Belfast Zoo
A conservation-focused zoo set on a steep hill, offering diverse animal encounters and stunning city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Belfast Zoo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more active animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A conservation-focused zoo set on a steep hill, offering diverse animal encounters and stunning city views.
"It's a great workout with beautiful views, but be ready for the hills!"
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
It's a very hilly zoo! Be prepared for a workout, especially with little ones.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The guide map is helpful, but signage can be sparse. Keep it handy to navigate the inclines.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Lions & Giraffes
Savannah Enclosure
Marvel at the regal lions and graceful giraffes, often a hit with younger visitors.
Playful Primates
Monkey Enclosures
Watch the energetic antics of various monkey species in their naturalistic habitats.
Rainforest Adventure
Walk-through Rainforest House
Step into a lush, tropical environment and discover the secrets of its active inhabitants.
Close Encounters with Seals
Marine Life Area
Get surprisingly close to the sleek sea lions and seals as they glide through the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb!
Animal Sightings & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Belfast Zoo
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
It's a very hilly zoo! Be prepared for a workout, especially with little ones.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The guide map is helpful, but signage can be sparse. Keep it handy to navigate the inclines.
Is Belfast Zoo worth a visit at this time of year?
Has anybody been to Belfast Zoo recently?
🍼 Stroller Savvy
Essential for toddlers, but be aware the cafe is at the very top.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warm days. Picnic spots are available.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!
It's a very hilly zoo! Be prepared for a workout, especially with little ones.
🗺️ Grab a Map
The guide map is helpful, but signage can be sparse. Keep it handy to navigate the inclines.
🍼 Stroller Savvy
Essential for toddlers, but be aware the cafe is at the very top.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warm days. Picnic spots are available.
🧐 Look for Feeding Times
Check the schedule for feeding demonstrations to see animals at their most active.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Belfast Zoo offers a decent family day out with popular animals like lions and giraffes, and a unique rainforest experience. However, visitors frequently mention the challenging, very hilly terrain which can be exhausting, and some report issues with animal visibility on certain days. The views are often praised, but signage can be lacking.
"Put on your comfy or hiking shoes.. The guide map helps a lot and it allows you see the animals available. Beautiful for a family trip with good picnic spots. Grab a stroller from home if you have a toddler or kids below age 5."
Augustine Emelue
"The views are stunning, alot of the animals are not visible or out when we were there, it's all uphill so with kids in buggies it's a nightmare, the cafe is up the very top. Exhausting on a warm day. There's no sign posts, you'd very easily get lost with no directions as the map doesn't help an awful lot."
Christina Roche
"Loved how quiet it was as I visited on a wet bank holiday. I only saw a few other families. All the staff were lovely and food was tasty when I bought a toasties from the tree top tea rooms. I loved seeing the gorrillas and Scottish wild cats! The zoo is very hilly. It was a decent day out."
Jessica Kershaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Belfast Zoo is accessible by car, with parking available. Public transport options include bus routes that stop nearby. Check Translink for the latest bus schedules and routes to the zoo.
Yes, there is parking available at Belfast Zoo. It can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended.
While possible, Belfast Zoo is located on a steep hill, making walking a significant challenge. It's generally recommended to use transport to get close to the entrance.
Several bus routes serve the area around Belfast Zoo. Consult the Translink website for specific route numbers and stops closest to the zoo entrance.
Due to its hilly terrain, Belfast Zoo can be challenging for wheelchair users. Some paths are steep, and accessibility may vary. It's advisable to contact the zoo directly for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary for adults, children, and concessions. It's best to check the official Belfast Zoo website for the most current admission fees and to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets at the gate, but booking online in advance is often recommended to guarantee entry and potentially save time, especially during busy periods.
Belfast Zoo's opening hours can vary seasonally. Always check their official website for the most accurate daily opening and closing times before your visit.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and families. Look for special offers or family packages on the Belfast Zoo website.
If you plan to visit multiple times a year, a membership can offer great value, providing unlimited access and often discounts on merchandise or special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Belfast Zoo is home to a diverse range of animals, including lions, giraffes, elephants, primates, and many more. The walk-through rainforest house offers a unique experience.
Yes, there are designated picnic areas within Belfast Zoo, making it a great option for a family day out. Remember to bring your own food and drinks.
Belfast Zoo is known for being very hilly. Be prepared for steep inclines throughout the park, which can be challenging for some visitors.
While specific play areas might change, the zoo offers plenty of space for children to explore and observe animals. The focus is on the natural environment and animal encounters.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must due to the hills. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. A stroller is recommended for young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Treetop Tea Rooms is located at the top of the zoo and offers a selection of food and drinks. Visitors can also bring their own food for picnics.
The Treetop Tea Rooms typically offers light meals, snacks, and beverages. Options might include toasties, sandwiches, and hot drinks.
It's advisable to check with the Treetop Tea Rooms directly for their current menu and specific dietary options, as offerings can change.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, and there are picnic areas available, which can be a cost-effective option.
The Treetop Tea Rooms is located at the highest point of the zoo, so reaching it involves navigating the hilly terrain.
📸 📸 Photography
The enclosures offering close-up views, like the sea lions and primates, are great for photos. The panoramic views from the higher points of the zoo are also stunning.
It can be challenging as animals move unpredictably. Patience is key! Early mornings or late afternoons might offer better lighting and more active animals.
Yes, a zoom lens can be very helpful for capturing clear shots of animals in their enclosures without disturbing them.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. However, since the zoo has set hours, late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to avoid disturbing the animals. Always check for posted signs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Focus on the animals that are consistently popular with kids, like the lions, giraffes, and monkeys. The walk-through rainforest house offers an engaging, immersive experience. Be prepared for the fact that not all animals may be visible at all times, and manage expectations by focusing on the overall experience of exploring the zoo and enjoying the outdoors.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Fitness Enthusiasts
Wear your most comfortable athletic shoes and consider it a fitness excursion combined with wildlife viewing. You can easily spend several hours here, getting your steps in while observing a variety of animals. The zoo's layout encourages exploration, so be prepared to cover a lot of ground, albeit with significant elevation changes.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Concerns
Visitors have noted that navigating the zoo with wheelchairs or mobility aids can be exhausting. Planning your route carefully and perhaps focusing on the lower sections of the zoo might be a more manageable approach. Be prepared for a potentially strenuous experience, and consider visiting on a less crowded day to allow for a slower pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Hills: A Visitor's Guide
For families with young children, a stroller or pushchair is highly recommended. While navigating the inclines with a buggy can be tough, it's often preferable to carrying a tired toddler. Be aware that the main cafe and facilities are situated at the very top of the zoo, so factor this into your planning. Some visitors suggest packing plenty of snacks and water to keep energy levels up, as the climb can be demanding.
For those with mobility issues, the hilly terrain presents a significant challenge. While the zoo strives to be accessible, the steep gradients mean that some areas may be difficult to reach. It's always best to contact Belfast Zoo directly before your visit to discuss specific accessibility concerns and to get the most up-to-date information on accessible routes and facilities.
Maximizing Animal Sightings
To increase your chances of seeing more animals, consider visiting during feeding times. While not always advertised, checking the zoo's schedule or asking staff can provide insights into when animals are most active. Early morning visits are often recommended, as animals tend to be more energetic before the heat of the day sets in and before the main crowds arrive.
Furthermore, some visitors have noted that the zoo's layout and the design of enclosures can sometimes make animals harder to spot. Patience and keen observation are key. Take your time at each enclosure, and don't be discouraged if you don't see every animal immediately. The walk-through rainforest house is often highlighted as a place where you can get closer to smaller, more active creatures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit