Belfast Zoo image

Belfast Zoo

Tourist attraction Zoo

One of the Most Revieweds in Newtownabbey


Address

Antrim Rd, Belfast BT36 7PN, United Kingdom

Website

www.belfastzoo.co.uk

Contact

+44 28 9077 6277

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (4.3K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Monday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 4 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: animals (82) great (31) good (28) Belfast (26) time (25) visit (24) enclosures (21) Great (18) walk (17) kids (17)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 James C. 1 year ago on Google
    Shame that all concessions weren't open but it was midweek. The zoo is class. Be aware that if you are taking a pram the hills are big, you'll need strong legs! Didn't bother us too much as at the top of the hill there is a cafe, well deserved rest! Great day out.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Ali 2 years ago on Google
    Really Disappointed! I’m really sad to write this review as for someone who is not a local but has lived in Belfast for almost 6 years, I thought today was a great opportunity to finally visit the zoo but to also bring my niece to the zoo for her first visit. However this trip was not all that was expected and having been to many zoo’s around the world this is the first time I have left one feeling short changed and with the need to want to go back and offer my services as a volunteer, specifically with the elephants to try and bring some life back to the enclosure and assist the poor elephants. I’m no zoologist, nor do I have a degree in zoo management but from the initial 5 minute walk into the grounds you can tell that the city council does not spend a lot of money on this park and it’s up keep. One of the first buildings you come across has been left dilapidated and now in ruin and just has a bit of fencing around it to stop anyone entering it. Not a great first impression! Walking around the grounds and visiting the enclosures, the biggest disappointment was the lack of animals actually being on show and how if they weren’t outside there wasn’t a viewing window into their shelters. This meant that we only really saw half the animals today. There was 2 exhibits that were closed which is fine and we were warned about, but there could be a bit of money spent on the viewing enclosures. The biggest scare of the day was the lack of entertainment for both the giraffes and the elephants. The giraffes were just huddled in a corner with each other whilst another 2 did the exact same lap of their paddock. The elephants were more unnerving as both seemed to be distressed, 1 was bashing its head off the door into its shelter and the other stood in the paddock on the same spot and was swaying which I believe is a sign of mental distress. We left quite sad about our visit to the zoo. Unless this is rectified we won’t be back. Ps. I would 100% give up some weekend time to volunteer with the elephants and giraffes if it would help.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anthony C. 2 years ago on Google
    Belfast zoo was the perfect day out for my family. A lot to see and different experience from Dublin zoo. I've added photos to give an idea of the distance from some of the key animals. So, we didn't get close up to elephant 🐘 and no sign of 🐯, other than that, we did have some great up close experiences with other animals. A lot of enclosures were overgrown with vegetation, so I was constantly lifting up my 4 year old to see animals. Viewing areas are not the best. Very hilly, make sure on hot days to buy or bring water from start. It's a long walk to the top. Book early, we booked 2pm and barely made it in time to the hilltop cafe where all ice-cream was sold out and was closing at 4.30. We should have booked for around 11am. Some of the enclosures are closed down or being upgraded. The arrows marking the one way route are a bit confusing and not in line with map and also, for some reason, the people there do not understand the concept of keeping to their side of the pathway. Other than that, 8/10
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mihaly Foldesi (Starsign G. 1 year ago on Google
    My daughter loved this place. It has plenty of animals. Great playground, a picnic area. Beware it's on the hill 😳 make sure buy enough water on a hot day.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 City G. 8 months ago on Google • 183 reviews
    Good range of animals set out over a steep hillside. Could really do with some cash investment to bring the floral house back to life and upgrade the toilets which are rundown. Liked the map so you didn't repeat where you had been. Most of the animals were spotted but I'm sure little ones would struggle to see in places as the green hedges could do with lopping back considerably. Got a discount on entry for prebooking. Free parking cafe on site.

