Brown Bear Ravine At Dudley Zoo (Including All Associated Structures)

The Brown Bear Ravine at Dudley Zoo, including all associated structures, is a Grade II* listed feature. It consists of a semi-circular viewing platform that follows the contour of the hillside where the enclosure is located, with a lower terrace extending into the ravine. To the east, below this lower terrace, there is a curving perimeter that encloses a pool. The western side of the enclosure has various irregular platforms for the animals that extend from the sloping ground.

Constructed from reinforced concrete, the exterior of the enclosure slopes steeply from west to east. The highest viewing terrace is positioned against the hillside and projects towards the west. The main feature is a 10-foot wide semi-circular terrace accessed by stairs from the rear, supported by columns with mushroom capitals placed 20 feet apart. A cantilevered terrace extends out over the ravine from the center of the semi-circle, resembling the prow of a ship. The terraces have intricate variations in their levels and circulation.

The zoo's standard parapet and railing, which consists of a low wall with a coping raised on elliptical-section steel struts, is used on either side of the terraces. This design allows adults to lean on the raised surface while enabling children to see the animals without being lifted. The animal houses, featuring simple rectangular openings, are situated beneath the terraces against the hillside. The northeastern corner of the enclosure is at ground level and has a sinuous wall that encloses a pool. Additionally, there are various platforms, pools, steps, and ramps on the western side of the enclosure, which surround the deep ravine on the eastern side.