UK Zoos & Wildlife Parks: 77 Brilliant Animal Days Out to Plan
There's something about a zoo day that never gets old. The kids are up before the alarm, the picnic's packed, and somebody always insists on seeing the lions first. Whether you fancy a drive-through safari with monkeys eyeing your wing mirrors or a tiny rescue centre tucked down a country lane, the UK is absolutely packed with brilliant places to get up close to animals.
This guide rounds up 77 of them, grouped by region first so you can find something near home or your holiday base, then picking out favourites for big cats, elephants, primates, birds, safari drives and smaller sanctuaries.
Plenty of these places put serious work into breeding programmes and conservation, so your ticket does a bit of good too. Comfy shoes on, wellies in the boot, and off you go.
Zoos in London & the South East
ZSL London Zoo Tucked into Regent's Park since 1828, London Zoo packs a remarkable amount into a city-centre site. Land of the Lions, the gorillas and Penguin Beach are the big draws. Make a proper day of it by strolling along the Regent's Canal from Camden Lock. See ZSL London Zoo →
Battersea Park Children's Zoo Small, friendly and perfect for little legs, this compact zoo inside Battersea Park focuses on smaller mammals, birds and farm favourites. Meerkats and otters tend to steal the show. It's ideal for toddlers, and the riverside park around it is lovely for a run-around afterwards. See Battersea Park Children's Zoo →
Marwell Zoo Set in rolling Hampshire countryside near Winchester, Marwell has built its reputation on saving endangered hoofed animals from the African plains, alongside big cats and plenty more. The site is spread out, so the little road train is a godsend for tired toddlers by mid-afternoon. See Marwell Zoo →
Wingham Wildlife Park This Kent favourite has grown at a cracking pace. The reptile house is a real highlight for anyone who loves snakes and lizards, and tigers prowl the outdoor enclosures. Canterbury is a short drive away if you want cathedral views and a bite to eat afterwards. See Wingham Wildlife Park →
Wildwood Discovery Park Run by the Wildwood Trust near Herne Bay, this woodland park is all about animals that live, or once lived, in Britain. Think wolves, bears, lynx, beavers and red squirrels among the trees. Pair it with a seaside stroll and an ice cream along Herne Bay's front. See Wildwood Discovery Park →
British Wildlife Centre Native creatures only at this Surrey spot near Lingfield: foxes, otters, badgers, deer, red squirrels and Scottish wildcats. Wildlife photographers adore it because the animals are so easy to see. Opening days are limited, so check the calendar before you load up the car.
The Living Rainforest Rainy Berkshire afternoon? Swap it for steamy glasshouses near Newbury where a sloth might be hanging just above your head. Free-roaming birds, lizards and lush jungle planting make it feel miles from home. It's compact, so it suits a half day nicely. See The Living Rainforest →
SEA LIFE Brighton Under Brighton's seafront sits a gorgeous Victorian aquarium dating back to 1872, with vaulted ceilings that look more like a grand old railway station than a fish tank. Turtles, rays and sharks fill the tanks. Brighton Palace Pier is just across the road. See SEA LIFE Brighton →
Zoos in the East of England
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo Whipsnade sprawls across roughly 600 acres of the Dunstable Downs, so you can bring the car in and drive between zones. Elephants, rhinos and lions all have serious room to roam. Look out for the giant white lion carved into the chalk hillside nearby. See ZSL Whipsnade Zoo →
Colchester Zoo Big, hilly and full of variety, Colchester Zoo is home to rare species including Amur leopards. Give yourself a full day and wear decent trainers, because there are plenty of slopes. Colchester's castle and Roman walls make a handy add-on if you're staying over. See Colchester Zoo →
Hamerton Zoo Park Off the beaten track near Huntingdon, Hamerton is the place for animals you won't see everywhere, including a fascinating mix of Australian marsupials. It feels relaxed rather than rammed, which makes it a winner with families who like to take their time. See Hamerton Zoo Park →
Linton Zoo A small, family-run park south-east of Cambridge with a strong breeding focus, Linton is best known for its snow leopards. Pretty gardens and a quieter pace make it a gentle day out. Combine it with a wander around Cambridge's colleges on the way home. See Linton Zoo →
Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens Just inland from Great Yarmouth, Thrigby specialises in Asian wildlife. Raised walkways let you peer down on tigers, while the swamp house is a hit with crocodile fans. Finish the afternoon on Yarmouth's Golden Mile with chips and the amusements. See Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens →
Zoos in the South West
Paignton Zoo Half zoo, half botanical garden, Paignton is a leafy, sprawling site with thousands of animals hidden among the greenery. It's a great way to break up an English Riviera holiday, and Paignton's sandy beach and pier are only minutes down the road. See Paignton Zoo →
Bristol Zoo Project When the old Clifton zoo closed, the animals moved out to this open woodland site just off the M5. Bear Wood, with bears, wolves and lynx sharing a forest, is the standout. Big skies and space to breathe make it feel refreshingly modern. See Bristol Zoo Project →
Exmoor Zoo A small but characterful North Devon park near Barnstaple, Exmoor Zoo leans into local legend with its black leopards, a nod to the famous Beast of Exmoor. Keeper talks are frequent and friendly. Ilfracombe and the north coast beaches are an easy drive away. See Exmoor Zoo →
Newquay Zoo Lush subtropical gardens and lakes give Newquay Zoo a holiday feel all of its own. Smaller carnivores, monkeys and colourful birds are its speciality. Because it sits close to town, you can easily fit it around a morning on Fistral or Towan Beach. See Newquay Zoo →
The National Marine Aquarium Overlooking Plymouth's harbour, this is a cracking pick when the Devon weather turns. The enormous main tank is home to sharks and shoals of fish, and the conservation messages land without being preachy. The Barbican's cobbled streets are right next door. See The National Marine Aquarium →
Zoos in the Midlands
Dudley Zoo and Castle Where else do you get a zoo wrapped around the ruins of a medieval castle? Dudley's hillside site also has rare 1930s Modernist enclosures that architecture buffs travel to see. The Black Country Living Museum is next door, so you could easily stretch it into a weekend. See Dudley Zoo and Castle →
Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World Real animals and roaring animatronic dinosaurs share this Shropshire park near Telford, so it scores big with younger children. Farm favourites, exotic mammals and hands-on sessions keep things busy. It's a solid choice when you need a day out that won't tire under-tens. See Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World →
Screveton Eco Park Out in the Nottinghamshire countryside, this small spot leans towards rewilding and protecting native birds rather than big-ticket exotic animals. Treat it as a peaceful nature stop, and confirm visiting arrangements before travelling, as smaller sites often keep limited days.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham Right on the city's canal network, this indoor centre is a lifesaver on a wet day. Sea turtles glide through the walk-through ocean tunnel and the otters are endlessly entertaining. Brindleyplace has plenty of places to eat once everyone's done. See National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham →
Zoos in the North of England
Chester Zoo Chester Zoo is a proper heavyweight, with thousands of animals and serious global breeding work. The Islands zone, the Asian elephant herd and the jaguars are must-sees. Arrive at opening, plan a route and accept that you won't see everything in one go. See Chester Zoo →
Yorkshire Wildlife Park Just outside Doncaster, this park gives its animals huge, natural-looking reserves. Polar bears are the headline act, with lions, painted dogs and many more close behind. Wide paths make it pushchair-friendly, and Doncaster town is close by for tea. See Yorkshire Wildlife Park →
Flamingo Land Zoo Why choose between rides and animals? Flamingo Land near Malton bundles a big zoo in with its theme park, so thrill-seekers and animal lovers both go home happy. It's also a handy hop to Scarborough's seafront for an evening on the arcades. See Flamingo Land Zoo →
Lakeland Wildlife Oasis Near Milnthorpe on the edge of the Lakes, this little zoo mixes indoor and outdoor areas, which makes it handy in Cumbrian drizzle. Snow leopards are the stars. Pair it with Kendal mint cake shopping or a walk around Arnside. See Lakeland Wildlife Oasis →
South Lakes Safari Zoo Down near Dalton-in-Furness, this walk-through zoo gets you surprisingly close to lemurs, kangaroos and other free-roaming residents. Big cats, giraffes and rhinos fill the larger enclosures. Ulverston and the Furness coast are close by for a bite afterwards.
