Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens
Discover over 150 species and immersive animal experiences at Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, a family-friendly educational zoo near Newcastle.
Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, also known as Northumberland College Zoo, is an educational and family-friendly zoo located in Ponteland, near Newcastle upon Tyne. Home to over 150 species including lemurs, meerkats, wallabies, and exotic birds, it offers interactive keeper talks, kids’ activities, and picnic areas. Open weekends and school holidays, it combines animal welfare education with a relaxed, natural setting ideal for families and animal lovers.
A brief summary to Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens
- Kirkley Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne, Kirkley, NE20 0AQ, GB
- +441670841235
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 10 am-3:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-3:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or during school holidays when the zoo is open to enjoy full access to animals and activities.
- Plan for a 2-3 hour visit to comfortably explore the zoo, attend keeper talks, and enjoy picnic areas.
- Bring outdoor clothing suitable for mild weather and walking on natural paths within the zoo grounds.
- Check the zoo’s website or contact ahead for special events and children’s activity schedules.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the local bus service from Newcastle city center to Ponteland, which runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. From Ponteland bus stops, a taxi or local rideshare can reach Kirkley Hall in about 10 minutes. Bus fares typically range from £3 to £5 one way.
-
Car
Driving from Newcastle upon Tyne takes around 25-30 minutes via the A696. Kirkley Hall offers parking facilities on site. Parking is free, but availability may be limited during busy weekends and school holidays.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services from Newcastle city center to Kirkley Hall take approximately 25-30 minutes, costing around £20-£30 depending on traffic and time of day.
Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens
A Living Classroom for Animal Care
Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, part of Northumberland College’s Kirkley Hall campus, was established primarily as a training facility for the college’s Animal Care students. Over time, it has evolved into a public zoo that balances education and conservation with visitor engagement. The zoo’s collection includes over 150 species ranging from exotic mammals like ring-tailed lemurs and Asian leopard cats to a variety of domestic and avian species. This diversity supports hands-on learning for students and offers visitors a chance to see rare and fascinating animals up close.Immersive Family Experiences and Interactive Learning
Visitors to Kirkley Hall Zoo can enjoy a variety of interactive experiences, including keeper talks and animal feeding sessions that provide insights into animal behavior and habitat needs. The zoo runs a rolling program of children’s activities and play areas, making it an ideal day out for families. Picnic spots and garden walks add to the relaxed atmosphere, while a kiosk offers hot and cold beverages and snacks. The educational focus is evident throughout, with opportunities to learn about animal welfare and conservation.Seasonal Opening and Visitor Amenities
The zoo operates on a seasonal schedule, open on weekends and during Northumberland County Council school holidays from 10am to 4pm, with last entry at 3pm. This schedule supports both the academic calendar and public access. Amenities include seating areas, picnic spots, a small food kiosk, and accessible pathways suitable for families and visitors of all ages. The setting within the college grounds provides a spacious, green environment that enhances the visitor experience.Conservation and Community Engagement
While primarily an educational zoo, Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens participates in conservation efforts by maintaining species that require careful management and breeding programs. The zoo also serves as a community hub, hosting events and workshops that promote awareness about animal care and environmental stewardship. Its role as both a tourist attraction and a learning center strengthens its community ties.Architectural and Natural Setting
The zoo’s layout integrates naturalistic enclosures with well-maintained pathways and garden areas. The architecture is functional and designed to prioritize animal welfare, with indoor houses for species like snow leopards and bats, and outdoor habitats for wallabies and lemurs. The surrounding landscape of Kirkley Hall adds a tranquil, rural charm to the visit, contrasting with the nearby urban centers.Visitor Practicalities and Accessibility
Kirkley Hall Zoo is easily accessible from Newcastle upon Tyne and surrounding areas. It offers a calm, family-friendly environment with facilities geared towards comfort and education. The zoo’s focus on animal welfare and interactive learning makes it a valuable destination for those interested in wildlife, conservation, and hands-on educational experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Morpeth Clock Tower
9.9 km
Historic 17th-century clock tower in Morpeth, crafted from medieval stone, featuring a storied belfry and iconic bells with deep local roots.
Westmorland Way
10.9 km
Explore Cramlington from Westmorland Way, your convenient bus stop for seamless access to local attractions and amenities.
