A popular day out destination for Gloucestershire families for generations, Bristol Zoo has announced that it will be closing its doors for the final time on Saturday 3 September 2022.
With a history spanning 186 years, the historic 12-acre site in Bristol is closing to make way for a residential scheme of eco-friendly, low carbon homes and green spaces.
Following planning permission, buildings such as the Monkey Tower and theatre building, located on the main lawn, will all be retained.
The gardens will also open up to the public again – free of charge for the first time in history – with the inclusion of a children’s play area, café and exhibition space, too.
To celebrate the rich history of the zoo, there are special events taking place over the summer months, where people can share their memories of the attraction before it closes.
Bristol Zoological Society chief executive Dr Justin Morris described the unique location as ‘a special place for so many people’.
Funds from selling the location will be invested in the development of a new Bristol Zoo due to open in 2024, which will be built at the Bristol Zoological Society’s Wild Place Project.
The new Bristol Zoo is expected to host an array of attractions such as The Central African Forests, which will be home to some of the world’s most endangered animals, including African grey parrots, rare fish from Western Africa and the gorilla troop from the Bristol Zoo Gardens.