Kirkley Hall Zoo Part of a Northumberland college campus near Ponteland, this modest zoological collection exists mainly to train the next generation of animal carers. Public visiting can be limited, so check before setting off, but it's a fascinating peek behind the scenes.
Tropical Butterfly House Step into warm, humid domes near Sheffield where butterflies land on your sleeve and tropical birds flit overhead. Outside there are meerkats, farm animals and more. It's a lovely gentle outing for grandparents and toddlers alike. See Tropical Butterfly House →
Blue Planet Aquarium Next to Cheshire Oaks at Ellesmere Port, Blue Planet is built around one of the most dramatic shark tunnels you'll find in the north. Watching sand tiger sharks drift over your head never loses its thrill. Shoppers in the family can hit the outlet afterwards. See Blue Planet Aquarium →
Zoos in Scotland
Edinburgh Zoo Spread over Corstorphine Hill with views back across the city, Edinburgh Zoo has long been loved for its penguins and their famous parade. Chimps, big cats and plenty more besides keep everyone busy. It's an easy bus ride from Princes Street. See Edinburgh Zoo →
Highland Wildlife Park In the Cairngorms near Kingussie, this park specialises in cold-climate animals. Polar bears, Amur tigers, snow monkeys and rare Scottish wildcats all live here, and you drive yourself through the main reserve. Wrap up warm even in summer. See Highland Wildlife Park →
Scottish Deer Centre Near Cupar in Fife, this centre shows off a dozen or so deer species plus a pack of wolves that make a striking sight. Children can get close to friendly deer. St Andrews and its beaches sit just down the road for the rest of the day. See Scottish Deer Centre →
Amazonia Hidden inside M&D's at Strathclyde Country Park, Amazonia is an indoor rainforest buzzing with monkeys, parrots, snakes and frogs. It stays warm whatever the Scottish weather throws at you. Rides and the loch are right outside the door. See Amazonia →
Deep Sea World Under the shadow of the Forth Bridge at North Queensferry, Deep Sea World's long underwater tunnel puts sharks just inches away. It's a great wet-day plan from Edinburgh. Grab a photo of the three bridges before or after your visit. See Deep Sea World →
Camperdown Wildlife Centre Inside Dundee's big Camperdown Park, this forest-fringed centre focuses on northern European animals, including brown bears and wildcats. It's affordable-feeling and easy to fit into a city break, with the V&A and waterfront a short drive away. See Camperdown Wildlife Centre →
Auchingarrich Wildlife Park Near Comrie in Perthshire, Auchingarrich is taking on the Perthshire Zoo name. Expect a traditional mix of Highland farm animals alongside exotic wildcats and birds. Glorious glens surround it, so bring walking boots too. Little ones can feed some of the friendlier residents. See Auchingarrich Wildlife Park →
Zoos in Wales
Welsh Mountain Zoo Perched on a wooded hillside above Colwyn Bay, this zoo has some of the best views of any in Britain, looking out across the North Wales coast. Birds, big cats and chimps share the slopes. Llandudno's pier and Great Orme are a short hop west. See Welsh Mountain Zoo →
Manor Wildlife Park Just outside Tenby, Manor Wildlife Park is all about getting close. Walk-through areas let wallabies hop past and lemurs lounge on the fences beside you. Pair it with Tenby's harbour and pastel-painted streets for a cracking Pembrokeshire day. See Manor Wildlife Park →
Pili Palas Nature World By the Menai Bridge on Anglesey, Pili Palas is a warm butterfly house with creepy crawlies, reptiles and birds thrown in. Perfect when coastal wind or rain cancels the beach. Kids love the bug zone; parents love the café. See Pili Palas Nature World →
Plantasia Swansea's glass pyramid in the city centre hides a tropical zoo with caimans, monkeys and rainforest plants. It's compact and great value for a couple of hours. Swansea Marina and the long beach towards Mumbles are close by. See Plantasia →
Borth Wild Animal Kingdom Close to Borth's seafront north of Aberystwyth, this smaller park looks after rare birds, small carnivores and a varied mix of rescued animals. It works nicely with a walk along Borth's long beach. Double-check the days it's open before setting off.
