Dog-Friendly Zoos in the UK

Are you allowed to take dogs to zoos? Yes, sometimes you can – there are some wonderful dog-friendly zoos in the UK!

If you’re a dog owner, it’s highly likely that you’re an animal lover too, and it might be surprising to discover that there are some dog-friendly zoos that allow your four-legged friend to enjoy a day out with you. Below, we answer the question ‘Which UK zoos allow dogs?’ and reveal the best animal-based days out for you and your pet.

If you’ve already decided on a dog-friendly zoo to visit with your pet, why not browse our dog-friendly cottages and combine it with a short break or week away?

Run on ahead to:

Filey Bird and Animal Park, Yorkshire

Alpacas, giant rabbits and miniature ponies are just some of the marvellous critters you and your pup can expect to meet at Filey Bird and Animal Park in Yorkshire. Skunks, bearded dragons and a 60-year-old tortoise are among the other exotic inhabitants, as well as a rainbow of colourful birds.

While you’re in the area, there are plenty of other dog-friendly attractions to enjoy – have a browse of our dog-friendly Yorkshire guide to find out more.

Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park, Suffolk

This exciting dog-friendly zoo in Suffolk is packed with things to do for you and your family. There are animals galore at Jimmy’s Farm and Wildlife Park, including zebras, meerkats, reindeer, macaques, crocodiles, snakes and a whole menagerie of butterflies, bugs, and birds.

The wildlife park is owned by famous TV farmer Jimmy Doherty and is now a conservation haven for rare breeds and other animals.

Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, Oxfordshire

Not only will your dog love meeting all the animals at Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens, a dog-friendly zoo in Oxfordshire, England, it will also tick off their exercise for the day, as there are over 160 acres of parkland to explore. The beautiful gardens create an atmospheric setting for a day spent watching animals including giraffes, an Asiatic lion, lemurs, tortoises, and a whole host of other reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds.

In fact, Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens isn’t the only dog-friendly attraction in the Cotswolds … far from it! Find out where else to visit with your four-legged friend in our dog-friendly guide to the Cotswolds.

Birdland Park and Gardens, Gloucestershire

Our feathered friends have a treat for you at this fascinating dog-friendly family attraction in the Cotswolds. From penguins to cassowaries, 500 birds big and small live in scenic enclosures across 9 acres of gardens and woodland at Birdland on the banks of the River Windrush.

What’s more, tucked away in the woods is a troop of life-size dinosaurs, taking you on a Jurassic Journey more than 65 million years into the past!

Golders Hill Park Zoo, London

If you find yourself in the country’s capital looking for dog-friendly zoos, look no further than Golders Hill Park Zoo, a charming little zoo in London that houses a number of exotic birds and interesting animals. Open every day, this free – yes, free – zoo, is found inside the beautifully landscaped Golders Hill Park, close to the children’s play area. Lemurs, wildcats, deer, donkeys and wallabies are amongst some of the animals who call this unique place home. The park is open from 7.30am every day.

Borth Animalarium, Ceredigion, Wales

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly zoo in Wales, this small but perfectly formed animal sanctuary, Borth Animalarium, is a lovely place for a day out with your pup. Home to a range of domestic and farm animals, it’s a great attraction for families. Children can pet the animals, and there are play areas and a cafe for when hunger strikes.

Cornish Seal Sanctuary, Cornwall

The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a dog-friendly attraction in Gweek, Cornwall (a county in which there are dog-friendly things to do in abundance). Home to rescued and rehabilitated seals of all shapes and sizes, it’s a delightful place to while away a few hours, getting to know these cute and characterful marine animals.

Surprisingly, there is much more to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary than the seal enclosures! Spread across 42 acres of land, you’ll find woodland where you and your four-legged friends can stretch your legs, and they can even accompany you on the land train! The welcome in this wonderful dog-friendly zoo extends to the gift shop too, where your four-pawed pal can choose from a variety of homemade dog treats and accessories to remind them of their visit. A great choice if you’re looking for a dog-friendly zoo in Cornwall.

Dog-friendly farm parks in the UK

While they’re not technically dog-friendly zoos, these UK farm parks are fantastic alternatives for when you just can’t leave your pooch at home and you’re desperate to get your friendly animal fix!

Map of dog-friendly zoos and farm parks in the UK

Take a look at these dog-friendly farm parks and dog-friendly zoos in England, Scotland and Wales.

UK zoos that aren’t dog friendly (apart from assistance dogs and guide dogs)

The following UK zoos only welcome guide dogs and assistance dogs. For any zoo not mentioned, please check before you visit.

Dog-friendly cottages

With over 8,500 dog-friendly cottages at your fingertips, here at Canine Cottages you’ll find the perfect home-from-home for you and your pack. Enjoy some rest and relaxation in between exciting days out to some of the UK’s top dog-friendly attractions, including dog-friendly zoos! Hit the button below to start your search.