Devon is a treasure trove of family activities, and Dartmoor Zoo is one of its crown jewels. This blog post will guide you through the top 5 family-friendly attractions at Dartmoor Zoo that are sure to make your visit memorable.
Attraction Highlights
1. Tiger
Meet Dragan, the magnificent Amur tiger at Dartmoor Zoo. As the largest cat species in the world, he truly is a majestic sight to behold. The zoo offers a series of daily talks and enrichment feeds, so make sure to pop along and find out more about these fascinating animals!
2. African Lioness
Visit the beautiful Kimya, Dartmoor Zoo’s African lioness. Did you know, it is actually the females that hunt whilst the males guard their homes? Find out more about these incredible animals and their conservation status.
3. Meerkats
The Meerkat enclosure is a hit with children. These social animals are fascinating to watch as they interact with each other. With experiences such as meet or feed the meerkats available to children 6-8 years+, why not treat the family to an educational and entertaining animal experience you won’t forget? Find out more here.
4. Otters
An incredible opportunity for you to meet Dartmoor Zoo’s otter family and provide their next meal of fresh meat and fish (gloves provided!). Make sure to check the age requirements. Prices are £30 for this experience. Learn more and enquire here.
5. Walkthrough
Fancy a walk in nature? Dartmoor Zoo sits in a stunning 33-acre site with a glorious walkthrough just off of Goodamoor House (the home in ‘We Bought a Zoo’). Immerse yourselves in the stunning grounds, surrounded by wallabies, goslings and Mr Pickles, the friendly fallow deer that loves chin scratches! Dartmoor Zoo is passionate about supporting the local ecology and aims to provide a home for as many species as possible, creating a highly biodiverse site. Areas of the zoo are left to grow naturally, as this provides the perfect habitat for many species to live in!
Insider Tips and Recommendations
Best Times to Visit Attractions
To avoid crowds and maximise enjoyment, visiting Dartmoor Zoo early in the morning or later in the afternoon is recommended. These times often provide a more relaxed atmosphere and better opportunities to see the animals.
Interactive Opportunities
Dartmoor Zoo offers a variety of interactive experiences, as well as animal feeding and keeper talks. These activities provide a hands-on learning experience for children and adults alike.
Insider Secrets
Did you know Dartmoor Zoo inspired the Hollywood movie “We Bought a Zoo”? The zoo’s unique history adds an extra layer of intrigue to your visit. Read more here.
Family-Friendly Features
Safety Considerations
Dartmoor Zoo prioritises safety, with clear signage, well-maintained enclosures, and staff on hand to ensure a secure family environment.
Educational Value
Each exhibit at Dartmoor Zoo offers educational value, with informative displays and daily talks that engage and educate visitors about the animals and their conservation.
Accessibility Features
Dartmoor Zoo is committed to being accessible to all visitors. The zoo offers wheelchair hire, accessible pathways, and designated parking spaces to cater to families with special needs.
Plan your visit to Dartmoor Zoo today and discover the top 5 family-friendly attractions that make it a standout destination for family activities in Devon. For more information, visit the Dartmoor Zoo website.