  • 1/5 Family B. 6 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    Found it hard to see the animals in enclosure. The cheetah had a clear pacing path at the bottom of his fence. The lion enclosure was small. We should not of gone. I don’t mind a rehabilitation centre, but keeping animals for human entertainment! No The giraffe and elephants even looked dull! Just heartbreaking. Parents allowed their kids to tap on the windows, totally ignorant ! No respect. Made me so angry. Won’t return.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Kellie M. 8 months ago on Google • 57 reviews
    Lovely zoo, be aware that the zoo is on a hill and some areas are very steep and can be difficult for some wheelchairs to access, they do have a wheelchair adaptable vehicle which can be uses to get up to the top of the zoo but only takes 1-2 wheelchairs at once
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marty M. 3 years ago on Google
    Love Belfast zoo! Always a great day out for all the family. Made even better if you get good weather. My son loves all types of animals and enjoyed himself so much. We intend taking him back again soon!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Margarita L. 3 years ago on Google
    One of the loveliest places for a day out in Belfast. Set into the Cavehill the Zoo route is well laid out in a winding route upwards past all the animal enclosures.Some enclosures are quite high up the mountain and give the legs a good work out! but so worth it as from up there you also have great views over the city and surrounding area. The zoo has very important breeding conservation and education programs and is an important part of Belfasts Victorian history. You can sponsor an animal as well to help with the important job of keeping their breeding and conservation work alive . There is a great shop too for good quality souvenirs of your day Highly recommended
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Neil M. 3 years ago on Google
    Great day out. Kids enjoyed seeing the meercats. Park was good aswell.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Finbar O H. 2 years ago on Google
    Great family experience, good walk around and plenty to see and staff are all great. Only negative I would say is the price of food. Bring a picnic.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mark B. 2 years ago on Google
    Good visit, we booked for early morning and it was grand, not too many people about. When we were leaving there were a lot of people about. Plenty to see, the hills can be a challenge with small kids. Plenty of areas where you can sit out and have a picnic or just rest the legs. Cafe at the top was a welcome, to rest and have an ice cream. Get in early and take your time seeing the animals.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Puddin 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic four hours there. Lovely gift shop. Fab biscoff ice cream. I loved those animals so much better than Dublin Zoo even tho I did struggle with hill walks. Just pity cafe doesn't have more on the menu. But I would come back here.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Yani T. 2 years ago on Google
    Impressive zoo, but unfortunately most of the animals were closed and we could not see them. Information that no one gave us when we entered. I liked that they take good care of the animals, I think they have good living conditions (but not as if they were free in nature).
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Aimee 1 year ago on Google
    Disappointing and not worth £28 for two adults. The staff we met were far from friendly. Everything is very run down and grubby. We stayed for less than an hour and won't be back anytime soon.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Sarah-Jane H. 1 year ago on Google
    Unfortunately one of my least favourite zoos I've visited. Having visited nearly all zoos & safari parks in the UK I was a little disappointed. I don't feel that the enclosures are big enough for the lions, elephants & giraffe especially. I also didn't see anything for stimulation or encouragement of natural behaviours, very disappointing. Some lovely animals & lovely to see a mummy spider monkey with 2 babies on her back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 michael m. 10 months ago on Google
    I always enjoy a day at the zoo, my recent visits, I've got a little emotional. I would like to see the laurall hall reconstructed at the start of the zoo and used for parties for people of all ages. I hope that the place finds funding to support the animals and better the place in the near future. The old entrance of the zoo needs attention to be used again as I find it's in decline. A massive thank you to all the staff that provide care and support for the animals and cater for all the little peoples needs on their days of visit. Keep up the good work 💙
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 HM P. 7 months ago on Google • 6 reviews
    Great day out but seriously lacking with catering, quality, variety and availability as well as poor toilet facilities. A coffee shop at the top and one at the bottom but nowhere in-between for even a drink. The toilet facilities are appalling, old, tatty and smelly and again not enough. No baby changing facilities anywhere but the bottom of the hill at reception which isn't ideal when you're at the top of the hill and nature has called! In regards to the zoo itself, all in all it seemed great especially the new lion enclosure which was really cool. Unfortunately the likes of the seal enclosure and the penguins let the rest of the place down slightly with how messy and run down they look as well as hundreds of pounds in pennies at the bottom of the sea lion tank.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carmel H. 3 years ago on Google
