'Winner' of Best Visitor Experience, NITA Awards 2013Belfast Zoological Gardens is home to more than 140 species of animal, many of which are in danger in their natural habitat. The zoo also carries out important conservation work and takes part in over 90 European and global collaborative breeding programmes which help to ensure the survival of many species under threat.As one of the oldest visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, many visitors have fond memories of visiting the gardens, which have been home to the animals since 1934. In 2010, Belfast Zoo is now one of the leading visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, with more than 304,000 visitors a year.Popular attractions include the Asian elephants, giraffes, sea lions, penguins, ring-tailed lemurs, apes, monkeys, Malayan tapirs, Giant anteater, Malayan sun bears, Visayan warty pigs, Barbary lions and Sumatran tigers. Our rainforest exhibit creates an authentic immersive environment that combines tropical plants with unusual animals such as Jasmine, the Linne's two toes Sloth and Rodrigues fruit bats.Other onsite facilities include the Ark Cafe, snack bar, 'Zoovenir Shop', children's playground and designated picnic areas. The zoo also runs a regular programme of special events through the year.Winner, 'Visitor Inspired' category, NI Tourism Awards 2011.Highly commended, ‘Best Visitor Experience’ category, NI Tourism Awards 2010.Belfast Zoo Opening HoursSummer (April 1 to September 30)10am to 7pm. Last admission is 5pm. Animal houses close at 6pm. The Ark Café and confectionery kiosk all close at 5.30pm.The Zoovenir Shop closes at 6pm on weekdays and 7pm on weekends.Winter (October 1 to March 31)10am to 4pm. Last admission is 2.30pm. Animal houses close at 3.30pm. The Zoovenir Shop closes at 4pm and the Ark Café closes at 3.30pm.The confectionery kiosk is closed from October to March.Zoo admission prices October to MarchAdult - £8.20Concession rates - Children aged between 4 and 17, Senior Citizens and Students - £4.10Children under four and carers - FreeFamily Day Ticket (2 Adults and up to 3 children) - £22
