Camperdown Wildlife Centre, Dundee
Discover endangered wildlife and immersive animal experiences in Dundee’s scenic Camperdown Country Park.
Nestled within the expansive Camperdown Country Park in Dundee, Camperdown Wildlife Centre is a vibrant conservation hub home to over 50 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. It offers immersive wildlife experiences including encounters with European brown bears, lemurs, and meerkats. Open year-round with seasonal hours, the centre combines education, conservation, and family-friendly activities in a scenic park setting.
A brief summary to Camperdown Wildlife Centre
- Camperdown Country Park, Coupar Angus Rd, Dundee, DD2 4TF, GB
- +441382431811
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book animal encounter experiences in advance, especially the bear, lemur, or meerkat face-to-face sessions.
- Visit during March to September for longer opening hours and more outdoor activities.
- Use the free wheelchair service if needed and inquire about assistance dog boarding beforehand.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas or visit the on-site café for snacks and drinks.
- Explore Camperdown Country Park’s walking trails and playgrounds to extend your visit beyond the wildlife centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Dundee city centre takes about 15 minutes via the A923. Free parking is available adjacent to the Wildlife Centre. Note that the centre is about one mile inside Camperdown Country Park, so allow extra time for the park drive.
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Bus
No direct bus service enters the park, but regular buses (routes 3, 4, 4b by Travel Dundee and 57 by Stagecoach Strathtay) serve the nearby Leisure Park about one mile from the centre. From there, a walk or taxi is required.
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Walking
Visitors staying nearby can reach the centre on foot via well-maintained park trails. Walking times vary depending on starting point, with terrain mostly flat and accessible.
Camperdown Wildlife Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Camperdown Wildlife Centre
A Sanctuary for Endangered Species
Camperdown Wildlife Centre is a dedicated wildlife conservation facility located within the historic Camperdown Country Park in Dundee. The centre shelters more than 50 species, many of which are threatened or endangered in their natural habitats. Key residents include European brown bears, ring-tailed lemurs, snowy owls, gibbons, macaques, marmosets, hyacinth macaws, and meerkats. Through participation in international breeding and conservation programs, the centre plays an active role in protecting vulnerable wildlife and raising public awareness about biodiversity preservation.Immersive Animal Experiences and Education
Visitors can engage deeply with the animals through special experiences such as the half-day zookeeper program, which offers behind-the-scenes access to animal care routines. For those seeking closer encounters, the centre offers face-to-face experiences with brown bears, lemurs, or meerkats, available for booking with age restrictions for safety. Educational displays, including the Bear Broch Visitor Centre—a replica of an ancient Scottish stone dwelling—allow guests to observe bears in a naturalistic environment while learning about their history and significance in Scotland.Facilities and Visitor Comfort
The centre is well-equipped with amenities to enhance the visitor experience. On-site facilities include a café serving hot and cold refreshments, a gift shop offering wildlife-themed souvenirs, picnic areas for bringing your own food, and accessible restrooms with baby changing facilities. Free wheelchair use and boarding for assistance dogs are available, ensuring inclusivity. Dogs are permitted in the café and reception areas but not in animal enclosures to protect wildlife welfare.Seasonal Operations and Admission
Open daily year-round, Camperdown Wildlife Centre operates from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM between March and September, with last admissions at 3:45 PM. From October through February, hours shorten to 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with last admissions at 2:45 PM. Ticket pricing as of April 2025 ranges from £6 for children and concessions to £9 for adults, with discounted family and active lifestyle rates available. These fees support the centre’s conservation and educational programs.Setting Within Camperdown Country Park
The Wildlife Centre sits approximately one mile inside Camperdown Country Park, a large green space featuring woodland trails, a golf course, and adventure playgrounds. The park’s natural beauty complements the wildlife experience, offering scenic walking paths and picnic spots. The centre’s location within this expansive park provides a tranquil yet engaging environment for visitors of all ages.Accessibility and Transport Options
Situated about 3 miles from Dundee city centre, the centre is accessible by car with free parking adjacent to the entrance. While no direct bus service enters the park, nearby Leisure Park is served by regular buses approximately one mile away. The centre offers level access throughout, including accessible toilets and tactile routes for visitors with visual impairments, ensuring a welcoming environment for all guests.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balgarthno Stone Circle
1.1 km
Bronze Age stones standing sentinel over Dundee's prehistoric past, a timeless circle of mystery and ancient wisdom.
Cox's Stack
2.7 km
Scotland’s tallest surviving industrial chimney, Cox’s Stack towers over Dundee as a proud symbol of its jute manufacturing heritage.
Dundee War Memorial
3.6 km
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The Sinderins
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Dundemo
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.
DD Tours
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Robert Burns Statue
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Discover Dundee’s unique Robert Burns Statue, a rare Scottish tribute to the nation’s beloved poet, linking local pride with global heritage.
Oor Wullie Bronze Statue
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The Yard Market Dundee
5.0 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant monthly market celebrating local makers, street food, and community spirit in a historic church setting.
Meeting House
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Experience the serene ambiance of Meeting House, a historical church in Dundee, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
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Experience the best of Scottish craft beer and delicious local cuisine at St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall in Dundee, a must-visit for food and drink lovers.
