Wildlife & Zoos

It’s time to have a chat about the birds and the bees. Now, before you drop down in a faint, don’t worry. We’re just here to tell you the best places in Northern Ireland to catch sight of our great wildlife. You don’t even have to be an avid birder, twitcher or ‘the next David Attenborough’ to get friendly with fabulous fauna (but if you are, lucky you). All you have to do is visit any of our amazing parks and forests for access to our wonderful Ulster wildlife. Or have a day out at one of our great zoos, farms, aquariums or animal sanctuaries. Well, that’s what a little birdie told us, anyway.

Bring your cheeky little monkeys to Belfast Zoo

At Belfast Zoo, you have 55 acres to roam around and over 100 species to see. Get up close with Cheetahs, Rothschild’s giraffes, Barbary lions and Sloths, California sea lions as well as an array of gorillas, chimps and gibbons. You’ll also see native red squirrels and barn owls. Book in advance and you could feed a penguin or lunch with a lemur. (From October 2025!)

There’s loads at Exploris Aquarium… so dive in

You’ll find this awesome aquarium in Portaferry where you’ll get a diver’s view of marine life from around the world. Ever tickle a shark’s belly or feel a sea urchin’s spikes? You will! Visit the Seal Sanctuary, the Tropical Ocean - home to over 100 species - and meet a family of Asian Short Clawed Otters…always a big hit.

We’ve special places reserved just for you

Derry-Londonderry’s Magilligan Point Nature Reserve is the tip of one of the largest sand dune systems in the British Isles. In summer, you’ll notice wild flowers adding a splash of colour to the dunes, like harebells, bird's-foot-trefoil, thyme and pyramidal orchids. On warm days, spot butterflies like the Common Blue or Meadow Brown - or even the rare six-spot Burnet moth. If you’re a birder, waders and wildfowl are in abundance.

Crom Estate in Fermanagh is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas. Here, you’ll find wild deer, pine marten and many rare species of butterflies. You can also get a close look at all eight species of native bats!

What can your little nature detectives do in Spring/Summer?

Apart from quacking the case, they can spot puffins, dolphins, butterflies and badgers in some brilliant wildlife parks.

In Derry-Londonderry, you’ll find Ness Country Park alive with birdsong from willow warblers, black caps, chiffchaffs and resident thrushes. In its Burntollet river, watch dippers bobbing away or go in search of the unusual Purple Hairstreak butterfly. On Antrim’s Rathlin Island, spot gannets, dolphins or seals basking on the rocks. Take the Rathlin Trail where volunteers will help you spot the comical antics of puffins. Watch seabird chicks perch precariously on cliff edges as well as guillemots, kittiwakes and razorbills.

Oxford Island in Armagh is a fantastic family day out on Lough Neagh. With miles of walking trails, you’ll walk through woodland past ponds and wildflower meadows. Explore its bird hides and see if you can spot mute swans, mallards or grey herons. Or watch out for sparrowhawks and buzzards soaring over the treetops.

Listed in the top ten gardens of the world, County Down’s Mount Stewart is a treasure trove of wildlife. Your gang will be fascinated by everything from bees buzzing in the blooms to ducks, swans and tadpoles starting life on the lake. Or visit The Lookout to spot seals in Strangford Lough through telescopes.

Things for nature detectives to do in Autumn/Winter

At Castle Espie in Down, pick up a bag of seeds and have rare and endangered ducks and geese eating from your hand. In the same county, Tollymore Forest Park is where you can spot the elusive red squirrel. Game of Thrones® fans will also spot that it’s the Haunted Forest where the direwolves lived! Gosford Forest Park in Armagh is the perfect place to get up close to three varieties of red deer found in Ireland. Stroll down the boardwalk at Antrim’s Portmore Lough to spot greylag geese, whooper swans and thousands of ducks. You’ll also find a herd of Konik ponies that graze the land and help create perfect conditions for lapwings. At the stunning An Creagan in Tyrone, keep an eye on tree trunks for passing buzzards, sparrowhawks and brown long-eared owls. Or go batty at Castle Caldwell in Fermanagh - a great place for a bat safari.

Time for some fun on the farm

You’ll also find Open Farms dotted around where your gang can muck about all day. Like Antrim’s Laganvale Farm near Lisburn, Rosepark Farm in Ballymoney, or Kilcreggan Urban Farm in Carrickfergus. At Streamvale Open Farm outside Belfast, your kids can cuddle puppies, rabbits and chicks. Or for a hoot of a time, the World Of Owls in Randalstown is Northern Ireland’s only owl, bird of prey and exotic animal education centre. In Down, The Ark Open Farm in Newtownards is perfect for some family farm fun. Meet and greet the gentle alpacas at Cranfield Alpacas in Kilkeel (Winner of Best Tourism Experience (Small) at the Giant Spirit Awards 2022). Over In Fermanagh, have fun on the farm at the Fun Farm in Enniskillen. Or give it welly in Armagh’s Tannaghmore Gardens Farm & Museum in Craigavon.

