Dudley Zoo and Castle: A Historic Wildlife Haven
Explore medieval ruins and rare wildlife at Dudley Zoo and Castle, a captivating blend of history and nature in the heart of Dudley.
Dudley Zoo and Castle, located on Castle Hill in Dudley, England, offers a unique blend of medieval history and wildlife conservation. Home to over 1,300 animals across nearly 200 species, including rare and endangered creatures, this family-friendly zoo features immersive exhibits, daily animal talks, and the atmospheric ruins of Dudley Castle. Visitors can explore lush zoological gardens, enjoy playgrounds and interactive experiences, and learn about the castle’s rich heritage in a scenic outdoor setting.
A brief summary to Dudley Zoo and Castle
- Castle Hill, Dudley, DY1 4QF, GB
- +441384215313
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to maximize your visit, as last admission is at 2 pm and the zoo closes at 4:30 pm.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds, as food prices inside the zoo can be high.
- Check the daily schedule for animal talks and bird of prey displays to enrich your experience.
- Use the wide, tarmac pathways and available ramps for easier access if mobility is a concern.
- Consider purchasing an annual pass if you plan multiple visits, for better value and unlimited entry.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Dudley Port Station, which is approximately a 2-minute walk from the zoo entrance. Trains run regularly from Birmingham and nearby areas, with fares typically ranging from £5 to £10 depending on the starting location.
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Car
Drive via the A461 Castle Hill, about 3 miles from M5 Junction 2. Onsite parking is available via Tipton Road with a £4 exit fee. Parking can fill up during peak times, so early arrival is recommended.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve Dudley town center, from where the zoo is accessible by a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 depending on distance and operator.
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Walking
For visitors staying in Dudley town center, a 20 to 30-minute walk to the zoo is possible via paved and accessible paths, suitable for families and those with moderate mobility.
Dudley Zoo and Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Dudley Zoo and Castle
A Fusion of History and Wildlife
Dudley Zoo and Castle sits majestically on Castle Hill, where the ruins of a medieval fortress provide a dramatic backdrop to one of the UK’s most diverse zoological collections. Established within the grounds of Dudley Castle, the zoo combines centuries-old stone architecture with modern animal habitats, creating a captivating environment where history and nature intertwine. The castle itself dates back to the 11th century and offers visitors a glimpse into England’s feudal past alongside the vibrant life of the zoo.Rich Diversity of Animal Species
The zoo is home to over 1,300 animals representing nearly 200 species, including some of the rarest on the planet. Highlights include Asiatic lions, Sumatran tigers, Bornean orangutans, and Humboldt penguins. The zoological gardens are designed to provide close-up views of animals in thoughtfully recreated habitats, enhancing visitor engagement while prioritizing animal welfare. Special exhibits such as Lemur Wood and Lorikeet Lookout offer interactive experiences with exotic birds and primates.Engaging Daily Activities and Educational Talks
Dudley Zoo offers a rich program of daily activities, including bird of prey displays, animal talks, and ghost stories in the castle courtyard. These sessions provide fascinating insights into animal behavior and conservation efforts, as well as the historical significance of the castle. The Discovery Centre hosts an activity room for children, while the farm barn and contact paddock allow for hands-on experiences with domestic animals, making the zoo an educational destination for all ages.Family-Friendly Amenities and Accessibility
The zoo is designed with families in mind, featuring multiple playgrounds, picnic areas, and accessible pathways. Facilities include baby changing rooms, a restaurant serving hot food, and a gift shop. Accessibility is prioritized with wide tarmac roadways, ramps, and availability of manual wheelchairs and electric scooters for hire. Assistance dogs are welcome, and free disabled parking is provided near the entrance.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Open daily from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm with last admission at 2:00 pm, Dudley Zoo and Castle offers a full day of exploration. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk through the castle grounds and zoo, complemented by the occasional land train ride (subject to availability). Parking is available for a modest fee, and tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. The zoo’s location near Dudley Port Station makes it accessible by public transport.Conservation and Community Engagement
Dudley Zoo is actively involved in wildlife conservation, focusing on endangered species and environmental education. Adoption packages and zoo keeper experiences are available to deepen visitor involvement. The zoo also hosts seasonal events such as Santa’s Grotto during winter, enhancing its role as a community hub that combines entertainment with conservation awareness.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Fountain
0.4 km
Discover The Fountain, Dudley’s iconic historical landmark nestled in the vibrant Market Place, where heritage meets lively community spirit.
