21 Best Zoos in the UK for The Perfect Day Out

Looking for the top 10 best zoos in the UK?

When it comes to zoos, nowhere beats the UK. I’m talking huge enclosures where you can get up close with everything from aardvarks to zebras.

No matter if you’re a kiddo obsessed with dinosaurs, a parent looking for an epic family day out, or just someone who loves seeing animals in real life, trust me, the zoos here will blow your mind.

Now I know what you’re thinking – bigger is better with zoos, right? Well sure, size matters. But get this – some of the smaller zoos in the UK still manage to be totally amazing.

Like Shaldon Zoo in Devon. It may not be massive, but it packs a serious punch! I’m talking world-class care where each furry, feathery, and scaly friend is number one.

And that’s the philosophy at all the top zoos here nowadays – every single animal’s health and happiness takes center stage.

So if you’re looking for a wildly good time meeting critters up close, from aardvarks to zebras, check out the UK’s zoos. They’re beastly good fun and you’ll have a roaring good time – I promise!

21 Best Zoos in the UK (2023 Edition)

Your complete guide to all the best zoos Britain has to offer, including biggest zoo in UK, best zoo in UK for animal welfare, and more.

🥇 #1: Chester Zoo (Cheshire) – best zoo in UK and one of the best zoos in the world

🥈 #2: ZSL London Zoo (North London) – best zoo in UK for animal welfare

🥉 #3: ZSL Whipsnade Zoo (Bedfordshire) – biggest zoo in UK

🏅 #4: Longleat Safari Park (Berkshire) – best safari park in UK

🏅 #5: Flamingo Land (Yorkshire) – best combined zoo and theme park in UK

1. ZSL London Zoo, North London

You know when something’s so amazing, you just have to rave about it? Well, that’s how I feel about ZSL London Zoo. As far as zoos go, this place is the absolute cream of the crop.

And there’s just so much to love! It’s one of the oldest and most popular zoos in England – an iconic place that animal lovers make pilgrimages to visit. And with ZSL being all about protecting animals worldwide, you can feel good knowing your visit supports important conservation work.

But it gets better – ZSL London Zoo is right in the heart of the city, so you can connect with nature without even leaving town. With extended hours, you can spend the whole day exploring. And there’s just so much to see! From big cats to tiny bugs, the diversity of species is mind-blowing. Interactive exhibits let you really engage with the wildlife too.

And, if you needed any more convincing, check this out! The Director General of ZSL, Dominic Jermey, says that zoos like ZSL London Zoo play a crucial role in bringing wildlife back from the brink. So not only will you have a blast, but you’ll also be contributing to a great cause!

ZSL London Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: full details on website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

2. Longleat Safari Park, Dorset

Looking for an epic, animal-filled day out? Then you gotta check out Longleat Safari Park, a top contender for best zoo in the UK! This place is like the original gangster of drive-through safaris outside of Africa – how cool is that? They’ve been creating family memories since 1966 and are still going strong.

But Longleat isn’t just about cruising through and seeing animals up close from your car. They’ve got it all – from Penguin Island to Stingray Bay, a jungle cruise, and even an adventure castle! It’s a one-stop-shop for animal encounters and family fun.

Oh, and get this – Longleat Estate has five lakes that offer some of the highest quality fishing in Britain. So if you’re into that, you’re covered! And for train lovers, they’ve got the Longleat Railway – a rideable mini train that’s one of the busiest in the country. It’s a scenic 1.25 mile journey through woodlands and along the lake.

So if you’re craving a day packed with animals, adventures and surprises for the whole family, Longleat Safari Park is a must. This place has been creating magical memories for over 50 years, and your crew will have a roaring good time too!

Longleat Safari Park (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm (open til 6pm on Sundays)

3. ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Bedfordshire

Let me tell you, if you want a zoo that’s the real deal without any frills, ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is the place for you. This zoo is a wild adventure, not some average petting zoo.

