Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe is not like a normal zoo. It mixes living animals with life-sized dinosaurs. Families visit to see creatures from today and from millions of years ago.
Many people search for Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe because it promises fun, learning, and adventure in one place. It looks exciting for kids, but parents also want to know if it is safe, if it is worth the money, and if there are any problems they should know about.
This guide is honest. It will share both the good and the bad sides of the park. You will see the pros, the cons, and some real truths that other guides do not mention.
What Is Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park?
The park sits in North Devon, close to the seaside town of Ilfracombe, England. It is built inside a green valley, which gives it a natural backdrop. The park covers about 28 acres and is part of the North Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Visitors who love green valleys and wildlife might also enjoy exploring Golden Gate Canyon State Park for more outdoor adventures.
It is famous for its mix of real wildlife and prehistoric models. You will find animals like wolves and leopards, but also animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar. This unusual mix is what makes it stand out from normal wildlife parks or zoos.
The place has been running for many years as a family-owned attraction. It draws visitors from across the UK, especially during the summer holidays.
Real Animals You Can See
One of the main reasons people visit is to meet the animals. The park has a wide mix, from small critters to rare predators. Some of the highlights include:
- Amur leopards – an endangered big cat.
- Hudson Bay and grey wolves – often shown in feeding sessions.
- Penguins – always a hit with families.
- Sea lions – known for their lively daily shows.
- Primates and meerkats – fun to watch in their enclosures.
Pros
- You can see animals that are rare in the UK, like Amur leopards.
- Daily shows, such as the sea lion display, make the visit lively.
- The valley setting feels closer to nature than city zoos.
Cons
- Some animals are hard to spot because of their enclosures or the hills.
- The space is limited compared to large wildlife parks.
- Busy days can make it hard to get a good view.
Dinosaur Attractions – Fun or Just Hype?
The dinosaur side of Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe is one of its biggest draws. Walking along the trails, visitors meet life-sized dinosaur models. These animatronics move, roar, and sometimes even surprise people with sound effects. For children, it feels like stepping back into the world of the Jurassic.
Inside the Dinosaur Museum, you will find real fossil displays. One of the most popular is a giant nest of fossilized dinosaur eggs. The museum also holds a full-size skeleton of an Allosaurus, which gives families a chance to see the scale of these ancient creatures.
Another highlight is the Dino Express ride. It looks calm at first but ends with a huge splash of water. Some love the surprise, but others find it a bit much, especially if they were not ready to get wet.
Pros
- Great for kids who love dinosaurs.
- The animatronics make it interactive instead of just static models.
- The museum blends fun with real learning about fossils.
Cons
- Some dinosaur models look a little old and worn.
- The ride soaks visitors, which is not fun in cold weather.
- Adults may find it less exciting than children.
Extra Themed Areas
Beyond animals and dinosaurs, the park offers themed zones that add variety to the visit. Two of the most talked about are the Tomb of the Pharaohs and the Critter Cavern.
The Tomb of the Pharaohs is designed like an ancient Egyptian adventure. It mixes history with entertainment, giving visitors puzzles and visuals that feel like exploring a lost tomb. While it is creative, some younger kids find it dark or a little scary.
The Critter Cavern focuses on small creatures. Here you can see reptiles, insects, and other crawling critters that many parks ignore. It helps children learn about species they would never see up close in daily life.
Pros
- Unique attractions you will not find in most zoos.
- Adds variety beyond animals and dinosaurs.
- Educational for children interested in bugs and history.
Cons
- Tomb of the Pharaohs can be scary for toddlers.
- Not everyone enjoys looking at insects or reptiles.
- Both areas are smaller compared to the main park zones.
Indoor and Outdoor Family Fun
The park is built with families in mind, which is why it offers both indoor and outdoor play. This makes it useful in North Devon, where the weather can change fast.
The Dinosaurus Playzone is a large indoor soft play area. It is especially handy on rainy days when outdoor walking is less fun. Children can run, climb, and play while parents take a short break.
Outside, the water rides add more excitement. The most famous is the Dino Express splash ending, which drops 7,500 gallons of water in seconds. This always gets laughs, though many parents bring extra clothes just in case.
Pros
- Works for all weather, rain or shine.
- Keeps kids entertained for hours.
- Good mix of active play and themed rides.
Cons
- The indoor play zone can get crowded on wet days.
- Outdoor splash rides are not ideal in colder months.
- Parents may find supervision tiring in busy areas.
Is It Really Safe?
One of the main questions parents ask is, “Is Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe safe for kids?” The short answer is yes, but with some limits to keep in mind.
