Welsh Mountain Zoo
© Geograph contributors / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The Welsh Mountain Zoo — formally the National Zoological Society of Wales — is one of the finest zoos in Britain and Colwyn Bay’s single most important visitor attraction. Set across 37 acres of hillside gardens above the town, it combines serious conservation work with an outstanding visitor experience, and is a full day out for families and adults alike.
The zoo is currently undergoing a major transformation. 2025 has been described by the zoo as “a new beginning — just the start of a bigger transformation.” In 2024 the zoo appointed Chris Mitchell as chief executive — the first person outside the Jackson family to hold the role since the zoo’s founding — signalling a new chapter for the institution.
Animals & Habitats
The zoo is home to an impressive range of species across well-designed habitats. Key highlights include:
Snow Leopards — The zoo has recently welcomed a snow leopard cub, adding to its established group of these rare Central Asian big cats. Snow leopards are one of the headline draws and their rocky hillside enclosure suits their mountain origins.
Gorillas & Chimpanzees — Free-roaming chimpanzees are one of the zoo’s signature features. The great ape section is among the most popular in the zoo. Western lowland gorillas are also resident.
Madagascar Zone — The ring-tailed lemur troop has recently moved into a brand new habitat within the evolving Madagascar zone, built largely from reclaimed wood sourced within five miles of the zoo. It sits beside the Papilio Forest and Reptile House.
Margay Twins — The zoo has recently celebrated the rare birth of Margay kitten twins — a significant conservation breeding achievement for this elusive South American wild cat species.
Tropical Trail — The Reptile House opens in summer as the Tropical Trail, housing a range of reptiles, amphibians and exotic wildlife in a tropical environment.
Penguin & Flamingo Enclosures — Following the easing of Avian Influenza restrictions, the flamingo and penguin walkthrough areas are fully open again.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There
The zoo is on the hillside above Colwyn Bay town centre. By car, follow signs from the A55. On foot from Colwyn Bay station, it is a moderately steep 20-minute uphill walk. The zoo address is Flagstaff Road, Colwyn Bay, LL28 5UY.
Time Needed
Allow a full day. The zoo is large, spread across hilly terrain, and the variety of species and habitats rewards unhurried exploration. There is a cafe, gift shop and picnic areas on site.
Tickets
Book online via the zoo’s website for the best prices. Annual passes offer excellent value for repeat visits. The zoo runs regular events, seasonal experiences and keeper talks throughout the year — check the website for current listings.
The zoo pairs well with an afternoon on the beach or the promenade — the descent back into town naturally leads to the seafront. It can also be combined with a visit to Eirias Park for an active full day.
Conservation & the Zoo’s Role
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is a BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) member and takes an active role in international conservation programmes. Breeding programmes for threatened species — including snow leopards, Western lowland gorillas and the margay — are a core part of the zoo’s work alongside its visitor offer.
The ongoing transformation of the zoo under new leadership is expected to bring further habitat improvements and new visitor facilities through 2025 and beyond. The zoo has consistently been rated among the top family attractions in North Wales and continues to invest in both its animal collection and its visitor infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are Welsh Mountain Zoo tickets?
Adult tickets are £25 peak / £22 off-peak. Children are £20 peak / £18 off-peak, seniors and students £22 peak / £20 off-peak, concessions £17.50 peak / £15.40 off-peak, and under-3s go free. Booking online at least two days ahead is cheaper than paying on the gate. Prices are set by the zoo and do change — confirm current pricing on welshmountainzoo.org before you travel.
What are the opening times?
Open every day except Christmas Day. Early February to early October: 10am–5pm (last admission 3.50pm, with extended hours in peak summer weeks). Early October to early February: 10am–4pm (last admission 3pm). Christmas Eve, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day: 10am–3.30pm (last admission 2.30pm).
Is the Welsh Mountain Zoo worth visiting?
Yes — it is one of the best zoos in Wales and regularly rated among the top family attractions in North Wales. The combination of serious conservation work, diverse species and attractive hillside setting makes it a genuinely excellent day out.
How long does the Welsh Mountain Zoo take?
Allow a full day. The zoo is spread across 37 acres of hilly terrain and has a large and varied animal collection. Half a day is the minimum to see the highlights.
Can I get to the Welsh Mountain Zoo without a car?
Yes. Colwyn Bay station is about a 20-minute uphill walk, or a short taxi ride. The zoo’s free minibus is currently suspended, so a taxi or the number 12 bus (Rhyl–Llandudno) to West End followed by a short taxi are the practical options.
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