    Visited the zoo yesterday with 3 daughters and 4 grandchildren. It was one of the best days out we've had in ages. The hill was a bit if a climb at times but the scenery was pretty spectacular and the animals were l on show. I'll definitely take others back there for a trip
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nattasha S. 3 years ago on Google
    Belfast Zoo will only allow pre-booked ticket entries, they have 2 metres marked on the ground throughout, they have many sanitating stations and they have also implemented a one way system. All animal exhibition houses have been closed for our safety. The Tree top cafe is open for takeout and they accept contactless.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Jessica Q. 3 years ago on Google
    Just had a nice visit (Aug 2020), plenty of animals to see and lovely views of the sea from the zoo. This zoo may be a bit too hilly for some, it was a struggle pushing an empty pram up some of the hills. RE Covid measures there is Plenty of hand sanitizer around and small indoor areas have been closed off to aid social distancing but overall the time allowance to get around the zoo (2:30 pm to 6pm slot) is perfect and the Covid measures don't impact the visit negatively. One thing I would say to the zoo is that I had to pick my toddler up a lot to see into enclosures, there are waist height hedges etc at a lot of the enclosures that she couldn't see over. Otherwise great zoo
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Charotte A. 3 years ago on Google
    I'm sure all employees work very hard, they were extremely welcoming and the zoo had lots of visitors, but quite honestly as a major Belfast City tourists venue it leaves lot ti be drsired. The animals are beginning to show signs of stress, brown bears pacing around their enclosure, elephants shaking their heads from side to side. Very sad state of enclosures. The Floral Hall should either be demolished ir renovated. Unfortunately a good walk was spoilt by seeing such sad specimens.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 A i. 3 years ago on Google
    Booked online, one way system is great at ensuring you don't miss anything. Plenty of different kinds of animals to see.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mia B. 3 years ago on Google
    Had a great time at the zoo, they have brilliant measures in place for people to goto the zoo safely. I recommend going very early as it does get busier the later it is in the day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Teddy!! 3 years ago on Google
    just left, had so much fun looking at the animals and took a few pictures, recommend
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Praveen R. 3 years ago on Google
    Not a big zoo.. not worth the money. Go there if you haven't seen any exotic animals in your life.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martin C. 3 years ago on Google
    I would recommend this zoo to anyone very good selection of animals
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steven P. 3 years ago on Google
    Most animals were cooperative. Great place for someone who loves a camera like me.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 hannah i. 3 years ago on Google
    I was not happy going to this zoo it has seriously fallen since i was a child enclosures are to small. There must of been at least 12 giraffe shoved into one small Enclosure not good enough. Not to mention admission price is dear and most of the animals were not present as we walked around there were signs saying enclosures where under repair and so the animals had been taken in etc lions were in elephants and giraffes were in sun bear was pregnant so was in. Thats fine just dont charge full price if that is the case. Its a shame because it sits on cave hill in beautiful part of belfast!! Animals need better enclosures!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Leslie Q. 3 years ago on Google
    It's ok. good day out , needs a cash injection
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Helen G. 3 years ago on Google
    Although there were a few areas not open, I am still giving 5 Star's. It's not the fault of the zoo; measures are put in place to keep customers and staff safe due to the current Covid situation. We felt very happy that the zoo was a safe place due to all the procedures that were put in place: a one way system, some indoor places closed and cafés offering take-a-way service. The restroom facilities were attended to regularly and were clean. To make sure the zoo is not too crowded and to prevent people being turned away if it does, you do have to book in advance before your visit; we booked the day before. You have time slots in which to arrive so they don't have everybody turning up at the same time and a crowd of people walking around together! The one way system ensures you don't miss anything (they should keep it for those who want to see everything and not accidentally miss anything out!) We had a super day.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Daniel P. 3 years ago on Google
    Given that covid restrictions are in place they are doing a great job and you get to still see a lot of the animals.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 James M. 3 years ago on Google
    Due to Covid restrictions we had to pre book our tickets. This ensured the Zoo was very quiet, with few other visitors. You didn't feel crowded at any of the enclosures and could take your time. I wouldn't recommend taking very young children as the one way system in place is almost entirely up hill (except for the lion enclosure on the way out). It is steep and even with push chairs can be challenging, also some of the viewing barriers are not suitable for children unless you hold them up to see the animals. Fun day out, with a fantastic playground too and decent value for money.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lynne M. 3 years ago on Google
