Bristol Zoo: The Evolution into the World-Class Bristol Zoo Project

As of February 2026, Bristol Zoo has fully transitioned from its historic Clifton location to the Bristol Zoo Project, a sprawling 136-acre conservation-led attraction located at Blackhorse Hill near the M5. The original Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton closed its gates permanently in September 2022, and the site is currently being redeveloped into a high-quality residential area that preserves the historic botanical gardens for public access. The new Bristol Zoo Project is currently in a major expansion phase, headlined by the Central African Forest habitat, which is set to officially welcome the public in Spring 2026. This groundbreaking exhibit will be the new home for the zoo’s famous troop of critically endangered Western lowland gorillas, who are moving from their legacy home in Clifton to a state-of-the-art facility designed for peak animal welfare.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into everything the Bristol Zoo Project offers in 2026. You will learn about the immersive Bear Wood experience, the tactical relocation of endangered species, and the zoo’s global mission to protect wildlife in the wild. We also provide practical visitor information, including the latest ticket prices, transport links from Bristol city center, and what to expect during your day out. Whether you are a local resident or a visiting tourist, this guide serves as the definitive resource for navigating the “new” Bristol Zoo.

The Central African Forest 2026

The Central African Forest is the most significant development in the zoo’s history, scheduled to open in Spring 2026. This expansive habitat will house Western lowland gorillas, cherry-crowned mangabeys, African grey parrots, and diverse West African fish species.

The facility is designed to mimic the Equatorial Guinea rainforest, providing the gorilla troop with a complex, vertical environment known as the “gorilla gym.” This transition represents the zoo’s commitment to “One Zoo,” where conservation research and public education are seamlessly integrated into the visitor journey.

Bear Wood: A Journey Through Time

Bear Wood is a flagship 7.5-acre exhibit that takes visitors on a journey through British woodland as it was thousands of years ago. Walking along a raised woodland walkway, you can spot four iconic species that once roamed the UK: European brown bears, grey wolves, Eurasian lynx, and wolverines.

This exhibit is unique for its “multi-species” approach, allowing different animals to interact or share space in a way that reflects their natural history. In 2026, the woodland has matured significantly, offering even better camouflage and enrichment opportunities for the predators, making every visit a unique spotting challenge.

From Clifton to Blackhorse Hill

The move from the Clifton Gardens site was a strategic decision by the Bristol Zoological Society to provide more space for animals and a more sustainable future for the charity. While the 186-year legacy of the Clifton site is cherished, the new location at Blackhorse Hill (formerly Wild Place Project) offers nearly ten times the acreage for development.

The Society is currently selling the Clifton properties to fund the multi-million-pound transformation of the new site. The original gatehouse and some garden elements in Clifton are being protected, ensuring that the botanical heritage of the 1836 site remains a part of Bristol’s urban fabric for generations to come.

The Clifton Site Redevelopment

The former zoo site is being transformed into a sustainable housing community. Planning permission has focused on retaining as much green space as possible, with the iconic Roundhouse and various statues being integrated into the new public parkland.

Madagascar and Lemur Walkthrough

The Madagascar zone remains one of the most interactive areas of the Bristol Zoo Project in 2026. Visitors can walk through a dedicated enclosure where ring-tailed lemurs and red-bellied lemurs roam freely, often jumping across the paths just inches from guests.

Beyond the walkthrough, the zoo focuses heavily on the conservation of “Blue-eyed black lemurs,” one of the most endangered primates on earth. The zoo’s field projects in Madagascar directly benefit from every ticket sale, funding anti-poaching and habitat restoration efforts in the Sahafary and Ankarafa forests.

Red Panda and Tropical House

The Tropical House is a climate-controlled environment that recently opened to showcase 13 new species, including free-flying birds, endangered reptiles, and colorful beetles. This indoor attraction is a favorite for 2026 visitors looking to escape the British weather while learning about tropical biodiversity.

Nearby, the Red Panda habitat—home to the popular resident Nilo—was recently updated in early 2026 to include more vertical climbing structures and bamboo feeding stations. This species serves as a “flagship” for the zoo’s efforts in the Himalayas, where they work to mitigate human-wildlife conflict.

Global Conservation Projects 2026

The Bristol Zoological Society is much more than a visitor attraction; it is a global conservation powerhouse. In 2026, they are actively managing projects in Cameroon, focusing on the Kordofan giraffe and the protection of the Bénoué National Park from illegal poaching.

Domestically, the zoo is a leader in the Great British Wildlife Restoration project. They are currently working on a massive release of white-clawed crayfish into Southwest rivers and are spearheading breeding programs for rare Mexican pupfish that have gone extinct in the wild.

Practical Information and Planning

Opening Hours and Entry

The Bristol Zoo Project is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in the winter months, with extended hours in the summer. Last entry to the zoo and Bear Wood is strictly 3:00 PM to ensure animals have time to settle for the night.

Ticket Prices 2026

Adults: £18.50 – £22.00 (variable by season)
Children (2-14): £14.50 – £17.00
Under 2s: Free
Family Tickets: Available for 2 adults and 2 children, offering roughly a 10% saving.

How to Get There

By Car: Located just off Junction 17 of the M5 (Cribbs Causeway). Use postcode BS10 7TP for sat-nav. Parking is currently free for all visitors.
By Bus: The m1 MetroBus service runs frequently from Bristol City Centre to Cribbs Causeway, followed by a short taxi or connecting bus.
By Rail: The nearest station is Bristol Parkway, from which you can take a 10-minute taxi ride to the entrance.

Visitor Tips

Book Online: It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the 2026 Spring opening of the gorilla habitat.
Wear Walking Shoes: The site is 136 acres of mostly natural terrain; comfortable footwear is essential.
Check the Feed Times: Look at the Admissions board upon arrival for the latest animal talk and feed times.

Seasonal and Timely Events

Spring 2026: The Big Move

The major event of the year is the relocation of the Western lowland gorillas. Visitors in March and April 2026 can witness the “Grand Opening” of the Central African Forest, which will include special keeper talks and immersive “rainforest” educational trails.

Summer Picnics

During the summer months, the Tower Meadow becomes a hub for families. The zoo allows visitors to bring their own food, and there are several themed play areas, including the Leap of Faith high-ropes course for an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the original Bristol Zoo in Clifton still open?

No, the Bristol Zoo Gardens in Clifton closed permanently in September 2022. All operations have moved to the Bristol Zoo Project near Cribbs Causeway.

When do the gorillas move to the new zoo?

The gorilla troop is scheduled to move into their new Central African Forest habitat in Spring 2026, with the exhibit opening to the public shortly after they have acclimatized.

What animals can I see at the Bristol Zoo Project?

You can see European brown bears, wolves, lynx, wolverines, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, red pandas, lemurs, and—starting in 2026—Western lowland gorillas.

How much are tickets for the Bristol Zoo Project?

In 2026, adult tickets typically range from £18.50 to £22.00, depending on whether you book during peak or off-peak periods.

How long does it take to walk around the zoo?

Most visitors spend between 3 to 5 hours exploring the 136-acre site, including time for Bear Wood and the various play areas.

Can I bring my dog to Bristol Zoo?

No, dogs are not permitted inside the zoo for the safety and welfare of the resident animals. Assistance dogs are allowed but may have restricted access to certain walk-through enclosures.

What happened to the animals from the old zoo?

Some animals, like the gorillas and mangabeys, are moving to the new site. Others have been carefully rehomed to other BIAZA-accredited zoos across the UK and Europe.

Is the Leap of Faith high-ropes course open in 2026?

Yes, the Leap of Faith remains a popular add-on attraction for visitors looking for an outdoor adventure challenge during their visit.

Are there indoor areas if it rains?

Yes, the Tropical House, the giraffe house, and the new Gorilla House offer substantial indoor viewing areas, though much of the zoo involves outdoor walking.

Final Thoughts

The Bristol Zoo Project in 2026 represents the successful realization of a bold vision. By leaving the constraints of a Victorian-era city site, the Bristol Zoological Society has created a modern haven where animals thrive in vast, naturalistic enclosures and visitors are inspired to become active conservationists. The opening of the Central African Forest habitat this Spring marks the final bridge between the zoo’s historic past and its ambitious future. It is not just a place to see animals; it is a vital frontier in the global fight against extinction.