6 Great Zoos in Dorset

Young animal lovers can meet, pet and feed a variety of intriguing creatures at some of the most entertaining wildlife parks and zoos in Dorset. 

Although there are no traditional zoos in the area, you’ll find endless nature reserves, animal sanctuaries and sea life adventures for all the family to enjoy on your next trip to this action-packed UK holiday spot.

Here are just 6 of our top picks.

The Kingston Maurward Animal Park and Gardens experience is a captivating blend of stunning historic grounds and adorable animal park features. Visitors can enjoy several formally landscaped gardens and interact with a range of friendly farm animals. There’s also a café selling homemade treats, a soft play area and a seasonal horse box. 

Pigs, donkeys, ponies, waterfowl and alpacas are just a few of the animals you’ll find at this much-loved animal park, housed among 35 acres of Grade II-listed Dorset parkland.

Petting is allowed as long as parents of children under 12 remain close by. 

An engaging family day out in picturesque surroundings, ideal for nature and wildlife fans of all ages.

The RSPB Arne Nature Reserve is a serene retreat on the Isle of Purbeck, which is known for its exceptional landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty. Not only is the reserve an ideal spot for bird watching, it is also one of the few remaining places where you can find all of the UK’s six native reptiles. 

With its wonderful heathlands and wetlands, the site attracts a huge variety of bird species. You’ll also find sika deer stags, spoonbills, snakes, heath tiger beetles and ladybird spiders among the many wildlife wonders at Arne. 

Dorset Falconry Park must be seen to be believed. This exciting falconry adventure park in Lewell offers a range of family experiences and close encounters with a selection of magnificent birds of prey. 

Visitors can hold, handle and fly birds ranging from barn owls and falcons to hawks and eagles. There are also live falconry displays and opportunities to learn about various raptor species. 

Guided tours and adoption opportunities make this a complete family treat for bird lovers visiting Dorset.

Bournemouth Beach is the perfect place for an aquatic destination and is a popular attraction during holidays in Dorset. Meet otters, penguins and over 150 different species of fish, a stone’s throw from the sparkling sea. Visitors of all ages love the walk-through tunnel, and there’s something surprising and exciting to discover at every turn.

There’s a great restaurant and shop, and small play area for young children, not to mention the beach on the doorstep.

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Visit the world’s only managed colony of nesting mute swans and see up to 600 swans as you stroll around the beautiful landscape. If you time your visit right, you can even join in the mass feeding sessions.

On site you will also discover a flower meadow, willow maze, children’s play area, pedal go carts, coffee shop and gift shop. Why not consider pairing your visit with a trip to Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens? You can get discounted tickets when buying tickets for both attractions at the same time.

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Monkey World, located in Wareham, is a dedicated ape rescue centre that rehabilitates primates from around the world. Visitors can observe various species of monkeys and apes in surroundings that emulate their natural habitats.

Guided tours offer a more comprehensive insight into the work of the Monkey World team, and special talks foster greater awareness of the habits and characteristics of the many primate species in their care. 

There’s also a Monkey World gift shop, and Monkey World gift vouchers. For couples in search of unique wedding venues, there’s even the possibility of tying the knot at Monkey World. 

A fun and educational day out for all family members and one of the most popular zoos in Dorset.

Weymouth SEA LIFE Adventure Park is a thrilling water-based attraction on the Jurassic Coast. This incredible adventure park hosts over 2,500 sea creatures, spread across 13 different zones. 

Visitors can enjoy a range of interactive exhibits and displays or explore underwater tunnels while learning about sea life and marine conservation. 

A fun and educational day out for water fans of all ages.

Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park is a popular favourite with families. Located near Poole, this family-friendly attraction designed for children in the 0-8 year-old age range is the perfect holiday playground for small animal lovers. 

With close-up animal encounters, tractor rides and seasonal events, this well-loved farm park offers a truly interactive experience for the little ones. 

Whatever the weather, you’ll find endless activities to keep the whole family entertained during your visit. 

Marwell Zoo is a little further from our parks than some of the other animal attractions, but is worth the journey for a full day out. The 140 acre park is home to hundreds of animals including giraffes, tigers, meerkats, penguins, leopards and many, many more!

Let the kids go wild on the five adventure playgrounds; grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants; hop aboard the rail train for a 15min tour; and/or rest your legs and make use of the land train which stops at four places around the zoo.

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Set in the stunning New Forest, this attraction offers a fabulous range of animals. You’ll find tiny harvest mice, otters, bison, wolves, deer, owls, ferrets, wild boar… and much more! The children’s play areas are excellent, there are plenty of places for picnics and a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat.

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Looking for a great, family-friendly place to stay while exploring some of the most exciting zoos in Dorset?

Book a last-minute break at our flagship Bowleaze Cove Holiday Park & Spa, just 5 minutes from Weymouth Sealife Adventure Park and approximately 20 minutes from Monkey World and Dorset Falconry Park!

Experience glamping at its finest among the beauty of the South Dorset countryside, while planning an unforgettable wildlife adventure for all the family.

Check out some great zoos in Cornwall.