For starters, it’s the biggest zoo in the UK, spread out over a whopping 600 acres – that’s nearly 17 times bigger than London Zoo! So if you think animals deserve plenty of space, Whipsnade totally delivers.

Now I know what you’re thinking – bigger means better, but what about getting up close with the animals? Hear me out. The animals here have tons of open space to roam and live their best lives. You might not always see them super close, but that’s part of the authentic experience. These aren’t performing seals – they’re real, living creatures.

Whipsnade Zoo just feels genuine. It’s a true home for the animals, while giving visitors a peek into their worlds. You get to observe them acting naturally from a respectful distance. If you want an immersive, wildlife-focused adventure, this zoo should be at the top of your list.

Whipsnade Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

4. Chester Zoo, Cheshire

Well, well, well – looks like we’re talking about one of the finest zoos around! I’m telling you, Chester Zoo is the real mccoy. And let me explain why this place is so epic.

For starters, it’s widely considered one of the best zoos on the planet. TripAdvisor even voted it the 3rd best zoo in the world back in 2016. It’s consistently ranked among the top zoos globally.

Plus, it’s the most visited zoo in the UK with a whopping 1.5 million guests every year. So it’s clearly the number one zoo in Britain! This place is home to over 20,000 animals across 60 different species, spread out over 128 acres and growing. It’s a wild adventure!

But it’s not just the animals that make Chester Zoo awesome. They’ve also got a stunning Grade II listed venue and amazing events team to help create special memories. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event or birthday bash, they’ll make it unforgettable.

So when it comes to fantastic zoos, Chester Zoo is the real deal, no question. From the incredible animals to the venue and events, this place has it all covered for an incredible experience. Hands down one of the best zoos on the planet!

5. Flamingo Land, Yorkshire

Get ready for this – Flamingo Land is the only spot in the UK that combines a theme park, zoo, and holiday village all in one. Yup, it’s a 3-in-1 extravaganza! No wonder it’s easily one of the top 10 zoos in the UK and the number one zoo in Yorkshire.

And you know what’s cool? This place has a neat history too. It was actually the first in Britain to have an orca named Cuddles back from 1968 to 1971. Around then it was renamed Flamingo Park Zoo.

And let me tell you, the views here are insane! Overlooking the beautiful Ryedale valley and Yorkshire Moors, Flamingo Land is the biggest theme park in northern England. It’s known for its epic rollercoasters that’ll get your heart pumping. We’re talking rides like Kumali, Mumbo Jumbo which was once the steepest coaster ever, and Velocity – the only motorbike coaster in the UK!

Flamingo Land (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily

6. Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland

Edinburgh Zoo is one of the best and most famous zoos in the UK, and here’s why:

• It’s a tourist hot spot, with visitors rating it high on the scale of “amazing day outs”.
• It was the first in Britain to get rid of the cage bars and bring animals and visitors closer, creating a more natural experience.
• You can find a range of animals from all around the world, from the bamboo-munching pandas to the ocean-dwelling penguins. It’s like taking a mini-world tour without leaving the city.
• It’s the only zoo in the UK to host iconic giant pandas on loand from China.

You can read more facts about Edinburgh Zoo and the city in general here.

Anyway, according to their site, they’ve got a “whole bunch of talks and events lined up, including “Discover Asian small-clawed otters”, “Dino Discovery tour”, and “Discover giant pandas”. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can even “Discover penguins”!”

And don’t forget, you can “support your zoo” by adopting an animal, or become a member and take part in all the exciting events and experiences they have to offer.

Edinburgh Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily

7. Cotswold Wildlife Park, The Cotswolds

One of the best wildlife attractions in the UK, Cotswold Wildlife Park is packed with 160 acres of beautiful parkland and stunning gardens where you can take a stroll and get up close and personal with over 260 species of animals.

From giraffes you can look eye-to-eye with to walking alongside curious lemurs, this place is guaranteed to give you a wild time. And don’t miss the cozy Tropical House where you can spot adorable sloths hanging out in the trees and other cuddly critters.

