Bristol Zoo Project: A Leading Wildlife Conservation Park in North Bristol
Explore expansive, naturalistic habitats and global conservation efforts at Bristol Zoo Project, a family-friendly wildlife park in North Bristol.
Bristol Zoo Project is a sprawling 136-acre wildlife conservation park located on Blackhorse Hill, Bristol. Formerly known as Wild Place Project, it offers immersive habitats representing ecosystems from Africa, Madagascar, and ancient British woodlands. Visitors can explore naturalistic enclosures housing giraffes, zebras, lemurs, European brown bears, and more, alongside engaging play areas and conservation education. Open daily from 10am to 4pm, it combines wildlife discovery with family-friendly activities and a strong conservation mission.
A brief summary to Bristol Zoo Project
- Zoo Project, Blackhorse Hill, Bristol, BS10 7TP, GB
- +441174285300
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to secure entry and benefit from potential savings.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the park covers a large area with extensive walking paths.
- Visit early in the day to see animals at their most active and avoid peak crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many tranquil picnic areas, especially in Tower Meadow.
- Check the daily schedule for animal talks and feeding sessions to enhance your experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the number 12 bus from Bristol Parkway or Cribbs Causeway to the Blackhorse Hill stop near the zoo. From the stop, it’s a 10-15 minute walk on a pedestrian route to the entrance. Bus tickets cost approximately £3-£5 one way, with frequent daily service.
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Car
Drive via the M5 motorway, exiting at junction 17. Free parking is available onsite for visitors, but booking tickets in advance is recommended during busy periods. Coach parking is limited and must be pre-booked.
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Walking
From Cribbs Causeway Retail Park, it is about a 20-25 minute walk along safe pedestrian routes to the zoo entrance. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some sections on grass verge without designated crossings.
Bristol Zoo Project location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bristol Zoo Project
Origins and Evolution of Bristol Zoo Project
Bristol Zoo Project, situated on the historic Hollywood Estate in North Bristol, has a rich legacy dating back to the mid-1960s when the land was gifted to the Bristol Zoological Society. Initially used as a breeding and quarantine site, it opened to the public in 2013 as Wild Place Project, designed to provide spacious, naturalistic habitats for animals that were constrained at the original Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton. In 2023, following the closure of the Clifton site, it rebranded as Bristol Zoo Project and expanded its role as the main site for the society’s conservation and education efforts.Immersive Ecosystems and Unique Animal Habitats
The park is organized into distinct biomes that recreate specific ecosystems from around the world. Notable areas include Benoué National Park, showcasing African species such as giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, and red river hogs; Discover Madagascar, home to lemurs and other endemic species; and Bear Wood, a remarkable ancient British woodland environment reflecting the landscape of 8,000 BC with European brown bears, Eurasian lynxes, wolves, and wolverines. Visitors experience these habitats through elevated boardwalks, viewing hides, and immersive enclosures that prioritize animal welfare and natural behaviors.Conservation, Education, and Visitor Engagement
Bristol Zoo Project operates as a conservation charity focused on protecting threatened species and habitats worldwide. The site features interactive animal talks, feeding sessions, and educational programs that engage visitors of all ages. The park also includes themed play areas like Explorers Basecamp and the Butterfly Maze, blending fun with learning. Seasonal events and ongoing development projects continually enhance the visitor experience while supporting the zoo’s mission to inspire wildlife conservation.Facilities and Visitor Amenities
The zoo offers a range of amenities including food outlets serving pizzas, sandwiches, and refreshments, picnic areas ideal for summer visits, and accessible pathways throughout the site. Free parking is available, with coach spaces by pre-booking. The park is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets online in advance, especially during peak periods, to ensure availability and support the zoo’s charitable work.Location and Access Considerations
Located just off junction 17 of the M5 motorway near Cribbs Causeway, Bristol Zoo Project is easily accessible by car and public transport. Bus routes connect the site to Bristol Parkway and surrounding areas, with a short walk from stops to the entrance. The setting on the northern outskirts of Bristol offers a tranquil natural environment while being close to shopping and accommodation options, making it suitable for day trips and family outings.Future Developments and Vision
The zoo continues to evolve with plans to expand animal exhibits, including new rainforest areas and advanced conservation facilities such as breeding and medicine centers. These developments aim to enhance animal welfare, visitor engagement, and the zoo’s role as a leader in global wildlife conservation. Bristol Zoo Project represents a forward-thinking approach to zoological parks, blending spacious habitats, education, and a strong ethical commitment to species preservation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southmead Round Barrow
3.6 km
Explore the ancient Southmead Round Barrow, a Bronze Age burial mound nestled within Bristol’s tranquil Badock’s Wood.