The animals are held in secure enclosures. You can see Amur leopards, wolves, and sea lions from safe viewing spots. Signs remind visitors not to feed or touch animals, and staff are present at shows.
The water rides bring another layer of risk. The Dino Express ends with a huge splash, which can make paths slippery. Families with toddlers should walk carefully and wear good shoes.
The park is built on steep hills. This makes it tough for wheelchairs, strollers, and older visitors. Some paths are narrow and can feel unsafe in wet weather. Still, rails and signs are placed in busy areas to guide people.
Overall, the park takes safety seriously, but visitors need to plan ahead. Proper shoes, extra care on hills, and watching children closely make the day safer.
Issues and Things Visitors Complain About
Even though the park has many fans, it is not perfect. A quick look at Tripadvisor and Google Reviews shows some common complaints.
The steep paths are the top issue. Many reviews say it is hard for elderly people or anyone with mobility problems. Parents pushing strollers also find it tiring.
Food inside the cafes is another weak point. Prices are higher than local shops, and some visitors say the food is basic. Bringing your own snacks may be smarter if you want to save money.
Parts of the park need renovation. A few dinosaur models look old, and some play areas show signs of wear. Families who visit often notice these details more.
The reviews online are mixed. Some give five stars for a magical family day. Others give three stars, saying it could improve with updates.
Pros and Cons (Visitor Truth)
Like any attraction, the park has both good and bad sides.
Pros
- Wide range of real animals, from leopards to sea lions.
- Unique dinosaur theme that blends fun with learning.
- Daily shows and talks that keep families engaged.
- Located in beautiful North Devon, near beaches and cliffs.
Cons
- Very steep paths, not easy for everyone.
- Food is pricey and not always the best quality.
- Not all attractions are open during colder months.
- Some exhibits and dinos feel a little dated.
Accessibility – Can Everyone Enjoy It?
The park tries to welcome everyone, but it has limits. Wheelchair users can access some parts, yet the steep paths make it tough. Many visitors say pushing a stroller uphill feels like a workout.
Parking is free, but the overflow lot is far away. Walking from there can be tiring, especially with kids. Baby-changing rooms are available, which helps parents. Still, the hilly layout means not every family will find it easy.
The honest truth: Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe is not 100% accessible for all. Families should plan ahead and check the map before visiting. Programs like Places for People show how parks and attractions can support families and local communities.
Tickets, Opening Hours, and Best Time to Visit
The park is open seasonally, mainly from spring to autumn. Hours can change, so it’s best to check the official site before going.
Tickets are cheaper online than at the gate. Buying in advance also avoids long lines. Family passes and return vouchers are good ways to save money if you live nearby.
The best time to visit is on dry days in summer. The rides and outdoor trails feel more fun when the weather is clear.
Tips Before You Go
Visitors often share small tips that make the day smoother.
- Wear comfy shoes for the steep paths.
- Bring a raincoat or spare clothes for splash rides.
- Pack snacks if you don’t want to buy pricey cafe food.
- Plan at least half a day to see everything without rushing.
Final Verdict – Is It Worth Visiting?
So, should you go to Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe? For families with young kids, the answer is yes. The mix of dinosaurs and real animals makes the day magical.
For elderly visitors or those with mobility problems, it may be tough. The hills are steep, and resting areas are limited.
Animal lovers will enjoy the shows and variety, but it is not a full zoo. Some animals are hard to spot, and the park is smaller than big city zoos.
The fair answer: it’s worth visiting if you plan well. Go in good weather, bring snacks, and be ready for hills.
FAQs About Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe
How long does it take to see everything?
Most families spend 4 to 6 hours at the park. This allows enough time to see animals, dinosaurs, rides, and shows.
Is it good for toddlers?
Yes, toddlers enjoy the dinosaur trail and play zones. Strollers may be tricky on the steep hills.
Can you bring your own food?
Yes, visitors can bring snacks or a picnic. Many families do this to avoid high cafe prices.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking is free for all visitors. Overflow parking is farther away and requires walking uphill.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not allowed inside the park. Only guide dogs for disabled visitors are accepted.
Disclaimer: This guide is just for information. Details about Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park Ilfracombe may change. We are not part of the park. Check the park’s official site for the latest info. Safety tips here are general. Always follow park rules and use your own judgment.
I’m Emma Rose, the founder of tryhardguides.co.uk, and a content creator with a passion for writing across multiple niches—including health, lifestyle, tech, career, and personal development. I love turning complex ideas into relatable, easy-to-digest content that helps people learn, grow, and stay inspired. Whether I’m sharing practical tips or diving into thought-provoking topics, my goal is always to add real value and connect with readers on a deeper level.