Belfast Zoo

About this place

Belfast Zoological Gardens (also known as Belfast Zoo) is a zoo in Belfast, Northern Ireland. It is in a relatively secluded location on the northeastern slope of Cavehill, overlooking Belfast's Antrim Road. Opened in 1934, it is the second-oldest zoo in Ireland, after Dublin Zoo, which opened in 1831. Belfast Zoo is one of the top fee-paying visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, receiving more than 300,000 visitors a year. Located in north Belfast, the zoo's 55-acre (22 ha) site is home to more than 1,200 animals and 140 species. The majority of the animals in Belfast Zoo are in danger in their natural habitat. The zoo carries out important conservation work and takes part in over 90 European and international breeding programmes which help to ensure the survival of many species under threat. The zoo is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).

Visitor Information

Opening hours

Mar 21-Sep 30 10:00-20:00; Oct 01-Mar 20 10:00-16:00

Accessibility

Limited

Getting There & Parking

Belfast Zoo is located in County Antrim, roughly 9 km (10 min drive) from Belfast and 188 km (2h 45m) from Dublin. The nearest public car park is 519 m away. Nearby highlights within a short drive include Prairie dog (0.1 km away).