Belfast Zoo



One of the oldest visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, Belfast Zoo is located in the north of the city, on Antrim Road, and is home to more than 1,000 animals on its 55-acre site.

Many of the 150 species at the zoo are in danger in their natural habitat so it is an excellent way for children to learn about a vast array of amazing creatures.

Opened in 1934, Belfast Zoo now has over 300,000 visitors pass through the park every year. Some of the most popular attractions are the Asian elephants, the Sumatran tigers and the Rothschild giraffes. Belfast Zoo is also one of only 22 zoos worldwide to provide a home for the Goodfellow’s tree kangaroo.

As well as the main animal attractions there is a recently refurbished Bird Park containing many exotic and endangered birds and a Rainforest House, a walk-through tropical exhibition.

There are a number of places around the zoo to buy food and drink and the picnic area located at the lakeside is a great spot for lunch and to recharge your batteries.

Located on the secluded Cave Hill with stunning views overlooking Belfast Lough, the zoo provides a tranquil setting for children of all ages to enjoy the wonders of the natural world.

Belfast Zoo has excellent public transport links and close to the M2 motorway. The zoo is open all year round but times do change depending on the season so it is a good idea to check before your visit.

Plan a trip to see Belfast Zoo

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Things to do near Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including family-friendly experiences, local tours, and the opportunity for horse riding. You can enjoy scenic walking paths and partake in free tours or a guided discovery tour to learn more about the zoo's diverse wildlife. Additionally, nearby golf courses provide a chance to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Newtownabbey.

Shopping

For shopping near Belfast Zoo, visit Abbeycentre Shopping, only 621m away, offering a mix of shops for families and entertainment. St. George's Market and Victoria Square Shopping Centre are both 2.5km away, providing vibrant local products and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore more shopping options in Belfast city centre.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at SSE Arena, where thrilling sports events energise your visit. For a serene retreat, explore Cave Hill Country Park, perfect for relaxation and nature walks. Enjoy live music at the Ulster Hall, offering an entertaining cultural experience close to Belfast Zoo.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Jetpack Adventures, located 3.1km from Belfast Zoo, where you can soar above the water. For karting enthusiasts, Eddie Irvine Sports, 6.8km away, offers an exhilarating racing experience. Don’t miss the scenic Blackhead Path, 8.1km from the zoo, perfect for hiking lovers.

Nightlife

After visiting Belfast Zoo, enjoy the vibrant nightlife at the MAC Theatre, just 2.5km away, for a cultural experience. Alternatively, head to Theatre At The Mill, 1.9km away, for an entertaining evening, or have some family fun at Vertigo Titanic Park, also 2.5km away.

Find the best attractions near Belfast Zoo

When visiting Belfast Zoo, you can explore fascinating attractions such as the maritime museum and history museum, as well as notable monuments nearby. These points of interest offer a rich cultural experience and outdoor activities suitable for families. For a complete visit, consider nearby hotels and other Belfast attractions to enhance your stay in this vibrant city.

  • Titanic Belfast: Located 2.5km from Belfast Zoo, Titanic Belfast is an impressive maritime museum dedicated to the iconic ship. Here, you can explore interactive exhibits and learn about the ship's history, construction, and the tragic maiden voyage, all set in a stunning architectural landmark.
  • Belfast Castle: Just 559m away, Belfast Castle offers a romantic and cultural experience with its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city. The castle's unique architecture and rich history make it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and photography.
  • Queen's University of Belfast: Situated 3.1km from the zoo, this modern university boasts vibrant city vibes. Its stunning campus features impressive architecture and a lively atmosphere, attracting students and visitors alike to its cultural and academic offerings.

Best time to go to Belfast Zoo

The best time to visit Belfast Zoo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Belfast Zoo falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Belfast Zoo falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January40.8°F (4.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.8°F (6.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.2°F (7.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July58.3°F (14.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.7°F (14.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
September55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
December42.3°F (5.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Belfast Zoo

To save on your trip to Belfast Zoo, consider visiting during the off-peak months of December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Booking your hotel about a month in advance typically yields the best rates, and Monday is the cheapest night to stay. Explore last-minute deals on sites like Expedia for potential savings. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional discounts. Don't forget to check for specific Belfast Zoo deals and loyalty programme offers to maximise your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Belfast Zoo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Belfast Zoo about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Belfast Zoo is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Belfast Zoo is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel accommodation near Belfast Zoo with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

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