Zoos in Northern Ireland
Belfast Zoo Clinging to the slopes of Cave Hill, Belfast Zoo comes with sweeping views down over Belfast Lough. More than 500 animals, many critically endangered, are spread across the hillside, so expect a workout. Belfast Castle is just up the road. See Belfast Zoo →
Eco Animal Sanctuary This County Antrim refuge takes in native wildlife and exotic pets that have been abandoned or escaped. It's small and very much a rescue first, so visiting may be by arrangement. Get in touch beforehand and you'll be supporting genuinely hands-on care.
WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre On the shores of Strangford Lough near Comber, Castle Espie is a peaceful wetland reserve with hides, ducks and geese you can feed. Winter brings huge flocks of brent geese. Bring binoculars and pair it with a drive down the lough. See WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre →
Where to see lions and big cats
Want the roar? These parks put big cats front and centre, from rescued lions to rare snow leopards.
Banham Zoo Around 50 acres of Norfolk parkland make Banham a big-cat lover's dream, with tigers, leopards and more alongside lively bird displays. It's a sister park to Africa Alive, so you could do both on a long weekend. See Banham Zoo →
Paradise Wildlife Park (now Hertfordshire Zoo) Known for years as Paradise Wildlife Park, this Broxbourne zoo now goes by Hertfordshire Zoo. Big cats remain its pride and joy, with spacious habitats built around them. Easy reach of north London makes it a top day trip. See Paradise Wildlife Park (now Hertfordshire Zoo) →
Woodside Wildlife Park Just outside Lincoln, Woodside has a real predator focus, with tigers, wolves and lynx all watching you right back. It's a short drive from the cathedral and castle, so you can mix history and claws in one day. See Woodside Wildlife Park →
Five Sisters Zoo Near West Calder, Five Sisters is famous for rehoming bears and lions rescued from circuses. Each animal comes with a story, and the staff love telling it. It's an easy run from Edinburgh or Glasgow. See Five Sisters Zoo →
The Big Cat Sanctuary Deep in the Kent countryside at Smarden, this sanctuary cares for tigers, lions, jaguars and other wild cats. Public access is through selected open days and experiences, so book ahead for an unforgettable close-up. It's well worth the planning. See The Big Cat Sanctuary →
Where to see elephants and giraffes
Few things stop you in your tracks like an elephant herd or a giraffe bending down for lunch.
