Bristol Zoo

Bristol Zoo was founded in 1836 as the world's fifth oldest zoological garden, occupying a leafy 12-acre site on Clifton Down adjacent to the Downs and a short walk from the Clifton Suspension Bridge. For almost two centuries it cared for thousands of animals and was particularly known for its conservation breeding programmes for endangered species, including western lowland gorillas, Asiatic lions and Livingstone's fruit bats.

The Clifton site closed to the public in September 2022 as the Bristol Zoological Society began a major move to a larger countryside location at Wild Place Project, near Cribbs Causeway on the northern fringe of the city. The new Bristol Zoo, set within 136 acres of parkland, gives animals more space and focuses on conservation themed habitats including a Central African Forest, Bear Wood and a Benoue National Park area.

Visitors can expect walk-through enclosures, woodland trails, daily keeper talks and play areas designed for younger children. The wider site retains its mature trees and views across the Severn Estuary, making it an enjoyable half-day out that combines wildlife with countryside walking.