Dudley Zoo & Castle: A Visitor’s Guide
Dudley Zoo & Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the West Midlands and is regularly visited by guests staying at the Westmead Hotel.
With a castle that dates back more than 1,000 years and a zoo that is home to 200 different species of more than 1,500 animals, it is a must-see attraction for all of the family.
The Westmead Hotel Visitor's Guide To Dudley Zoo & Castle
With many of our guests opting for a day out at Dudley Zoo & Castle, we put together this handy guide which answers the most frequently asked questions and gives you an idea of what to expect during your visit.
Dudley Zoo & Castle: Frequently Asked Questions
Where Is Dudley Zoo & Castle?
Dudley Zoo & Castle, Castle Hill, Dudley, West Midlands, DY1 4QF (approximately 30 minutes drive from Westmead Hotel)
When Is Dudley Zoo & Castle Open?
Dudley Zoo & Castle is open every week day of the year except Christmas Day, with the gates opening at 10:00am
During the summer, Dudley Zoo & Castle closes at 6:00pm
In the winter, Dudley Zoo & Castle closes at 5:00pm
How Long Should I Spend At Dudley Zoo & Castle?
There is so much to see and do at Dudley Zoo & Castle, it makes for a whole-day experience
How Much Is Entry To Dudley Zoo & Castle?
As Dudley Zoo & Castle is a charity, they offer two different entry prices. The greater price includes a voluntary donation, while the lesser price removes it.
| Ticket Type | Price (with donation) | Price (no donation) |
| Adult | £19.50 | £17.70 |
| Child (aged 3-15) | £13.50 | £12.25 |
| Concession | £17.50 | £15.90 |
| Child (with disability) | £12.50 | £11.35 |
| Carer | Free | Free |
| Child (under 2) | Free | Free |
Prices are correct at the time of writing. Please check the Dudley Zoo & Castle website to book tickets or confirm prices before travelling
Is There Parking At Dudley Zoo & Castle?
Yes. Parking is available via Tipton Road. Parking is priced at £3.50 per vehicle, per day
Is Dudley Zoo & Castle Wheelchair-Accessible?
Dudley Zoo & Castle is located on an historic site, so there are steps and steep paths in some areas. In areas where access may not be possible, alternative services and interpretation is provided
When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Dudley Zoo & Castle?
Dudley Zoo & Castle is open all year round, so you can choose when you would prefer to visit
What Should I Wear To Dudley Zoo & Castle?
Flat, comfortable footwear is a must when visiting Dudley Zoo & Castle due to the uneven terrain. Otherwise, simply dress appropriately for the weather
Is Dudley Zoo & Castle Dog-Friendly?
Only assistance/guide dogs are able to enter Dudley Zoo & Castle
Does Dudley Zoo & Castle Have WiFi?
Public WiFi can be accessed in the picnic area and near the cafeteria. A name and email address is required to complete the connection
Dudley Zoo & Castle: Dedicated To Conservation
About Dudley Zoo
It was the owner of Dudley Castle, the third Earl of Dudley, who decided to convert the grounds into zoological gardens.
Berthold Lubetkin, the lead architect tasked with designing the zoo, developed a new building design using reinforced concrete called Tecton structures. There are 12 Tecton structures around the site of the zoo, all of which are Grade II listed buildings. In 2009, they received World Monuments Fund status.
Dudley Zoo opened to the public in May 1937 and is now home to more than 200 different species of animal.
About Dudley Castle
Dudley Castle began life as a motte and bailey castle, with construction completed in 1070.
In the 12th century, the Paganel family became lords of Dudley and took up residence in the castle. Ownership changed multiple times over the years and in the 17th century, under order of parliament, the keep, gatehouse and perimeter walls were decimated in order to prevent the castle being a threat.
In the mid-18th century, Dudley Castle was badly damaged in a fire that lasted 3 days. It was completely gutted and became a romantic ruin.
Mammals At Dudley Zoo
With almost 30 different species in residence, mammals are one of the most represented creatures at Dudley Zoo.
You can see red pandas, arctic foxes, meerkats, giraffes and many more mammals during your visit.
Cats At Dudley Zoo
There are 4 different species of cat at Dudley Zoo. Joao and Sadeep, the Sumatran tiger and tigress, are part of an international conservation project, with less than 400 now in the wild.
Primates At Dudley Zoo
From monkeys, chimpanzees and orangutangs, to the world's smallest primate (the pygmy marmoset), there are almost 20 different species of primates at Dudley Zoo.
Birds At Dudley Zoo
With more than 50 different species of bird, you can expect to see ducks, flamingos, kookaburras, along with many other feathered friends during your time at Dudley Zoo.
Native Species At Dudley Zoo
While many zoos focus on exotic animals not otherwise seen in the UK, Dudley Zoo also dedicates a lot of time to the protection and nurturing of species that are native to the UK.
Expect to see endangered snails, slugs, shrimps, spiders, moths and crayfish.
Reptiles At Dudley Zoo
The Reptile House opened in 1956 and continues to be one of the most popular areas of Dudley Zoo.
Snakes, crocodiles, iguanas, lizards and tortoises are the main attractions, along with many other equally impressive residents.
Amphibians At Dudley Zoo
Dudley Zoo's work with the axolotl has been instrumental for the survival of this species, which is listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as critically endangered.
As well as the axolotl, you will also find newts, frogs and salamanders hiding out here.
Dudley Zoo & Castle Fun Facts
1.The carnivores at the zoo eat 1,000kg of meat each month
2. The castle is allegedly one of the most haunted buildings in the UK
3. Some of the animals are fussy eaters and require specially prepared meals each day
How To Find Dudley Zoo & Castle
To reach Dudley Zoo & Castle from the Westmead Hotel, you need to proceed on the A441 and continue for approximately 2 miles until you reach Hopwood Park Interchange, before taking the 4th exit onto the M42 motorway.
Follow the M42 for around 7 miles before merging onto the M5 motorway. Continue for 10 miles before exiting at junction 2 towards Wolverhampton/Dudley/Sandwell.
Once on the A4123, continue onto the A461 before proceeding on the B4176. Turn right onto Parsons Street and then right again onto The Broadway after around 0.5 miles.
Continue along the A459 and Dudley Zoo & Castle will be on your left hand side.
Other Attractions Near Dudley Zoo & Castle
For the animal enthusiasts, West Midland Safari Park is nearby to both the Westmead Hotel and Dudley Zoo & Castle.
Alternatively, for those with a sweet tooth, a visit to Cadbury World is highly recommended.
Book Your West Midlands Escape
The Westmead Hotel is perfectly positioned on the outskirts of Birmingham, enabling wonderful transport links to the West Midlands and beyond.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a fresh, locally sourced lunch, dinner or afternoon tea, or somewhere comfortable to stay the night, our welcoming hotel is the perfect base for your business trip or staycation in the West Midlands.