Discover over 2,000 animals at Paignton Zoo, set in 80 acres of beautiful grounds and just a mile from Paignton town centre in Devon! I have such fond memories of visiting when I was studying biology at the University of Exeter – it is definitely worth a visit!
Image credit: Shaun Dunmall via Flickr
What animals can we see?
The big hitters are all here – tigers, zebras, rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, wolves, gorillas and crocodiles and as well parrots, monkeys, cute red pandas, lizards, chameleons, snakes, emus, flamingos, tree frogs, geckos, roadrunners, kangaroos, komodo dragons, iguanas and armadillo.
The rangers do a number of talks about the animals at the zoo, so you can learn all about them. Check on the day what is scheduled.
Paignton Zoo is part of Wild Planet Trust, a Devon-based education, scientific and conservation charity. They also own Newquay Zoo in Cornwall, two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve.
Places to play
There are lots of outdoor play areas, a nature trail (it’s only 10 minutes, so perfect for little legs), a soft play area and even a wobbly bridge down in Lemur Wood.
Places to eat and drink at Paignton Zoo
There are lots of options to grab a snack at Paignton Zoo. If it is a bit rainy, head to the Island Shack, where you can sit inside, overlooking the lake. There’s hot food, salads, wraps and yummy cakes from local baker ‘Truly Treats’. For takeaways, head to the Great Griller burger shack for lots of different types of burgers, the Hangout for hot and cold snacks and ice cream next to the big playground, or Lakeside for a coffee or a Marshfield Farm ice cream.
How to get to Paignton Zoo
At just a mile from Paignton town centre, Paignton Zoo is really easy to get to.
If you come by car, follow the brown tourist signs from Paignton town centre.
If you come by train, it is a 20 minute walk from Paignton train station, or the bus station is right opposite the train station. You can take Stagecoach Gold or route 22 buses.
Discover more about Paignton Zoo here or follow them on Instagram to fill up your feed with cuteness