby-changing facilities
  • Gift shop (all proceeds go directly to the Dartmoor Zoological Society charity)
  • Restaurant
  • Picnic area
  • Snacks and drinks kiosks
  • Electric mobility scooter and wheelchairs for hire
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. 

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