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Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo is a fantastic spot for a day out, especially if you love animals and great scenery. It is set on the slopes of Cave Hill, so you get some of the best views over the city and the water while you explore. It is home to over 120 species, including favorites like giraffes, elephants, and gorillas.

What to See and Do

The Animals: You can see everything from majestic lions and tigers to playful meerkats and red pandas. A real highlight is the Rainforest House, where you can walk through a tropical environment.
Feeding Times: It is always worth checking the schedule when you arrive for animal feeding times or keeper talks. Seeing the sea lions or penguins at lunchtime is usually a big hit.
For the Kids: There is a large adventure playpark that is great for burning off extra energy.
The Views: Since the zoo is built on a hillside, the higher you go, the better the views of Belfast Lough become.

Good to Know Before You Go

The Terrain: Be prepared for a bit of a workout! The zoo is quite steep in places with many hilly pathways. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you struggle with hills, there is an accessible buggy called the Zoomobile that can take you to the top so you can walk back down.
Average Visit: Most people spend between 3 and 5 hours here to see everything comfortably.
Who is it for? It is perfect for families with children of all ages, but adults and couples also enjoy it for the quiet walks and conservation focus.
Parking & Food: There is free parking on-site with plenty of space. For food, the Treetop Tearoom serves hot meals and snacks. There are also designated picnic areas if you want to bring your own lunch.

Planning Your Trip

Postcode: BT36 7PN
County: County Antrim
Opening Times: The zoo is open daily throughout the year, except for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. It usually stays open later during the summer months and closes a bit earlier in the winter. [1, 2]

Ways to Save

Discounts: Keep an eye out for Blue Light Card discounts if you work in the emergency services or NHS.
Memberships: If you live nearby, annual memberships can be a great deal as they often include free entry to other partner zoos across the UK and Ireland.
Online Booking: It is usually a good idea to book your tickets online in advance to ensure entry on busy days.

Nearby Attractions

If you have time, Cave Hill Country Park is right next door. It’s a beautiful spot for more hiking and features “Napoleon’s Nose,” a famous basaltic crag. You can also visit Belfast Castle, which is nearby and has lovely gardens and a café.

More Places Nearby

Armagh Planetarium & Observatory Aunt Sandra’s Candy Factory – Belfast Barry’s Amusements – Portrush Belfast Castle Belfast Peace Walls & Murals Brunswick Moviebowl – Derry/Londonderry Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Cathedral Quarter (Belfast) Clementsmount Fun Farm – Crumlin Colin Glen Forest Park (Adventure Park Entrance) Crumlin Road Gaol – Belfast Cuilcagh Boardwalk (Stairway to Heaven) Derry City Walls – The Walled City Dundonald International Ice Bowl – Castlereagh Enniskillen Castle and Museums Exploris Aquarium Fergusons Irish Linen Factory Tour Finvoy Fun Farm – Ballymoney Game of Thrones Studio Tour Giant’s Causeway Jungle NI Lough Erne Boat Tours Lough Neagh Marble Arch Caves Mount Stewart (National Trust) Mourne Mountains Old Bushmills Distillery Pickie Fun Park Slieve Gullion Forest Park St Patrick’s Grave Streamvale Farm Tannaghmore Animal Farm – Craigavon Tayto Factory Tour The Dark Hedges The Gobbins Cliff Path Titanic Belfast Tropicana Outdoor Pool – Newcastle Ulster American Folk Park Ulster Folk and Transport Museum W5 Belfast ( Who, What, Where, When, Why ) We Are Vertigo