Looking for the perfect family day out in North Wales? The , nestled high above Colwyn Bay, is an absolute must-visit. Officially known as the National Zoo of Wales, this charming, conservation-focused attraction offers a unique blend of rare animals, stunning panoramic views, and an incredibly relaxing atmosphere that makes it perfect for creating memories that last a lifetime, especially those unexpected, heart warming interactions.
Why the Welsh Mountain Zoo is More Than Just a Day Out
The Welsh Mountain Zoo has a genuinely unique charm, that keeps us wanting go back year after year. As the oldest and most established zoo in Wales, it sits on a beautiful 37-acre site, offering breathtaking views over the Colwyn Bay coastline and stunning backdrops of the Carneddau mountains. Unlike some larger zoos, this one feels intimate and thoughtfully laid out, with a real focus on animal welfare and conservation.
Key Takeaways from Our Visit:
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Spectacular Setting: The 'mountain' in the name is no joke! The hillside location provides incredible photo opportunities and a refreshing change of scenery.
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Focus on Conservation: The zoo is heavily involved in breeding programmes and education, giving the visit a meaningful purpose.
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Ideal for Families: The compact size and relaxed pace make it easy to manage with children of all ages, from toddlers to teens.
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Fantastic Animal Talks: The daily demonstrations are informative, engaging, and a definite highlight.
Must-See Animals and Exhibits
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is home to over 60 different species, including several rare and endangered animals. Plan your day around the crowd-pleasing exhibits and demonstrations to get the most from your trip.
1. The Sea Lion Show & Penguin Parade (The Crowd Favourites)
These two daily events are often cited as the top attractions, and for good reason!
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Sea Lion Training: The sea lions are incredibly entertaining and clever. Watching them interact with their keepers during the training and feeding sessions is a highlight.
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Penguin Parade: Get up close and personal as the penguins waddle along their route, along the grass right in front of the spectators. The staff are great at providing interesting facts during the talks.
2. Big Cats and Endangered Species
The zoo is a vital hub for conservation, especially for its majestic residents.
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Snow Leopards & Sumatran Tigers: These critically endangered species are awe-inspiring. Look out for the Safari Restaurant balcony which overlooks the Tiger enclosure, the perfect spot for a meal with a view!
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Red Pandas: Always a fan favourite, these fluffy, tree-dwelling mammals are one of the zoo's most adorable residents.
3. Primates and Playtime
The zoo has an impressive collection of primates that are a joy to watch.
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Chimpanzees: The informative keeper talks often focus on the personalities and social structure of the chimpanzee group. Watching their playful behaviour in their spacious enclosure is captivating.
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Lemur Walkthrough: A brilliant, immersive experience where you can walk amongst the lively lemurs as they leap overhead.
A Memory Etched in Glass: Louie and the Baby Monkey
While every trip to the is special, one memory stands out as truly magical. When our son, Louie, was just a baby, we stopped at the chimpanzee enclosure. At the outdoor viewing platform we pushed his pram right up to the glass, allowing him a close look at the action inside. Louie sat there in awe, with his small hand placed against the glass.
What happened next was an incredibly sweet and unforgettable interaction. An adult chimpanzee , perhaps the mother, gently took a baby chimpanzee by the hand and guided it right over to us. The baby chimpanzee then pressed its own miniature hand up against the glass, perfectly mirroring Louie’s, separated by only a few millimetres of glass. We were all speechless, it was a beautiful moment, made our entire trip special and is a story that we still tell years later. It’s a perfect example of the wonder and warmth that awaits visitors at the Welsh Mountain Zoo.
Essential Visitor Information & Practical Tips
To help you plan your perfect day at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, here is the practical information you need to know:
Location: Old Highway, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, North Wales, LL28 5UY
Opening Times: Generally open daily from 9:30 AM or 10:00 AM, year-round (except Christmas Day). Closing times vary seasonally (e.g., 5:00 PM in winter, 6:00 PM in summer). Always check the official website before your visit.
Parking: Plenty of fre on-site parking is available.
Getting There: Easily accessible just off the A55 Expressway (Junction 20 for Rhos-on-Sea). Colwyn Bay train station is about 1.5 miles away.
Accessibility: The zoo is on a hillside, meaning there are steep paths and slopes. Wear comfortable shoes! A free map highlights the best routes for pushchairs and wheelchairs to avoid steps where possible, and accessible parking is available.
Food & Drink: There are a couple of cafés and restaurants, including the Safari Restaurant (overlooking the tigers) and the Penguin Café. There are lots of picnic benches dotted throughout the beautiful scenery, so packing a picnic can help you save on costs. #
Book Online: To save time and money, always purchase your tickets in advance through the official Welsh Mountain Zoo website.
Ticket Prices
(Please Note: Always check the official Welsh Mountain Zoo website for the most up-to-date prices and online discounts)
While prices change, booking online often provides a small discount. The last checked prices indicated a range for standard admission:
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Adult (16+): Approximately £20
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Child (3-15): Approximately £16
- Under 3: Approximately £1.80
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Family Ticket: Approximately £43.30 - £47.65
A discounted rate is available for the registered disabled and over 60's. Carer tickets are complementary when accompanying a disabled guest.
Our Final Verdict
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is one of the best family attractions in North Wales. It’s a beautifully maintained, caring, and educational zoo that offers a more relaxed and personable experience than larger zoos. The combination of excellent animal exhibits, engaging daily talks, and beautiful scenery makes it a truly memorable day out.
Top Tip: Arrive early! The animals are often at their most active in the morning, and you’ll have the best chance to grab a good spot for the popular demonstrations.
If you’re looking for a great day trip for the kids, incredible coastal views, and the chance to see some truly amazing wildlife, add the Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay to your travel itinerary!
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