Paignton Zoo is a zoo and botanical garden on Totnes Road in Paignton, Devon, set across 80 acres. More than 2,000 animals live in enclosures built to resemble their natural homes, from savannah and wetlands to tropical forest and desert. The main draws are the big cats, orangutans and lemurs, plus the crocodile swamp and close views of sloths and other primates. The zoo is a registered charity focused on education and conservation, so the visit supports that work. Plan for most of a day and check feeding times at the entrance.
From a private menagerie to a public zoo
The zoo began as the private menagerie of Herbert Whitley, a wealthy eccentric. He opened it to the public in 1923, with the view that a zoo should teach as well as entertain. It became the first combined botanical and zoological garden in the UK, which is why plants sit alongside the animal areas. The zoo celebrated its centenary in 2023.
Today the zoo is part of South West Environmental Parks Ltd, which is owned by the Wild Planet Trust, formerly known as the Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust. The trust is a registered educational and scientific charity. It also runs Newquay Zoo in Cornwall.
Habitats and highlights
The animals are grouped into six themed zones, including the savannah, the wetlands and the tropical forest. Enclosures are laid out to be as close to natural habitats as the site allows.
Highlights include an orangutan island and a big cat enclosure with glass walls. The lemur wood is crossed by a plank suspension bridge. The crocodile swamp has pathways that wind over and beside the water, with Nile, Cuban and saltwater crocodiles. In the savannah areas, you can see cheetahs, rhinos and African elephants.
Rides, play areas and events
The Jungle Express train runs around the grounds. There are indoor and outdoor play areas, including a soft play area for younger children. Keeper talks and feeding sessions take place through the day.
Events have included the Reptile Ramble, which includes crocodile feeding, and Ape and Cake, a guided tour of the primate enclosure with refreshments. Tea with the Tigers and evening tours of the zoo gardens have also been offered, along with Zoo Vet apprentice days for children. Check the website before you go to see which events are running.
Food on site
The grill serves burgers. The cafe also has jacket potatoes, chips, pasties, sausage rolls and nachos. The cakes are on the small side, so you may want one with your coffee and something more filling alongside it.
There is an ice cream stall on site, a restaurant, and picnic spots with views across the grounds.
Getting in and around
The zoo is on Totnes Road in Paignton, with on-site parking. Paignton station is about 1.2 miles away.
The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking are wheelchair accessible, and mobility scooters can be used around the grounds. There is a nursing room and there are changing tables. Because the site is large, plan a route in advance and expect it to take most of a day.
Building work is under way in parts of the zoo, and some new enclosures are still in progress. Booking tickets in advance is recommended.
Conservation and education
Paignton was one of the first zoos in Britain to focus on animal conservation, and education remains central to its work. The zoo is part of a worldwide network of zoos that care for and breed rare species.
The botanical gardens grow some of the food the animals eat. Visitors help fund the charity's work through their tickets and donations.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at Paignton Zoo?
Plan for at least half a day, and a full day if you want to see most of the animals. Visits of around 3 to 6 hours are typical.
Is it a good trip in the rain?
Yes, there are indoor areas and play spaces, so you can shelter when the weather turns. Many of the animal areas are outdoors, so bring suitable clothing.
Is the zoo accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters?
The entrance, restrooms, seating and parking are wheelchair accessible, and mobility scooters can be used around the grounds.
Is there food on site?
The cafe serves burgers, jacket potatoes, chips, pasties, sausage rolls and nachos, and there is an ice cream stall. A packed lunch is a good option if you want sandwiches.