Jesmond Dene Mill
14.6 km
Historic Jesmond Dene Mill ruins nestled beside a scenic waterfall in Newcastle’s tranquil Victorian woodland park.
W.D.Stephens Memorial
15.1 km
Historic memorial fountain honoring Newcastle’s civic leader W.D. Stephens, symbolizing philanthropy and maritime heritage in Jesmond.
Saint Mary's Well
15.2 km
Discover Saint Mary's Well, a serene historic pilgrimage site in Jesmond, Newcastle, famed for its healing waters and medieval sacred legacy.
The Tower Cafe Ltd
15.2 km
Charming café in Newcastle’s Leazes Park, famed for vegan pizzas and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere amid scenic greenery.
Old Library Building
15.4 km
A historic university building at the heart of Newcastle’s campus, now home to the School of Modern Languages and academic events.
Claremont Tower
15.5 km
Modernist landmark housing humanities scholarship at Newcastle's academic heart.
Lord Armstrong Memorial
15.6 km
A striking bronze tribute at Barras Bridge honoring Lord Armstrong’s pioneering engineering and lasting legacy in Newcastle’s industrial history.
King's Gate
15.7 km
Newcastle University's contemporary student services hub with striking glazed architecture on Barras Bridge.
The Response - Renwick War Memorial
15.7 km
A powerful and historic war memorial honoring the Northumberland Fusiliers’ spirit and sacrifice in World War I, set in serene Newcastle gardens.
1914 Monument
15.7 km
A stirring World War I memorial in Newcastle honoring local Fusiliers with evocative bronze sculpture and historic military symbolism.
Morden Tower
16.0 km
A medieval drum tower turned iconic poetry venue, Morden Tower blends Newcastle’s rich history with vibrant cultural legacy.
Newcastle and District War Memorial
16.0 km
A Portland stone tribute to courage, unveiled in 1923 and crowned by a bronze Saint George.
Herber Tower
16.0 km
A well-preserved 13th-century drum tower from Newcastle’s medieval town walls, once a guild meeting place and now a quiet monument in the city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whalton Manor Gardens Northumberland
4.6 km
Explore the exquisite 3-acre historic garden at Whalton Manor, a rare Lutyens and Jekyll masterpiece nestled in Northumberland’s tranquil countryside.
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens
6.3 km
Explore a unique blend of Greek revival architecture, medieval castle ruins, and breathtaking Grade I listed gardens carved from an ancient quarry.
Bolam Lake Country Park
8.4 km
A tranquil Northumberland haven with accessible lakeside trails, abundant wildlife, and a welcoming visitor centre for all ages and abilities.
Northumberlandia (Lady of the North)
8.7 km
Explore Northumberlandia, a monumental living sculpture blending art, nature, and heritage in the heart of Northumberland’s reclaimed landscape.
Northumberlandia
8.7 km
Explore Northumberlandia, a monumental earth sculpture blending art, nature, and stunning countryside views near Cramlington.
Fannies Emporium Antique Centre
9.9 km
Explore a vast, historic antique centre in Morpeth with unique treasures, friendly staff, and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Stepping Stones
10.0 km
Charming Victorian B&B in Morpeth’s heart with riverside views and warm hospitality near shops and historic sites.
Heddon-on-the-Wall - Hadrian's Wall
10.4 km
Discover the longest original broad section of Hadrian’s Wall in a tranquil village steeped in Roman and Saxon history.
Shaftoe crags
10.8 km
Explore the rugged sandstone heights of Shaftoe Crags with panoramic views, historic stones, and timeless Northumberland landscapes.
Pith Rock
11.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene beauty of Pith Rock, a must-visit tourist attraction in Newcastle upon Tyne.
Tyne Riverside Country Park
11.7 km
A scenic riverside country park near Newcastle with diverse landscapes, family-friendly facilities, and miles of walking and cycling trails.
Denton Hall Turret - Hadrian's Wall
12.6 km
Explore Denton Hall Turret, a Roman watchtower on Hadrian’s Wall near Newcastle, revealing ancient frontier defense and military life.
Pine
13.6 km
Michelin-starred tasting menus in a rustic barn near Hadrian’s Wall, blending local foraged ingredients with modern Nordic-inspired cuisine.
National Trust - Wallington
14.0 km
Explore Wallington’s historic house, vast woodlands, tranquil walled garden, and family-friendly trails in Northumberland’s scenic countryside.
