Ponderosa Zoo

Ponderosa Zoo

Ponderosa Zoo is located near Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire. They are home to over 140 animals and a couple of outdoor play areas. They first opened in 1991 and although not a large zoo there has been a lot of recent investment and it is a nice day out.

What is there to do at Ponderosa Zoo?

Your visit starts with a wallaby enclosure and then on to see their meerkats and indoor reptiles. They have some interesting animals, including porcupines, raccoon dogs and monkeys. There is also a new nocturnal house. There are a couple of outdoor play areas. Older kids have a playframe plus one for younger kids including a bouncy castle, climbing net and a tube slide. A little further around there is another play frame that is suited to toddlers.

Also on-site there is a pretty pond, a large sandpit area with a large boat kids can play on plus many more animals. We also saw tortoises, birds, otters, wild cats, reindeer and more. Our favourite is the new walk-through enclosure for some of their lemurs. You can get really close to their lemurs and it’s a lovely place for them.

As well as a cafe on-site there is also an excellent restaurant that serves a wonderful Sunday lunch. The Lakeside restaurant can be pre-booked online and it is within the grounds of the zoo. You can also book animal experiences including their meerkats and also their otters. Children can take part from the age of 8.

Important Information Ponderosa Zoo

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe and a restaurant serving hot and cold food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

Small zoo home to around 140 animals, including play areas and a lemur walk-through. There are toilets, a cafe and a restaurant.

What are the ticket prices?

An adult ticket costs £8.95 and children aged 3-15 £7.95. Under 3s are free, . Other pricing options including family tickets are available.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is free parking.

When are they open?

Ponderosa Zoo is open almost all year round, they are closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. For up-to-date opening times please visit their website.