Hertfordshire Zoo – Broxbourne

Hello! If you’re looking for a brilliant day out in Broxbourne, you should definitely check out Hertfordshire Zoo, which many people still fondly know by its former name, Paradise Wildlife Park. It is a fantastic, family-run zoo located on White Stubbs Lane that has undergone a huge transformation over the years to become a leading light for animal conservation.

What Can You See and Do?

There is so much packed into this park! You can get incredibly close to over 800 animals, including majestic Amur tigers, white lions, and snow leopards. One of the real highlights is the 

World of Dinosaurs, which features over 40 life-sized, moving animatronic dinosaurs—it’s like walking straight into a prehistoric jungle!

You can also enjoy:

• Jaguar Jungle: A unique habitat where you might even see jaguars swimming.
• Sun Bear Heights: A treetop walkway that lets you see sun bears and binturongs from a whole new perspective.
• The Rex Express: A fun train ride that takes you through the dinosaur territory.
• Interactive Play: There are several themed adventure playgrounds, an indoor soft play area called Tumble Jungle, and even a splash pool area known as Paradise Lagoon for those sunny days.

How Long to Spend There

On average, visitors spend about 3 to 5 hours here. It’s a very manageable size, so you won’t feel completely wiped out by the end of the day, but there’s more than enough to keep you busy from morning until mid-afternoon.

Who is it Best For?

This attraction is a dream for families with children aged 1–11. The combination of animals, dinosaurs, and massive play areas is specifically designed to keep younger kids engaged.

What about teenagers? While the “cute” animals might not always hit the mark, the 

World of Dinosaurs and the more immersive habitats like Land of the Tigers usually keep them occupied. The park is also famous for being the filming location of the CBBC show One Zoo Three, which many older kids and teens enjoy following.

Best Time to Visit

• Quieter Times: Term-time weekdays are your best bet if you want to avoid the crowds.
• More Fun: If you like a bit of a buzz, school holidays often feature special themed weekends or character visits like Bluey or CoComelon.
• Sunny Days: Don’t forget your swimwear for the Paradise Lagoon splash park!

Budget-Friendly Tips & Advice

• Annual Memberships: If you live nearby and plan to visit more than a few times a year, an annual membership is highly cost-effective and often includes extensions or special perks.
• Discounts: Keep an eye out for Blue Light discounts or similar community offers, as the zoo often looks to support local workers and services.
• Food & Drink: There are plenty of picnic tables if you want to bring your own lunch and save some money. If you prefer to eat on-site, Restaurant Pangea offers a variety of family-friendly meals.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable walking shoes! While the paths are well-maintained, you’ll be on your feet a lot.

Nearby Enhancements

If you want to make a full weekend of it, the surrounding Broxbourne area has some lovely spots. You’re right on the edge of the 

Lee Valley Regional Park, which is perfect if you want to follow up your zoo visit with a calm walk or cycle.