Dartmoor Zoo Review

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Dartmoor Zoo - You Bought a Zoo, We Visited!

perfect for: families, young children, groups

With 72 mammals, 38 birds, 21 reptiles, 16 invertebrates and 5 amphibians, Dartmoor Zoo has a plethora of animals that will amaze all but there is more to this that meets the eye – Dartmoor Zoo has a fascinating history that was featured in the movie, starring Matt Damon, ‘We Bought a Zoo.’

WHY IS THIS THE BEST? THINGS WE LOVE ABOUT DARTMOOR ZOO:

  • Largest variety of big cats in the South West of England – Gasp at the incredible big cats including the Amur Tigers and the 2nd largest African Lion in the UK and glimpse at them when they are sleeping, eating or playing!
  • 15 minutes from Plymouth – Easy access from main roads and free parking.
  • Stunning views – Of both the animals and the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty alike!
  • Secure and well kept conditions – Staff are friendly and enthusiastic about the animals and you often see students researching and monitoring the animals.

TOP TIP: Make sure you plan your day so you can see the Meerkat Feed at 10:30, Otter Feed at 13:00, Big Cat Feed at 14:30 and the Falconry at 15:30 (times may change).

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Family Facts

  • 33 ACRES OF WOODLANDS BOASTING BOTH NATIVE AND EXOTIC ANIMALS – With 152 animals in total, get lost in all the Zoo has to offer, and examine animals you have never seen before!
  • HOME TO THE BRAZILIAN BLACK TARANTULA – Featured in the Harry Potter films.
  • EXHIBITIONS FOR THE YOUNG CHILDREN  – There is a safe enclosure where small mammals and wildfowl can be touched, designed with young children in mind.
  • FREE PARKING AND DEDICATED DISABLED PARKING – No hassle.
  • LARGE PICNIC AREA SURROUNDING THE BIG CATS ENCLOSURE AND JAGUAR RESTAURANT – Bring your own picnic or grab some lunch in the Zoo’s café while you glimpse at the energetic cats.
  • PLAY AREA MADE FROM UPCYCLED MATERIALS – For those who still have adrenaline after seeing all the animals.
  • ELECTRIC MOBILITY SCOOTER AND WHEELCHAIRS AVAILABLE – For hire, on request.
  • BEST DEVON HOLIDAY TIP: Be sure to plan your day so you can visit all the animals talks – they are such a highlight!
Family friendly stamp

this business has been reviewed by our family travel experts.

Dartmoor Zoo Review

  • location9 stars
  • facilities10 stars
  • child friendly 10 stars
  • accommodation9 stars

Our review was conducted in 2018 by a family of 4 with 2 young children (aged 3 and 6)

Accommodation

Accommodation is well set up for families and groups with 8 self-catering character stone cottages in an idyllic setting around a small courtyard.  Rooms are all spacious, spotlessly clean and well equipped.  Cottage sizes vary so its advisable to chat to the owners and find one to fit your exact requirements.

There is plenty of parking and many of the cottages are carefully laid out so you can have larger family groups with their own private space.  Standard equipment is provided and baby gear can also be supplied upon request. Like all self catering breaks don’t forget to bring a few basic supplies – dishwasher tablets, washing up liquid etc (these are supplied on arrival and there’s a small shop in reception).

One bedroom cottage

Katies Corner (all names are on a Peter Rabbit theme) is a lovely one bedroom cottage ideal for families with young children.  With everything you could need + an enclosed private garden and its own hot tub you will enjoy privacy and relaxation and take in the views under the stars in this dark sky reserve at night.  At the time of publication there were plans to upgrade this to a 2 bed cottage.

prices from
Based on a 3 night stay:
£244 per cottage (off peak)
£349 per cottage (holidays)

Two bedroom cottages

There are a total of 2 x two bedroom cottages available and each has its own benefits to suit difference groups.  All do include a private outdoors area and hot tub.  The Peter Rabbit cottage leads on to shared gardens whilst Tom Kitten is centrally located and ideal for those with younger children or looking for easy access.  There are also plans to upgrade the current one bed cottage to another two bed cottage.

prices from
Based on a 3 night stay:
£312 per cottage (off peak)
£451 per cottage (holidays)

Three bedroom cottages

There are 4 x three bedroom cottages located on the farm.  Each of these cottages caters well for larger groups or those looking to have quite independent sleeping under one roof.  All cottages benefit from their own large and private hot tubs + excellent self catering facilities.

prices from
Based on a 3 night stay:
£344 per cottage (off peak)
£499 per cottage (holidays)

Five bedroom cottage

Jeremy fisher is a purpose built cottage finished to the highest standard and ideal for larger groups or those with accessibility issues.  There are 5 large double bedrooms, a lovely open plan lounge and dining area + a very private patio with a 6 seater hot tub.

prices from
Based on a 3 night stay:
£659 per cottage (off peak)
£975 per cottage (holidays)

location - area overview

Dartmoor Zoo is located 9.5 miles outside of Plymouth, in Sparkwell.

THINGS TO DO FOR FAMILIES

  • Explore Plymouth, and all it has to offer, in a unique way with a magnifying glass! – Complete the Murder Mystery Treasure Trail – suitable for 6 year olds and over.
  • Explore the fascinating world of the underwater by visiting the Plymouth Aquarium. With over 4,000 animals, the Aquarium is the largest in the UK.
  • Go ice skating at Pavilions Ice Rink!
  • Visit the heart of Plymouth, Plymouth’s Hoe Harbour Walk with its iconic lighthouse and lawns.
  • And much more!

Prices & Deals

Tickets:  Don’t miss out on Dartmoor Zoo’s family deal: Family (4 people, maximum of 2 adults)£38.00, £42.00 (with donation).

Adult (Ages 16+) £12.65 £13.95 (with donation)

Concession£10.85 £11.95 (with donation)

Child (Ages 4-15)£8.95 £9.85 (with donation)

Child (Ages 3 and under) Free

Deals,
offers & specials

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