Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Christmas at the Zoo
Experience a magical Christmas at Paignton Zoo! Santa Claus will be visiting throughout December, offering a special grotto experience for children. The zoo will be adorned with festive decorations, creating a cheerful atmosphere for all visitors. It's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the holiday season surrounded by wildlife.
What to Expect
Santa visits at the zoo
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: Paignton Zoo has free parking for 1,110 cars on site and some further parking in an overflow car park a short walk away. This is available on a first come, first served basis. Parking at Morrisons Supermarket is at your own risk and Morrisons has a strict parking policy.
- Accessibility: Designated disabled parking bays are available on the first level of the car park. Visitors can be dropped off and collected from the main zoo entrance. Blue badges must be displayed to park in disabled bays.
- Pets: Service animals welcome
Other Christmas Events Near Paignton
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and magical
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa's grotto experience
- Festive decorations throughout the zoo
Location
Event Details
Duration
Varies by visit
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Paignton Zoo
Food & Drink
Festive food and warm beverages available
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets in advance, especially for Santa's grotto, as popular dates can sell out quickly.
- Arrive early to make the most of the zoo's regular attractions before visiting Santa.
- Check the zoo's website for the most up-to-date opening times and Santa's specific visiting hours.
- Consider visiting on a weekday if possible to avoid the largest crowds.
- Dress warmly as parts of the event are outdoors, and check the weather forecast before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates for Christmas at the Zoo?
The event runs on select dates in December, including December 6-7, 13-14, and 20-24.
Can I meet Santa?
Yes, Santa will be visiting the zoo throughout December. You can secure tickets to visit him in his grotto.
Is there parking available?
Paignton Zoo offers free parking for over 1,100 cars on a first-come, first-served basis. Overflow parking is also available nearby.
What are the opening hours?
Please check the Paignton Zoo website for specific opening hours for the Christmas event and the zoo itself.
Are there food and drink options available?
Yes, festive food and warm beverages will be available for purchase during the event.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.