🐾 Welsh Mountain Zoo – A Wild Day Out with a View

Perched high on the hills overlooking Colwyn Bay, the Welsh Mountain Zoo (officially The National Zoo of Wales) offers one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the UK. Combining panoramic views of the North Wales coastwith a wide variety of exotic and native species, this 37-acre zoological garden has been a beloved family attraction for over six decades. It’s more than just a zoo—it’s a place where conservation, education, and natural beauty meet.

🦁 History & Vision

The Welsh Mountain Zoo was founded in 1963 by naturalist and wildlife enthusiast Robert Jackson. Built on the site of an old hilltop farm, the zoo started modestly but grew steadily thanks to its spectacular setting, passionate staff, and focus on animal welfare and education. Today, it is run by the Zoological Society of Wales, a conservation charity, and continues to evolve with new enclosures, sustainability efforts, and breeding programmes for endangered species.

Over the years, the zoo has developed a strong reputation for its family-friendly atmosphere, hands-on experiences, and dedication to conservation—both at home and abroad.

🐯 Animals & Exhibits

Despite its relatively compact size, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is home to a diverse and impressive collection of over 100 species from around the world. The enclosures are designed to blend naturally with the hilly, wooded landscape, creating a more immersive experience for both visitors and animals.

Some highlights include:

• Snow Leopards – A flagship species, part of the global conservation breeding programme.

• Red Pandas – Adorable and always a visitor favourite.

• Sumatran Tigers – Critically endangered and magnificent to observe.

• Chimpanzees – Their enclosure, Chimp Encounter, offers a large, interactive habitat.

• Penguins – The Penguin Coast exhibit is home to Humboldt penguins and includes underwater viewing.

• Sea Lions – Watch daily feeding sessions and learn about marine conservation.

• Reptile House – With snakes, lizards, and amphibians from around the globe.

• Meerkats, Wallabies, Lemurs, Otters, and Farm Animals – Great for younger visitors.

Many of these animals are part of the European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP), and the zoo is deeply involved in conservation initiatives.

🎓 Education & Conservation

As a registered charity, the zoo places great emphasis on education and conservation. It runs workshops for schools, hosts educational talks daily, and offers interactive experiences such as:

• Zoo Keeper for a Day

• Animal Encounters

• Adopt an Animal Scheme

• Junior Ranger Days

It also works with global partners to support conservation projects in the wild, from tiger protection in Asia to habitat preservation for red pandas and snow leopards.

🌿 Location & Scenery

What truly sets the Welsh Mountain Zoo apart is its elevated setting. Nestled in the hills above Colwyn Bay, the zoo offers spectacular views across the sea, town, and mountains of Snowdonia. The natural terrain allows for shaded paths, woodland walks, and open grassy spaces that enhance the visitor experience.

Even on a cloudy day, the zoo’s hillside location gives it a peaceful, refreshing feel—like a wildlife sanctuary with fresh air and unbeatable scenery.

🧃 Amenities & Accessibility

• Cafés and Kiosks: Including the Safari Restaurant and snack bars offering hot food, drinks, and treats.

• Gift Shop: Stocked with souvenirs, plush animals, and conservation-themed items.

• Picnic Areas: Plentiful grassy spots to relax and eat with a view.

• Play Areas: Including outdoor play equipment for children.

• Toilets and Baby Changing Facilities: Well maintained throughout the site.

• Accessibility: The terrain is hilly, but accessible routes and wheelchairs are available. Some steep paths may be challenging for those with limited mobility.

🚗 Getting There

• By Car: Located just off the A55 expressway, with brown tourist signs for easy navigation.

• Parking: Free and ample.

• By Public Transport: Buses from Colwyn Bay stop near the entrance; taxis and lifts are also easy from town.

• Address: Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL28 5UY

📅 Events & Experiences

The zoo hosts a variety of seasonal events including:

• Easter and Halloween Trails

• Christmas-themed animal encounters

• Wildlife photography workshops

• Daily animal talks and feeding sessions

• Educational half-term activities

They also offer group bookings, birthday parties, and wedding photography experiences with some truly wild backdrops!

📝 Final Thoughts

The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a perfect day out for families, animal lovers, and anyone who appreciates the combination of wildlife, education, and fresh coastal air. Its welcoming atmosphere, dedication to conservation, and breathtaking setting make it one of Wales’s most rewarding attractions. Whether you’re admiring a tiger, hand-feeding goats, or gazing over the bay from a quiet bench, this hilltop haven offers both fun and inspiration for all ages.