Entry ticket to Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford

If you’re looking for a full-day outing that combines animal encounters, dinosaur excitement, and plenty of playtime, Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Telford might just be your next destination. This attraction, highly rated with a perfect 5.0 score from over 300 reviews, offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife and prehistoric creatures, making it a hit for all ages.

What we love about this experience? First, the guaranteed entry with pre-booked tickets takes the stress out of planning. Second, the interactive animal talks and feeding opportunities mean you’re not just looking at animals but engaging with them. Lastly, the life-like animatronic dinosaurs create a sense of adventure and wonder.

One thing to consider? The attraction’s size and variety make it a bit of a walk, so comfortable shoes are a must, and some activities like mini quad bike rides are extra. This tour suits families, animal lovers, dinosaur enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet engaging day out in Telford.

Good To Know

• Pre-booked tickets guarantee entry and save time.
• The animal encounters are highly interactive, with opportunities to feed and learn about over 100 species.
• The animatronic dinosaurs add a thrilling prehistoric element.
• Family-run and conservation-focused, emphasizing education alongside fun.
• The site is large and walkable, so wear comfy shoes.
• Entry costs are competitive when considering the range of activities included.

A Comprehensive Look at Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World

Location and Accessibility

Set in Telford, not far from Birmingham, this zoo offers a convenient day-trip option. While it’s officially based in Telford, the tickets are booked in Birmingham, making it accessible for visitors from across the Midlands. The mobile ticket system simplifies planning, and most travelers report booking about 12 days in advance to secure their preferred dates, which suggests good planning is needed, especially during peak seasons.

Entry and Ticketing

The ticket price of $27.47 per person appears reasonable given the breadth of activities. For this fee, you get full-day access to both the zoo and Dinosaur World, along with a wide array of talks, animal encounters, and exhibits. The key is pre-booking; it guarantees you entry and helps avoid disappointment on busy days.

Duration and Timing

The experience is about 8 hours long, making it perfect for a leisurely day. The start time is typically 10:00 am, giving you plenty of time to explore, engage, and unwind. Since most reviews mention the day being packed with activities, arriving early maximizes your experience.

What’s Included

Your ticket grants access to over 100 species of animals, 45 animatronic dinosaurs, and live talks and feeding sessions. Reviewers highlight that the activities are well-paced, with about 15 different talks and feeding sessions scheduled throughout the day, allowing visitors to hop between animal habitats or take part in specific animal experiences, such as feeding lynx, lemurs, or capybaras.

What’s Not Included

Snacks and additional activities, like mini quad biking, are extra. While the site offers a café with hot and cold food, some visitors prefer bringing a picnic, especially since you’re allowed to go back to your car to fetch it. Prices on-site are typical for a family-friendly attraction, so packing your own might be a money-saver.

The Animal Encounters: Close and Personal

One of the standout features, according to reviews, is the opportunity to get close to animals. Experiences like feeding the lynx, bobcats, or jungle cats are memorable highlights. Reviewers note guides like Sarah and Jody as especially pleasant, knowledgeable, and capable of making interactions both fun and educational.

A visitor recounts, “Sarah took us around and was very pleasant and informative, making the experience even better.” Another highlights being able to sit with meerkats and lemurs, with some visitors describing the baby lemurs’ energy as “so energetic,” and the meerkat experience as “really enjoyable to be so close.” These hands-on sessions are rare and add a personal touch that elevates the visit from typical zoo sightseeing.

Dinosaur World: A Prehistoric Playland

The dinosaur section features 45 animatronic dinosaurs and prehistoric beasts that move and roar, creating a captivating atmosphere. Visitors love the touch of excitement these life-like models bring, especially for children fascinated by dinosaurs. It’s not just visual; some reviews mention staff providing facts and engaging visitors, which makes the experience both fun and educational.

Play Areas and Family Fun

Children’s play zones are scattered across the site, giving little ones space to run and burn off energy. Reviewers emphasize that the zoo’s size allows kids to explore freely, and the presence of picnic areas makes it easy to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The overall environment feels friendly and welcoming, with smiling staff ready to assist.

