Top zoos to visit for all the family

A visit to the Zoo provides a perfect day out for all the family to enjoy, so why not take a look at some of the AA and VisitEngland’s accredited zoo attractions?

Banham Zoo, Norwich

Set in 50 acres of magnificent parkland and gardens, Banham Zoo is one of the best in the region. Meet over 2,000 animals from around the world as you follow the winding pathways to the Tiger Territory, Lemur, Tamarin and Marmoset Islands, The Farm Barn, and more.

Belfast Zoological Gardens

With its dramatic setting on the face of Cave Hill, a visit to Belfast Zoo guarantees a memorable experience. Home to more than 120 species, many of which are endangered or extinct in the wild, the Zoo also has a fascinating education programme for curious visitors.

Blackpool Zoo

This multi-award-winning zoo houses over 1,000 animals within its 32 acres of landscaped gardens. Explore popular exhibits including Orangutan Outlook and Project Elephant, and enjoy one of the engaging daily talks.

Chester Zoo

There are over 20,000 animals and 128 acres of zoological gardens to explore at Chester Zoo. The most visited zoo in the UK, this family-friendly attraction is also a conservation and education charity committed to preventing extinction.

Colchester Zoo

Your visit to Colchester Zoo will see you discover a variety of habitats, from the humid home of the Komodo Dragons to the Zoo’s very own Africa Plain. The undercover areas are fantastic for wetter days, as are the many workshops on offer.

Exmoor Zoo

Overcome your fears and hold a snake or a hairy spider, then relax and see some rare animals such as binturong, fanaloka, tayra, singing dogs, cheetah and margay. Stroke and feed wallabies at this unique zoo and see the “Exmoor Beast”, the zoo’s black leopards, or take advantage of regular handling sessions, talks and encounters (every half hour or more from 10:30 to 16:00 in the summer). With something for all the family, Exmoor Zoo in Barnstaple, is sure to provide you with a fun-filled day out.

Paignton Zoo

Paignton Zoo is once of the South West’s most exciting visitor attractions. With over 2,500 animals across 80 acres, get up close to some incredible and endangered animals including giraffes, big cats, gorillas, rhinos, lemurs, crocodile and much more. You’re in for a really wild time day out here which is perfect for all ages to enjoy.

RZSS Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is most well-known for being home to the UK’s only giant pandas. Enjoy the busy programme of educational events and activities – Edinburgh Zoo After Hours also provides a wonderful opportunity to see your favourite animals in a new light in the summer months.

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Also known as the National Zoo of Wales, the Welsh Mountain Zoo occupies a picturesque setting overlooking Colwyn Bay. Its extensive collection houses over 140 species, including two Sumatran tigers, two snow leopards and two margays.

ZSL London Zoo

Experience the unrehearsed, unexpected and unbelievable at ZSL London Zoo where real animals, real characters, real adventures and important stories are to be told. A real working zoo that’s striving every day to help make a difference to the animals they look after and the wildlife of the world. A great day out for everyone that makes a real difference.

ZSL Whipsnade Zoo

Located in Dunstable, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is home to over 3,500 species of animals, in green open spaces. Experience their elephant herd, sea lions, rhinos, tigers, penguins and much more, plus there are thousands of fascinating facts waiting to be discovered on your visit. So what are you waiting for? Experience it for yourself and enjoy a fun day out that makes a real difference.