Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo is situated in an 80 acre natural environmental park and is home to approximately 2,000 animals representing nearly 300 different species. It also has a botanical garden section that cultivates about 1,600 different species of plant life. The warm climate in South West England allows the zoo to grow many tender plants outside as part of the exhibits. Many of the plants, such as palms, bananas and citrus trees give a tropical feel to the Zoo. 

The zoo has an unusual approach to presenting its animals as is has divided the zoo into six areas representing different habitats. These are savannah, forest, primley, wetland, tropical forest and desert. The animals associated with each habitat can be found in the area representing that habitat. 

Among the many unusual exhibits is a Crocodile Swamp exhibit which opened in 2008. It was built to replicate the reptiles' natural climate and habitat, and houses three species of crocodile and three species of snake. 

 

Most areas of the zoo are accessible to wheelchair users and pushchairs. However, there are some fairly steep hills and could be difficult to negotiate in a manual wheelchair. Full wheelchair access is available to the Island Restaurant, shops and all exhibits except the small carnivore house. A map of the best routes around the Zoo is available. 

The zoo runs guided tours of the gardens for groups of 15 or more. 

When the children become bored looking at animals they can have fun in the jungle fun play area. In this part of the zoo kids can let off steam playing on swings, slides, tunnels, ropes and climbing frames. Face painting is available for an additional charge. 

Full restaurant facilities are available in the Island restaurant which also offers a take away service.

The Living World gift shop at the zoo has a wide selection of unusual gifts from around the world. It claims to have one of the largest ranges of fair trade and ethical products available in the UK including, jewellery, collectibles, games, educational toys, books, and clothing. 

A unique exhibition was recently opened showing normal portraits of animals from Paignton Zoo alongside thermal images of the same animals to give a unique view of nature inside and out. 

Contact Details: 
Paignton Zoo 
Totnes Road 
Paignton, Devon TQ47EU 
Tel: 0844 474 2222