    What a fantastic place to take your family .Well set out and very safe the staff was fantastic
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Cars F. 3 years ago on Google
    Half empty
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 scott h. 3 years ago on Google
    Went to the zoo today 17.10.2020 all animal housing were closed also bottom cafe closed top cafe only selling a few things at very expensive prices 2 pounds for a disgusting sausage roll and 2.80 for watered-down coffee hardly any animals on display and they charged us FULL PRICE absolute disgrace will never be back what a waste of time and money grandchildren we're very disappointed cant believe they get away with this service no wonder anyone wants to go to belfast zoo its a mickey mouse joke
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 j b. 3 years ago on Google
    Good zoo. Some restrictions due to Covid. Would recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kris T. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice place a lot animals
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 PG N. 3 years ago on Google
    Book and pay in advance, three slots per day - was a very rainy day when we went, but possibly the first time we ever got around every active exhibit! Long walk to the Hilltop Tea Room, and a steep stride back down. Picnic advisable, you can buy tea or hot and cold beverages at the Tea Room, and enjoy your picnic outside in the fresh air, lovely views over the North shore of Belfast Lough. Photo taken overlooking the Giraffe and Elephant House, looking up at the Black Mountain.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jolene F. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice family day out
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shauna C. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing place, by far the best zoo out there, animals are so happy and well looked after with keepers loving there job, we were chatting with the lion keeper on our visit and he really loves his job, great place
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Clare 3 years ago on Google
    Very little animals to see.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrew W. 3 years ago on Google
    An ideal day out for families couples or even as a lone visitor.Excellent vfm & really friendly helpful staff.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Philip F. 3 years ago on Google
    Really enjoyed the visit. Animals look so happy and their welfare is obviously the priority.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robert L. 3 years ago on Google
    Love it and with c19 at the moment the zoo was running well for the people to be free to go about and enjoy. My wee grandson first time there and he loved it. And me too
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nicola D. 2 years ago on Google
    A great day out, though very hilly, so be aware if you have a pram or difficulty walking etc. Quite busy, some people not wearing masks etc as required indoors. Cafes on site are quite expensive for very average food, I'd recommend taking your own picnic, though it's hard to find a place to sit to have it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nadine M. 2 years ago on Google
    We had such a lucky day when we visited. The animals were out in force. Lots to see. The kids had a blast, definitely a memorable day!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Eugene G. 2 years ago on Google
    We had a great family day out at Belfast Zoo. It had been years since I was there so it was good to go back with family and our kids too. The animals were all well looked after and cared for. The Giraffes and Zebras were one of the best attractions. Along with the Penguins and Sealions. We felt sorry for the elephants. They were rescued from the circus and spent a lot of time chained up so that has taken its toll on them. The cafes were nice and reasonably priced. And all the staff were friendly and helpful. The zoo it self was very clean and well signposted for a one way system. All in all a nice day out with the family.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Aneesh P M. 2 years ago on Google
    The way they're arranged the zoo is highly appreciated, a must watch... Feel pity for our own Elephant but all are good. A great walk and recreation... Loved it.. 🥰
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brid H. 2 years ago on Google
    Bought a zoo pass and have already enjoyed 2 fantastic days out this month and have more visits planned over the summer. My children absolutely love the animals and the park is an extra bonus at the end. Beautiful views over Belfast along the way too 😍
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A K. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing Zoo - well worth a visit! We took a bus from city center / Belfast City Hall area. There is a bus every 5 mins or so, and buying a electronic card after 9:30am is £3.50 for adults and £1.50 for children. You can use and buses no 1a, 1b, 1c etc, make sure to reconfirm the same with the help vastly available at city center area. It’s about 30 stops before you get off at Bellevue - and then it’s a uphill walk of about 7 minutes, with a safe footpath passage. When we got to the entrance, we saw a huge car park as well, which in busy days was still having quite a few extra empty spaces, so if you drive it shouldn’t be a problem to find a parking which I believe is free, but please RE check the same. You must pay for your park tickets online and it’s a simple and quick check in process. The whole walk around the zoo takes about 90-120 minutes, depending on your speed and interest. The markings are very clear, and they operate kind of one way access, so this way you see the whole zoo in an organized way. The lions den is a restaurant near the entrance and serves good variety of hot and cold foods including options for vegetarians. Very impressive and highly recommended 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andrea M. 1 year ago on Google
    This was the first I went on a really nice day were the zoo wasn't busy. The boys enjoyed seeing all the animals, the park wasn't overrun so they got to enjoy it another start and at the end of the zoo day. Their favourite part was the hill on the way down from the cafe and hearing the lion roar.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephen M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great day out, bit pricey for an adult at £14. Best to go early in the morning, around lunchtime alot of the animals were sleeping or hiding. Love to see some money from Government to rebuild the Floral Hall, such a waste!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ublesemp 1 year ago on Google
    Always enjoy a walk around Belfast Zoo, there's plenty of animals from around the world to see and it's quite well laid out and easy to navigate. It's situated on a steep hill so could be difficult for anyone with a pram/buggy or wheelchair, but well worth the effort for everyone else. The cafe at the top of the hill and the gift shop are quite expensive, but that's to be expected in an attraction like this. Definitely a great day out for families when the weather is nice!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Penny M. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice zoo with a beautiful location and sea / mountain view. The tickets are good price too - (almost half price as London’s) the variety of animals were not as many but it’s more than enough to make a child’s happy day. Plus there is a nice playground inside the zoo.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anthony B. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice zoo on the outskirts of Belfast. There are a varied selection of animals to see, in well prepared environments. Parking is free for the attraction. There are food outlets or picnic areas for whichever suits your visit. There are also toilets and a souvenir shop on site. It is cheaper to book online before your visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Subhalakshmi D. 1 year ago on Google
    Recently went to the Belfast zoo on a cold Sunday morning and loved it. The zoo is quite big and it’s a nice walk to complete the entire loop around relief zoo. Took me almost 3 hours to walk around and see all the gorgeous animals. The animals are kept really well and the zoo keepers are always around cleaning or feeding them. I know a lot of people don’t agree for animals to be kept this way, but a lot of these animals are going extinct and they would not survive in the wild unless protected. I would recommend a visit anyway :)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tuaha S. 11 months ago on Google
    This zoo is amazing. Doesnt feel like at all that the animals are confined as they have a play area, area where they can be away from the crowd and an area where they can come up close to the people. A lot of space for the animals to do whatever they want. The ticket price is very reasonable, and you can do the entire zoo in 2 hours if you want to be quick
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Enoch O. 11 months ago on Google
    This is one of the better zoos I have visited. The variety of species housed here is commendable, and I was particularly thrilled to see the Barbary Lions and Sea Lions. The animals are well-taken care of, their enclosures are made to closely resemble their natural habitats, and the zoo is in an overall good condition. Maps are provided to help with navigation around the various enclosures; lockers are available for storage of your luggage (which you pay for), and there are descriptive notes beside each animal's enclosure, which educate you on key info about the species. I really enjoyed that. I would advise, however, that you dedicate a t least 3 hours to this place, as you cannot possibly get a full experience within a shorter time frame- It is quite a wide space. By the way, tickets are £13 each for adults.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark T. 8 months ago on Google • 5 reviews
    Loved Belfast zoo. I've been to Edinburgh several times. It was a lot cheaper and just as good. The climb up the hill was hard for my asthmatic partner, but we made it. Pity about the floral hall that needs something doing with. But it didn't take away from the day. It is easy to take a picnic. But cafe prices are cheap compared to Edinburgh. We'll done to all those that work there. And, the council who support it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Lorella P. 8 months ago on Google
    It was a beautiful day spent with my kids. The animals look well kept and cared for and the kids enjoyed seeing the variety of animals. Just be prepared to walk and note that the zoo is built on a hillside so some of the paths are quite steep.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Leanne G. 7 months ago on Google
    I loved Belfast Zoo. We went on a Sunday morning. We didn't have to queue. We did book our tickets in advance. The new Lion enclosure was amazing with outstanding views over Belfast Lough. Spent around just 3 hrs but could of spent another few hrs no problem. Definitely worth a visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Joseph N. 2 months ago on Google • 42 reviews New
    These guys do fantastic conservation work. It's a bit of a trek up the windy hills but that's part of why I love it! A wide variety of animals who are well looked after.

  • 4/5 Simon 2 months ago on Google • 34 reviews New
    Nice little zoo. Not one of the best I've been to but not bad. A good variety of animal, some of which have been rescued, and reasonable viewing areas for the kids. However, some of the glass panels could do with a clean or replacing. The cafe has a small selection and is overpriced, plus they don't advertise the pricing, so you don't know what you're letting yourself in for. We went on a day that turned very wet halfway through, which shouldn't be surprising for Northern Ireland, and beware there are very few sheltered areas or indoors enclosures. All in all, I'm glad I visited but won't be in a rush to go back.

  • 5/5 Janet M. 6 months ago on Google • 31 reviews
    We absolutely loved our visit to Belfast zoo, staff were friendly and icecreams and milkshakes by the best playground ever were affordable and delicious. We will visit again! A lot of steps walked we clocked 28,000 in a few hours but the kids loved it and the adults especially the penguins and seals!!!

  • 5/5 Gordon S. 8 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    Great day out for the kids. The zoo is on the side of a mountain and the walk can be steep in a lot of places. There are plenty of places to stop and rest if it gets a little too much.

  • 5/5 Rob M. 7 months ago on Google • 8 reviews
    Amazing day at Belfast Zoo! My wife and I took our 4 week old baby to get out of the house and stretch the legs and so glad we did now, was a great day. New Lion enclosure is incredible. The Zoo is spotless, and got talking to some of the Keepers as we were walking around and all were very polite and down to earth, and very informative and clearly know there stuff with the animals. Belfast Zoo reminds me so much of my childhood and was amazing being able to bring my own child there, and when shes an age we will be signing up to the membership! Sad to see the Floral Hall wasting away, the stories my granny use to tell me as a kid when she use to go there for dances etc, be good with the history of Zoo to see that rejuvenated Keep up the good work and thanks for a great day!

  • 5/5 Alex N. 5 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Visited Belfast Zoo today to avail of the 2 for 1 offer, amazing. Always a great day out. Got the see the lions inside and up close today.

  • 4/5 Mini M. 4 months ago on Google • 6 reviews
    Great zoo. It's on hill, nice view over the city. A great day out for family. Would recommend for a fun day out.

  • 5/5 Shreejesh N. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice and calm environment. Enjoyed time with animals

  • 1/5 MC S. 3 years ago on Google
    I bent down to tie my laces and the zoo keeper came up with his bearded dragon and tickled me with it

  • 5/5 Sylwia K. 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect place for nice walk :)

  • 3/5 that guy b. 3 years ago on Google
    Enclosures are too small

  • 3/5 Dermawan Anandata P. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Unexpected beauty, the uniqueness that seems truly extraordinary, how long can I explore all of this even if only through a dream? 🙏 (Original) Tiada terduga keindahan, keunikan yang terkesan sungguh luar biasa, ntah kapan saya bisa menjelajahi ini semua meski hanya lewat sebuah mimpi ?🙏

  • 3/5 Julieanne M. 3 years ago on Google
    Out for a walk, didn't see many animals as the weather was bad, really sad that it is so run down, needs a lot of work.

  • 5/5 Peter M. 3 years ago on Google
    Loads of big animals and baby giraffes.

  • 5/5 Helen M. 3 years ago on Google
    Rally well planned out in current situation

  • 5/5 Catherine R. 3 years ago on Google
    We love it there!

  • 5/5 Roy D. 3 years ago on Google
    Very steep hills when pushing a pram

  • 5/5 Arturas B. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 5/5 Red _. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing, animals well kept. They know what they r doing!

  • 4/5 Alison C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great zoo

  • 5/5 Neeta A. 3 years ago on Google
    My kid and me liked Zoo.

  • 4/5 Jack B. 3 years ago on Google
    Really nice zoo and worth the visit for all the animals

  • 5/5 Tammy 1. 3 years ago on Google
    To check prices

  • 1/5 William P. 3 years ago on Google
    First arrived urinals blocked, over 50% of enclosures no animals , wee kids can't see animals over hedges and place looks run down and animals look sad, not good

  • 5/5 Mark W. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing zoo, so much to see, a great day out

  • 5/5 Liam C. 3 years ago on Google
    Great day out

  • 2/5 Steven W. 3 years ago on Google
    not abel to get clos enuf to aminals to get decent photos on my camera phone

  • 5/5 Micky R. 2 years ago on Google
    Enjoyable day spent here .. brilliant for the wee man.

  • 4/5 Judith B. 2 years ago on Google
    First time here in over 20 years and brought my 3 young children. Great fun had by all. Steep walk but play area half way up for kids to burn energy and parents to have a well deserved seat. A wee coffee shop at the park would be ideal.

  • 5/5 Sarah B. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic zoo, must do activity for locals and tourists My husband and I came back to Belfast from Canada and decided to go with our son and my family. I haven’t been to the zoo in years and was so impressed with it. The range of animals was incredible and the setting of the zoo at the base of Cavehill makes it a must see attraction. This zoo needs and deserves our support. The zoo really invests in breeding programmes to support endangered species.

  • 5/5 Scott H. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful animals, definitely worth going to support your local Zoo. They do fantastic work. 🦧🐅

  • 5/5 Noel R. 2 years ago on Google
    Even as Autumn closes in, plenty to see & do

  • 5/5 Ben M. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing family day out. Lots a animals, friendly staff and stunning views. Treetop tea house had a good range of food available (vegan and gluten-free sandwiches were available). Great value too.

  • 5/5 Jacobs W. 2 years ago on Google
    We had the best time here, our highlight was when an older chimpanzee and daughter played peekaboo with each other and when we got to witness the sealions being fed

  • 5/5 Kevin B D. 2 years ago on Google
    Great place for the kids. Very very hilly. Older people or people wth lmited mobility may be challenged with the walking around. Small but well stocked gift shop. All in all, very good.

  • 4/5 Arthur T. 2 years ago on Google
    Good range of species with succinct explanations. Not for those afraid of birds as peacocks roam around freely. Gift shop is rather lacking in variety and has very generic products. Not great for souvenirs.

  • 5/5 Sara C. 2 years ago on Google
    how awesome this zoo is!! we loved it, we even made friends with the bear, such a joy 🤩 We came just on time to know the wee baby gorila, a cutie

  • 5/5 Bryan G. 2 years ago on Google
    Great zoo. Biggest I've been to. Zoo has good breeding programs, best was the baby gorilla. What really made the visit was the lady keeper for the Spider Monkeys. Really friendly, informative, the animals clearly knew her. A credit to the zoo. Zoo is well worth a visit. We spend 4 hours looking around. Would have been longer but due to Covid there was a few parts closed. Worth the entrance fee.

  • 5/5 Gareth L. 2 years ago on Google
    Great day out with the kids. Be prepared for hills!

  • 5/5 Aoife G. 2 years ago on Google
    Brilliant Zoo. Tons of Animals to see. We saw every single animal. I've been to a few zoos and i actually think this is better even than Dublin Zoo in Ireland. There is lots of walking but one thing I loved was that you can be really close up to the animals. Staff are all lovely. Price is fine aswell. Plently of parking.

  • 4/5 Charlene M. 2 years ago on Google
    Unfortunately the weather wasn't great when we went so most animals where inside not that I blame them! Disappointed we weren't told until we arrived (I booked online) that the bird house was closed and a few other attractions were unavailable. And the bottom cafe wasn't open either. Kids had a ball regardless of our lovely weather and saw most animals. Could do with cleaning / replacing glass on some of the animal viewing windows as that foggy it was hard to see. Top cafe was cheap and lovely guy that served us very friendly and funny. Looking forward to a sunny warm day back in the summer lol well here's hoping. Oh and Unfortunately the gift shop was closed on our way out it most close before the Zoo which Disappointed my kids but saved me a few quid! Maybe next time

  • 5/5 Rosey G. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a great morning. Lots of parking, friendly staff, picnic tables, places to buy snacks and drinks (cafes, vending machines) and even a playground. There is a good variety of animals including the usual suspects (elephants, giraffes, apes, lions & bears oh my!) and other more unusual exhibits (Eagle, Red panda, capybara). One thing to note is that the zoo is on the side of a mountain so the majority is up/down hill, quite steep in places, so be prepared for exercise! :)

  • 5/5 Jurij K. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice place, a lot animals, very friendly staff. If you planned for visit any ZOO, I recommended take morning time for in. Because all animals in this time going to outside.

