5 Zoos & Aquariums in Cumbria That You Shouldn't Miss

A walk on the wild side just a 10 minute drive from Keswick. With the backdrop of the Skiddaw massif the emphasis is very much on conservation, education and engaging with visitors - our Keepers are keen to talk and enjoy passing on their knowledge and enthusiasm. Wander around our beautiful 24 acre parkland and see over 100 species. The magical Bird of Prey flying displays have been a regular feature since the park opened and we have gathered an eclectic mix of over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra. The Granddad of the park is Brian the Lar Gibbon - he is the oldest in Europe and has pride of place in the centre of the park where he and his family can be seen swinging from the massive Oak tree. We are members of BIAZA and over the years we have successfully worked with Zoo stud books to breed species including Lynx, Asian Fishing Cats and Ring Tailed Lemurs to name just three.

Explore, Discover, Adventure, South Lakes Safari Zoo. From the Swahili word meaning journey or expedition SAFARI ZOO is a unique journey into the animal kingdom. Come face to face with and discover Rhinos, Lions, Tigers, Bears, Hippos, Wolves, Snow leopards, Jaguar, Giant otters, Primates, Vultures, Penguins and much, much more at the UK's most interactive animal park and Europe’s only Safari Zoo.. You’ll have a fantastic adventure immersed with some of the rarest wildest animals on the planet. HEAR. TOUCH. SMELL. SEE feed your senses and the animals too - Hand feed giraffes every day, walk in amongst and hand feed penguins; wander amongst and discover kangaroo, lemurs, monkeys, free flying birds – including (for the brave) vultures and condors all living wild in the park. Daily interactive animal keeper led talks and animal feedings.

Established for over 25 years, the Lakeland Wildlife Oasis hosts an incredible collection of insects, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Perfect for families, the zoo is an all-weather attraction combining lush tropical halls and outdoor animal areas. Explore our evolutionary journey spanning over 300,000,000 years. The on site 'Wild Cafe' is open every day from 10am-4pm. No zoo entry is required to visit the cafe. Last entry for the zoo is 4:00pm. We are open every day except Christmas and Boxing Day.

The Lake District Coast Aquarium is a well established visitor attraction situated on the harbourside of Maryport, a small town with Roman roots on the scenic Solway Firth coastline. The Aquarium displays contain mainly native species and are fully documented, so of interest to all generations and levels of interest. Tickets allow re-entry all day so the full range of aquarist talks and feeding demonstrations can be enjoyed. The aquarium has a popular Cafe serving a wide range of meals and refreshments overlooking the harbour. The Cafe is open every day to all comers, including those with well behaved dogs! During cold weather a wood burning stove provides a cosy atmosphere. The Gift shop is popular with locals as well as visitors thanks to a wide range of themed goods, ranging from pocket money toys to household furnishings. Outside is a 14 hole crazy golf course that is very popular as there is no age limit to getting involved with the fun! Now FREE with your admission ticket.

Lakes Aquarium is situated in the picturesque area of Lakeside on the shores of Lake Windermere, the aquarium is home to a wide array of creatures from local freshwater and marine fish to reptiles and amphibians. Be amazed as you pass through the underwater tunnel where pike, carp and diving ducks swim.