Ponderosa Zoo

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About

Ponderosa Zoo has over 130 animals, various outdoor play areas, and a range of dining options for visitors.

Opening Hours

  • The zoo is open daily from 10am – 4pm, including bank holidays.
  • It is closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Dining Options

  • The gift shop is open from 10am – 4pm.
  • The coffee shop is open from 10am – 4pm (Open 7 days a week, with varying opening times).
  • The Pizza Shed operates from 12pm – 3pm (Subject to availability, closed during winter months).
  • The Lakeside Restaurant serves from 12.30pm – 3pm (Last food orders at 2.45pm, opening times may vary).

Accessibility

Ponderosa Zoo is committed to ensuring accessibility for all visitors. Wheelchair users and individuals with additional needs are welcome.

Wheelchair hire is available free of charge, but availability is limited. Visitors are encouraged to call in advance to reserve a wheelchair.

The zoo provides two main car parks, including a disabled car park, with free parking throughout the year.

Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the zoo, except in the Lemur Lookout. The admissions team should be informed if there is an assistance dog on-site.

Note: Dogs are not allowed in the zoo premises, and leaving them in parked cars is discouraged.

Lemur Lookout

Visitors can experience the charm of Black and White Ruffed Lemurs and Ring-tailed Lemurs up close in the purpose-built Lemur Lookout enclosure, completed in April 2021.

The Lemur Lookout is open daily from 11am – 12pm and 1.30pm – 3pm. Visitors should call on the morning of their visit to confirm availability.

Allergen information: Peanuts may be present in the Lemur enclosure as part of their diet.

Outdoor Play

Visitors can let their children enjoy outdoor adventure playgrounds, zip wire, air bouncers, and the beach, suitable for all age groups. They can relax on the picnic benches while their kids play.

Note: Air bouncers are open daily but may close during bad weather for safety reasons.

Lake

A beautiful on-site lake is home to Koi Carp. Visitors are advised to be cautious around the lake’s edge and refrain from feeding the fish.

Note: Grassy areas around the lake can get slippery in bad weather, so visitors should stick to the designated paths.

Ticket Options

For up to date admission costs, click here.

Plan your visit to Ponderosa Zoo today and explore the wonders of UK wildlife!

Where

Ponderosa Zoo, Off Smithies Lane, Heckmondwike, Wakefield, West Yorkshire, WF16 0PN
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