Theden Animal Park

The animal enclosures at Theden spread across the grounds just outside Newton Abbot, and it's the sort of place where you'll spend a couple of hours watching everything from llamas to more exotic creatures. The layout feels properly rural - you're moving between paddocks and pens rather than queuing past glass panels, which gives the whole thing a bit more breathing room than your typical zoo.

Families with younger kids will get the most mileage here. The hands-on element - feeding animals, getting up close - keeps children engaged without requiring them to read seventeen interpretation boards. Older kids might find it a touch quiet if they're after adrenaline, but anyone interested in animal behaviour or keen on photography will appreciate the unhurried pace.

You'll want to check ahead about admission fees and opening hours before making the trip, as details aren't readily available online. Allow a good two to three hours if you're not rushing. The surrounding area is cracking for a longer stay - Oakmoor Touring Park sits just 2.7 miles away and caters to adults only if you want a bit of peace and quiet after a family day out. Dornafield is slightly further at 3.8 miles and takes motorhomes, while The Smithy and Brownscombe offer luxury glamping options if you fancy something more polished.

Newton Abbot itself is well connected, so you're not completely cut off from other Dartmoor attractions if the weather turns or you fancy a change of pace. It's worth the detour if you're already in the area, though I'd ring ahead first.