We finally got around to revisiting Northumberland County Zoo. The last time we visited was years ago, so I am happy that we managed to go today.
Just to make you aware it is not a full on zoo, it is more of an animal park with a collection of zoo animals. However, saying that, I still think it is a fantastic place to visit to kill a few hours and there's actually quite a bit to see. Today it was super cold and a bit windy, but that didn't put a stop to our visit, I did ring ahead to double check that they were definitely opening with the wind getting worse. Also if you visit on a cold day the reptile house is so nice and warms you right up. We found that the zoo was clean and tidy, some enclosures had nothing in them but it looked like work was being carried out. Animals all looked really well looked after and staff were all super friendly. The only thing we did mention on the way out was the nocturnal area, needs a sign on the door as it just looked like the door was locked, we only went in after Craig chanced trying the door. Everyone else was just walking past. All in all though it was a great morning and we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We are hoping to head back during the warmer months and taking a picnic with us.
Northumberland Country Zoo sits on 17 acres for you to explore, although it felt a lot bigger to be honest. It is a family run , not for profit zoo and they currently have a few conservation projects going on that you can read more about over on their site HERE. You can adopt animals too.
Animals you can see include (there's more than this list)
🦊Artic Fox
😸Scottish Wildcat
🐆Snow Leopard
🦔Porcupine
🐴Horses and Donkeys
🐮Cattle
🦉Birds of prey
🐸Frogs
🕷️Spiders
and lots lots more
NEW FOR 2022
Bear Falls soft play which is included in your entry and is located in the café.
🐸Toddler area for under 3s
🐸Area for older kids and adults
🐸4m waterfall slide
🐸Interactive features
🐸Hidden find and seek games
What you can expect
🦊Wallaby Walk
🦊Lemur Walk (this was closed today)
🦊Lambys electronic tractor ride
🦊Outdoor Play Area
🦊Pedal Tractors
🦊Tractor Museum
🦊Overly friendly Turkey
🦊Café which serves Hot and Cold Food
🦊Indoor seating and picnic areas outdoors (please note no picnic food indoors as this is for people who purchase in the café)
🦊No dogs allowed except guide dogs.
🦊Zoo is very accessible, with flat paths around most of the attraction although there is a steep bit going down the river walkway which may be tricky for some wheelchairs and pushchairs.
🦊It was a little muddy but not too bad.
🦊Parking is free and there's an overflow carpark for busier days
🦊lovely gift shop with some adorable stuffed toys and other goodies.
🦊Plenty of toilets around the site including disabled and baby changing which is located next to the café.
🦊Zoo Maps located around the park we like to snap a photo so we have one with us. You can also view the map online.
🦊Hand washing facilities
Need to know
🐮Opening times are as followed
October - March 9.30-4.30 March - Oct 9.30-5.30
🐮Family ticket of 2 adults and 3 children would cost £65 today we used our national lottery £25 days out voucher.
During Half Term you can expect Keeper talks on some of the animals.
I would advise booking just in case it gets busy.
Check out these other posts
Preston Tower & Woodland Walk - A Northumberland Hidden Gem