Blackpool Zoo

Celebrating 50 years of animal magic

In 2022, Blackpool Zoo celebrated 50 years. It was officially opened on the 6 July 1972 by Johnny Morris - the star of TV’s Animal Magic – riding on an elephant! He was accompanied by the Mayor who arrived in a more traditional Rolls Royce.

​​​​​The zoo originally housed two Asian elephants, three white rhinos, two giraffes, sea lions, gorillas, chimpanzees, orangutans, lions, and many other species.

Asian elephant Kate and giant tortoise Darwin still reside at the zoo today!

About the Zoo

What sets Blackpool Zoo apart from other zoos? Close encounters with animals, excellent facilities for our less able visitors and happy, friendly staff who want to make your visit fun!  The zoo stands out in the resort, too, as being an attraction the whole family can visit together. We also have the only gorillas in the north-west and one of the best sea lion displays in the UK. Add to that those, Project Elephant Base Camp, then put it all into 37 acres of beautiful, traditional English parkland and you have the hidden gem that is Blackpool Zoo.

Animals at Blackpool Zoo:

Over 1000 animals live at Blackpool Zoo, including many favourites and some you might not know!  From aardvarks to zebras, cockroaches to camels – they’re all here!

Elephants

Our elderly elephant Kate was joined by four more females, Minbu, Noorjahan, Tara and Esha, from Twycross Zoo in 2018. Bull elephant, Emmett, joined the herd in 2019 from Whipsnade Zoo. Our magnificent herd reside in Project Elephant Base Camp, an amazing new elephant house, with the UK’s largest indoor facility and extensive paddocks with a pool.

Orangutans

Blackpool Zoo is home to a group of wonderful Bornean orangutans. You won’t want to miss the chance to get to know Ramon, Cherie, Summer and Jingga!

Gorillas

Did you know that the only gorillas in the northwest live in Blackpool?  Our family of Western lowland gorillas comprises silverback, Bukavu, mums Miliki and Njema, and youngsters, Meisie, Moanda and Makari.

Penguins

Penguins have always been a firm favourite of zoo visitors, so be sure to visit their spacious enclosure, where these cute waddlers can be found walking, swimming and enjoying feeding time.  You can even see them underwater!

Giraffes

Calm and elegant, our giraffes amble round their enclosure enjoying plenty of attention from our visitors.  This most iconic of African mammals, the tallest on Earth, can be hand fed during school holidays so why not treat yourself to a close encounter? (Charges apply)

Sea Lions

They’re everybody’s favourite.  They’re sleek, black, agile and often noisy!  They’re Californian sea lions!  Make sure to see their display and let them demonstrate all their incredible traits and what makes them so very special. 

And much more!

Here at Blackpool Zoo you’ll see all your favourites and perhaps some new ones too!  Will you be able to resist the ambling aardvarks or active anteaters? 

There is so much to do, you’d best start early!

Plan your visit:

If you’re planning a full day out, you’ll need to factor in food and drink. The Lake View Cafe is the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat, serving healthy meals, salads and snacks.Burgers, pizzas and hot dogs are also available at the BBQ kiosk, too.

Plus new for 2022, the Lake View Cafe will welcome Subway sandwich shop from March, which will be the first ever Subway at a UK Zoo!

Elsewhere, the Coffee Shop is available if you want to stop off for a Starbucks, our new Asian outlet, Nawala Street Food, and during the summer months there are various ice cream kiosks open around the Zoo.

Don’t forget to visit the gift shop on the way out, too. You’ll find a selection of cuddly toys, books, models and souvenirs that will provide your little ones with something to remember their day by.

If you’d like to find out more, check out the zoo’s social media channels for regular updates, news and special offers.

Opening Times

Last admission is 45 minutes before the zoo closes. Closed on Christmas Day

Main Season

01 Apr 2024 - 06 Nov 2024

November & December

07 Nov 2024 - 31 Dec 2024

Jan/Feb/March

01 Jan 2025 - 31 Mar 2025

Ticket Pricing

Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.

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