War Memorial
8.6 km
A solemn and artistically rich memorial in Mary Stevens Park honoring Stourbridge’s fallen heroes of the World Wars.
Perrott's Folly
11.0 km
An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
Gem Buildings
11.6 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
Chamberlain Clock
11.7 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
11.7 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Historic England
12.3 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Hall of Memory
12.3 km
Explore the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a stunning memorial celebrating the bravery of local heroes and a symbol of hope and remembrance.
Chamberlain Square
12.5 km
Explore Chamberlain Square, a historical landmark in Birmingham with stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life in the heart of the city.
Chamberlain Sq
12.5 km
Explore Chamberlain Square in Birmingham, a vibrant cultural hub with stunning architecture, rich history, and lively events in the city's heart.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
12.5 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
12.5 km
Experience the thrill of escape at Clue HQ Birmingham, where adventure and mystery await in immersive escape rooms.
Chamberlain Memorial
12.5 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Cube
12.5 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
12.5 km
Explore the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, where art, history, and culture converge in a stunning setting that captivates visitors of all ages.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dudley Market
0.4 km
A vibrant traditional market in the heart of Dudley offering fresh produce, local goods, and a lively community atmosphere six days a week.
Black Country Living Museum
0.7 km
Step back in time and explore over 300 years of Black Country industrial heritage in a vibrant open-air museum with living history and authentic experiences.
Castle Mill Basin
0.9 km
Underground limestone basin where industrial heritage meets subterranean exploration through historic canal tunnels.
Dudley Canal and Caverns
1.1 km
Discover Dudley’s underground limestone caverns and canals on a captivating boat tour through 428 million years of history.
Wren's Nest
1.9 km
Explore England’s first national nature reserve, a fossil-rich Silurian limestone landscape with rich mining heritage and immersive geological trails.
Bumble Hole Local Nature Reserve
2.4 km
Industrial heritage meets ecological recovery at this transformed canal-side nature reserve.
Rowley Hills
3.3 km
Explore the highest hills in West Midlands, rich in nature, history, and panoramic views in the heart of Oldbury’s green landscape.
Saltwells Local Nature Reserve
4.0 km
Explore one of the UK’s largest urban nature reserves, where ancient woodlands and rich geology meet the legacy of coal mining.
Merry Hill
4.3 km
West Midlands' premier shopping and entertainment destination with 180+ retailers, dining, and leisure.
Oak House Museum
5.1 km
Step into a 17th-century yeoman’s home at this Grade I listed timber-framed gem in West Bromwich, now a museum of Stuart life and local heritage.
Haden Hill House
5.3 km
A late-Victorian house museum and 17th-century hall set in 55 acres of award-winning parkland, offering history, hands-on activities and peaceful green space in the Black Country.
Baggeridge Country Park
5.6 km
Explore 150 acres of scenic trails, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly fun at Baggeridge Country Park, a reclaimed mining landscape turned nature haven.
Astle Retail Park
5.8 km
West Midlands outlet shopping meets family entertainment and fitness in one modern destination.
High St
5.9 km
Explore West Bromwich’s High Street, a vibrant shopping mile blending local charm with diverse retail and dining options.
New Square
6.0 km
A central shopping and leisure destination in West Bromwich offering diverse retail, dining, and community experiences.
Essential places to dine
Lucarelli Restaurant
6.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in stylish private domes at Lucarelli Restaurant, West Bromwich’s culinary gem.
Tropea
10.3 km
Discover Tropea, a modern Italian gem in Birmingham’s Harborne, where seasonal dishes and warm hospitality create an unforgettable dining experience.
Fiesta del Asado - Edgbaston
10.6 km
Experience the finest Argentinian flame-grilled steaks and vibrant Latin flavors in the heart of Birmingham’s Edgbaston district.
Buonissimo Restaurant Birmingham
10.7 km
Authentic Italian dining in Harborne, Birmingham, blending warm hospitality with classic flavors in a cozy setting.