Bristol Rocks
7.1 km
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Memorial Arch
7.7 km
A solemn Grade II listed arch honoring Clifton College’s fallen heroes of the World Wars, blending history, tradition, and architectural grace.
William Draper Memorial
8.2 km
Explore Britain’s oldest war memorial, honoring 18th-century soldiers on scenic Clifton Down in historic Bristol.
Bristol Castle
8.5 km
Discover the historic heart of Bristol at Castle Park, where medieval ruins meet serene urban green space along the scenic Welsh Back waterfront.
St Peter's Church
8.5 km
Haunting ruins of St Peter’s Church in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant memorial to the victims of the WWII Bristol Blitz.
Cabot Tower
8.5 km
Historic 105-foot tower atop Bristol’s oldest park, offering free panoramic city views and a peaceful nature escape.
The Lookout Lectern
8.5 km
Historic vantage point with sweeping views of Brunel's iconic bridge and Bristol's storied past.
The Nails
8.5 km
Historic iron nails in Bristol’s Corn Street where medieval merchants sealed their deals, embodying the city’s rich trading heritage.
The Georgian House Museum
8.6 km
Step back into 18th-century Bristol life at the Georgian House Museum, a beautifully restored townhouse revealing the era’s elegance and social contrasts.
St Mary Le Port Church
8.6 km
Historic Saxon-era church ruins in Bristol’s Castle Park, a poignant landmark of medieval heritage and wartime resilience.
Old Post Office
8.6 km
Discover Bristol’s 18th-century Old Post Office, a preserved Georgian landmark blending rich history with vibrant city life at Corn Street.
Old City Walls
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Trace the vanished medieval walls that shaped Bristol’s historic Old City, revealing centuries of rich heritage and urban evolution.
Statue of Edmund Burke
8.6 km
A bronze tribute to Edmund Burke on Bristol’s waterfront, where 18th-century ideals meet modern city life.
Medieval Vaults
8.6 km
Explore Bristol’s hidden medieval cellars beneath High Street, where Gothic vaults tell tales of centuries past beneath the city’s modern bustle.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Mall at Cribbs Causeway
1.3 km
Bristol’s expansive shopping and entertainment hub with over 7,000 free parking spaces and a vibrant mix of stores and eateries.
Blaise Hamlet
3.1 km
Discover the enchanting 19th-century Blaise Hamlet, a picturesque cluster of unique cottages nestled around a tranquil green in Bristol.
Blaise Museum
3.1 km
Explore Bristol’s charming 18th-century Blaise Museum nestled in scenic parkland with family-friendly exhibits and free admission.
Blaise Castle Estate
3.6 km
Discover Bristol’s Blaise Castle Estate: historic folly, neoclassical mansion, scenic woodlands, and family-friendly parkland in a tranquil 650-acre setting.
Rabbit Carving
5.7 km
Explore the enchanting world of rabbit carvings in Stoke Gifford, Bristol, where artistry meets nature in stunning wooden forms.
Beetle sculpture
5.7 km
Discover the commanding bronze Beetle sculpture by Nicola Hicks, a powerful symbol of nature’s strength in Bristol’s urban landscape.
Dragon Mushroom Castle sculpture
5.8 km
Discover the enchanting Dragon Mushroom Castle sculpture—where mythical dragons and whimsical mushrooms unite in a magical woodcarving at Stoke Park, Bristol.
University of Bristol Botanic Garden
6.0 km
Explore diverse global plant collections and serene landscapes at the University of Bristol Botanic Garden, a living story of nature and science.
Stoke Park Estate
6.1 km
Historic and expansive parkland in Bristol with iconic landmarks, diverse wildlife, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage.
Bristol Wildlife Mural
6.6 km
A vibrant mural celebrating Bristol’s wildlife heritage and global conservation through bold street art in St Andrew's.
Snuff Mills
6.9 km
Discover Bristol’s peaceful riverside park with historic mills, rich wildlife, and scenic woodland trails along the River Frome.
Sea Walls
7.1 km
Iconic Victorian suspension bridge spanning Avon Gorge with breathtaking views and rich engineering heritage in Bristol.
Clifton Cocktail Club
7.3 km
A tucked-away basement cocktail bar in Clifton serving crafted, table-service drinks and intimate late-night evenings.
Clifton Down
7.4 km
Expansive green parkland offering stunning views, wildlife habitats, and peaceful recreation in the heart of Bristol.
