Bristol Zoo Project
Sightseeing attraction | Bristol | England | United Kingdom
The Bristol Zoo Project in Bristol, England, is an innovative wildlife and conservation park that spans an impressive 55 hectares and is operated by the Bristol Zoological Society. Originally opened as the Wild Place Project in 2013, it was officially renamed the Bristol Zoo Project in the summer of 2023 after the historic Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton closed in September 2022. The park is located on the Hollywood Estate, a listed property that was donated to the society in the 1960s and previously served as a breeding and quarantine station. Today, it serves as a new location for many animals from the former Bristol Zoo and aims to become a world-leading center for conservation and education.
The concept of the Bristol Zoo Project differs significantly from traditional zoos. The park was designed to reflect specific ecosystems and international conservation programs, with animals kept in spacious, natural habitats. The different areas are themed and represent different biotopes. Current highlights include Bear Wood, Benoué National Park, and Discover Madagascar. Bear Wood, opened in July 2019, is an award-winning area that recreates the forests of Britain 10,000 years ago. Here, brown bears, wolves, lynxes, and wolverines live in an environment with a treetop walkway that offers visitors a unique perspective. In the winter, when the bears enter a light form of hibernation, they can be observed in their den via a "Bear Cam".
The Benoué National Park area transports visitors to the African savannah and houses animals such as giraffes, zebras, ostriches, hippopotamuses, and cheetahs. An elevated giraffe platform allows for encounters with these majestic animals at eye level, while also highlighting the importance of habitat conservation in Cameroon. Discover Madagascar, on the other hand, is dedicated to the island's unique wildlife, with free-roaming lemurs that can be experienced up close in the walk-through lemur area. These thematic zones are part of a larger plan to link 90% of the park's species with targeted conservation programs by 2035, the society's 200th anniversary.
The Bristol Zoo Project currently houses around 25 species, including 19 mammals and six bird species, with the collection continuously expanding. Planned additions include animals from the former Bristol Zoo, such as Western lowland gorillas that are set to live in the new Central African Forest area starting in 2026. This area will also include critically endangered Cherry-crowned mangabeys, slender-snouted crocodiles, African grey parrots, and rare West African fish species that will be visible in an underwater viewing area. Further future additions include Eastern black rhinoceroses and okapis, enriching the African-themed area.
In addition to the animals, the park offers numerous attractions for families and adventure-seekers. The Explorers Basecamp is a multi-story play area designed for children of all ages and abilities, featuring slides, climbing structures, and an accessible carousel. Other play zones such as Congo Bongo, the Barefoot Trail, and the Fun Fort complement the offerings and encourage children to explore nature through play. For adrenaline junkies, there is the Leap of Faith, an outdoor climbing facility that challenges both children and adults. Daily animal talks and feeding demonstrations also provide educational insights into the lives of the animals and the work of the Bristol Zoological Society, which supports conservation projects worldwide, such as for lemurs in Madagascar or giraffes in Cameroon.
The park's landscape is another draw. In addition to the animal enclosures, there are extensive forests, meadows, and gardens inviting exploration. Native species such as birds, bats, amphibians, and butterflies thrive here, making the park interesting for nature enthusiasts as well. Tower Meadow is a popular spot for picnics, while the Guest Village with the Courtyard Café, a pizzeria, and an ice cream stand ensures culinary sustenance. Accommodation options such as the Camp Baboon huts also provide the opportunity to sleep amidst nature and hear the sounds of the animals at night.
The Bristol Zoo Project is more than just a zoo – it is a place that aims to connect visitors with nature and raise awareness for conservation. With the closure of the Clifton site, space was made for this ambitious project, which provides larger habitats for animals and plans modern facilities such as a breeding center with air-conditioned enclosures, a learning center, and a center for animal medicine. The park is well connected to the transportation network and promotes sustainable travel options such as public transport and cycling, with investments in infrastructure like secure bike paths and bus stops.
In summary, the Bristol Zoo Project is a forward-thinking destination that combines nature experiences, education, and adventure. With its focus on conservation, generous animal habitats, and a wide range of leisure activities, it stands out from traditional zoos and helps protect endangered species while offering visitors unforgettable moments in the midst of the wilderness.
