Bristol Zoo Project
A developing zoo focused on spacious, naturalistic habitats for animals from Africa and Madagascar, offering an engaging experience for families.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Bristol Zoo Project
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more animal activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A developing zoo focused on spacious, naturalistic habitats for animals from Africa and Madagascar, offering an engaging experience for families.
"It has been cleverly thought out and designed perfectly for both visitors and animals/wildlife."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved across the expansive site.
🥪 Pack a Picnic
Food and drink can be pricey, so bring your own snacks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giraffe Encounter
African Plains
Get up close to these majestic creatures in their expansive habitat. A truly memorable experience!
Bear Woods
Bear Woods
Witness bears emerging and interacting in a naturalistic setting. A highlight for many visitors.
Andy's Adventure Theme
Various locations
Engaging themed activities and play areas, especially fun for younger children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Space: It's a Roaming Experience
Under Construction, Big Potential
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
How good is the Bristol Zoo Project?
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved across the expansive site.
🥪 Pack a Picnic
Food and drink can be pricey, so bring your own snacks.
Bristol Zoo
Bristol zoo... good?
☀️ Check Weather Forecast
Best enjoyed on a pleasant day with outdoor exploration.
🎯 Look for Keeper Talks
Informative and engaging talks add to the experience.
4/5 days in Bristol with young children
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking involved across the expansive site.
🥪 Pack a Picnic
Food and drink can be pricey, so bring your own snacks.
☀️ Check Weather Forecast
Best enjoyed on a pleasant day with outdoor exploration.
🎯 Look for Keeper Talks
Informative and engaging talks add to the experience.
🗺️ Explore the Play Areas
Great for kids of all ages, especially during themed events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise Bristol Zoo Project for its spacious, naturalistic animal enclosures and the engaging experience it offers, particularly for families with young children. While the zoo is still under development with ongoing construction, the vision for a high-quality facility is evident. Some guests note the limited number of animals compared to traditional zoos and find the on-site food and drink prices to be on the higher side.
"I had a lovely day here. There’s a lot of space for the animals and it’s nice that they are able to roam around. There’s not as big a selection of animals, but there are still plenty there to see. We got lucky and managed to see all the animals. There’s still work in progress, and there’s some work under construction. The highlight for me was seeing the giraffes. One of the giraffes was really close. It was amazing to see. The bear woods was good too, as we managed to see the bears come out at the perfect time. We got ice cream at the end, which was delicious. I had a really nice day here at the zoo. I’d highly recommend it for a day out."
Kayleigh Price
"Took our 3 kids (all 4 and under) for the day. Staff were really welcoming and they had 'Andy's adventure' theme with lots of extra bits around the park. These were hosted by staff and really clever and fun for the kids. The theme ran across the whole park and there were some really clever bits the kids got to be involved with. There are still some areas of the park under construction but there is still plenty to see and explore. You can definitely see the vision and it will be a great zoo over the next few years.
There were some lovely play parks and climbing bits for the kids. Not many animals but this will increase. The animals they did have were in some great enclosures with easy visibility and unique viewing points. The bear walk was lovely and memorable! Paths were lined with blackberry bushes which felt really natural and aided in the wildlife support. Lots of fun signs and interesting bits for the kids to see along the way. My kids loved the maze too. We had a lovely day out and will return again see what changes and animals are there. It has been cleverly thought out and designed perfectly for both visitors and animals/wildlife."
Helen Humphries
"Nice little zoo, aimed at younger children. Lots of walking around to the different exhibits. We looked at everything at a leisurely pace with several drinks and food stops in under six hours. The site is expanding. Hopefully they will also build more toilets - the current lack of being really my only criticism. Probably best visited when the weather is half decent."
Ian Roberts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The zoo is easily accessible by car, located just off Junction 17 of the M5 motorway. There's a spacious car park available for visitors.
Information on public transport routes can be found on the official Bristol Zoo Project website. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance.
There is a spacious car park at the Bristol Zoo Project, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Parking is generally included or free with admission, but it's always best to check the latest information on their website before your visit.
While specific cycle paths might not be highlighted, many visitors cycle to attractions. Check for local cycle routes and consider bringing a lock.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, with family tickets often available. A family ticket can cost around £65-£75, potentially including a donation. It's recommended to book online in advance for potential savings.
Check the official Bristol Zoo Project website for specific pricing tiers, which may include concessions for children, seniors, or students.
Yes, tickets are typically available for purchase on the day of your visit, but booking online in advance is often recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
Inquire about membership or annual pass options on their website, which can offer great value for frequent visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The zoo focuses on animals from Madagascar, East Africa, and the Congo, including giraffes, bears, cheetahs, wolves, and red pandas. Not all animals may be visible every day. +1
Yes, it's particularly well-suited for younger children with themed activities like 'Andy's Adventure' and several playgrounds.
Absolutely! There are several well-designed playgrounds for children of different ages, including a maze. +1
There are places to sit and have food and drink, but prices for food and beverages can be quite expensive. Bringing your own picnic is a popular option. +1
The paths are generally well-maintained, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The expansive nature of the site means there's a good amount of walking.
📸 📸 Photography
The giraffe enclosure offers fantastic close-up photo opportunities. The Bear Woods also provides memorable shots, especially when the bears are active.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to check the zoo's official guidelines regarding photography equipment to ensure compliance.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permission.
Mornings often offer more active animals and softer light. However, late afternoons can also be good as animals prepare for their evening routines.
Look for the naturalistic elements like the blackberry bushes lining paths, or unique viewing points designed for animal observation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
While there's a good amount of walking, the zoo is designed with families in mind. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as food prices can be a bit steep.
💰 Budget-Conscious Visitors
Be aware that food and drink purchased on-site can be expensive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision: A New Era for Bristol Zoo
This approach prioritizes conservation and education, aiming to provide a space where visitors can connect with wildlife in a more meaningful way. The design emphasizes a sense of exploration, with winding paths and varied landscapes. The commitment to creating a 'great zoo over the next few years' is evident in the thoughtful planning and the integration of natural elements throughout the park.
Visitors can expect a blend of iconic species and unique habitats. The project aims to be a leader in animal welfare and conservation, offering a glimpse into the future of zoological parks. It's a place that rewards patience and observation, offering a different, perhaps more profound, zoo experience.
Family Fun and Play
Beyond the structured activities, the natural environment itself offers plenty of discovery. Paths lined with blackberry bushes and interesting signs provide constant stimulation. The maze is another popular feature that kids love to navigate. Even with ongoing construction, there's more than enough to see and do to fill a day with smiles and laughter.
Parents will appreciate the thoughtful design that considers both children's enjoyment and animal welfare. The unique viewing points for animals allow for easy observation, and the overall atmosphere is one of relaxed exploration. It's a place where families can create lasting memories while learning about wildlife.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit