Best Zoos to visit in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most unique and diverse zoos in the world. With a range of wild species, including the Big Five, and some rare endangered animals, the country is a dream destination for wildlife and nature lovers from across the globe. Here, we’ve put together a list of the best zoos in the UK that you simply cannot miss!

Bristol Zoo Gardens

Bristol Zoo Gardens is located in the Clifton area of Bristol, and holds over 7,000 animals representing more than 400 species. This zoo is known for its generous space for the animals, with enclosures that are as close to their natural habitats as possible. Visitors can enjoy the animal experiences while exploring the different, themed animal zones. These include Gorilla Island, Seal and Penguin Coasts, Twilight Zone, Butterfly Forest and Reptile House. Bristol Zoo Gardens also has a unique feature – you can see animals that are extinct in the wild, such as the golden lion tamarin and the Livingstone island dwarf gecko. The zoo operates a conservation programme that protects wildlife both locally and overseas. The entrance tickets are around 17.50 pounds per adult and 12.50 pounds per child. Visitors can also buy annual memberships for unlimited entry.

London Zoo

The illustrious London Zoo, set over 36-acres of land, is the oldest scientific zoo in the world, attracting millions of visitors year round. This iconic zoo has been operating since 1828, and houses over 750 species of fauna that are spread over different themed areas. Guests are in for an engaging and informative experience, with a range of habitats and multisensory exhibits. The animal enclosures are designed to keep the animals happy and comfortable, while displaying the unique features of each species. Some of the most popular exhibits include the Tiger Territory, Spider Pavilion, Penguin Beach and Animal Adventure. The zoo has a full range of visitor facilities, including shops, cafes, picnic areas and a children’s zoo. Tickets are priced at around 30 pounds per adult and 22.50 pounds per child.

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo is an environmentally-friendly zoo that focuses on maintaining the natural habitats and conserving the endangered species of the world. With over 2,000 animals spread across 80 acres of land, there’s no shortage of diversity here. The zoo is home to a vast range of species, ranging from the western lowland gorilla to the Siberian tiger, African elephant and Indian rhinoceros. Paignton offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the park’s animal exhibits through different animal habitats, including woodlands, forests and seafront. Apart from the animals, the zoo offers several additional attractions, including a Jungle Express Train, a Great Big Rhino Project and a Monkey Heights Adventure. The entrance fee for adults ranges from 18.25 pounds to 24.50 pounds per ticket, and 14.25 pounds to 18.25 for children.

Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is one of the finest and most impressive zoos in the UK, located in Scotland’s capital city. The zoo covers over 82 acres of land and is home to over 1,400 animals of different species. The zoo houses numerous attractions, such as the Budongo Trail, a tropical rainforest exhibit that features chimpanzees and other primates, and Penguin Rock, a state-of-the-art penguin enclosure. The zoo operates conservation programmes for endangered species, including giant pandas, Sumatran tigers and penguins. Visitors to the zoo can observe amazing animals such as tigers, lions, polar bears, giant pandas and Scottish wildcats. In 2011, Edinburgh Zoo became the first zoo in Scotland to breed pandas, a significant achievement in preserving the genealogy of endangered species. The entry fee for adults costs 20.00 pounds for a day pass, while the ticket price for children aged 3 to 15 is 14 pounds. Seniors over 60 are offered a concession rate, while children under 3 can enter for free.

Whipsnade Zoo

Whipsnade Zoo, located in Bedfordshire, is one of the UK’s largest and most comprehensive animal conservation parks, spanning over 600 acres of land. The zoo is home to over 4,000 different creatures and offers an exciting, interactive and informative experience for the visitors. The zoo has 9 different animal zones, each with its own unique theme and habitat, including Wild Wild Whipsnade, Europe, Asia and Africa. Whipsnade has many rare animals, including clouded leopards, Bactrian camels and Goeldi’s marmosets. The zoo also offers an array of fun activities for visitors, ranging from the Sea Lion Splash Show, to the Hullabazoo Play Barn, and visiting the Safari Lodge for an African-themed dining experience. Tickets start from 26 pounds for adults and 16.50 pounds for children. Children under 3 and carers go free.

In Conclusion

These zoos offer visitors an opportunity to get up close and personal with animals that they would not normally encounter in their everyday lives. The zoos also offer several features and programmes, such as conservation efforts, feeding and shows, and interactive exhibits that educate visitors on the welfare of the animals and the importance of conservation efforts. Each of these zoos is a unique and exciting experience that is not to be missed!