Assistance dogs are not currently permitted inside Whipsnade Zoo because we have free-roaming animals such as mara, wallabies, Chinese water deer and muntjac around our Zoo. They use all of the Zoo and therefore we are not able to offer routes for assistance dogs at present.

Whipsnade Zoo, the UK's largest zoo, is famous for its "free-roaming" species that wander the 600-acre parkland alongside visitors. In 2026, the most common animals you will encounter roaming freely are Bennet's wallabies and Chinese water deer. It is not uncommon to see a wallaby hopping across the road or lounging near the "Lookout" cafe. Additionally, you will see maras (large South American rodents that look like a cross between a rabbit and a small deer) and various species of peacocks and waterfowl. While the "Big Five" (lions, tigers, rhinos, etc.) are kept in vast, secure paddocks, the zoo's design emphasizes an open-landscape feel where the smaller, non-aggressive species are given the run of the grounds. This unique setup allows for incredible photo opportunities and a sense of "safari-style" immersion. Visitors are reminded in 2026 to keep a respectful distance and never feed the free-roaming animals, as they have specialized diets managed by the ZSL (Zoological Society of London) conservation teams to ensure their long-term health.