Special seniors offer at Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo in Devon will be offering people over the age of 65 a special treat this autumn, with their Senior Discovery Days offer.

For just £19.99, eligible visitors will not only gain entry to Paignton Zoo for the day, but they will also be treated to a special guided walk or talk and a delicious cream tea.

People will be able to choose from a range of three different talks focusing on either the work of Paignton’s keepers, how the gardeners look after such a large site, or the history of the zoo as it celebrates its centenary year.

‘A Day in the Life’ will look at a typical day at Paignton Zoo, where visitors will be shown some of the most popular animals, hear more about their different characters, and find out exactly what it takes to look after such a big selection of species. This talk will take place on Tuesday 19 September, Tuesday 26 September, Wednesday 4 October and Tuesday 10 October.

‘Tales from the Potting Shed’ involves a green-fingered ramble around Paignton’s extensive grounds with members of the Horticulture Team. Visitors on this guided walk will discover some of the many plants and trees growing on the site, and see how the gardens are maintained in a way that benefits both the visitors and the animals. This talk takes place on Wednesday 20 September, Wednesday 27 September, Thursday 5 October and Thursday 12 October.

Finally, ‘Centenary Zoo’ will provide people with a whistle-stop tour of the 100 years since Paignton Zoo first opened its doors to the public. This talk will allow visitors to get to know Paignton’s visionary founder, see how much things have evolved since 1923, and also learn about what the zoo is currently doing to help halt species decline around the world. This talk will be available on Thursday 21 September, Thursday 28 September, Tuesday 3 October and Wednesday 11 October. 

Steve Nash, Head of Campaigns and Programmes, said: “In our centenary year, we want to provide as many opportunities as possible for people to come and enjoy Paignton Zoo. These special Senior Discovery Days will give people the chance to hear from our staff and explore the zoo like never before, followed up by a delicious cream tea treat.”

Tickets, which include entry to the zoo, the guided talk and refreshments, costs £19.99 each or £4.99 for Paignton Zoo Members.

Places are limited, so please book in advance to avoid disappointment. For more information, and to book your tickets, click below.

Paignton Zoo is part of Wild Planet Trust, a conservation charity that also runs Newquay Zoo in Cornwall and three nature reserves. Wild Planet Trust also carries out a number of international projects, supporting habitats and helping halt species decline.