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Five Sisters Zoo: A Wildlife Haven in West Lothian

Discover Scotland’s unique wildlife sanctuary with over 160 species, interactive experiences, and family fun at Five Sisters Zoo in West Lothian.

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Five Sisters Zoo, located in West Calder near Polbeth, West Lothian, offers a captivating experience with over 160 animal species including Scotland’s only cheetah, rescued brown bears, and an indoor reptile house called the Lost Kingdom. Open daily from 10am with seasonal closing times, the zoo features animal encounters, keeper talks, a soft play area, café, and picnic spots, making it a perfect family-friendly destination for a wild day out.

A brief summary to Five Sisters Zoo

  • Gavieside, West Calder, Polbeth, EH55 8PT, GB
  • +441506870000
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 2 to 5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit during summer months to enjoy extended opening hours until 6pm and experience all outdoor exhibits fully.
  • Don’t miss the Lost Kingdom reptile house for a fascinating indoor wildlife experience, especially on rainy days.
  • Book a session at Leaping Lemurs soft play for children under 11 to combine animal viewing with active playtime.
  • Check the daily schedule for keeper talks and feeding sessions to enhance your visit with engaging animal encounters.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas, or try the on-site café for hot and cold meals during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Edinburgh, the zoo is approximately a 25-minute journey west via the M8 and A71. Free car parking is available on-site, including disabled parking. Note that the access road has some steep slopes, so drive carefully.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect West Calder to Livingston and Edinburgh. From West Calder town center, a taxi or a 30-minute walk on mixed terrain leads to the zoo entrance. Bus travel time from Edinburgh is around 45-60 minutes, with fares typically between £5-£8.

  • Group Transport

    Coach parking is available for groups visiting the zoo. Group visits should be arranged in advance to ensure parking availability and access to group rates.

Five Sisters Zoo location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Cold Weather

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Discover more about Five Sisters Zoo

A Diverse Collection of Wildlife

Five Sisters Zoo is home to more than 160 species from around the world, ranging from exotic mammals and birds to reptiles and amphibians. Visitors can encounter Scotland’s only cheetah, Asiatic black bears, clouded leopards, and rescued brown bears, alongside smaller creatures such as bats, lemurs, and prairie dogs. The zoo’s Lost Kingdom reptile house offers a fascinating indoor escape featuring over 60 species of reptiles and amphibians, providing education and shelter from Scotland’s variable weather.

Engaging Experiences and Educational Opportunities

The zoo offers daily keeper talks, animal handling sessions, and feeding demonstrations, including popular lemur feeding events. These interactive experiences foster a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation and animal behavior. The zoo also welcomes school groups and offers special educational programs and group discounts, emphasizing its commitment to community engagement and wildlife education.

Family-Friendly Facilities and Attractions

Beyond the animal exhibits, Five Sisters Zoo features a large indoor soft play area called Leaping Lemurs, designed with zones for babies, toddlers, and juniors, ensuring safe and stimulating fun for children up to 11 years old. The on-site café serves hot and cold meals and drinks, and picnic areas are available for visitors who prefer to bring their own food. Seasonal children’s rides and a playground add to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Accessibility and Visitor Convenience

The zoo is wheelchair friendly with accessible parking, toilets, and level access throughout the site, making it suitable for visitors with limited mobility. Free car parking is available, and the zoo is located just 25 minutes west of Edinburgh, near the A71 and M8, facilitating easy access. The site also includes a gift shop and information boards to enhance the visitor experience.

Seasonal Opening Hours and Pricing

Five Sisters Zoo operates daily from 10am, with closing times varying seasonally: 6pm in summer (April–September), 5pm in October, and earlier closures in winter months. Last admission is typically 1.5 hours before closing. Admission prices range from £20.95 for adults to £15.50 for children (3–15 years), with concessions and family tickets available. Children under 2 enter free.

Conservation Commitment and Unique Appeal

The zoo is dedicated to raising awareness about biodiversity and conservation challenges. Its unique collection, including rescued animals and rare species, combined with immersive educational programs, makes it a significant wildlife attraction in Scotland. The blend of outdoor and indoor exhibits ensures year-round appeal, regardless of weather.

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