Conservation and Education Focus

Beyond the fun, Hoo Zoo’s strong emphasis on conservation shines through. The zoo incorporates educational talks and focuses on conservation messages, making it a meaningful outing for families wanting to teach their kids about wildlife preservation.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Bring comfortable shoes: The site covers a good area, and walking is unavoidable.
• Plan your day: Check the schedule for animal talks and feeding sessions to catch the highlights.
• Pack a picnic: You’re allowed to go back to your car, and bringing your own food can save on expenses.
• Book early: Given the average booking lead time of 12 days and high demand, reserve your tickets well in advance.
• Consider extra activities: While included in the ticket, some activities like quad biking are paid separately.
• Arrive at 10:00 am: The start time allows you to make the most of a full day of activities.

Visitor Experience: Authentic and Engaging

Reviews consistently mention the friendliness of staff, especially guides like Jody and Melanie, who are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Many guests describe the zoo as larger than expected, with plenty of animals and activities to keep everyone entertained.

One reviewer shared that they spent an hour feeding lynx, bobcats, and jungle cats — highlighting the park’s commitment to providing memorable, hands-on experiences. Others appreciated the kindness of guides and the variety of animals, from wolves and lynx to capybaras and wallabies.

Critical Considerations

Some reviews mention the fee for mobility scooters, which might be a disappointment for disabled visitors. It’s important to note that the scooters are provided by a third-party rental service, and the fee covers the cost of maintenance and hire rather than profit for the zoo itself.

Plus, the site’s size means some paths are gravel, which might not be suitable for all wheelchairs. Planning ahead and clarifying accessibility options is advisable for visitors with mobility concerns.

Who Should Visit Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World?

This attraction is ideal for families with children of all ages, especially those interested in animals or dinosaurs. It’s perfect if you want a day that combines hands-on animal experiences, educational talks, and playful exploration. The variety of animal encounters, along with the animatronic dinosaurs, makes it a versatile outing that appeals to curious kids and adults alike.

Nature lovers will appreciate the conservation focus, and those seeking a relaxed pace will enjoy the opportunity to explore at their own rhythm. However, if you’re after a quick visit or a very small, intimate experience, it might not be the best fit.

This experience works well for those looking for a reasonably priced, engaging, and family-friendly day out with plenty of opportunities for memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket price all-inclusive?
Yes, the ticket includes entry to both Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, along with access to animal talks and interactive experiences. Extra activities like mini quad bike rides are paid separately.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before your booked time. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What should I bring with me?
Bringing a picnic is encouraged since you’re allowed to go back to your car to fetch it. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking involved, and snacks or drinks can be purchased on-site.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers and children can participate, and the site is family-friendly. Be aware that some gravel paths might not suit all mobility aids, so check accessibility if needed.

How long is the visit?
The experience typically lasts around 8 hours, providing ample time to explore everything at a relaxed pace.

Is the experience suitable for disabled visitors?
While most are able to participate, some gravel paths and the scooter hire fee might be considerations. It’s best to clarify accessibility options before booking.

Are guides available for animal encounters?
Yes, guides like Sarah and Jody are praised for their friendly, informative approach, enhancing the animal interaction experience.

What is the best time to visit?
Arrive at 10:00 am to maximize your day, especially during weekends or peak seasons when booking in advance is recommended.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. Visitors frequently bring picnics, and the site’s layout makes it easy to enjoy your own food in designated areas.

Wrapping It Up

Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World offers a well-rounded day of animal encounters, interactive experiences, and dinosaur excitement, all in a friendly, family-run setting. The combination of over 100 species, engaging talks, and life-sized animatronic dinosaurs make it a fantastic value for the price. The emphasis on conservation and education adds depth, making it both fun and meaningful.

This attraction is best suited for families with kids, dinosaur enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a relaxed yet activity-packed day. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate guided interactions and want to make the most of a full day’s worth of exploration.

If you’re after a genuine, engaging, and reasonably priced day out that’s full of surprises and memorable moments, Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World is a safe bet. Book early, wear comfy shoes, and prepare for a day full of animal fun and prehistoric adventure.