Hoo Zoo in Shropshire has once again been named the second best zoo in the UK by TripAdvisor for the fourth consecutive year. The popular Telford attraction, which welcomes between 90,000 and 100,000 visitors annually, is celebrating this achievement while preparing for a special May Bank Holiday weekend to mark its 35th birthday.
A Big Birthday Bash
From Saturday, May 2 to Monday, May 4, the zoo will host a ‘Big Birthday Bash’. Shropshire locals are encouraged to come along and enjoy the zoo’s popular walkthroughs and attractions. The event coincides with the zoo’s 35th anniversary celebrations.
Will Dorrell, the owner of Hoo Zoo, expressed his gratitude to visitors: “Without our visitors, ultimately, we’d be nothing so we appreciate that more than anything. We’re delighted; the entire team has worked very hard to make sure we provide as good a day out for people as possible, while still caring for the animals. It’s nice to know that we’ve beaten a lot of the bigger zoos. Hopefully, it shows that people are looking for something a little bit different, a more personal touch that perhaps we can provide that the big zoos can’t.”
He added: “When you visit us, you’re not going to find state-of-the-art massive buildings and paved paths. Hopefully, what you are going to find is something that tickles that family feeling. Obviously, now in our 35th year. I’ve got two young kids myself, I’ve literally grown up here so we know how important it is for people, and what people are looking for in a day out.”
10 Reasons to Visit Hoo Zoo
The zoo is home to just under 300 animals, including the “most famous” one: Cinnamon the Capybara, who famously went missing for a week in September 2024 but is now safely back. Will Dorrell shared 10 reasons why you should visit Hoo Zoo in Telford:
1. Cinnamon the Capybara
Will Dorrell describes Cinnamon as the world's most famous capybara and the number one reason to visit the zoo.
2. Home to Realistic Dinosaur Figures
The zoo features animatronic dinosaurs and prehistoric beasts that are extremely popular with children and families.
3. Home to 300 Animals
These animals include domestic goats. Hoo Zoo offers families the chance to learn about goats and farming practices.
Other reasons include the zoo’s walkthrough experiences, the personal touch, and the family-friendly atmosphere. With its 35th birthday celebrations and ongoing commitment to providing a unique day out, Hoo Zoo continues to be a top destination for families in the West Midlands and beyond.
