Discover what to expect from a Blackpool Zoo visit: from over 1,000 animals from around the world to daily feeding times and fascinating educational talks.
Introduction to Blackpool Zoo
Blackpool Zoo is a fantastic place to visit, offering an exciting day out for families, couples, and animal lovers.
Located in the seaside town of Blackpool, the zoo covers 32 acres and is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Since opening in 1972, it has become one of the top attractions in the area.
Visitors can explore a variety of enclosures and exhibits, each carefully designed to resemble the animals' natural habitats.
From majestic big cats and playful primates to gentle giants like elephants and giraffes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The zoo also features penguins, sea lions, zebras, and many other fascinating creatures.
Alongside animal exhibits, Blackpool Zoo provides daily feeding times and educational talks, giving visitors the chance to learn interesting facts about different species.
There are also interactive experiences where guests can get closer to some of the animals. The zoo is well laid out, making it easy to navigate. The paths are flat, making them suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs. Signs throughout the park help visitors find their way and provide useful information about the animals.
A trip to Blackpool Zoo is not just about seeing amazing wildlife; it is also an opportunity to learn about conservation and how zoos play an important role in protecting endangered species.
Whether visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, the zoo promises a fun and educational experience for all ages.
Blackpool Zoo: Getting There and Parking
Visiting Blackpool Zoo is an exciting day out, and getting there is easy with several travel options available. Whether arriving by car, public transport, or even on foot, visitors will find convenient ways to reach the zoo.
By Car
For those driving to Blackpool Zoo, the journey is straightforward. The zoo is located on East Park Drive, just a few minutes from Blackpool town centre. Drivers using the M55 motorway can follow signs to Blackpool and then take the exit leading to Stanley Park and the zoo. The route is well-marked with road signs to help visitors find their way.
The zoo has a large car park on-site, which is available for a small parking fee. Spaces are usually easy to find, but it is best to arrive early, especially during busy times like weekends and school holidays. For visitors with electric cars, charging points are available in the car park.
By Public Transport
Blackpool Zoo is well connected by public transport, making it a great choice for visitors who prefer not to drive. Several local buses run from Blackpool town centre and nearby areas to the zoo entrance. The journey takes around 15 minutes from the town centre, and buses run regularly throughout the day.
For those travelling by train, Blackpool North and Blackpool South railway stations are the closest options. From there, a short bus or taxi ride will take visitors directly to the zoo.
Walking and Cycling
Visitors staying nearby may choose to walk or cycle to the zoo. There are safe pedestrian paths leading to the entrance, and cycling can be a great way to enjoy the fresh air before exploring the zoo. Secure bike racks are provided for visitors who arrive by bicycle.
Accessibility and Parking for Disabled Visitors
Blackpool Zoo aims to be accessible to all. The car park has dedicated spaces for disabled visitors, located close to the entrance for easy access. Inside the zoo, the paths are mostly flat, making it easy for wheelchair users and pushchairs to get around. Wheelchairs are also available for hire at the entrance.
With so many transport options, getting to Blackpool Zoo is simple, ensuring visitors can focus on enjoying their day out with the animals.
Animals and Exhibits
Blackpool Zoo is home to a wide range of animals from all over the world. From towering giraffes to tiny insects, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The zoo is designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment for the animals while allowing visitors to learn about them up close.
Big and Small Creatures
One of the most exciting areas in the zoo is Project Elephant Base Camp, where visitors can see a herd of Asian elephants. These gentle giants have a large space to roam and an indoor house where they can rest.
Nearby, Gorilla Mountain is home to a family of Western lowland gorillas. Visitors can watch them interact, climb, and play together.
For those who love big cats, the Big Cat Habitat is a must-see. Here, powerful Amur tigers and African lions can be seen lounging in the sun or exploring their enclosures.
Feathered and Water-Loving Animals
The zoo is also home to playful sea lions and Humboldt penguins, both of which have large pools where they can swim, dive, and interact.
Visitors can watch daily feeding sessions where sea lions perform impressive tricks and penguins waddle on land before gracefully gliding through the water.
There is also a selection of exotic birds, including colourful parrots and majestic owls, housed in spacious aviaries where visitors can observe them up close.
A Step Back in Time
One of the most unique attractions is the Dinosaur Safari, where life-sized dinosaur models bring history to life. This area is perfect for young explorers who want to imagine what it was like when dinosaurs ruled the earth.
With so many animals and exhibits to explore, Blackpool Zoo offers a fantastic experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Interactive Experiences and Feeding Times
A visit to Blackpool Zoo isn’t just about seeing animals – there are plenty of chances to get involved and learn more about them through interactive experiences and feeding sessions. These activities allow visitors to get closer to some of the zoo’s most fascinating creatures.
Feeding Times and Keeper Talks
Throughout the day, Blackpool Zoo hosts feeding sessions and keeper talks, where visitors can watch animals enjoy their meals while learning interesting facts about them. Popular feeding times include:
Sea Lions – Watch these playful creatures swim, dive, and perform clever tricks during their feeding sessions.
Penguins – See the Humboldt penguins waddle, swim, and catch fish at their feeding time.
Giraffes – Discover what it takes to care for the tallest animals at the zoo and watch them munch on their favourite leaves.
During these sessions, zookeepers share fun and educational facts about the animals, their diets, and conservation efforts.
Meet the Animals Experiences
For visitors who want an even closer look, Blackpool Zoo offers special Meet the Animals experiences. These allow people to step into enclosures and hand-feed certain animals, such as lemurs, giraffes, or even giant tortoises. These experiences need to be booked in advance and provide a unique chance to interact with animals in a safe and supervised way.
With so many opportunities to see animals up close, Blackpool Zoo makes sure every visitor has a memorable and exciting experience.
Tips for a Great Visit
A trip to Blackpool Zoo is a fantastic experience, and a little planning can help make the day even better. Here are some useful tips to ensure a fun and stress-free visit.
Plan Ahead
Before setting off, it’s a good idea to check the zoo’s official website for the latest information on opening times, ticket prices, and special events. Booking tickets online in advance can save time at the entrance and sometimes offers discounts.
Looking at a zoo map before arriving can also be helpful. This allows visitors to plan their route and make sure they don’t miss their favourite animals or scheduled feeding times.
Dress for the Weather
Since most of the zoo is outdoors, dressing appropriately is important.
- On sunny days, wearing a hat, sunglasses, and sun cream will help protect against the sun.
- If rain is expected, bringing a waterproof coat or umbrella can help keep everyone dry.
- Comfortable shoes are a must, as there will be lots of walking.
Bring Essentials
While there are cafés and food stalls inside the zoo, bringing a reusable water bottle and some snacks is a great idea, especially for families with young children. Staying hydrated and having small treats on hand can keep energy levels up throughout the day. A portable power bank for your phone can be useful if you intend on taking lots of photos and videos during your trip.
Take Your Time and Enjoy
Blackpool Zoo has plenty to see and do, so there’s no need to rush. Taking breaks, enjoying the scenery, and stopping at picnic areas can make the visit more enjoyable.
Families with children might want to spend some time in the outdoor play areas or the indoor Playbarn, where kids can have fun and take a break from walking.
Visit the Gift Shop
At the end of the day, the zoo’s gift shop is a great place to pick up a souvenir. Whether it’s a cuddly toy, a book about animals, or a fun keepsake, it’s a lovely way to remember the trip.
With a little planning, a visit to Blackpool Zoo can be a fantastic and memorable experience for everyone!
Are you planning a family break in Blackpool? Blackpool Zoo is a fantastic place to explore, with incredible animals and fun interactive experiences for all ages. Our welcoming bed and breakfast is located near Blackpool Zoo, making it the perfect place to stay after a day of adventure.