Now heads up, the park is closed on weekdays from January 9th to February 9th (except weekends when it’s open 10am to 4pm). So if you want to beat the crowds and have the run of the park, aim for a weekday visit!

Overall, Cotswold Wildlife Park offers a one-of-a-kind, exciting experience for animal lovers of all ages. What are you waiting for? Get over there and have an awesome day making friends with fascinating animals from around the world!

Cotswold Wildlife Park (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-3pm daily

8. Blackpool Zoo, Lancashire

Are you looking for a zoo-perb day out? Well, look no further than Blackpool Zoo! This family-friendly zoo is located in one of Britain’s favorite seaside hotspots and promises to be an educational and totally fun day out for everyone.

With over 1000 animals from A to Z (literally, Aardvarks to Zebras), Blackpool Zoo is a hidden gem that spans 37 acres of spacious parkland and lakes.

And get this – kids under 3 get in for free! Now that’s a budget-friendly option for families with little tykes. But don’t wait too long to visit or the parking lot fills up quicker than you can say “here kitty kitty!” On busy days, make sure to arrive early to get a spot.

Tickets range from £7.50 to £18.99. So grab your wallets and get ready for a wild time! With free admission for tiny tots and reasonable rates for everyone else, this place is the perfect zoo for families.

Blackpool Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4:45pm

9. Knowsley Safari Park, Liverpool

Alright, listen up if you’re looking for an epic safari adventure – Knowsley Safari Park is a must-visit. This place is a real showstopper, and for good reason.

To start, it’s a full-on drive-through safari park. You can cruise through the enclosures and see the animals up close and personal. From baboons to camels, wildebeest to rhinos – you name it, they’ve got it roaming around.

But wait, there’s more! This park highlights the best of British wildlife too. It’s got woods, grasslands and ponds that are home to magnificent local creatures like stoats, weasels, squirrels, and graceful brown hares. It’s not just about the animals either – botanists will love the rare orchids and funky fungi like puffballs and stinkhorns.

Knowsley Safari Park is easily one of the top zoos in the UK for animal lovers. And its membership in major zoo organizations like BIAZA and EAZA adds to its credibility big time.

Knowsley Safari Park (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

10. Colchester Zoo, Essex

Of the finest zoos in south of England, look no further than Colchester Zoo: it’s like a wild kingdom of over 160 different species from all over the world, all living together in harmony in 60 acres of parkland and lakes.

You’ll go on a journey through different habitats, from the Komodo dragons’ steamy jungle to the African plain, where you’ll spot white rhinos, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, and kudus all chillin’.

And let me tell you, they’ve got some real rarities and endangered species, too. We’re talking big cats, primates, and birds, as well as some cool insects and fish. Just be aware that due to some bird flu BS, some of the feathery friends are off-show for the time being.

Colchester Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: Mon-Fri: 9:30am-4:30pm, Sat-Sun: 9:30am-5pm

11. Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, Devon

Buckle up folks, we’re going on a wild ride to Paignton Zoo Environmental Park in Devon! This place is one of the most exciting zoos in the Southwest for getting up close with nature and learning some neat things along the way.

But it’s not just a regular zoo – it’s a registered charity that supports conservation projects in the UK and worldwide too. So while you’re having fun, you’re also doing good!

Across 80 acres there are over 2,500 animals representing more species than any other zoo in the region. We’re talking lions, tigers, giraffes, crocodiles, rhinos, lemurs, flamingos, meerkats, orangutans, and even a Komodo dragon! The diversity is mind-blowing and you’ll see some seriously awesome creatures.

According to TripAdvisor, this zoo is the spot for a “great giraffe experience day out.” So grab your family and friends for a day filled with animal encounters, education, and good vibes. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime!

Paignton Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4:30pm daily

12. Wild Place Project, Somerset

Well, Wild Place Project is a fun family attraction that gives you the chance to get up close and personal with some pretty amazing animals from all over the world. From the mischievous lemurs of Madagascar to magnificent European brown bears, you’re in for a treat here!