So, what are you waiting for? Time to go wild in Northern Ireland!

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Number of results: 78

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Dunfin Farm Sheep Experience

Ballycastle

Address

1 Glentop Road, Ballycastle, County Antrim, BT54 6QF

Telephone
+44 (0) 7572979729

frank@dunfinfarm.com

Price
Price £40.00 Per Ticket

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

A traditional Irish sheep farm experience in County Antrim. Get an insight into sheepdog psychology. Let the sheep know who’s boss. Enjoy an exhilarating outdoor experience. You’ll soon discover if you’ve got what it takes to be a shepherd.

Price
Price £40.00 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
44 reviews
Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary

Portaferry

Address

The Rope Walk, Castle Street, Portaferry, County Down, BT22 1NZ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 4272 8062

info@explorisni.com
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Zoo / Aquarium

Enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world without getting wet. An underwater Tunnel Experience, friendly sharks and a Dwarfcrocodile, a Waddle of Penguins, all star in Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre.
More Info
Facilities

Catering
- Licensed
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
246 reviews
Montalto Estate

Ballynahinch

Address

Spa Road, Ballynahinch, County Down, BT24 8PT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9756 6100

info@montaltoestate.com
Gradings
- Five Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Historic Sites, Houses, Castles & Buildings

An enchanting 18th century Georgian estate in the stunning Down countryside offering a 5 star attraction, bespoke conference and events venue, Georgian mansion for private hire and accommodation, gardens including walled garden and 8km of trails.

Dates

From:

1 Jan 2025to31 Dec 2025Open 09:30 - 16:00
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
- Dogs Welcome Inside
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
473 reviews
Streamvale Open Farm

Belfast

Address

38 Ballyhanwood Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT5 7SN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9048 3244

hello@streamvale.com
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Open Farm

Streamvale Farm is nestled in the rolling hills on the edge of Belfast. The family farm has lots to offer including baby animal cuddling, lots of fantastic play areas and many live shows and demonstrations for all the family to enjoy.
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
388 reviews
Castle Coole

Enniskillen

Address

Castlecoole Road, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, BT74 6JY

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6632 2690

castlecoole@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Castle Coole one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the servants quarters.
More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
212 reviews
WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Comber

Address

Castle Espie, 78 Ballydrain Road, Comber, County Down, BT23 6EA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9187 4146

info.castleespie@wwt.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

WWT Castle Espie is an extraordinary day out for the whole family. Escape the everyday, reconnect with nature, and experience the wonder of wetlands on the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Visit Castle Espie all year round and discover new…
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Parking & Transport
- Parking (free)
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
626 reviews
Florence Court

Florencecourt

Address

Florencecourt, Florencecourt, County Fermanagh, BT92 1DB

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6634 8249

florencecourt@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Florence Court is a truly welcoming home. The house, formerly the home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen, is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breathtaking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You…
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
209 reviews
The Argory

Moy

Address

144 Derrycaw Road, Moy, County Armagh, BT71 6NA

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 8778 4753

argory@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

The Argory was built in the 1820s and its hilltop location offers wonderful views over the gardens and 320 acre wooded riverside estate.
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
148 reviews
Slieve Gullion Forest Park, Adventure Playpark and Fionn's Giant Adventure

Killeavy

Address

89 Drumintee Road, Killeavy, County Armagh, BT35 8SW

Telephone
+44 (0) 33 0137 4046

slieve.gullion@nmandd.org
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Forest Parks

Slieve Gullion is Ireland's Mountain of Mystery. The Forest Park offers walking trails, a scenic drive, an Adventure Playpark, Fionn's Giant Adventure children's story trail and family friendly walk.
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Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (charge)
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Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
1028 reviews
Belfast Zoo

Belfast

Address

Antrim Road, Belfast, County Antrim, BT36 7PN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9077 6277

info@belfastzoo.co.uk

Price
Price Free to £14.50 Per Ticket
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

Zoo / Aquarium

Belfast Zoo is set on the beautiful slopes of Cave Hill and is home to over 100 amazing animal species, many of which are endangered in the wild.