Asda Blyth Superstore
14.1 km
A comprehensive and convenient shopping destination in Blyth offering groceries, clothing, pharmacy, café, and more with extended daily hours.
Essential places to dine
The Snowy Owl
8.8 km
A charming country pub in Cramlington offering rustic British fare, accessible facilities, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
Lovage Jesmond
14.6 km
Michelin-listed modern Mediterranean restaurant in Jesmond, blending seasonal British and European ingredients with warm, unpretentious dining.
Fat Hippo Jesmond
14.8 km
Original Fat Hippo in Jesmond serves bold, messy burgers and dirty fries in a lively, inclusive atmosphere with vegan and gluten-free options.
Sohe Restaurant
14.9 km
Sophisticated pan-Asian dining in Jesmond, Newcastle – where bold flavours meet modern style and attentive service.
Jam Jar
15.0 km
Savor Anglo-American comfort food in a sleek, industrial-chic setting with craft drinks and lively vibes in Jesmond’s heart.
Florence Jesmond
15.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Florence Jesmond, the heart of Jesmond’s vibrant dining scene.
Branches Restaurant
15.2 km
Elegant British dining in Jesmond with seasonal menus, handcrafted cocktails, and a unique blossom tree ambience.
Dosa Kitchen
15.2 km
Experience authentic South Indian cuisine with vibrant dosas and flavorful curries in Jesmond’s welcoming Dosa Kitchen.
Earl of Pitt Street
15.5 km
Discover a cozy gastropub in Newcastle blending British charm with Asian-inspired flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fratello's
15.7 km
Authentic Italian dining with warm hospitality and stonebaked pizzas in the heart of Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne.
Red Mezze
15.7 km
A lively Turkish mezze restaurant in Newcastle, perfect for sharing bold flavours, grilled dishes, and a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Peace & Loaf restaurant
15.8 km
Innovative modern British cuisine with nostalgic flavors and exceptional service in Jesmond’s stylish, relaxed setting.
As You Like It
15.8 km
Eclectic dining and creative cocktails in Jesmond’s stylish hotspot, perfect for family meals and lively late nights.
El Coto
15.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm rustic charm in the heart of Newcastle at El Coto.
Zaap Thai Street Food Newcastle
16.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Thai street food right in the heart of Newcastle’s city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Stuff Morpeth
9.9 km
Discover stylish, quality clothing and accessories for the whole family at White Stuff Morpeth, where fashion meets friendly service in a charming market town setting.
Sanderson Arcade
10.1 km
A vibrant shopping centre in Morpeth blending popular brands with unique local boutiques and a welcoming atmosphere.
Asda Cramlington Superstore
11.1 km
A comprehensive supermarket experience within Cramlington’s lively Manor Walks Shopping Centre, blending convenience, variety, and community spirit.
Boyes
11.2 km
Affordable home and family essentials in the heart of Cramlington's premier shopping destination.
Just Because Gifts UK
11.7 km
Discover unique, locally crafted gifts and thoughtful treasures at Just Because Gifts UK in Newcastle upon Tyne.
You & Yours Gift Shop
11.7 km
Explore unique gifts and local crafts at You & Yours Gift Shop in Newburn, a perfect destination for heartfelt souvenirs and artisan treasures.
Graham Smith Antiques
12.6 km
Discover exquisite 18th to early 20th-century antiques in the tranquil village setting of Horsley at Graham Smith Antiques.
KEYring
12.7 km
Discover fresh organic produce and eco-friendly goods at KEYring, Gosforth’s beloved hub for sustainable living and artisanal delights.
House of Kiki Boutique Gosforth
12.8 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, quirky accessories, and handcrafted treasures at House of Kiki Boutique in the heart of Gosforth.
North East Gifts
14.1 km
Discover authentic North East England gifts, local art, and unique memorabilia in a welcoming Prudhoe shop celebrating regional heritage.
Be Thou a Witch, Gift Shop
14.6 km
Discover mystical treasures and enchanting gifts at Be Thou a Witch, Newcastle’s boutique for witchcraft and magical curiosities.
St Oswald's Hospice Charity Shop - Jesmond
14.6 km
Discover designer bargains and unique treasures at Jesmond's Boutique by St Oswald's Hospice, where every purchase powers compassionate care in the North East.
