Belfast
Belfast Zoo
This hillside zoo houses 140 species on 55 acres of Cavehill slopes, including Asian elephants, Malayan tapirs, and California sea lions. The zoo opened in 1934 and focuses on conservation breeding programs for endangered species. It sits in Belfast's City Centre, close to the other main sights. It sits below the headline sights but earns its place on a longer visit to Belfast, especially paired with nearby Peace Walls. Tickets cost £18 adult, £9 child (3-17), under 3 free and 3-4 hours is enough to see everything without rushing.
Priority: Medium - include with 2+ days Time needed: 3-4 hours Best for: one of uk's top zoos with excellent conservation Skip if: You have mobility issues with steep terrain or dislike outdoor walking Cost: £18 adult, £9 child (3-17), under 3 free
What It Is
You walk winding paths between natural enclosures watching elephants bathe and penguins dive. The elevated position gives views across Belfast Lough between animal exhibits.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible paths available, mobility scooter hire on site
Why Visit
One of UK's top zoos with excellent conservation work and Belfast views. It is not the first thing you should see in Belfast, but with two or more days it fills a gap the major sights leave. It pairs naturally with Peace Walls and St. George's Market - together they fill a solid half-day. Mornings are quieter if you want to take your time.
Skip if: You have mobility issues with steep terrain or dislike outdoor walking
Practical Info
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Opening Hours | Daily 10:00-17:00 (April-September), 10:00-14:30 (October-March) |
| Price | £18 adult, £9 child (3-17), under 3 free |
| Time Needed | 3-4 hours |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings for quieter animal viewing |
| Address | Antrim Road, Belfast BT36 7PN |
Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for steep paths.
- Download the zoo app for animal feeding times.
- Check weather as most exhibits are outdoors.
Insider tip: The free shuttle bus runs every 15 minutes to save the uphill walk
Photography
Great city backdrop shots from upper paths, no flash photography near animals
Our tips
What we'd tell a friend visiting
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for steep paths
- Download the zoo app for animal feeding times
- Check weather as most exhibits are outdoors
Nearby attractions
More places to visit in Belfast
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about Belfast Zoo
Plan two to three hours for casual visitors covering main exhibits. Families with children often spend three to four hours including play areas. Thorough visits covering all 140 species take four to five hours. The zoo covers 60 acres with steep hills requiring uphill climbing. Open daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April to September, shorter winter hours.
Adult tickets cost £17.50, children aged three to sixteen cost £12.50, under-threes enter free. Family tickets for two adults and two children cost £52. Parking costs £3. The zoo is on Cave Hill with panoramic city views. Online advance booking saves £2 per ticket. Open year-round; summer weeks see 200-plus visitors daily.
The zoo has dedicated play areas, indoor exhibits for cold weather, and animal feeding times. Children's trails identify animals with interactive facts. The petting area features farmyard animals. Steep hills challenge toddlers; strollers work but uphill sections tire older children. Visitor facilities include cafés, toilets, and rest areas throughout the grounds.
Tours & tickets for Belfast Zoo
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