When visiting Dartmoor, there are plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. But if that’s not enough animal adventure for you, then there are plenty of attractions in Devon near Dartmoor that will keep the whole family entertained.

These animal attractions and experiences offer a diverse range of opportunities to engage with and learn about wildlife and farm animals, making your visit to Devon a memorable and enriching experience.

jaguar

Dartmoor Zoo

Located on the outskirts of Dartmoor, the zoo is home to a variety of animals, including big cats, meerkats, monkeys, and more. It gained popularity after the release of the book and movie “We Bought a Zoo,” which was based on the true story of the zoo’s former owner, Benjamin Mee.

30 miles from Mill End Hotel.

Pennywell Farm

Located in Buckfastleigh, Pennywell Farm is a delightful place to visit, especially for families with young kids. You can meet and feed a variety of friendly farm animals, including miniature pigs, lambs, goats, and more. Just on the outskirts of Dartmoor National Park, you’ll enjoy stunning views over Dartmoor from the farm.

23 miles from Mill End Hotel.

piglet at Pennywell Farm
donkey on grass

The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is not too far away in Sidmouth, East Devon. This sanctuary provides a loving home to rescued donkeys and mules, and it’s a heartwarming place to learn about their care and rehabilitation efforts.

36 miles from Mill End Hotel.

 

Becky Falls Woodland Park

Becky Falls is an ancient woodland park on Dartmoor, home to a stunning waterfall, with picturesque walks alongside streams. Not only will you have the opportunity to see native wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and various woodland creatures, the park has a mini zoo that is home to some exciting creatures, from pigs and ponies to meerkats and giant tortoises.

8.5 miles from Mill End Hotel.

meerkat at Becky Falls
lemur

Shaldon Wildlife Trust

Situated in Teignmouth, near Dartmoor’s eastern edge, this small zoo-like wildlife trust focuses on conservation and education. You can observe endangered species and learn about their habitats and conservation efforts. Home to an interesting array of primates, including lemurs, titi monkeys, and tamarins, as well as margays, meerkats and many more!

21 miles from Mill End Hotel.

Buckfast Butterflies and Dartmoor Otter Sanctuary

Located near Buckfastleigh, this attraction offers a chance to see butterflies in a tropical rainforest environment. Additionally, you can observe and learn about playful otters in their sanctuary. They have British otters, Asian short-clawed otters and North American river otters, which all make an excited appearance at feeding times!

20 miles from Mill End Hotel.

otters in buckfastleigh
rabbits

World of Country Life

Situated in Exmouth, a bit further from Dartmoor, this family-friendly attraction offers a mix of farm animals, wildlife, indoor play areas, vintage vehicles, and themed museum exhibits. There is an opportunity to cuddle with bunnies, guinea pigs and ducklings, play with pygmy goats and take a look at the resident donkeys, deer and wallabies!

32 miles from Mill End Hotel.

The Big Sheep

Although a bit farther away in Bideford, North Devon, The Big Sheep is a fun-filled farm park where you can experience sheep racing, sheepdog trials, animal barns, and various rides and attractions. In addition to sheep, there are piglets, pygmy goats, puppies, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs, chicks, ducklings and more.

37 miles from Mill End Hotel.

lamb
deer on grass

Powderham Castle

This historic castle, near Exeter, is home to over 600 Fallow deer and other wildlife. There is also a Pets Corner, with a donkey, pony, pigs, goats, guinea pigs, chickens and sheep, to name a few! Powderham also often hosts seasonal events, including falconry displays, where you can see majestic birds of prey up close and learn about their behaviour, as well as goat or alpaca walking and pony grooming sessions.

25 miles from Mill End Hotel.

Totnes Rare Breeds Farm

Situated in Totnes, this small family-run farm offers the opportunity to get up close and interact with a range of rare breeds. It’s a great place to meet some unusual and charming farm animals. With the conservation of rare breeds at the heart of what they do, you’ll find Welsh Mountain sheep and Golden Guernsey Goats, as well as farm pet classics like chicks and ducklings, pygmy goats and guinea pigs.

23 miles from Mill End Hotel.

 

goat
turtle at Plymouth Aquarium

National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth

Located in Plymouth, this aquarium provides a chance to explore marine life from local waters and beyond. You can see a diverse range of fish, sharks, rays, and other aquatic creatures up close.

33 miles from Mill End Hotel.

Paignton Zoo Environmental Park

Home to over 2000 animals from around the world, Paignton Zoo offers a fantastic family day out and with a focus on conservation and education, making it a meaningful visit. There is a diverse range of creatures here, from gorillas to giraffes, rhinos to red pandas and flamingos to frogs.

27 miles from Mill End Hotel.

red panda

Be sure to check the individual attraction’s websites for the latest information, including opening hours and any specific guidelines for visitors. Enjoy your animal adventures!