DJL Exotics
Frinton-on-Sea, Essex
About DJL Exotics
Are you ready to step into a world of wonder? If you’re looking for an interactive animal experience where you can truly connect with creatures and discover their world, DJL Exotics is your perfect destination. Located in the charming village of Kirby-le-Soken, right on the doorstep of Frinton-on-Sea, we offer something truly unique: a private, hands-on journey into the fascinating world of exotic creatures.
At DJL Exotics, we believe that the best way to learn about nature is to experience it firsthand. We’ve moved away from the traditional "look-but-don't-touch" approach to create an environment where curiosity is encouraged, and every guest gets to be a VIP. Whether you are a lifelong reptile enthusiast, a family looking for a standout weekend activity, or a parent seeking a calm, inclusive environment for a child with specific needs, we are here to make your visit unforgettable.
🦎 Meet Our Incredible Residents
The star of the show is, of course, our animal family! We are thrilled to share that our collection has grown, and we now host 17 different fascinating species for you to meet. Every single session is an immersive adventure where you can get up close and personal with a vibrant variety of life.
Imagine the excitement of:
* Gentle Giants: Feeling the surprising weight and cool, smooth scales of our beautiful snakes.
* The Mini-Dinosaur: Meeting our Ackie Monitor Lizard! Get up close with this intelligent "mini-dragon" and marvel at the prehistoric charm of one of the world’s brainiest reptiles.
* Charming Climbers: Watching the curious antics of our geckos as they show off their amazing sticky feet.
Because our sessions are one hour long, you aren’t rushed. You have plenty of time to ask our expert keepers every question you can think of, from "What does a snake eat?" to "How do geckos change color?" Our team lives and breathes animal care, and their passion is infectious!
💎 The Power of Private Experiences
What truly sets DJL Exotics apart is our commitment to exclusivity. Our sessions are completely private, so when you book with us, the space is yours.
This private setting creates a relaxed atmosphere that allows the animals to be calm and the visitors to be fully engaged. It’s perfect for:
* Families: Who want a dedicated hour of bonding and shared discovery.
* Small Groups: Looking for a unique, intimate activity that stands out from the crowd.
* Nervous Explorers: If someone in your group is a little hesitant about creepy-crawlies, our private setting allows us to go at their pace, building confidence through gentle, supervised interaction.
🌈 Proudly Inclusive & SEND-Friendly
At the heart of DJL Exotics is a mission of inclusion. We understand that traditional attractions can sometimes be overwhelming with loud noises, large crowds, and bright lights can make a day out difficult for some.
We have specifically designed our experience to be SEND-friendly. Because our sessions are private, we can control the environment completely. We tailor every single encounter to the specific comfort levels and sensory needs of our guests. Whether it’s keeping things quiet and focused or providing a more high-energy "show and tell," we adapt to you. Our goal is to ensure every visitor, regardless of their needs, leaves feeling empowered and inspired by the animal kingdom.
🏆 5-Star Excellence You Can Trust
When you visit us, you are in safe hands. DJL Exotics is proud to hold a 5-star Animal Activities License. This is the highest possible rating, and it reflects our unwavering dedication to two things: the absolute best welfare for our animals and the highest quality experience for our guests.
We don't just meet the standards; we strive to exceed them. Our enclosures are meticulously maintained, our animals are handled with love and respect, and our educational content is constantly updated to be as accurate and engaging as possible. Plus, because we are an indoor attraction, we are the perfect "weather-proof" plan. Rain, wind, or shine, the tropical world of DJL Exotics is always warm and welcoming!
🎉 Celebrate Your Special Moments
Looking for a birthday party that will be the talk of the school gates? Or perhaps an anniversary surprise that’s a little bit different? Our private sessions are the perfect backdrop for celebrations. We love making people feel special, and there is nothing quite like a photo of a birthday child holding a python to make a memory last forever.
We are always evolving and growing. We are constantly looking at ways to improve our habitats and introduce even more amazing species to our visitors. Every time you return to DJL Exotics, there is a chance to see something new!
📍 Plan Your Visit Today
We are conveniently located in Kirby-le-Soken, making us a great addition to a day trip to the Essex coast. Whether you’re a local or visiting Frinton-on-Sea for the holidays, we invite you to come and see why we have earned such glowing reviews.
Why Choose Us?
* Interactive Fun: 60 minutes of hands-on engagement with 17 species.
