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.

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Things to do near Belfast Zoo

Belfast Zoo offers a variety of activities for visitors, including scenic walking trails and guided tours that enhance the experience of exploring the animal exhibits. An audio tour is available, providing insightful information about the zoo's inhabitants. Additionally, for those interested in sports, there are golf facilities nearby, making it a perfect location for a diverse day out.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and St. George's Market, both located 6.4km from Belfast Zoo, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and local goods. If you're up for a drive, head to Twin Villages Shopping Centre, 24.1km away, for more family-friendly shopping experiences.

Recreation

Experience the electrifying atmosphere at SSE Arena, just 6.4km from Belfast Zoo, where you can enjoy various sports events. For a serene escape, head to Cave Hill Country Park, 1.3km away, perfect for relaxation and scenic walks amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Jetpack Adventures, located 8.0km from Belfast Zoo, where you can soar above the water. For karting enthusiasts, Eddie Irvine Sports offers an exhilarating experience 17.7km away. Don’t miss the scenic Blackhead Path, a beautiful hiking trail situated 20.9km from the zoo.

Nightlife

In Belfast, the MAC Theatre offers a blend of culture and romance, just 6.4km from the zoo, while the Theatre At The Mill, 4.8km away, promises family-friendly entertainment. For thrill-seekers, Vertigo Titanic Park's arcade AdventureZone delivers an exciting adventure vibe, also 6.4km from the zoo.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Belfast Zoo

When visiting Belfast Zoo, you'll find a variety of attractions that cater to all interests. Explore the nearby maritime and history museums, as well as local monuments that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the area. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or family-friendly experiences, the points of interest around the zoo promise to enhance your visit and provide lasting memories.

  • Titanic Belfast: Immerse yourself in the captivating history of the Titanic at this impressive maritime museum. Located just 6.4km from Belfast Zoo, it offers interactive exhibits and stunning architecture, showcasing the ship’s legacy and Belfast’s maritime heritage.
  • Belfast Castle: Situated a mere 1.4km from the zoo, Belfast Castle is a romantic and cultural gem. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cave Hill, it features beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
  • Queen's University of Belfast: Just 8.0km away, this modern university boasts striking architecture and vibrant city vibes. Explore its historic campus and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by students and visitors alike.

Best time to go to Belfast Zoo

The best time to visit Belfast Zoo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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

When planning your visit to Belfast Zoo, consider travelling between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel one month in advance can yield savings, and checking last-minute deals on Expedia may uncover fantastic offers. Mondays tend to be the cheapest stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and preferences, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Keep an eye out for cancellation options and availability to secure the best deals.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Belfast Zoo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking at Belfast Zoo with your flights and activities when you book an Expedia package.

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