Dudley Zoo and Castle, located in Dudley, West Midlands, England, is a unique attraction that combines a zoo with an 11th-century castle. In April, visitors can experience the zoo’s diverse collection of over 1,300 animals, representing nearly 200 species, including some of the rarest creatures on the planet. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Dudley Zoo in April.
Admission Prices and Booking
Visiting Dudley Zoo in April requires pre-purchasing tickets online. Admission prices include a 10% voluntary donation to support the zoo’s charitable work, but visitors can choose to pay the standard admission price without the donation.
| Ticket Type | With Donation | Without Donation |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (15+ years) | £18.30 | £16.65 |
| Child (3-14 years) | £13.55 | £12.25 |
| Child with Disability | £13.55 | – |
| Carer with Disabled Visitor | FREE | – |
| 0 – 2 years | FREE | – |
It’s important to note that tickets are only valid for the date and time chosen at the time of booking, and they cannot be changed or refunded.
Opening Times and Getting There
Dudley Zoo is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm in April, with the last admission at 4 pm. The zoo can be accessed via the main entrance and gift shop, and car parking is available for £3.50 per day. Public transportation options, such as buses, are also available, with stops near the zoo.
Accessibility and Facilities
Dudley Zoo offers mobility scooters and wheelchairs for hire, but advance reservations are required. Some areas of the zoo, such as Lemur Wood, are not pushchair accessible. The Castle Courtyard and Castle Keep are open, but the staircase is narrow and steep in places.
The zoo provides toilet facilities, catering outlets that accept card and cash payments, and increased handwash facilities around the site. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnics, and outdoor seating is available. The Safari Gift Shop is open daily from 10 am, and the Queen Mary Restaurant and Made Kiosk are open for refreshments.
Animal Encounters and Talks
One of the highlights of visiting Dudley Zoo in April is the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the animals. The zoo offers talks at various animal enclosures, as well as experiences like “be a zookeeper” and animal encounters.
Additional Information
Dudley Zoo is a charity that relies on donations from visitors to support its animal welfare and conservation work. Under the Gift Aid scheme, the zoo can claim an additional 25p for every £1 that visitors donate. Visitors should bring proof of disability for discounted admission and identification for children under 14 years of age.
In conclusion, Dudley Zoo offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages in April. By planning ahead and being aware of the zoo’s policies and facilities, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to this remarkable attraction.