Telford: Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World Entry Ticket Family Day

Summary

See wolves and capybara then walk among roaring dinosaurs at Hoo Zoo

You’ll wander Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World in Telford meeting over 100 species—wolves napping, capybaras blinking—and get close during animal talks or feeding times. Explore 45 animatronic dinosaurs that genuinely startle (in a good way) before sharing lunch surrounded by laughter and muddy boots. It’s relaxed, personal, and unexpectedly memorable.

What’s the experience like?

“Did you see that capybara just wink at me?” my nephew whispered, half-convinced he’d made a new friend. We’d only just wandered past the wolves (they were napping, not menacing — the smallest one snored), and already I could smell that earthy mix of hay and damp grass that always reminds me of childhood field trips. There’s something about Hoo Zoo in Telford — maybe it’s the way the staff chat to you like neighbors, or how you can actually hear kids giggling over by the meerkats instead of just the usual zoo crowd noise.

The day trip to Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World was meant to be for the little ones, but honestly, I think I got caught up even more than them. Our guide for one of the animal talks (I think her name was Sarah?) let us hold a snake — cold and surprisingly smooth, not slimy at all. She told us about their conservation work in this gentle way that didn’t feel preachy, just real. Later, we stumbled into Dinosaur World — 45 animatronic beasts growling and blinking at us under grey Midlands skies. My niece shrieked when a T-Rex turned its head; I pretended not to jump too.

Lunch was sandwiches on a bench because we lost track of time between feeding wallabies and watching lemurs dart around (their hands are so tiny — I still laugh thinking about it). The best bit? You can actually walk through some habitats on weekends or holidays. We got lucky with the lemurs; they stared right back as if judging my choice of crisps. It’s not fancy or huge here, but it feels like someone’s passion project — family-run, with little handwritten signs everywhere and staff who remember your face from earlier in the day.

I didn’t expect to leave thinking about wolves’ snores or how real those dinosaurs looked (Nigel Marven wasn’t lying apparently). If you’re near Telford and want a day that feels less like a checklist and more like an actual memory, this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World

• See over 100 animal species
• Experience 45 animatronic dinosaurs
• Attend 15 animal talks and feedings
• Walk through animal habitats
• Get close to lemurs and wallabies

Top questions

Is Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World suitable for young children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly with pram access and activities for all ages.

Are there real dinosaurs at Hoo Zoo?

No real dinosaurs—there are 45 realistic animatronic models plus ice age beasts.

Can you interact with animals at Hoo Zoo?

You can join talks and feeding sessions; some habitats allow walkthroughs on weekends or holidays.

Is Hoo Zoo wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible throughout.

How long should I plan to spend at Hoo Zoo?

A full day is recommended to enjoy all animals, talks, and activities.

Does admission include all activities?

Your ticket includes entry plus access to animal talks and feeding sessions.

Where is Hoo Zoo located?

It’s in Telford, UK—easy to reach for a day trip from nearby cities.

Are service animals allowed inside?

Yes, service animals are permitted within the zoo grounds.

What’s included

Your day includes full admission to Hoo Zoo & Dinosaur World in Telford with access to over 100 animal species, 45 animatronic dinosaurs and ice age creatures, plus all scheduled talks and feeding activities throughout your visit. The grounds are wheelchair accessible and suitable for families with prams or strollers.