Gourmet Gifts
14.8 km
Discover unique gourmet treats and expert gift wrapping supplies in the cozy charm of Jesmond’s Gourmet Gifts shop.
Second Skin
14.9 km
Luxurious leather and sheepskin coats that fit like a second skin, in the heart of Jesmond's stylish enclave.
Watchtraderuk Limited
14.9 km
Shop unique fashion accessories at Watchtraderuk Limited in Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, where style meets local charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Beresford Arms
4.7 km
Historic coaching inn turned award-winning pub, restaurant, and B&B offering warm hospitality and countryside charm in Whalton, Northumberland.
The Ridley Arms
6.8 km
A cozy Northumbrian country pub offering hearty British fare, cask ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in scenic Stannington.
Joiners Arms
9.9 km
A welcoming Northumberland pub in Morpeth serving locally sourced, home-style dishes in a cozy, traditional setting.
The Black Bull Morpeth
10.0 km
Historic 19th-century pub in Morpeth with classic British fare, riverside views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Barluga Morpeth
10.0 km
Modern British dining and vibrant bar in Morpeth’s Sanderson Arcade, offering imaginative cuisine, fine wines, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Black & Grey Morpeth
10.1 km
A lively, dog-friendly bar and pub in Morpeth’s historic centre offering vibrant atmosphere, hearty meals, and welcoming service.
Tap & Spile
10.2 km
A cozy traditional pub in Morpeth with a welcoming fire, six real ales, and a lively community atmosphere.
The Red Lion - JD Wetherspoon
11.5 km
Historic Bedlington pub offering quality ales, hearty meals, and a welcoming community atmosphere since 1902.
Cosy Dove
14.6 km
A friendly, village-style pub in Newcastle offering freshly prepared food, real ales, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere seven days a week.
97 & Social
14.9 km
Lively Jesmond gastro bar with innovative cocktails, comfort food, and fireside charm on buzzing Osborne Road – perfect for brunches, dates, or casual nights out.
Spy
15.0 km
Catch the action at Spy Bar Jesmond—big screens, juicy burgers, premium pints, and unbeatable sports vibes on lively Osborne Road.
Soho Jesmond
15.0 km
Jesmond's sprawling modern bar hub: live sports, cheap student drinks, quizzes, buskers, and outdoor sheisha vibes draw lively crowds to this Osborne Road powerhouse.
Phoenix Bar Jesmond
15.0 km
Refurbished Jesmond gem with grilled British fare, creative cocktails, sports screens, pool tables, and a heated outdoor forecourt—perfect for casual hangs or lively nights.
Bar Blanc
15.1 km
Jesmond's go-to bar for cheap pints, pub grub, sports screens, and happy hours in a lively Osborne Road setting.
The Collingwood Arms under new management
15.3 km
A traditional Jesmond pub with long bar, local prints, lively evenings and a straightforward menu that suits regulars and visitors alike.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Knightrider Discos
8.4 km
Experience Morpeth’s vibrant nightlife at Knightrider Discos, where dynamic beats and lively crowds create unforgettable nights.
Cosmic Ballroom
16.0 km
Newcastle's longest-running underground club: two floors of electronic beats, guest DJs, and non-stop dancing till dawn in an intimate Stowell Street hideaway.
Sinners
16.1 km
Dive into sinfully themed nights at this affordable Newcastle nightclub, where red lights, bold art, and cheap drinks fuel the city's unbeatable party spirit.
Powerhouse
16.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
Popworld - Newcastle
16.3 km
A neon-soaked pop party on Newcastle’s Bigg Market—cheap drinks, nostalgic anthems and a packed dancefloor for late-night revelry.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
16.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
World HQ
16.4 km
A multi‑level warehouse club and arts hub in Curtis Mayfield House with a heavy sound, creative studios above and a grassroots nightlife spirit.
Digital
16.4 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Greys Club
16.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s iconic nightlife at Greys Club, where vibrant music, a stylish terrace, and lively crowds create unforgettable late-night memories.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
16.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
16.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Bohemia Newcastle
16.5 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
The Social Club
16.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Flares - Newcastle
16.5 km
Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
SOHO ROOMS | Newcastle
16.5 km
Four floors of late‑night music and cocktails in the heart of Newcastle’s city‑centre party district, favoured by students and night owls.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Educational
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Naturalistic
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Scenic
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Animal Welfare Focus
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Educational
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly