The Dudley Zoological Gardens, one of the prime Dudley attractions, is an entertaining sojourn
for the entire family. Set in an expansive 40 acre property with spectacular views over the
surrounding Black Country region, the Zoological Gardens feature one of the most varied animal
collections in the United Kingdom. The zoo has been constructed within the lands of Dudley Castle;
when visitors encounter the castle they will also have entered the zoo. A trip to the zoo is
inseparable from a visit to the castle as guests will realise as they admire the old ruins while
strolling around the gardens.
Like many other zoos located in urban areas, Dudley Zoo relocated its elephants so that the
gentle giants could enjoy more spacious enclosures. However many large exotic animals remain
including lions, tigers, giraffes, wallabies, reindeer and snow leopards. Sea lions are housed in a
suitable pool environment. Numerous primate species are represented in the zoo’s collection, and
additionally the visitor will find a reptile house and an aviary.
In total the zoo now contains examples of more than 200 species amounting to over 1,000
individuals. Many of these creatures fall under the endangered species list and are the result of
effective breeding programmes. In its continuous quest to promote the welfare of endangered species
an ‘Adopt an Animal’ programme has been established which visitors are encouraged to support.
The Dudley Zoological Gardens is located a mere 2 miles from the Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill
Dudley, a fine accommodation which provides modern amenities in a convenient location.