Harborne Kitchen
10.7 km
Experience innovative fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a vibrant, relaxed setting at Harborne Kitchen, Birmingham’s culinary jewel.
Rustic Table
10.8 km
A warm, intimate tapas gem in Harborne, serving vibrant Mediterranean small plates and creative cocktails in a relaxed, convivial setting.
The White Swan
11.2 km
Classic British gastropub reimagined: cozy fires, gourmet comfort food, and stylish vibes in Edgbaston's heart.
Praza Edgbaston
11.2 km
Refined Indian dining and innovative cocktails in a stylish Georgian setting in Birmingham’s elegant Edgbaston district.
Cylla
11.7 km
Experience modern Greek cuisine with vibrant Mediterranean flavors in Birmingham’s elegant and inviting Cylla restaurant.
The Blue Piano
11.7 km
A vibrant Asian-inspired restaurant and bar in Birmingham with live music, eclectic flavors, and cozy lodging in Edgbaston.
Cappadocia Restaurant
11.7 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
Chapter Edgbaston
11.8 km
Stylish British dining with seasonal, locally sourced dishes and a vibrant bar in the heart of Edgbaston.
Simpsons Restaurant
11.8 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in a historic Georgian mansion, blending British tradition with modern culinary artistry in Birmingham's Edgbaston.
The Button Factory
11.8 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Kopitiam
11.8 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
UNIQUE ANTIQUES
7.5 km
Curated vintage treasures and authentic antiques in the heart of Stourbridge
Cornbow Shopping Centre
7.5 km
A modernized shopping hub in Halesowen blending major retailers, independent shops, and community amenities for a vibrant retail experience.
Something Quirky
7.5 km
Eclectic gift shop brimming with unique treasures and one-of-a-kind finds in Halesowen.
Disorder Boutique
10.0 km
Discover Birmingham’s exclusive sustainable fashion boutique, where bespoke craftsmanship meets bold, original British designs.
Gingermegs Vintage
11.6 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Design Centre
11.7 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Top Jewellery UK
11.8 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
11.8 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
11.8 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
SACET
11.8 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Quarter Jewellery
11.8 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
11.8 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Artfull Expression
11.9 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
11.9 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Buff Jewellery
12.0 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bohemian
8.7 km
Vibrant cocktail bar in Wolverhampton with industrial charm, creative drinks, and lively bottomless brunches in a casual urban setting.
Garden House
10.7 km
Cozy Edgbaston pub with roaring fires, hearty British grub, and a sunny beer garden—perfect for roasts, pints, and gatherings any day of the week.
The Red Lion
11.5 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
The Physician
11.6 km
Gracious Harborne Road pub with polished wood interiors, a lengthy bar and several cosy dining rooms serving classic British fare in a convivial setting.
The Distillery
11.6 km
Birmingham's canal-side gin distillery pub: rotisserie feasts, wood-fired pizzas, house gins, and terrace vibes from brunch to late-night drinks.
The Pig & Tail
11.7 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
Loki Wine Bar & Shop Edgbaston
11.7 km
Self-service wine wonderland in Edgbaston: Taste 32 global vintages, sip craft beers, savor charcuterie amid bottle-lined walls—a Birmingham gem for oenophiles.
The Jewellers Arms
11.7 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Rose Villa Tavern
11.7 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
Lucky7
11.8 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
1000 Trades
11.8 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Malt House
11.9 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Duck and Scholar
12.0 km
Lively student bar in Birmingham's Vale Village: cheap drinks, evening vibes, and endless campus camaraderie from 6pm—your go-to for pints and post-lecture laughs.
Boom Battle Bar Birmingham Broad Street
12.0 km
A lively Broad Street bar mixing axe throwing, karaoke, and games with cocktails for unforgettable nights out in Birmingham.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
12.0 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
PAVO Birmingham
11.8 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
12.0 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
12.0 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Snobs
12.0 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Popworld - Birmingham
12.1 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Reflex - Birmingham
12.1 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
12.1 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
12.4 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
What do you mean
12.7 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
King of clubs
12.8 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Mango Night Club
13.1 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Bambu Nightclub
13.1 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
13.1 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
13.2 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Nightingale Club
13.3 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly