Belfast Zoo
Sightseeing attraction | Belfast | Northern Ireland | United Kingdom
The "Belfast Zoo" in Belfast, Northern Ireland, is one of the region's most well-known and oldest attractions, captivating visitors with a mix of nature, wildlife, and history. This zoo is located on the northeastern slope of Cavehill, offering stunning views over Antrim Road and the surrounding cityscape. It opened in 1934, making it the second oldest zoo in Ireland after Dublin Zoo, which opened its doors in 1831. Today, Belfast Zoo is one of Northern Ireland's most popular paid attractions, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually who can explore more than 1,200 animals and 140 species on a 22-hectare site.
The history of Belfast Zoo began with the city's transportation system. In the early 20th century, horse-drawn and steam trams transported passengers from Belfast to the villages of Whitewell and Glengormley. In 1911, the Belfast Corporation, precursor to today's Belfast City Council, took over the tramway line and developed an area called Bellevue – meaning "beautiful view" – with a miniature railway, playground, and pleasure gardens. In the 1920s and 1930s, this place was a popular destination for day trips. In 1933, the Corporation decided to establish a zoological collection, and in 1934, Bellevue Zoo opened on a site of about 4.9 hectares surrounding the Grand Floral Staircase, a monumental staircase leading to the hilltop. Since then, the zoo has steadily evolved and expanded, utilizing its unique location to create a special atmosphere.
Operated by Belfast City Council, Belfast Zoo invests significant sums annually in its operation and promotion – one of the few municipally funded zoos in the UK and Ireland. A panel of 20 elected councilors, the Parks and Leisure Committee, oversees activities. The zoo plays a crucial role in conservation and participates in over 90 European and international breeding programs to secure the survival of endangered species. The majority of animals in the zoo are endangered in their natural habitats, emphasizing the importance of these efforts. Highlights include Asian elephants, Rothschild giraffes, Barbary lions, Malayan sun bears, California sea lions, penguins, gorillas, chimpanzees, red pandas, and Goodfellow's tree kangaroos – the latter a rarity as Belfast is one of the few zoos worldwide to showcase this species.
The facility is known for its expansive and naturalistic enclosures, providing animals with as authentic living conditions as possible. Underwater views in the sea lion and penguin pools are particularly popular, as well as the proximity visitors can experience with animals like elephants and lions. The zoo is situated on hilly terrain, which adds to its scenic beauty but can also pose a challenge for visitors with limited mobility. Nevertheless, the zoo strives for accessibility, offering services like a Zoomobile and special facilities. In addition to animal enclosures, there is a farm area with domesticated animals like pygmy goats, Shetland ponies, and rabbits, which is especially popular with families.
Another notable feature of the zoo is the Floral Hall, an Art Deco ballroom from the 1930s located within the grounds. This hall was once a popular venue for dances, with blackout curtains during World War II, and in the 1960s, bands like Pink Floyd and Small Faces performed here. Since closing to the public in 1972, the Floral Hall has fallen into disrepair, although it was listed as a protected structure in the 1990s. Plans for restoration exist, but implementation is pending, giving the building a melancholic, historical touch.
Over the years, the zoo has undergone continuous renewal. In 2009, for its 75th anniversary, a modern visitor center with a "Zoovenir" shop was opened, funded in part by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the City Council. This center uses natural light and multimedia presentations to shed light on the zoo's history and Northern Ireland's wildlife. The same year, the zoo set a record with over 302,000 visitors and welcomed new additions like Sumatran tiger Kabus and tree kangaroo Kwikila. Breeding successes, such as the birth of a Barbary lion in 2007 – the first in Ireland – or over 90 offspring in 2009, attest to the zoo's active role in conservation.
The atmosphere at Belfast Zoo is a mix of adventure and relaxation. The hilly location offers impressive views over Belfast Lough, while the diversity of animals and efforts for their well-being fascinate visitors. Regular events, including feeding times and programs for those with special needs, make the zoo a vibrant place for all ages. Despite occasional criticism of the care in certain areas or visibility of some animals, it remains a place that blends tradition and modernity.
In summary, the "Belfast Zoo" is an attraction that combines nature, history, and commitment to conservation. It tells the story of a place that transformed from an amusement garden into a critical center for endangered species, while also providing a glimpse into the beauty of Northern Ireland. For visitors to Belfast, it is an essential destination that both entertains and prompts contemplation about protecting our world.
