Five Sisters Zoo image

Five Sisters Zoo

Cafe Tourist attraction Playground Zoo Indoor playground Novelty store Amusement park ride

One of the Best Places To Visits in Polbeth


Address

Gavieside, West Calder EH55 8PT, United Kingdom

Website

www.fivesisterszoo.co.uk

Contact

+44 1506 870000

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (6.2K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 4 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: animals (65) great (29) time (20) staff (16) recommend (16) kids (16) visit (15) friendly (13) experience (12) lovely (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Epic G. 1 year ago on Google
    Haven’t been here for about 4 years & I can’t believe how much bigger it has become! We went on Easter Monday weather was nice & dry so the perfect day for a walk round the zoo! Loved to see the new cheetah’s such beautiful animals! Did not manage to see the snow or the clouded leopards so will have to go back for another visit! We also went for lunch in the leaping lemurs cafe which was tasty & didn’t take a long time from ordering until you got your food! Overall a great day out for any age
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ainslie W. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely wonderful zoo. I've always loved coming here especially as a photographer. The animals are always so well looked after and have plenty of enrichment and space in their enclosures and the staff are always so helpful and friendly! I couldn't ask for a better zoo to visit!
    9 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Asprin T. 1 year ago on Google
    I went mainly to see the wildcats and the other big cats. But I found all the animals really interesting. I would advise arriving as early as possible in the day as it meant the animals were still awake after just being fed. There is a lot of walking involved in seeing all the animals but in general the surface is smooth and it is wide enough to pass other visitors. A lot of the animals have been rescued from other zoos and circuses, and there is plenty of information about how they were brought to the zoo and then given the chance to be themselves in plenty of space. It is a bit weird that the Xmas decorations are still up but it doesn't really matter as you are there to see the animals. I didn't go to the cafe (I think its outside of the actual zoo) but I did buy myself a slice of pizza and a can of bru - it wasn't a bad price for an attraction. There was plenty of space to bring a picnic, I didn't see a water bottle refill spot (but there may have been one in the cafe). There is plenty of parking at the zoo. I relied on my phone and google maps to find the place, I did not see any signs for the zoo on my drive there - google maps did bring me to the entrance of the zoo. I will definitely go back to the zoo, though I will probably wait until the cheetah enclosure is finished.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gem W. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a great day here,would rather spend time here than any other zoo.... We chose to feed the lemurs and that was a brilliant experience for me and my son.we wanted to get one in our bag but the keeper spotted us!!next time... It's great to support this wee gem of a zoo in any way you can,please visit as soon as you can for an amazing day!!!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James H. 1 year ago on Google
    Cracking zoo with a huge variety of animals. Most are rescued animals. It is a big venue and the enclosures look to be well suited towards the welfare of the animal too. The staff are friendly. We fed the ringtailed lemurs which cost an additional £10 each. They are very funny and social creatures and was worth the visit just for that experience alone. I would visit again in the future and would recommend this zoo over Edinburgh Zoo when the option is available.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rebecca G. 2 years ago on Google
    I was pleasantly surprised by the size of the zoo, and the animals in it. I came with friends for the Autumn Nights and it was excellent. You could clearly see the effort that had gone into putting up all the lights, and the kiddie section looked interesting with lots to entertain children. The Japanese garden was somewhat of a disappointment as it was tiny and left no real impact - I had not even realised we had walked through it. The toasting marshmallows were nicely priced and the stall with Christmas ornaments had fab prices, I've seen prices to match it at any other similar event. Highly recommend.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paul C. 1 year ago on Google
    First time visiting the zoo and had to say its an absolute gem. Fantastic staff that were so friendly everywhere we went from the 2 young ladies in the restaurant to the lady we met while doing the lemur feeding experience. All super nice. The range of animals was unexpectedly large and was very impressed with how large animal enclosures were. We are real animal and zoo lovers and we both said we really enjoyed five sisters so much and on return to the area we would rather return here than Edinburgh zoo. Loved it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tsvetelina T. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice place for the visitors but also for the animals. You can enjoy them and share some memorable hours with friends. The Christmas atmosphere was amazing!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cherisse D. 10 months ago on Google
    The whole day was AMAZING! The staff were friendly, informative and cheery! I paid extra for the Lemur Feeding Experience which was absolutely wonderful and I would do it again and again!! The staff really care about the animals and their welfare. It is lovely to see happy animals that do not look stressed or scared. I paid extra for the evening Photography Experience with the carnivores, including the bears, snow leopard, clouded leopard, lions and cheetahs! Amazing experience and the staff doing the tour were outstanding (I think it was Gary and Emma). We also had a volunteer and some of the family on the tour with us, who were all again friendly, approachable and accommodating. The buffet and tea and coffee which was included with the experience was lovely too. Best money I've spent on myself! I interacted with the staff at the entrance, gift shop and cafe which went above and beyond with some help I needed before the Photography experience, which actually made my night possible. This is a place I would visit again and again. I was able to take amazing photos and would recommend anyone to visit, which I have done already when telling friends and those close to me.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott 8 months ago on Google
    I volunteered here recently and was honestly so impressed with the zoo as a whole. You can get real close to some animals and the whole place had a good feeling about it. Would highly recommend and is a great family day out.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 trickster c. 4 months ago on Google
    Nice place for family visit 😊 helpful staff. All animals visible not in hideout. The only downside was that there wasn't big enough food choices no vegan option at all. But from the other hand park have quite few seats where you can enjoy food which you brought with you. Definitely worth to come and see. I will definitely return.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephen C. 5 months ago on Google
