Opening Times & Admission Prices and Covid Precautions

Covid safety precautions:
 
With the relaxation of government measures regarding social distancing and face coverings we still want to ensure the safety of our visitors and staff. 
We ask visitors to respect other peoples space and wear a face covering if the building becomes busy. We have hand sanitiser for use on entry and exit and around the Otter Sanctuary.
Should any of your family or group feel poorly in any way, please don't visit until you are fully recovered.
We are open from 10.30am to 3.00pm through the winter period.
CLOSED DECEMBER 24th, 25th and 26th.
Tickets can be pre booked or you are welcome to pay on arrival.
All pre-booked tickets can be cancelled for a full refund up to 24 hours before the visit. They are non-refundable in the case of a no show on the day, sorry.
Tickets are valid all day and you are welcome to leave the main building to enjoy the other things to do outside in the gardens and grounds and return again later.
There is a small children's playground and a lovely walk beside the River Dart to enjoy where we regularly have sightings of wild otters.

 

Due to a large special event at our site we have no on site parking on the following dates: November 20th, 21st, 26th-28th, December 2nd-6th, 9th-13th, 15th-23rd. There is a free park and ride service from River Dart Country Park,Ashburton TQ13 7NP. Look for the signs for the Polar Express event to use this free service. Alternatively there are car parks within the town of Buckfastleigh that are just a few minutes walk from our door. We would recommend this latter option to give visitors more flexibility with timings for arrival and departure.

The feeding times at 11.30am, 2.00pm  are the best times to see and enjoy the otters, so plan your visit around these times.
 
Don't forget David, our head keeper Keira and staff are always on hand to talk about the otters and our conservation work at otter feeding time and any other time during your visit.

We are open for "Otter Experiences" throughout the year but pre-booking is essential.

Dogs

We regret dogs are not permitted  ( the very hot humid butterfly house is totally unsuitable for all dogs who get very distressed in a very short time. Also in the otter areas the presence of dogs causes upset and stress in our resident otter groups.) . However we have a large car park with shady areas (come early) and a lovely walk beside the river Dart where your dog can run and swim. Your ticket allows re entry throughout the day giving you the opportunity to leave someone with your dog at all times while it remains outside. If you have an assistance dog we are always happy to dog-sit your dog for you in our reception while you visit so please bring a friend to help you during your visit. There is no charge for your friend.

Disabled Access
We are wheelchair friendly, but some of the fences around the otter pens are too high to see over while seated and some pathways a little narrow. So we  ask those using wheelchairs to chat to our keepers who will help you find the best vantage points.
Don't forget we always advise where animals and wildlife are concerned for good health and hygiene reasons always wash your hands after your visit.
Remember otters can bite so parents please supervise your children at all times.
Current admission prices
 Adults £9.00
Senior Citizens £8.00
Children 3 - 15 years £7.00
Family - 2 adults and 2 children £27.00