Dates

From:

2 Oct 2025to2 Apr 2026Open 10:00 - 16:00

From:

3 Apr 2026to1 Oct 2026Open 10:00 - 18:00
Price
Price Free to £14.50 Per Ticket

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Catering
- Restaurant on Premises - Percy’s Safari Grill
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
148 reviews
Crom Estate

Newtownbutler

Address

Upper Lough Erne, Newtownbutler, County Fermanagh, BT92 8AJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 6773 8118

crom@nationaltrust.org.uk
Gradings
- Four Star Quality Assurance
Type

Type:

The National Trust

Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas.
More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
383 reviews
The Ark Open Farm

Newtownards

Address

296 Bangor Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 7PH

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9182 0445

info@thearkopenfarm.co.uk

Type

Type:

Open Farm

The Ark Open Farm is a fantastic family day out; the farm itself is set in 40 acres of beautiful countryside between Newtownards and Bangor. It’s home to a huge selection of farm animals and some that are a little more exotic.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
- Wi-fi available
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
90 reviews
The People’s Park

Ballymena

Address

Doury Road, Ballymena, County Antrim, BT43 6JA

Telephone
+44 (0) 300 124 5000

Parks@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

45-acre urban park in the heart of Ballymena with something to do for all the family - you can check out the lake full of ducks, modern playground, urban art, sports facilities, delightful flowers and onsite community initiatives.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Facilities

Establishment Features
- Wifi
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark

Downpatrick

Address

Downpatrick, County Down, BT30 6GQ

Telephone
+44 (0) 33 0137 4000

susan.mcclay@nmandd.org

Type

Type:

Forest Parks

Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is a UNESCO Global Geopark and recognised Area of Outstanding Beauty that seamlessly blends stunning landscapes, rich geological history, and vibrant cultural heritage.

More Info
The Coastal Zone

8 Bath Road, Portrush

Address

Portrush Coastal Zone, 8 Bath Road, Portrush, County Antrim, BT568AP

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7082 3600

PortrushCoastalZone@doeni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Nature and Wildlife

Coastal Zone is home to coastal and marine exhibitions. Indoor rock pool with live sea creatures. Discovery pools and tanks, displays and activities give visitors the chance to learn about Northern Ireland’s marine,coastal wildlife and heritage.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Scrabo Country Park

Newtownards

Address

203A Scrabo Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 4SJ

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9181 1491

nieainfo@daera-ni.gov.uk

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Country / Royal Park

This charming park is situated around the upper slopes and top of Scrabo Hill, near the area of Newtownards. When visitors come and explore, they will be able to view the panoramic sights of Strangford Lough as well as the surrounding countryside.

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking
- On site parking
Tripadvisor Traveller Rating
291 reviews
Roe Valley Country Park

Limavady

Address

41 Dogleap Road, Limavady, County Londonderry, BT49 9NN

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 7772 1925

nieainfo@daera-ni.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Country / Royal Park

This scenic and tranquil park is located on the outskirts of Limavady and offers spectacular riverside views and woodland walks along with opportunities for salmon and trout fishing, canoeing, rock climbing and orienteering.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - is free and available at 4 points: Main car park at Visitor Centre /Café Building (access via Dogleap Road) O’Cahan’s car park (access via Roemill Road) Carrick Mills car park (access via Ballyquin Road) Carrick Rocks car park (access via Drumrane Road) Mobility Scooter Available from the Dogleap Countryside Centre
Riverside Park

Ballymoney

Address

8 Armour Avenue, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 7AG

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 2766 0230

Price
Free

Type

Type:

Public Park

A pleasant urban 40-acre Park in the heart of Ballymoney Town, in which to enjoy a variety of riverside walks and natural biodiversity.

Dates

From:

1 Oct 2025to31 Mar 2026Open 09:00 - 17:00

From:

1 Apr 2026to30 Sept 2026Open 09:00 - 21:00

Price
Free

More Info
Facilities

Provider Preferences
- Free (parking charges may apply)
Parking & Transport
- On site parking
- Parking (free)
Ballyrobert Gardens

Ballyclare

Address

154 Ballyrobert Road, Ballyclare, County Antrim, BT39 9RT

Telephone
+44 (0) 28 9344 0101

bookings@ballyrobertgardens.com

Type

Type:

Cottage Garden

Ballyrobert Cottage Garden is a beautiful and unique Irish garden. It extends to 6 acres and is designed in an historic 17th century landscape, with the original cottage and barn being key features. In addition to the more formal garden, is an area…

Dates

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- On site parking
Cairn Wood Trails

Newtownards

Address

21 Craigantlet Road, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 4TE

Telephone
0300 013 3333

outdoor@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

Type

Type:

Walking & Hiking

Explore our mixed woodland with five scenic trails that lead you through the forest and to stunning viewpoints. The trails are a favourite among families and local dog walkers.

More Info
Facilities

Parking & Transport
- Car parking - Car parking is free of charge Disabled parking for cars is available with one EV charging point alongside the disabled parking.