    Well this place is nothing short of a hidden gem. What a fabulous little zoo with far more animals than I can remember. Located a stones throw from a housing estate, this place has it all from soft furries to friendly donkeys to snakes and crocodiles. Four legs, two legs no legs, wings, fangs... all sorts. It is a bit tired looking so don't forget to donate if you visit. A whole day can be spent here without any real effort. Take lunch with you or buy it in the zoo. If you have young children, my recommendation would be to head to the soft play located in a separate building. It has a lovely cafe with reasonably priced delicious food. Go there first, have your lunch then you can take your time going round the zoo. There are talks at certain times which are posted around the zoo. Some animals have volunteers stationed there too answer questions. Honestly is a great day out for a lot less than some of the other more main stream animal parks.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa loves Robert L. Black and R. R. 2 years ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic of a place... First time went with Mrs and two kids and believe me we will definitely be going back as there is so much stuff to see and do that we must go back... Been to a few zoos and will give this place a ten out of ten as it's miles better than the rest.. If you are thinking of going then you won't be disappointed.... Staff are great and talk to you about all the animals if you ask them they will tell you. Can't wait to go back.. Well done Five Sisters Zoo.....
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 tony m. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing place , we have visited this zoo at multiple occasions,and kids are always excited every time. Big collection of unique animals , with our Favourite lemurs and red panda 🐼🐻. Reptali lovers will find a lot of them as well big and small. Restaurant on site sell fries 🍟 hot dogs ,and soft drinks ....ice 🍦 creams as well of course. Souvenirs shop allow your kids to gram some animals gadgets on the go. Great place highly recommend. 🐒 🐒 🐒
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Carol C. 1 year ago on Google
    Did enjoy looking round and saw some lovely animals. Would be great if you had kids. Down sides were a shock of an extra £2 each buying at the door than was advertised on the website so you maybe a bit cheaper buying online so that was misleading I thought. Also felt it had a run down look and could do with updating. Maybe we went the wrong time of the day because quite a few of the animals were no where to be seen.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dave 1 year ago on Google
    Great zoo for a day out with family, plenty of animals too see and learn about. Has soft play aswell for kids 6.90 for 1.5 hours. We ate at the cafe which was well priced and food was decent enough but did have a small menu.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alison H. 1 year ago on Google
    Another fantastic day at the Five Sisters Zoo - great to see the new cheetahs 🐆🐆 and even the snow leopard came out (usually hard to spot 😅) The play park and funfair also adds to the fun of the day - can't wait to go back again Thoroughly recommend a day out there
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Owen G. 5 months ago on Google
    Great zoo, you can tell that the animals are all truly cared for. Large enclosures for the animals, which look very well kept. Lots of other activities and things for families to do, as well as a cafe to get a bite to eat. Definitely worth a visit!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Claire R. 4 months ago on Google
    Our 2nd time at the illuminations and what a joy it was. We attended last night and there was 4 of us. It was extremely cold but walking round and seeing the animals, stopping for lovely food and drinks along the way and the wee one enjoying the rides and helter skelter. We had a 6.30pm time slot and we left at 8.45pm. The atmosphere was fab. We seen lizards, snakes monkeys, owls, penguins, otters, reindeer, parrots, snow leopards to name a few. The staff were so friendly and helpful. The illuminations were amazing. Really enjoyed all the different types light up displays and discovering more on our way around. It took 40 mins from Coatbridge to get there and is well signposted although Google maps did an excellent job getting us there. We will definitely be back for a day time visit. Would thoroughly recommend. There's a gift shop and they sell real Christmas trees as well.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alan S. 6 months ago on Google
    First time visiting this Zoo and we wasn't disappointed. Lots of amazing animals to see too, the Eurasian Brown Bears, Lions, cheetahs, Fishing cats were fantastic to see. I would like to give out a special mention to Angela & Kayleigh two of the keepers. Their keeper talks and tips helping to see certain animals was superb. A real highlight for me was seeing a clouded leopard thanks to these women. When I'm next in Scotland again I will certainly be coming back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott B. 2 years ago on Google
    For a family of 4, much better priced than Edinburgh Zoo but can easily cover off as many activities if not more. Sure there are less animals overall but I find kids will get fed up looking in enclosures and cages after a while. As well as animals there is a park and a fun fair and a soft play. Plenty of places to get food and drinks. Toilets dotted around the zoo as well. Not a huge fan of gravel car parks but that's only in the overspill car park.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tony A. 2 years ago on Google
    Great lights and illuminated pop-up animals throughout the zoo. Obviously if your here later at night most animals are asleep or sleeping. On- site Santa, miniature shows (relatively quiet) and can also purchase marshmallows to melt at the miniature bonfire. Parking in the overflow carpark can be a nightmare (potholes and abandoned cars everywhere) but the parking attendants try to help. Only downside was the queuing to park in the overflow to find there's 40+ free parking spaces directly outside the venue 😏. Worth a try, once a year !
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 robert s. 2 years ago on Google
    Brilliant evening out with the family. The lanterns and the whole atmosphere were great
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark T. 2 years ago on Google
    Five sisters zoo Christmas light show 2021 was brilliant. Really well attended and a great show. We will be back for next year for sure! There was lots to see and plenty to keep children entertained. Rides seemed reasonable in price and they were operating a ticket only operation for the rides and the ticket booth was well signed and worked very quickly to process payments and get the crowds through. Not much queuing was needed anywhere and they got on the rides they wanted quickly and easily.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 suhana z. 6 months ago on Google
    Worth visiting, there are a lot of animals inside the zoo. Perfect for family outing. Went there on weekdays so the place isn’t crowded.

