Zoos & Aquariums

Fancy a close encounter with a chimp? Seeing a male seahorse give birth? Watching a penguin fly through water? 

North Wales has three main animal attractions: the Welsh Mountain Zoo, Anglesey Sea Zoo, and Rhyl Seaquarium,  and all are located right on on the coast, so plenty of incredible views too.  Make sure you have plenty of memory on your camera, because you'll be snapping hundreds of photos. 

The emphasis is on education, conservation and fun, with ever-evolving exhibits, and state-of-the-art displays. If you've not visited any of these attractions for a while, put them to the top of  your list – especially Sea Lion Cove at the Seaquarium, the Chimp Encounter at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, and the mesmerising moon jellyfish at Anglesey Sea Zoo.

Welsh Mountain Zoo

Also known as the National Zoo of North Wales, it's the place to see some of the most impressive and endangered animals in the world, including the enigmatic snow leopard, lemurs, tigers and condors. Every day there's a line up of animal encounters – flying demonstrations, sea lions, and Penguin Play Time. And nothing gets the kids more excited than seeing highly talented sea lions leaping through hoops.  

What sets this zoo apart is its mountain location – high on a hillside, overlooking Colwyn Bay and miles of dramatic coastline. 

The zoo is located three minutes off the A55 – exit Junction 20, Rhos-on-Sea.

Rhyl Seaquarium

With the only underwater tunnel in North Wales, the Seaquarium is split into zones, including British Coasts, Tropical Reef, and the Ship Wreck Zone. Will you be lucky enough to see a baby shark hatching in the Shark Nursery? Can you spot the giant camouflage turbot? And be sure to meet the friendly rays who pop their snouts up to say hello.

You'll find the Seaquarium on the prom in Rhyl – make a day of it in this classic seaside resort. 

Anglesey Sea Zoo

Anglesey's leading all-weather attraction, the Sea Zoo focuses on British marine life.  Kids love the No Bone Zone, the Wolf Fish Lair, and the real crashing waves. 

The Sea Zoo blends fun and education in equal amounts – learn about the seahorse breeding programme, meet a marine biologist, and choose your own pearl oyster in the gift shop. 

Anglesey Sea Zoo is located on the glorious Menai Strait, with panoramic views into Snowdonia. There are plenty of other attractions on that side of the island, so where to next?