Abandon Ship
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Experience the unique maritime charm of Abandon Ship, Dundee's vibrant bar known for craft beers, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for all.
Wishart's Arch
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The last standing gateway of Dundee’s 16th-century city walls, echoing tales of plague, faith, and resilience.
Dundee Historic Environment Trust
5.3 km
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Metalurgey
5.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Menzieshill Water Tower
1.8 km
Explore the Menzieshill Water Tower in Dundee, a serene landmark reflecting the city's rich architectural history and offering picturesque surroundings.
Tayside Medical History Museum
1.9 km
Discover Dundee’s medical past through fascinating exhibits at the Tayside Medical History Museum within Ninewells Hospital.
Clatto Country Park
2.0 km
A peaceful Dundee park centered on a historic reservoir, woodland trails, and family-friendly play areas for nature lovers and walkers.
Muirhead Backmuir Community Wood
2.5 km
A peaceful 140-acre woodland sanctuary near Dundee, perfect for tranquil walks and wildlife spotting in a natural Scottish setting.
The Stack Retail Park
2.5 km
A bustling retail and leisure hub in Dundee’s Lochee area, offering popular stores and convenient shopping for all needs.
Mills Observatory
2.6 km
Explore the stars and planets at Britain’s first public observatory, perched atop Dundee’s scenic Balgay Hill.
Balgay Park
2.9 km
Historic hilltop park in Dundee offering scenic woodlands, panoramic river views, botanical gardens, and the unique Mills Observatory.
Rose Garden
2.9 km
A serene botanical haven within Dundee’s historic Victoria Park, showcasing vibrant roses and lush greenery for peaceful urban escapes.
Riverside Nature Park
3.0 km
Explore Dundee’s restored green sanctuary with rich wildlife, scenic estuary views, and peaceful walking trails at Riverside Nature Park.
Kingsway West Retail Park
3.0 km
A vibrant retail hub in Dundee offering diverse shopping, dining, and convenience from early morning till evening daily.
Victoria Park
3.0 km
A vibrant Dundee park blending historic charm, active sports, and tranquil green spaces for all ages to enjoy.
University of Dundee Botanic Garden
3.1 km
Explore diverse global and native plants in a serene riverside setting dedicated to education, conservation, and botanical beauty.
Dundee Law
3.6 km
Dundee Law, a volcanic peak and historic hillfort, offers sweeping 360° views and a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Dundee Law
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Dundee Law: A majestic extinct volcano offering sweeping 360° views, rich history, and tranquil nature atop Dundee’s highest point.
Dudhope Park
4.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant recreation in Dundee’s scenic Dudhope Park, a green refuge with views and play for all ages.
Essential places to dine
Birkhill Inn
1.4 km
Experience traditional British hospitality at Birkhill Inn, where family-friendly dining meets cozy ambiance in the heart of Dundee.
Gourdie Croft Beefeater
1.5 km
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Maze Restaurant
2.1 km
Stylish conservatory dining with serene Italian garden views at Dundee’s Landmark Hotel, serving breakfast to dinner in a relaxed, elegant setting.
Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery
2.6 km
Classic Dundee pub serving hearty carvery meals daily in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on King's Cross Road.
The Riverside Inn - Pub & Grill
3.3 km
A friendly riverside pub and grill in Dundee offering classic dishes, quick service, and scenic views along the River Tay.
Más
4.1 km
Authentic Mexican small plates and vibrant vegan options served in a lively Dundee setting with fresh flavors and handcrafted cocktails.
Pacamara Food & Drink
4.1 km
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Don Michele Italian Restaurant
4.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality combine at Don Michele, a beloved Dundee dining destination for pizza, pasta, and more.
Beiderbeckes Bistro
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Bridgeview Station Restaurant
4.3 km
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Piccolo
4.4 km
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The West House
4.7 km
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The Giddy Goose
4.9 km
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Rep Restaurant
4.9 km
Savor fresh, locally inspired dishes in the heart of Dundee Rep Theatre’s vibrant cultural setting.
The Tayberry Restaurant
4.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ninewells Gift Shop
1.9 km
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The Range, Dundee
2.4 km
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SookSouk
4.2 km
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Kist
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Kist, Dundee’s cozy and welcoming gift shop on Perth Road.
The Windsor Gallery
4.5 km
Discover unique gifts and decorative art treasures at Dundee’s charming Windsor Gallery, open daily for your creative inspiration.
West Vintage Dundee
4.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainability at West Vintage Dundee, your go-to vintage clothing shop on Perth Road.
Arklay St Gift Shop
4.8 km
Discover unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts at Arklay St Gift Shop, Dundee’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
River Island Clothing Ltd
4.9 km
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Lush Cosmetics Dundee
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Essentials
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Menkind
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B&M Store
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The Works
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The Katz Pyjamas
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Speedwell Bar
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Tay Bridge Bar
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The Snug Bar
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The Tinsmith
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Duke's Corner
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BrewDog Dundee
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The Phoenix
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Old Bank Bar
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Nether Inn
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Trades House
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The Bank Bar Dundee
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Draffens
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The Salty Dog
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The Pillars Bar & Lounge
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Tickety Boo's
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Teen Friendly