Howletts Wild Animal Park Near Canterbury, Howletts is sister to Port Lympne and home to a herd of African elephants, plus one of the best-known gorilla groups in the country. Woodland paths give it a wilder, less manicured feel than many zoos. See Howletts Wild Animal Park →
Blackpool Zoo Blackpool isn't all rollercoasters. Near Stanley Park, the town's zoo has a purpose-built elephant home where you can watch the herd indoors and out. Afterwards, the Tower, Promenade and arcades are a short drive away. See Blackpool Zoo →
Noah's Ark Zoo Farm Near Wraxall, just outside Bristol, this started as a farm and grew into a full zoo with elephants, lions and rhinos. Massive play areas and mazes mean the kids will run off every ounce of energy. See Noah's Ark Zoo Farm →
Cotswold Wildlife Park Near Burford, white rhinos graze on the lawn in front of a Victorian manor house, and giraffes peer over the garden walls. Gorgeous planting makes it a hit with gardeners as much as animal fans. See Cotswold Wildlife Park →
Africa Alive Near Lowestoft, Africa Alive's wide plains let giraffes, rhinos and zebras share one big, sweeping habitat. Combine it with Kessingland's beach or the seafront at nearby Southwold for a quieter coastal day. Lemurs, meerkats and big cats fill out the rest of the park. See Africa Alive →
Penguins, primates and reptiles
Cheeky monkeys, waddling penguins and cold-eyed crocs: these places specialise in some of the best-loved and strangest animals out there.
Twycross Zoo Primate central. Twycross, on the Leicestershire border near Atherstone, is a charity zoo famous for its gorillas, orangutans, chimps and bonobos. Big indoor houses mean it copes well with a rainy Midlands weekend. Plenty of picnic spots help keep costs down too. See Twycross Zoo →
Monkey World Near Wareham in Dorset, Monkey World rescues chimps, orangutans and other primates from mistreatment worldwide. Many families know it from the long-running TV series. Seeing rescued apes thrive in big groups is genuinely moving. Bring a brolly, as it's mostly outdoors. See Monkey World →
Crocodiles of the World Near Carterton in Oxfordshire, this place is all about crocodiles, alligators and their scaly relatives, with a serious conservation mission. Keeper talks are packed with jaw-dropping facts. Brave kids absolutely love it. Nervous grown-ups might pretend otherwise, mind. See Crocodiles of the World →
Shaldon Wildlife Trust Pint-sized but mighty, this little Devon zoo concentrates on rare small primates and other critically endangered creatures. It's perfect for an hour or two, then hop on the passenger ferry across the Teign to Teignmouth. See Shaldon Wildlife Trust →
Peak Wildlife Park On the Staffordshire moors near Leek, Peak Wildlife Park lets you walk among the penguins and lemurs in open enclosures. Wide moorland views add to the charm. Go early on bright days, as it gets busy. See Peak Wildlife Park →
Trentham Monkey Forest Barbary macaques roam freely through woodland near Stoke-on-Trent while you follow a path right through their home. It feels wonderfully wild. Trentham Gardens and its shopping village sit right next door. Little ones should keep snacks tucked away, as curious monkeys notice everything. See Trentham Monkey Forest →
Birds and bird parks
Flying displays, wetland hides and owls blinking at you from the shadows: perfect for nature lovers of all ages.
Birdworld Near Farnham in Surrey, Birdworld is one of the country's largest dedicated bird parks, with penguins, flamingos, owls and hundreds more. Shady gardens and gentle paths make it relaxed for grandparents and small children. Wrap up and bring binoculars. See Birdworld →
Secret Owl Barn Tucked away in Pembrokeshire, this specialist centre focuses on owls and their rescue. It's small and intimate, so visiting arrangements can vary. Get in touch first, then pair it with a Pembrokeshire coast walk. Owl fans won't regret it.
Hawk Conservancy Trust Near Andover, the Hawk Conservancy Trust is famous for jaw-dropping flying displays where eagles, vultures and owls swoop just above the crowd. Sit near the front, keep your sandwiches covered and enjoy the show. Wildflower meadows surround the site. See Hawk Conservancy Trust →
National Centre for Birds of Prey In the grounds of Duncombe Park beside Helmsley, this centre puts on flying demonstrations with a huge range of raptors. The market town of Helmsley and the North York Moors make it a lovely countryside day. See National Centre for Birds of Prey →
WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre Founded by Sir Peter Scott beside the Severn, Slimbridge is a haven for ducks, geese, swans and flamingos. Winter brings wild swans by the hundred. Hides and canoe safaris make it a brilliant all-day outing. See WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre →
Safari parks
Load up the car, close the windows and let the animals come to you. These are the UK's classic safari drives.
