Paignton Zoo
Zoo Coastal zoo in Paignton housing global species
Paignton Zoo in Devon hosts large animal enclosures, tropical glasshouses and conservation programmes. Families and wildlife enthusiasts visit for species exhibits, daily talks and landscaped paths overlooking Tor Bay.
Paignton Zoo is a zoo and conservation park in Paignton, Devon, England. It opened in 1923 and has developed into a long-established zoological collection and conservation centre in the region.
The site houses a large collection of mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians across outdoor enclosures, glasshouses and aviaries, and includes tropical houses and mixed-species exhibits. The park covers a substantial area and typically requires several hours to tour the main displays.
The zoo was founded in 1923 by Herbert Whitley as a private zoological collection and expanded over the 20th century into a public zoo and conservation organisation. It is now run by the Wild Planet Trust, which manages conservation, breeding and education programmes.
Located in the town of Paignton within Torbay on the south coast of Devon, the zoo sits near the town’s seafront and is accessible from local roads and public transport serving Torbay.
- Founded: Founded in 1923 by Herbert Whitley.
- Operator: Operated by Wild Planet Trust (formerly Whitley Wildlife Conservation Trust) with a focus on conservation and education.
- Visitor note: Allow several hours to see the larger collection; check seasonal opening times before visiting.
How to Get to Paignton Zoo #
By car: follow A385 into Paignton; Totnes Road leads to the zoo entrance (on-site parking available). By public transport: regular trains to Paignton station and local buses connect to the zoo; check local timetables for current services.
Tips for Visiting Paignton Zoo #
- Buy tickets online in advance to secure entry and avoid queues, especially during school holidays.
- Arrive early (park opens) to see the animals at their most active and to avoid afternoon crowds.
- Check the zoo's daily schedule for talks and feedings-these programs reveal animal behaviors and are often run by knowledgeable keepers.
Best Time to Visit Paignton Zoo #
Late spring through early autumn is the most active period for animals and the busiest for visitors; book ahead during school holidays.
Weather & Climate near Paignton Zoo #
Paignton Zoo's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from 3°C to 20°C. Moderate rainfall (915 mm/year).
January
January is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. Significant rainfall (109 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coolest month with highs of 9°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (87 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 5°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 11°C. Moderate rainfall (70 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is cold with highs of 11°C and lows of 6°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of 4°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (110 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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