  • 4/5 Carel van N. 1 year ago on Google
    Second year my son wanted to go for his birthday. We could see an improvement from last year snd more work gone into the maintenance of the park. I think it is well worth the visit and the more people go the more money they have to make further improvements. We heard the lion roar amd saw the gorillas plating and beating their chests and then rolled down the hill. That was a highlight. Ohh and a penguin jumped off yhe high end into the water which was very entertaining. Well worth a family trip out.

  • 4/5 Peter B. 1 year ago on Google
    Really nice day out with the family, the animals were all healthy looking & the playground is great. Its a bit of a hike to the top but its still worth it. The gift shop for me was a let down, i would have liked to have soom books about the zoo & natural history there but it was just stuffed toys & things like that.

  • 5/5 Bekah W. 1 year ago on Google
    Other animals are available, I was just taken with the baby Giraffe! Wonderful tour for adopters day, lots of facts and chat and our guide was wonderful. Willing to answer questions, funny little facts about individual animals not just species specific. Can't wait for our next visit!

  • 3/5 Arron C. 11 months ago on Google
    The zoo is quite dated and could do with a major refurbishment, the animals seem happy enough but with some of the designs of the enclosures it's difficult to see them (the Otters for example they have put a bush in front of the glass). The zoo is built on a mountain so expect steep hills but they offer a service that will drop you to the top of the zoo and you can walk down, which would be easier for anyone who suffers mobility issues although I heard they charge £2 for this but I'm not 100% sure. The animals appear to be well cared for and the staff have been lovely any time that I've been. The new lion enclosure is currently undergoing work so I can't comment on that but it would be great to see major investment from the council and government to allow for better enclosures and more up to date facilities, especially when Dublin Zoo is just a 2 hour journey down the road.

  • 5/5 Gareth 9 months ago on Google
    Had a great time with family. Staff were friendly and there was plenty to see in terms of amenities and animals. I would highly recommend going.

  • 4/5 bob “the Pebble” D. 10 months ago on Google
    Great Zoo. Has many animals for you to go and see. Loved every second of it. Just it was a hike and a half 😅 Only thing is I wish it was more clear where you had to go. Felt like I was walking through a maze.

  • 5/5 Mary T. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a great day at zoo, staff were lovely and friendly, especially restaurant staff. Loved the Barbour lion, so sad these lions are endangered. Wonderful day, sights were great and excellent value for money, would absolutely recommend.

  • 4/5 The Hooting O. 8 months ago on Google
    First time being to Belfast zoo. It's on a mountainside, which gives fantastic views of Belfast city. Great place for kids and adults alike. Definitely, if you have time while visiting Belfast, I'd recommend giving this a visit.

  • 5/5 Andrea F. 8 months ago on Google
    There is sooooo many animals to see here! You can spend a good 4-6hours here as there is ALOT of walking, but it's definitely worth it to see some endangered and rare animals!

  • 4/5 Jane D. 7 months ago on Google
    Small zoo, lots of hills, book zoomobile if walking is an issue. Good selection of animals. Areas to look inside and outside so as not to miss seeing them. Flowers not well maintained, lots of dead bushes and dead flower pots about. Some issues with rubbish. Plenty of rats to keep kids entertained.

  • 5/5 SREEJITH R. 6 months ago on Google
    Very good place for a family weekend specially with kids. Not over crowded. Well maintained and enjoyed a lot.

  • 5/5 jodie d. 8 months ago on Google
    Had a lovely day out in Belfast zoo. We stayed over in Belfast and went to the zoo before we headed home. It was very nice but unfortunately the lions enclosures were getting refurbished so they weren't out. Alot more animals than Dublin Zoo. My daughters and husband loved it, especially the wildcats. Highly recommend for a family/couples day out and its not expensive. For the tickets you save abput £10 if you purchase them online. Overal a great day was had. We spent about 2hours there. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there are some steep hills.


Call +44 28 9077 6277 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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