Longleat Safari Park Near Warminster in Wiltshire, Longleat's drive-through safari loops round a grand stately estate. Lions, wolves and the cheeky monkey drive-through are the legends here. Leave time for Longleat House and its gardens too. Its walk-round areas add even more animals to tick off.
West Midland Safari Park Near Bewdley in Worcestershire, this park pairs a long drive-through safari with a walk-round section and family rides. It makes a full day for mixed ages. Bewdley's riverside makes a pleasant stop for tea afterwards. See West Midland Safari Park →
Knowsley Safari Park Just outside Liverpool, Knowsley's safari drive runs for around five miles. The baboons are legendary for clambering over cars, though there's a route to avoid them if you love your wing mirrors. A walk-round foot safari area adds even more animals once you've parked up. See Knowsley Safari Park →
Woburn Safari Park Bedfordshire's safari winds through historic parkland where bears, wolves and lions roam. A walk-round section adds smaller creatures and keeper talks. Woburn village and the abbey grounds round off the day nicely. Allow a full day, as there's lots to see. See Woburn Safari Park →
Port Lympne Reserve Above Romney Marsh near Hythe, Port Lympne's truck safaris carry you across huge paddocks of rhinos, giraffes and more. Gorillas are another big draw. Overnight stays let you wake up to wildlife on the doorstep. See Port Lympne Reserve →
Blair Drummond Safari Park Near Stirling, Scotland's favourite safari park has drive-through reserves plus a boat trip round chimp island. Adventure play areas keep kids busy. Stirling Castle is only a few minutes away. It's an easy drive from both Glasgow and Edinburgh, so it suits a day trip. See Blair Drummond Safari Park →
Animal sanctuaries and farm parks
Not everything needs to be big. Smaller rescues and farm parks give little ones a gentle introduction to animals.
Folly Farm Adventure Park Near Kilgetty, Folly Farm mixes a proper zoo, a working farm and a fabulous indoor vintage funfair under one roof. Lions and rhinos sit alongside lambs and goats. Old rides and amusements make it a dream rainy-day plan. See Folly Farm Adventure Park →
Dartmoor Otter & Butterfly Sanctuary At Buckfastleigh on the edge of Dartmoor, otters tumble about in their pools while tropical butterflies flutter through a warm glasshouse. The South Devon Railway's steam trains depart right next door, so it's an easy combo day.
Shepreth Wildlife Park Near Royston, Shepreth began as a rescue centre and has grown into a friendly park with tigers, monkeys and lots of smaller animals. Its welcoming, unhurried feel makes it a favourite with younger visitors. Cambridge is close by too. See Shepreth Wildlife Park →
Cuckoo Ridge Wildlife Park In Cornwall, this small rescue-minded park concentrates on native wildlife and birds. Expect a quieter, local feel rather than headline exotics. Always check ahead before you set off, as smaller centres change visiting arrangements. Bird lovers will be in their element.
Gambia Wildlife Trust / Regional Centres Not one gate to walk through, but a reminder that some UK animal charities support field projects in West Africa through smaller regional centres. Look out for their stalls and talks at bigger zoos on this list.
Plan your zoo day out
Book online where you can, because many parks give better deals ahead and some cap numbers in school holidays. Arrive at opening and head to the far end first, while everyone else crowds the entrance. Keeper talks and feeding times are well worth planning around, so grab a map on arrival.
Pack layers, waterproofs and decent shoes, as most parks are mostly outdoors. Picnics are welcome at many sites, which keeps costs down. For safari drives, fill up with fuel and leave the convertible at home. Planning a bigger trip? Our aquarium guide and family days out guide have loads more ideas.
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