Not only that, but you can feel good about your visit because it supports the park’s conservation efforts. It’s run by the Bristol Zoological Society, which was previously the sister site of Bristol Zoo until it closed down in 2022. But don’t worry, the Wild Place Project will soon be the new Bristol Zoo and home to even more exhibits!

Wild Place Project (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily

13. Welsh Mountain Zoo, North Wales

Shwmae guys! If you’re lookin’ for a chill and wild time in North Wales, Welsh Mountain Zoo should definitely be on your list! It’s got all the goods – from being a fun-filled day out to having a ton of furry and feathered friends for you to meet. And the best part? It’s not gonna break the bank!

This zoo’s got a pretty rich history, starting way back in 1963 by a wildlife enthusiast named Robert Jackson. It covers 37 acres of pure animal kingdom magic. And seems like it’s getting plenty of love, with 45K views, 204 likes, 83 loves, 33 comments, and 599 shares on Facebook.

In short, if you want to see some amazing creatures and have a blast, Welsh Mountain Zoo is where it’s at!

Welsh Mountain Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 9:30am-3:20pm daily

14. Port Lympne Reserve, Kent

Check it out: Port Lympne Reserve in Kent is a straight up sanctuary for rare and endangered animals. They’re all about putting the animals first and making sure they live like royalty, from their digs to their grub.

People are saying this place is the bee’s knees for a family day out. Set over 600 acres, with 650+ rare and endangered animals, you’re bound to find something that tickles your fancy. This isn’t your typical zoo, mind. It’s more of a reserve, so you might need a little bit of luck to see the animals you’re hoping for.

However, there have been a few gripes about the lack of recycling facilities and complimentary bottled water. Some folks think that in a place like Port Lympne Reserve, protecting nature and minimizing waste should be their number one priority, and they should have recycling front and center.

Port Lympne Reserve (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 9am-6pm daily

15. Marwell Zoo, Hampshire

You gotta see it to believe it, this zoo packs plenty of outdoor space for you to get your animal fix, with a bunch of animals and activities to keep you entertained til sunset. They’ve got everything from the tallest creatures on land (giraffes, duh!) to the fiercest predators (tigers and leopards, oh my!), to the cutest critters (meerkats and penguins, anyone?)

But hold up, before you head over, you gotta book your tickets online in advance, cause they’re sticklers for that kind of stuff.

Considered one of the best family-friendly zoos in the UK, Marwell Zoo is a 140-acre park with 5 adventure play areas, so you won’t have trouble finding something to do. And the best part? It’s run by a registered charity called Marwell Wildlife, so you’ll be supporting some good causes while having a blast!

Marwell Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

16. Howletts Wild Animal Park, Kent

Have you ever heard of Howletts Wild Animal Park in Kent, UK? This place is lit, fam! It’s a 90-acre wild adventure in beautiful ancient parkland, perfect for a crazy day out with the whole squad.

And let me tell you, they don’t mess about when it comes to animals. They’re housing over 390 creatures, including Kent’s only giant anteaters, the biggest herd of African elephants in the UK, and more gorillas, leopards, and monkeys than any other zoo in the region.

But it’s not just about seeing animals, it’s about conservation too. Howletts is a breeding sanctuary for some of the most endangered species in the world, with over 300 animals across 47 species. They’re all about saving the animals, and you can learn more about their welfare initiatives while you’re there.

Howletts Wild Animal Park (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 9:30am-5pm daily

17. Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo, South Wales

Folly Farm Adventure Park & Zoo in Wales, UK is a super wacky place to be!

It’s not just a farm, it’s a whole lotta fun, with over 750 animals to see and 17 different rides in a vintage funfair. Not only can you get up really close with farmyard friends, you can even hand-milk goats at certain times of the day!

Folly Farm was founded by Glyn Williams and his wife Anne in 1987, as a working dairy farm run by Glyn’s family for three generations. It may have started out as a dairy farm, but boy it’s come a long way since then.

They’ve got 120 acres of pure fun and adventure. The name may not describe everything the park has to offer now, but it’s part of their story and they’re fond of it.

Folly Farm (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

18. Belfast Zoo, Northern Ireland

The Belfast Zoological Gardens is like a wild kingdom of its own, with over a thousand animals of 120 species, and a ton of stories that’ll leave you goin’ “WOW!”

It really is one of the best zoos in UK, the place has been around since 1934 and it’s a real hidden gem in Belfast, with its hills and caves that are steeped in rich history. And have you heard about the tale of Sheila the Elephant and Denise Weston Austin? That’s one story that’s worth hearin’.

Now if you’re feelin’ adventurous, why not walk in the shoes of a zookeeper and learn more about the animals and their habitats? Or if you’re lookin’ for a unique yet unusual Valentine’s Day experience, take your special someone to Belfast Zoo and treat them to a memorable day!

Belfast Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily

19. Twycross Zoo, East Midlands

Twycross Zoo is among the most popular zoos in the UK purely for being home to the largest collection of monkeys and apes in the Western World! How about that? This place is a proper swinging scene, with a handful of different species of primates, including Bonobos, Chimpanzees, and Crowned Lemurs.

But it’s not just monkeys they got here. This spot also has other awesome beasts like Giraffes, Humboldt penguins, and Great grey owls. If you’re a fan of goats, they’ve got you covered with their Domestic goats. And if you’re looking for that little bit more excitement, check out their Gruffalo Discovery Land!

And you know what else is really cool? If you’re an NHS worker, you can get in for free in January. Brilliant!

Twycross Zoo makes the perfect day trip from Birmingham, so is definitely worth a visit. If you’re in the area, come on down and have a blast!

Twycross Zoo (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-5pm daily

➤ For more East Midlands guides, here’s my 20 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Derby, and 17 Best Things to Do in Nottingham

20. Tilgate Nature Centre, West Sussex

With a whopping 70% of TripAdvisor reviews giving it 5 stars, Tilgate Zoo near Crawley, West Sussex, has been voted overall best zoo in UK and is a pretty cool place to visit.

It’s got something for everyone, from little ones to big kids. It’s a quick jaunt from Crawley and easy to find, but you’ll need to cough up some cash for parking. You can take a picnic with you, or chow down at the cafe or Smith and Western restaurant.

And oh boy, you won’t be disappointed with the Tilgate Nature Centre! It’s got a staggering 144 different species, from otters to owls, tapirs to terrapins, and even reindeer to raccoon dogs. You can check out public talks and feeds, holiday activities, or even book a special experience, like “Meet the Meerkats”.

Tilgate Nature Centre (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily

21. Dudley Zoo and Castle, West Midlands

Get ready for an awesome day out at Dudley Zoo! This leading West Midlands attraction sits on 40 acres of landscaped grounds and is home to over 1,300 animals from all corners of the globe.

From getting nose-to-nose with the ring-tailed lemurs to watching the majestic snow leopards prowl their enclosure, you’re guaranteed to have a wild time. Don’t miss the Chance & Countess Black Country Bear Pit, where you can see the zoo’s two European brown bears up close. These rescued creatures always put on an entertaining show!

And make sure to drop by the Tropical House, where exotic birds fly freely overhead as you walk among tropical plants and admire crocodiles basking in the sun. It’s a slice of paradise! The active feeding talks and demonstrations are also a must-see to learn about how the dedicated zookeepers care for all the residents.

Dudley Zoo and Castle (Google Maps location)
Admission: see website
Opening times: 10am-4pm daily (last admission 3pm)

Zoos in England Map

If you’re ever wondering where’s the best zoo near me, take a look at this interactive map of all the best zoos in the UK and you’ll likely find one pretty close by!

UK Best Zoos FAQs:

Below are the most commonly asked questions about zoos, safaris and wildlife parks in the UK: