A Perfect Family Day Out at Dartmoor Zoo 🐾

We recently spent a day at Dartmoor Zoo as a family of four — two adults and our two little ones aged 1 and 3 — and it turned out to be one of those rare days that everyone genuinely enjoyed.

From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by how accessible the zoo is. Navigating with a pram was easy throughout the grounds, with well-maintained paths and plenty of space to move around comfortably. That alone made the day feel relaxed, especially when visiting with toddlers in tow.

The children absolutely loved seeing the animals up close, and watching their excitement made the experience even more special for us as parents. There’s something magical about seeing young children discover animals for the first time — the pointing, the giggles, and the wide-eyed wonder never get old.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was seeing the baby leopard cub. It was incredibly special to catch a glimpse of such a rare and beautiful animal at such a young age — a moment that felt genuinely memorable. Another standout was Dragan, the lively male Amur tiger. He was truly majestic, moving with such power and grace. Knowing that he serves as an ambassador for his endangered species made the encounter even more meaningful and educational, even for the children in their own small way.

When it came time for a break, the facilities were spot on for families. There’s a large restaurant on site with plenty of seating, and the addition of a soft play area was a huge win. It gave the children a chance to burn off some energy while we enjoyed a well-earned rest. Outside, there are also parks and open spaces where little legs can run free, making it easy to balance animal spotting with playtime.

Overall, Dartmoor Zoo provided the perfect mix of education, entertainment, and relaxation for our family. It’s a place where children can explore safely, parents can enjoy the experience without stress, and everyone leaves with lasting memories. We’d absolutely recommend it to families with young children looking for a fun, accessible, and rewarding day out — we’ll definitely be returning as the kids grow!