National Trust - Leigh Woods
7.8 km
Explore ancient woodland and breathtaking Avon Gorge views at Leigh Woods, a serene nature reserve near Bristol with trails for all abilities.
Essential places to dine
littlefrench
5.7 km
A cosy, authentic French bistro in Bristol’s Westbury Park, serving hearty classics and refined dishes with warm, friendly service.
Wilson's Restaurant
7.0 km
Michelin-starred farm-to-table dining in Bristol’s Redland, blending seasonal British flavors with sustainability in a cozy bistro setting.
Bianchis
7.3 km
Neighbourhood Italian trattoria serving refined Northern Italian cuisine and handmade pasta in Montpelier, Bristol.
Bravas
7.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Bristol’s cozy and lively Bravas, where traditional flavors meet seasonal creativity.
Muiño
7.4 km
Cozy Spanish tapas with authentic flavors and a warm atmosphere in Bristol’s charming Redland neighborhood.
Caper and Cure
7.6 km
Savor expertly crafted British cuisine in a historic Stokes Croft setting, where heritage meets vibrant, flavourful dining.
Bulrush
7.6 km
A Michelin-starred tasting menu in a former greengrocer’s – inventive, intense, and unforgettable modern British cooking in Bristol’s Cotham.
Nadu
7.7 km
Bold Tamil and Sri Lankan flavours in Bristol’s cultural heart, with fiery curries, giant dosas and creative rum cocktails in a vibrant Stokes Croft setting.
The Canteen
7.7 km
A vibrant vegetarian restaurant and live music venue in Bristol, blending ethical dining with a lively community spirit.
Caribbean Croft
7.9 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant culture in the heart of Bristol’s creative Stokes Croft neighborhood.
Chris and Jo's Kitchen
7.9 km
A Bristol gem serving hearty, seasonal British food in a warm, unpretentious setting where every meal feels like a home-cooked feast.
Racks Bar & Kitchen
8.0 km
A vibrant Clifton hotspot blending historic cellar charm with gourmet British and Mediterranean cuisine in a lively, stylish setting.
Lost & Found Bristol
8.2 km
Theatrical cocktails and creative cuisine in Clifton's most Instagram-worthy venue.
The Coconut Tree Bristol, Clifton Triangle
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Experience vibrant Sri Lankan tapas and tropical cocktails in Bristol’s lively Clifton Triangle, where bold flavours meet colourful charm.
Côte Clifton Village
8.3 km
Classic French brasserie charm meets modern dining in the heart of Bristol’s Clifton Village.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
All Good Things Outlet Bristol
1.3 km
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iota bristol
6.4 km
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USTUDIO Shop
6.6 km
A Bristol concept store blending Scandinavian and Japanese design in stationery, lifestyle goods, homewares, and self-care essentials.
MAKE - Independent Clothing Store - Gloucester Road Bristol
6.7 km
Discover unique, sustainable fashion and local artistry at MAKE, Bristol’s independent boutique on vibrant Gloucester Road.
The Bristol Artisan
6.9 km
Discover Bristol’s curated home for handmade, sustainable gifts and homewares crafted by over 80 independent makers.
Unique Word Collection
7.1 km
Discover unique and thoughtful gifts at Bristol’s welcoming Unique Word Collection, where originality meets charm in every item.
Inca
7.4 km
Discover artisanal wonders and unique souvenirs in the heart of Bristol's chic Clifton Down, where bohemian charm meets everyday elegance.
Clifton Down Shopping Centre
7.4 km
Bristol's Clifton hub: supermarkets, shops, coffee, and convenience right by the station on leafy Whiteladies Road.
Soukous
7.4 km
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Ashwell & Co
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That Thing
7.8 km
Discover unique festival fashion and original designs at That Thing, Bristol’s vibrant independent boutique in the heart of Stokes Croft.
BAM Store + Space
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Wild Thing
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The Ethical Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Bootlegger
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Steam
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The Whitmore Tap, Bristol
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The Pipe & Slippers
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Alterego
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The Cocktail Club - Triangle Bristol
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Be At One - Bristol
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Barrelhouse
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Clifton's hybrid pub where Detroit pizzas, rooftop views, live tunes, and dive-bar cocktails create unrestrained fun in a historic setting.
The Brass Pig
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Hyde & Co
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The Dirty Bird
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The Coronation Tap
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22 Clifton
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The Quadrant
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The Eldon House
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Historic Victorian pub in Clifton, Bristol, known for craft beers, live music, and a cozy, vibrant atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Naturalistic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