* Expert Guidance: Learn from keepers who truly care.
* Safe & Supervised: A controlled environment perfect for all ages.
* Unbeatable Value: A private VIP experience at a family-friendly price.
Spaces for our private sessions are limited and tend to book up quickly, especially on weekends and school holidays. Don’t miss your chance to hold a piece of the wild in your hands!
Ready to start your adventure? Book your private session at DJL Exotics today and prepare to be amazed!
A Personalised Animal Handling Experience for All Ages
At DJL Exotics, we believe the best memories are made when you step away from the screen and into the wild. You don’t just observe our incredible animals from a distance; you get up close and personal in a hands-on experience designed to spark wonder. With 17 fascinating species waiting to meet you, including our intelligent Ackie Monitor Lizard and charming geckos, every session is a bespoke adventure tailored specifically to your family.
Our guests love the interactive flow of our private one-hour sessions. In a relaxed, friendly setting, you’ll have the rare opportunity to handle a variety of exotic creatures while discovering their secret lives and amazing "superpowers." Whether it’s the surprising feel of a snake’s smooth scales, the busy scuttle of our "clean-up crew" isopods, or the breathtaking moment you meet a friendly tarantula, there is something to captivate everyone.
With a perfect 5-star reputation, DJL Exotics is famous for delivering more than just a visit—it’s a true connection with nature. Visitors tell us they appreciate our passion and the unique chance to bond with creatures they wouldn’t normally encounter. It’s fun, it’s fascinating, and it’s an adventure that leaves every age group smiling.
The Ultimate Hands-On Animal Experience to Discover & Learn
See the animal kingdom in a whole new light! Our sessions are designed to be a voyage of discovery where the animals are the stars and you are the VIP guest. Forget everything you think you know about reptiles and creepy-crawlies; we’re here to reveal the incredible "hidden secrets" of 17 different species in a way that feels like an adventure, not a lesson.
During your private hour, you’ll get to explore the unique textures and behaviors of our residents. You might find yourself marveling at how an Ackie Monitor Lizard uses its intelligence to navigate its world or feeling the delicate, sticky feet of a gecko as it explores your hand. We dive into the "why" behind the wonder, discovering why a snake feels so smooth, how our "clean-up crew" isopods help the planet, and why our tarantulas are much friendlier than the movies suggest!
Our expert keepers are there to guide every interaction, sharing fascinating "wow-facts" that you won't find in textbooks. It’s an immersive, high-energy environment where curiosity has no limits. You’ll leave not just with amazing photos, but with a brand-new appreciation for the exotic world and stories you’ll be sharing for years to come.
A Perfect Animal Experience for SEND Visitors
We believe that the magic of the animal kingdom should be accessible to everyone. We understand that traditional attractions can often be overwhelming, which is why we have created a private sanctuary specifically designed to be inclusive, calm, and stress-free. Our sessions are a perfect fit for visitors with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), offering a gentle and supportive environment where everyone can flourish.
The beauty of our encounters lie in our flexibility. Because every session is 100% private, we have the freedom to move entirely at your pace. There are no crowds, no loud queues, and no pressure. If a visitor needs a quiet moment to observe from a distance, we wait. If they are eager for a sensory-rich experience, like feeling the unique texture of a gecko or the cool scales of a snake, we make it happen safely and patiently.
We're experienced in adapting to various communication styles and sensory requirements. We focus on the joy of discovery, tailoring the interaction to match the comfort level of every individual. We don’t just provide an animal encounter; we provide a warm, welcoming space where every guest is celebrated and every breakthrough is a memory to treasure.
Facilities
Wheelchair Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, Closed
- Tuesday, Closed
- Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
- Sunday, Closed
After booking, please contact us to book a time to come. Our sessions are one hour and have limited capacity.
Pricing & Tickets
- Babies and Toddlers (0-2) : Free
- Child (3-16) : £10.00
- Adult (17-18+) : £10.00
- group (0-18+) : £40.00
Participants and non-participant pricing with seasonal variations.
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to DJL Exotics by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 1 - 2 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Sandalwood
Victoria Avenue
Kirby-le-Soken
Frinton-on-Sea
Essex
CO13 0DJ
England
Tel: 01255675876
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
Bus and train links. The bus is approximately 2 minute walk away, train is an approximate 20-30 minutes away.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 04:37 11/07/2026
DJL Exotics Reviews
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