  • 5/5 Lexa S. 8 months ago on Google
    We absolutely love this little ZOO. We always have a great time! The animals are well kept, the zoo keepers are very friendly. I highly recommend this place!

  • 3/5 Michael G. 11 months ago on Google
    Although I was impressed by the variety of species present, some of the enclosures were overgrown and their windows were so dirty that it was difficult to see through them. Christmas lights that were still up in March gave me a sense of abandonment, and I couldn't help but consider how unjust and unnatural it would be for the animals when everything was illuminated. With some tlc and the addition of more staff, this zoo could be fantastic.

  • 5/5 Kerry S. 2 years ago on Google
    Brilliant experience. Beautiful animals that are clearly well looked after and the zoo is well maintained and full of lovely plant life. I would definitely recommend a visit!

  • 5/5 S B. 8 months ago on Google
    Was amazing I didn't see an animal unhappy every animal was well looked after and cleaned I have never seen animal enclosures so clean! You wouldn't think the animals were in captivity.

  • 5/5 R0Ll0M1ST3R 8 months ago on Google
    An amazing day out. The range of animals and the standard of facilities are excellent. I would recommend this zoo to anyone with toddlers / young children in particular. Really enjoyed the visit and will be back again.

  • 5/5 Paisley b. 7 months ago on Google
    Went for the first time with my partner couldn't believe how near it was too us and how big it is there are lots of great animals to see and play areas for kids and lots more would highly recommend

  • 5/5 Chloe C. 6 months ago on Google
    Five Sisters Zoo was fantastic. My husband and I didn't even know it existed until we had Googled for zoos near us, granted it was a two and a half hour drive away, but it was so worth it. There's so much to see, and the animals are so clearly taken care of. The staff were so helpful and friendly, especially the lady who carried out the lemur feeding experience with us. 10/10. Excellent day out with loads to enjoy. The one thing I would advise, though, is to mind the geese in the bird walk-through as they're quite feisty and one of them likes to charge at you!

  • 5/5 Shirley C. 6 months ago on Google
    Absolutely fantastic day out, staff really friendly, seen all the animals i wanted to see.. even the elusive Clouded Leopard 😍 xx I absolutely love what this zoo stands for.. it's more of a rescue sanctuary and you can see the animals are very well cared for xx Had an amazing day xx highly recommend xx

  • 5/5 Craig J. 9 months ago on Google
    Great day out for adults and kids. I went on a family of four tickets, and it was £52 well spent. The zoo has a vast assortment of animals from meerkats to snow leopards and snakes to lions. This place has everything. I am looking forward to the new penguin enclosure opening as it looks like a great area for them to hang out. The place it's self is very well organised and clean with a great variety of eating places which were actually priced fair for a zoo. Will most definitely return here again as it keeps the kids happy for hours and doesn't cost much to do so. Well done, guys, keep up the good work!

