Animal magic in South Devon

PAIGNTON Zoo Environmental  Park is one of Britain’s leading  zoos. Founded in 1923, it has  evolved into a leading conservation, education and scientific  charity. As well as a major visitor  attraction with animals from all  over the world, Paignton Zoo supports vital research and conservation work at home and abroad.

 Visit the 80 acres of Paignton Zoo  and you’ll see all your favourites  such as lions, tigers, elephants and  giraffes as well as some more  unusual species such as red river  hog and lemur. This summer,  don’t miss Zuri, the endearing  black rhino calf.

 Children can look forward to the  miniature railway, play areas and  close encounters with some amazing parrots. Call in at the Island  Restaurant for a meal with a great  view of Gibbon Island. Kiosks and  snack bars sell takeaway meals  and ice creams.

Gardens
 Visitors to Paignton Zoo usually  come to see the animals - after all,  it is a zoo. But the Zoo is also an  established botanical garden. The  plants are fundamental to the atmosphere and in fact are just as  important as the animals.

 The gardens of Paignton Zoo consist of both mature shrubberies  and new areas developed over the  past five years. The new plantings  are all designed to re-create the  major habitat types from around  the world. This transports visitors  into the habitat and immerses  them in an all-round experience.  Native plants are used in some  areas whereas in others, exotics  create variation within the habitat  themes.

 The warm climate in the south  west allows us to grow tender  plants outside as part of the exhibits. Palms, bananas and citrus  are amongst the plants that contribute to the tropical feel of the  Zoo.

 Visitor information
 Paignton Zoo is open every day  from 10:00am. Talks, animal encounters and animal feeds take  place throughout the day — information boards will tell you  what is on when you arrive. The  site is fully-accessible for disabled  and elderly visitors. Children under three are free. In addition,  there are reductions for groups  and disabled visitors (carers admitted free of charge).

 The Zoo welcomes group visits all  year round and offers free coach  parking (please book in advance)  and a coach drop-off point. There  are reduced rates for groups of 15  or more. For more information  contact Paignton Zoo telephone  (01803) 697500, website  www.paigntonzoo.org.uk.

 Joint Paignton Zoo and Living  Coasts tickets are available.