TikTok famous Spud Man attends pop up weekend at Rodbaston Animal Zone 

Families visiting Rodbaston Animal Zone last weekend found more than just meerkats and monkeys to enjoy, as TikTok sensation Spud Man set up on site to serve his famous jacket potatoes, drawing queues that stretched up to two and a half hours at their peak.

Ben Newman, better known as Spud Man, spent the weekend meeting fans and serving his signature spuds to visitors who had travelled from across the region. His appearance created a lively atmosphere throughout the event, with families taking the chance to enjoy both the food and the Animal Zone’s winter kids for £1 offer.

The Animal Zone’s Kids for £1 promotion, offered families a fun and affordable day out to make memories.

During his visit, Spudman also took part in one of the Animal Zone’s popular Keeper Experiences, heading behind the scenes to get up close and personal with the animals under the guidance of expert keepers. He learned about daily feeding routines, enrichment activities and the specialist care that supports both the animals and South Staffordshire College’s student learning within the Animal Zone. This helped to shine a spotlight on the unique experiences available for the public to book.

Claire Boliver, Chief Executive and Principal at South Staffordshire College, said:
“Spudman’s presence brought a real buzz to the Animal Zone, and the queues for his spuds said it all – people were so excited to meet him. Our Kids for £1 offer also delivered an affordable and memorable day out for families from across the region.”

The Kids for £1 promotion continues until the end of February, giving families the chance to enjoy a fantastic day out locally, without stretching their budget.

Rodbaston Animal Zone is open every weekend and during Staffordshire school holidays from 10am to 4pm. Visitors can meet our animals, take part in craft activities, and join our daily keeper talks. The on‑site café provides a cosy spot for refreshments, or families are welcome to bring along a picnic.

Keeper Experiences are available for both juniors and adults and cost £60. They offer animal lovers the chance to go behind the scenes with expert keepers and get hands‑on with a range of species.

To learn more or to book a Keeper Experience, visit our Animal Zone page.