  • 5/5 Mike K. 2 years ago on Google
    Not the biggest zoo BUT what they lack in size they make up for in the variety of animals, everything from an ant to a lion. What an amazing day out EVEN IN THE RAIN. Brilliant for the family 👪

  • 5/5 Karolina L. 2 years ago on Google
    All the animals got a great care there they look very healthy, calm and well looked after. We spend there 3 hours in the morning at Five Sisters Zoo and it was perfect!

  • 5/5 Stephanie D. 5 months ago on Google
    My partner took me here yesterday for my birthday, we had a great day. It was quiet & peaceful being a Friday late morning. Will need to come back during the summer. Great wee day out.

  • 5/5 Paranormal_Urbex 2 years ago on Google
    We as a family love 5 sisters zoo. It I a lovely stroll around seeing all the animals including the resident cats and the German shepherds (lovely surprise to see such beautiful dogs) The food here is lovely, the staff are helpful, friendly and welcoming. The new reptile house blew me away I was in love with it. If he weather is abit rubbish and your just wanting a break from the rain and cold or You have got food, there is a big marquee that you can sit in and eat and shelter away from that rain. I did take more photos but the weather did turn bad so dint get my camera out, but even with wind, cold and rain it was a wonderful day, our little girl loved it!! Keep up the good rescue work, it's wonderful to see your rescue efforts not go to waste! The animas are well cared for here, the keepers go to great lengths to make sure that all animals needs are met. The owners of the zoo have made an enjoyable, living and caring zoo for all to enjoy. Thankyou 5 sisters for giving us great family days out. Can't wait to see you all again! A* zoo

  • 5/5 Eileen B. 6 months ago on Google
    Great zoo. Easy to walk around unlike Edinburgh Zoo which is awful for anyone with mobility problems. Visited last week and my kids loved the Lions and the two Bears. Saw all the animals as we walked around. Kids loved the outside play park. We brought a picnic but still bought chips. Heard the story of the new Bear being rescued ” Yampil “ ….. GREAT ZOO. Saw the new penguin enclosure too. We donated. Well done 👍

  • 5/5 Martin �. 6 months ago on Google
    Me and my girlfriend were visiting this Zoo not so long ago and I was absolutely amazed how great this place is. Super chill and relaxed atmosphere with plenty of beautiful animals to see. Only a bit annoying par was that there was not a single drink vendor all around the zoo. Only place where you could find some drinks was by the entrance. So I recommend to bring at least a bottle of water with you. (But maybe it was because we were there during the week - Tuesday)

  • 5/5 Jackie P. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful place to wander around with the kids nice and peaceful very clean now starting a lot of post covid work to make it even better

  • 5/5 Sharon H. 2 years ago on Google
    It was fantastic we thought it was small but when we got there realised how massive it was. They run on donations and they really care about the animals and they ha e some beautiful animals 🐻 bears, 🦁 lions and many many others with massive cages and plenty room to roam many of these animals have been saved from circuses and small restaurants that used them to get people in shocking and sad 😔. Some of the staff were nice and friendly but unfortunately there were some that were miserable and didn't even try and make an effort with us a paying customers very sad because it will affect how people donate and help. But to be honest I would still recommend to anyone to go definitely 😏👍

  • 5/5 Sarah S. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a great place! Animals all looked happy and healthy, lots of animals and birds to see. We loved the red panda and the bears, but the otters and meerkats and parrots were entertaining too! Would definitely go back.

  • 5/5 H 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic day out especially for families. Animals may hide in the morning but check back in the afternoon & I'm sure you won't be disappointed. We took a pack lunch but there is food available too. Staff are so helpful. Check the board just as you get through entry for times of animal talks.

  • 4/5 Loo F. 2 years ago on Google
    Great zoo. A lot more to see than expected! Almost the entire zoo is on flat ground which is great for the elderly and buggies. Cafe and food trucks are available. Gave 4.5 stars only due to us and a few others thought that the animals behind any glass enclosures needed a good inside clean, but however, this could be due to a number of things, staff shortages (covid related) and/or the glass was really old. Overall a great day out.

