Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park

Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is a 28-acre wildlife sanctuary situated in the village of Combe Martin, Devon, England. The park combines a traditional wildlife sanctuary with a unique dinosaur-themed attraction, making it a distinctive destination for visitors.

History and Development

The park's location has a history dating back to 1851 with the construction of Higher Leigh, a country house that was part of the larger Lee Barton estate. After being owned by the same family for nearly a century, the property was acquired by nuns from the Sacred Heart Convent in London. They repurposed the building as a convent and school for children evacuated during the Second World War. In the subsequent decades, the house served various purposes, including a woolly monkey sanctuary and a hotel, before falling into disrepair.

In 1985, Robert Butcher purchased the derelict property with initial intentions to convert the house into a nursing home. However, these plans shifted, and he established Combe Martin Wildlife Park, which opened its doors in 1986. The park underwent a significant transformation and renaming in 1992 to Combe Martin Wildlife & Dinosaur Park, marked by the introduction of animatronic dinosaurs. Additional attractions, such as the Tomb of the Pharaohs, the Dinosaur Museum, and the Dinosaur Playzone soft-play area, were added in later years.

In January 2025, the park faced challenges due to a severe storm, which led to the relocation of many of its animals. Following extensive repairs, the park was able to reopen for its season three months later than usual, in May.

Miniature Railway

A notable feature of Combe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park is its 15-inch gauge miniature railway. The railway, which now spans 500 yards, was initially shorter upon its opening in 1989. It was extended to its current length in 1991 and is currently known as the Dino Express. The train is powered by a Severn Lamb ‘Rio Grande’ MK2 locomotive.