10/12/2022
Are you ready for a journey back in time, to an era when colossal creatures roamed the Earth? The UK boasts an impressive array of dinosaur parks, each offering a unique glimpse into the prehistoric world. From animatronic giants that roar to immersive trails through ancient woodlands, there's an adventure waiting for every budding palaeontologist. If you're specifically wondering how to get to the captivating Dino Express and the surprising Caveman Village, you're in for a treat – this particular highlight is nestled within one of North Devon's most exciting attractions.
Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park: Home of the Dino Express and Caveman Village
For those eager to experience the unique thrill of the Dino Express and stumble upon the quirky Caveman Village, your destination is the Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park in North Devon. This fantastic park offers a blend of wildlife encounters and prehistoric wonders, making it a perfect day out for families. The Dino Express itself isn't just a ride; it's an immersive part of your journey into the park's dinosaur realm. It promises a short, exciting ride through a dark tunnel, leading directly to the Caveman Village where a surprising encounter with 'Dave the dinosaur' awaits with a sneeze that's sure to make you jump!
Getting There: Your Route to Prehistoric Fun in North Devon
The Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is situated at Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 0NG. As with many popular attractions in more rural areas of the UK, driving is often the most convenient way to reach the park, offering flexibility and ease, especially when travelling with children. The park is well-signposted once you get close to the Combe Martin area.
If you're travelling by car:
- From the North (e.g., Bristol, M5): Take the M5 South and exit at Junction 27 for the A361 towards Barnstaple. Continue on the A361 until you see signs for Combe Martin, then follow local signage to the park. The journey offers scenic views of the Devon countryside.
- From the East (e.g., Exeter): Follow the A377 towards Barnstaple, then connect to the A39 and A3123 towards Combe Martin.
- From the South (e.g., Plymouth): Take the A38 and then the A361 towards Barnstaple, then follow signs for Combe Martin.
For those relying on public transport, it's a bit more of a journey but certainly achievable. The nearest main train station is Barnstaple, which has connections from Exeter St Davids. From Barnstaple, you would typically need to take a local bus service towards Combe Martin. Bus services can be less frequent, especially on weekends and during off-peak seasons, so it's always advisable to check bus timetables in advance (e.g., Stagecoach services in North Devon). A taxi from Barnstaple station would also be an option for a more direct route.
What to Expect Beyond the Dino Express
While the Dino Express and Caveman Village are undoubted highlights, Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park offers much more to explore. The park is home to over 19 animatronic and static dinosaurs, including an impressive life-sized T-Rex, allowing for fantastic photo opportunities and a real sense of scale. Beyond the roaring giants, there's also a small dinosaur museum, showcasing both real and replica fossils, providing an educational insight into these ancient creatures. For younger visitors, the indoor dinosaurus playzone offers a safe and fun environment to burn off some energy.
But it’s not just about dinosaurs! As a wildlife park, Combe Martin also features a diverse collection of animals, allowing visitors to transition from prehistoric beasts to modern-day wildlife. Additionally, unique attractions like the Tomb of the Pharaohs and beautiful botanical gardens provide a varied experience, ensuring there's something to capture the interest of every family member. This park truly offers a full day of entertainment, blending education with excitement and natural beauty.
Ticket Information for Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park
Planning your visit includes understanding the costs. As of the latest information, ticket prices for Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park are:
- Adults (15+): £15.49
- Children (3-15): £14.49
- Children under 3: FREE
It's always recommended to check the official park website for the most up-to-date pricing, opening times, and any potential online booking discounts before your visit, especially during peak seasons or school holidays.
Exploring Other Roaring Adventures: Top UK Dinosaur Parks
The UK is rich with dinosaur attractions, each offering its own unique prehistoric experience. While Combe Martin provides the specific Dino Express journey, here's a glimpse at some other fantastic parks across the nation that are well worth considering for your next family day out. These parks cater to different age groups and offer a variety of attractions beyond just dinosaurs, making them versatile choices for family fun.