  • 5/5 Kat M. 2 years ago on Google
    Will admit we hated here when we visited a few years ago it looked run down and no animals....we decided to give it another go at the lights time...glad we did!what a difference!so many animals and the little man had a great time!definitely be back

  • 5/5 David M. 2 years ago on Google
    Went for the Christmas lights this year and it was outstanding. Staff were lovely and very helpful and the prices for rides and food were great, cheaper than what you would probably pay outside. Will definitely be back in the summer to explore more in the daytime

  • 5/5 Julie M. 2 years ago on Google
    Great night at the Christmas illuminations. Staff friendly and welcoming. Ive never seen so many Christmas lights in the one place. 😂🎄🎅

  • 5/5 elizabeth t. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is amazing, I love going here, the animals are great and it's good to support this wee zoo.

  • 5/5 J B. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place to visit. We've been a few times now and always enjoy coming back. The fact this zoo is hardly hilly at all compared to Edinburgh makes it much easier if you've got kids / anyone with disabilities. The animals always look well cared for and seem to enjoy their enclosures. There's a nice area in the middle to eat that also has a few rides and a play area. So overall a lovely place to spend the day.

  • 5/5 Jazzy Gaming with R. 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic day out, spent about 5hrs there. Friendly staff, well maintained and a lot to do and see. We took a picnic with us, lots more picnic tables now and loads of benches around the whole zoo if you need to have a rest or just to sit and chill.

  • 3/5 Mick R. 9 months ago on Google
    Had a great day at the zoo, 1st time here, Animals were great, Some of the zoo is a wee bit rundown but in general pretty good but it was disappointing that the only food outlet open was the Ice cream stall, There is a new penguin enclosure opening soon.

  • 5/5 Zoe C. 1 year ago on Google
    Had an amazing time at the zoo, with a great variety of animals to see. Not too busy so lots of opportunity to spend time with all my favourites. A good variety of catering options, lots of toilets, and plenty to see. We had a lemur experience, and it was so much fun and our keeper Steve was clearly passionate about the animals and gave lots of knowledge about the Lemurs. I would love to do more experiences here - I hope they introduce more in the Peak season!

  • 5/5 Daniel M. 1 year ago on Google
    We always love this place when we go. From the tribute to the animals who sadly lost their life in the fire to all the new arrivals. There’s something for everyone. We took advantage of the lemur experience and it it’s definitely worth it. £10 allows you to sit in with the lemurs whilst they take food out of bowls that are in your hand. They are extremely gentle and such beautiful creatures. The zoo never disappoints and we always look forward to going back.

  • 5/5 Trina W. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely setting. I really liked all the Christmas themed areas and the cleanliness of the whole place. Animals appeared well kept. I would visit again and recommend.

  • 5/5 Kirstin B. 9 months ago on Google
    We attended on the last May Bank Holiday with our 2 kids who were doing the Junior Zookeeper Experience (half a day) as they got the vouchers for the experience for their birthdays. When I phoned to book we were recommended the morning slot as more to do in the mornings. We arrived just before 9 so were in before park even opened. The kids fed the big tortoise, lemurs, meerkats, otters, prairie dogs, chickens, wallaby, goats, sheep, horses and giant rabbits. Held a snake and lizard. Helped clean up the wallaby/chicken area and so much more. We were really impressed with it all and the kids had a ball. This was our first time at five sisters zoo and we would definitely return but we highly recommend the zookeeper experience for children. The girl we went round with was very informative too. I never caught her name but she was great with the kids too.

  • 5/5 Veronika M. 9 months ago on Google
    Fantastic zoo, perfect for family day out. Huge space, and love how they take care of the animals many of which rescued. Loved that you could read the stories about the rescued bears and what difference the zoo makes for them and all the animals. Will definitely go back and will be recommending to everyone. So much better than Edinburgh zoo.

  • 5/5 sharon p. 2 years ago on Google
    Had fantastic day out here, could have spent hours more. Lots to see. Had a very calm atmosphere. Can't wait to go bk when the lights are on. Lots of benches around the park.Also little train , merry-go-round , mini tractors & diggers etc for the little ones.

  • 5/5 Rae M. 9 months ago on Google
    We used to go here once a month with our grandchildren on a years pass as we lived near by and had the grandchildren once a week. We stopped going when they started school and had so much else to do. Went back today and couldn't belive how much more there was to see. The enclosures are on the whole improved ( not they were poor to start with) and the whole place is greener and has a really lovely feel to it. Loads of information on each enclosure. At first I had thought that it was rather expensive but it is obvious that they have spent a lot of money on improvements especially for the animals. We will definitely be back soon. In my opinion it's better than Edinburgh zoo. Watch out for new enclosure PENGUINS 🐧


Call +44 1506 870000 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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