Wild Discovery Zoo
Intimate zoo with hands-on animal encounters and expert keeper-led education near Preston.
Wild Discovery is an intimate zoo located within Ribby Hall Village near Preston, Lancashire, offering visitors unlimited day-pass access to explore diverse animal species from around the world. The zoo specializes in interactive experiences and educational encounters, including popular capybara feeding sessions and bird displays led by knowledgeable staff. Set within a holiday complex environment, it combines animal education with accessible family-friendly activities and on-site dining options.
A brief summary to Wild Discovery
- Ribby Hall Village, Ribby Rd, Preston, Wrea Green, PR4 2PR, GB
- +441772673836
- Visit website
- Duration: 2.5 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book animal encounter experiences in advance, particularly the capybara feeding sessions, as popular time slots fill quickly during peak seasons.
- Arrive early in the day for animal encounters to maximize interaction time before animals become less active, especially during warmer months.
- Allow time to explore Ribby Hall Village's additional facilities and dining options, which enhance the overall day-out experience without requiring departure from the complex.
- Ask staff questions about specific animals—keepers are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing detailed information beyond standard signage.
- Check the daily schedule for bird displays and keeper talks upon arrival to plan your visit around these educational highlights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car from Preston City Centre
Drive approximately 8 miles north from Preston city centre via the A583 toward Kirkham, then follow signs to Ribby Hall Village. Journey time is typically 20–25 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is available at the main village entrance and directly at the zoo entrance. No parking fees are charged for zoo visitors.
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Car from Blackpool
Travel approximately 12 miles south from Blackpool town centre via the A583 toward Preston. The journey takes 25–35 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Follow directional signage to Ribby Hall Village. Ample parking is provided at no charge.
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Public Transport from Preston Station
Take a local bus service from Preston Bus Station toward Kirkham or Wrea Green (services vary seasonally; typical journey 30–45 minutes). Alternatively, arrange a taxi from Preston Station, which typically costs £18–25 and takes 20–25 minutes. Bus services may have limited frequency on weekends and bank holidays; verify schedules in advance.
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Walking from Ribby Hall Village Centre
If staying at Ribby Hall Village, the zoo is accessible via internal village pathways. Walking distance varies depending on accommodation location but typically ranges from 5–15 minutes across relatively flat terrain. Signage within the village directs visitors to the zoo entrance.
Wild Discovery location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Wild Discovery
A Compact Zoo with Global Appeal
Wild Discovery operates as an intimate, interactive zoo nestled within Ribby Hall Village, a holiday resort complex positioned between Preston and Blackpool in Lancashire. Rather than sprawling across vast grounds, the zoo concentrates its collection into a thoughtfully curated space that allows visitors to experience animals from diverse habitats without overwhelming fatigue. The venue welcomes day-pass visitors, holiday resort guests, local communities, school groups, and organized parties, creating a welcoming atmosphere for varied audiences.Interactive Encounters and Educational Philosophy
The zoo's defining characteristic is its commitment to hands-on animal interaction and education. Daily talks and keeper-led demonstrations form the backbone of the visitor experience, with staff demonstrating genuine expertise and passion for animal welfare. The capybara experience stands out as a signature offering, allowing visitors to feed and interact directly with resident capybaras Larry and Mo under expert guidance. Beyond scheduled encounters, keepers actively engage with visitors throughout the zoo, sharing fascinating facts about individual animals and conservation efforts. The bat enclosure receives particular praise for its immersive design and educational value.Diverse Animal Collection and Exhibits
Despite its modest footprint, Wild Discovery maintains impressive variety in its animal roster, featuring species from multiple continents and ecosystems. The collection balances popular crowd-pleasers with lesser-known creatures, ensuring discovery for repeat visitors. Bird displays feature prominently in the daily schedule, with entertaining presentations that educate visitors about avian behavior and ecology. Information boards throughout the grounds provide context for each species, supplemented by staff willing to elaborate on animal biology, behavior, and conservation status.Visitor Experience and Practical Amenities
The zoo operates within Ribby Hall Village, a comprehensive holiday destination offering integrated facilities. Multiple food and beverage options are accessible without leaving the complex, allowing visitors to refuel between animal encounters. Parking is available both at the main village entrance and directly at the zoo entrance, though navigation of the broader complex may require orientation for first-time visitors. The venue remains operational throughout the year, welcoming visitors regardless of weather conditions, though rain does not diminish the experience quality.Accessibility and Inclusive Design
Wild Discovery positions itself as accessible to families, couples, solo visitors, and educational groups. The manageable size eliminates excessive walking distances, making it suitable for visitors with varying mobility levels. Staff consistently demonstrate friendliness and approachability, actively involving all visitors in experiences and offering assistance with photography and information requests. The affordable pricing structure for both general admission and specialized animal encounters makes the venue accessible to diverse budgets.Conservation and Environmental Mission
The zoo explicitly frames its mission around inspiring conservation awareness and environmental protection across all age groups. Educational content emphasizes the interconnection between animal welfare, habitat preservation, and broader ecological responsibility. This philosophy permeates keeper interactions, exhibit design, and the overall visitor narrative, positioning Wild Discovery as more than entertainment but as an educational institution committed to fostering environmental stewardship.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackpool Town Hall
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Blackpool Heritage Tram Tours (Tower)
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North Pier
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Black pool
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Blackpool War Memorial
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Everything Blackpool
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Avenham and Miller Park
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Marsh Mill
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Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Marsh Mill, a captivating historical landmark in Thornton-Cleveleys, perfect for all tourists.
Preston Cenotaph
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Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library
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Cuerden Valley Park
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lytham Windmill
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Marton Mere Local Nature Reserve
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Lightworks
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Dinosaur Safari
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Blackpool Zoo
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Blackpool Model Village & Gardens
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Stanley Park
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Britain's twice-voted best park: 256 acres of Art Deco elegance, Italian gardens, and timeless seaside charm.
West Lancashire Light Railway
9.5 km
Experience the charm of vintage steam trains and industrial heritage on a scenic woodland railway in Lancashire.
Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve
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Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
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Step back in time on a heritage steam train through Preston’s historic docklands, surrounded by vintage locomotives and riverside views.
Kingscote Park, Blackpool
10.0 km
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Blackpool
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Revolution
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Jimmy Armfield Statue
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Nickelodeon Land
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Essential places to dine
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The Farmers Arms Great Eccleston
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Ambrosini's
10.1 km
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Le Sorelle Italian Restaurant and Takeaway
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Lang's Restaurant
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White Tower Restaurant
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Casa Franco
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The Eating Inn
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Kwizeen Restaurant Blackpool
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Amaro
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The Buccaneer
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Blackpool Retail Park
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Mood Gifts & Home
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Gold Boutique
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The Range
9.9 km
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Nick Shop
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Cassidy's Closet Boutique
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Kiss Me Quick
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ICON Shop
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Henry's Nirvana Bazaar
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Albert & The Lion - JD Wetherspoon
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Hogarths
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Entertaining
- Educational
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Wildlife Habitat
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
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
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