| Park Name | Location | Key Dinosaur Attraction | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure | Norfolk | UK’s largest dinosaur adventure park with a vast trail and enormous Brachiosaurus. | Maze, high ropes, dinosaur dig, indoor soft play, summer splash zone. |
| Hertfordshire Zoo (World of Dinosaurs) | Hertfordshire | Impressive animatronic dinosaurs, Rex Express train, Jurassic Park photo ops. | Predominantly a zoo with diverse animals (white lions, anaconda), excellent playground. |
| Knebworth House | Hertfordshire | 72 life-sized dinosaurs on a trail with sound boxes and a huge chalkboard. | Historic house, fabulous play area (Knebworth Fort), giant slides, maze, hosts events. |
| Restricted Area 5 at Blackgang Chine | Isle of Wight | Life-sized moving dinosaurs in a dedicated 'Restricted Area 5' land. | UK’s oldest theme park, 5 other themed lands (Underwater Kingdom, Pirate Cove etc.). |
| The Dinosaur Park Tenby | Wales | Over 30 dinosaurs on a woodland trail, interactive dinosaur activities. | Aimed at younger children, iSand box, 'Draw Alive', various rides and attractions. |
| Torquay’s Dinosaur World | Devon | Full-size and scaled dinosaurs, fossils, explorer quiz, sit on a deadly dinosaur. | More of an indoor exhibition/museum experience, great for all weather. |
| Wingham Wildlife Park | Kent | Great Dinosaur Park with 22 informative dinosaurs (Dinosaur A-Z). | Primarily an animal park with a wide range of wildlife, educational focus. |
| Paultons Park Lost Kingdom | Hampshire | Jurassic themed rides (2 rollercoasters), animatronic dinosaurs, some wander freely. | Home to Peppa Pig World, excellent for younger families, high-quality theme park. |
| Dino Park Dumfries | Scotland | 15 dinosaurs, Dino Den stories, Dino Mine, bouncy dinosaur, fossil digging. | Indoor soft play, diverse range of dinosaur-themed activities. |
Tips for a Roaringly Good Day Out
Visiting a dinosaur park is an exciting prospect, but a little planning can ensure your day is as smooth as a polished fossil. Here are some top tips:
- Book in Advance: Especially for popular parks and during peak times (school holidays, weekends), booking your tickets online beforehand can often save you money and guarantee entry. Many parks operate timed entry slots.
- Check Opening Times: Park opening and closing times can vary seasonally. Always check the official website before you travel.
- Weather Preparedness: The British weather is famously unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sun cream, regardless of the forecast. Many parks have outdoor trails, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Food and Drink: Most parks have cafes and eateries, but packing a picnic can be a cost-effective option. Check the park's policy on bringing your own food.
- Pushchair/Wheelchair Access: If you're visiting with very young children or those with mobility issues, check the park's accessibility information. Dinosaur trails often involve uneven paths.
- Capture the Memories: Don't forget your camera! The life-sized dinosaurs and themed attractions make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions About UK Dinosaur Parks
Here are some common questions visitors have when planning their prehistoric adventures in the UK.
How do you get to Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park?
The park is located at Combe Martin, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 0NG. The easiest way to get there is by car, following major roads like the A361 towards Barnstaple, then local signs to Combe Martin. Public transport is possible via train to Barnstaple, followed by a local bus or taxi, but requires more planning due to potentially infrequent services.
What exactly is the Dino Express at Combe Martin?
The Dino Express is a unique narrow-gauge train ride within Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park. It takes visitors on a short journey through a dark tunnel, leading them directly into the Caveman Village, where a surprising interactive element (Dave the dinosaur's sneeze!) awaits, adding an element of fun and discovery to the dinosaur experience.
Are there other notable dinosaur attractions in the UK?
Absolutely! Beyond Combe Martin, the UK is home to many fantastic dinosaur parks and attractions, including Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure (Norfolk), Hertfordshire Zoo's World of Dinosaurs, Knebworth House (Hertfordshire), Blackgang Chine's Restricted Area 5 (Isle of Wight), The Dinosaur Park Tenby (Wales), and Paultons Park Lost Kingdom (Hampshire), among others. Each offers a unique experience, from animatronic displays to extensive trails and interactive digs.
What is DinoCon?
DinoCon is the UK’s largest Palaeontology themed convention. It celebrates all things prehistoric with a focus on education and fun. It features talks and presentations from palaeontologists, stalls selling palaeo paraphernalia, exclusive palaeoart workshops, and much more. While its name includes 'Dino', it welcomes all aspects of palaeontology, not just dinosaurs. DinoCon 2025 is scheduled for Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th of August 2025 at the University of Exeter.
Can I find real dinosaur fossils or bones in UK museums?
Yes, many museums across the UK house impressive collections of real dinosaur bones and fossils. The Natural History Museum in London is arguably the most famous, featuring a large moving T-Rex and extensive fossil displays. Other excellent dinosaur museums include The Dinosaur Museum (Dorchester), Dinosaur Isle (Isle of Wight), New Walk Museum (Leicester), and the World Museum (Liverpool), to name a few. These are fantastic educational resources, especially on a rainy day.
What is the Jurassic Coast?
The Jurassic Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site stretching 95 miles along the Dorset and East Devon coasts in England. It's famous for its unique geological features and abundant fossils, offering a continuous sequence of Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous rock formations. It's a prime location for fossil hunting (always check guidelines beforehand) and exploring the natural history of dinosaurs and other prehistoric life in their original context. It's a natural wonder for enthusiasts.
Whether you're planning to ride the Dino Express at Combe Martin or embark on another prehistoric adventure across the UK, these parks offer incredible opportunities for learning, exploration, and creating lasting family memories. Get ready to roar with excitement!
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