Wales is brilliant for animal lovers. You can find everything here, from mountain-top zoos with incredible sea views to indoor tropical rainforests right in the middle of our cities. Whether you want to see exotic lions and rhinos or get up close with native Welsh marine life, there’s a wild adventure waiting for you around every corner.

Getting to these amazing spots should be just as fun as the day out itself. By choosing the train or bus, you’re helping us create a greener future for Wales while skipping the stress of traffic and parking. It’s a positive way to travel that’s good for your pocket and good for real life.

So, pack your bags, grab your tickets and explore the best wildlife spots Wales has to offer.

 

Our favourite wildlife spots

1. Welsh Mountain Zoo, Colwyn Bay

Known as the National Zoo of Wales, this is a real gem of the north. Set on a 37-acre site high above the coast, it offers some of the best views in the country, looking out over the sea and the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). You can meet amazing creatures from all over the world, including snow leopards, red pandas and Sumatran tigers.

There’s always something happening here to keep you entertained. You can watch the California sea lions show off their skills in daily demonstrations at 12:00 and 15:00, or catch the majestic birds of prey free-flying displays. For something truly unique, don't miss the Papilio Forest butterfly house, home to a vibrant world of tropical butterflies.

  • Top tip: Head to the animal habitats at the listed times for daily species talks from the keepers. It’s a great way to learn fascinating facts about snow leopards, meerkats and penguins.
  • Getting there: Our trains run regularly along the North Wales Coast line to Colwyn Bay from Holyhead, Chester and Manchester. From the station, it's a short taxi or bus journey up the hill to the zoo gates.

 

2. Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, Begelly

Folly Farm is much more than just a farm. It’s an award-winning zoo with nearly 100 different species. It's home to the only giraffes in Wales and the Giraffe Heights walkway lets you look them right in the eye. You’ll also see lions, zebras and the critically endangered Eastern black rhino – Folly Farm is one of only seven UK zoos that care for them.

No need to worry if the weather turns. This park is home to Europe’s largest undercover vintage funfair, featuring 18 classic rides like dodgems, golden gallopers and a giant Ferris wheel. There are also massive indoor adventure play areas, so it’s a perfect choice for all-weather family fun.

  • Top tip: Book an animal experience to go behind the scenes and even feed a sloth or a penguin for a truly unforgettable visit.
  • Getting there: Take the train to Kilgetty station. From there, it's a quick 1.5-mile trip by bus or taxi to the park.

 

3. Anglesey Sea Zoo, Brynsiencyn

If you’re curious about what lives beneath the Welsh waves, this unique aquarium is a must-visit. Anglesey Sea Zoo has over 40 tanks displaying the best of British marine wildlife, including octopuses, lobsters, seahorses and even sharks.

See conservation in action at their seahorse nursery and the Lobster Hatchery of Wales. Outside, the fun continues with the "Pirate's Playground," crazy golf and Gator Swamp boats. The entire site is wheelchair accessible, so everyone can enjoy the day.

  • Top tip: Catch the daily talks and feeds with the biologists to get an up-close look at marine life and learn about the research helping to save our seas.
  • Getting there: Travel to Llanfairpwll station and use a local bus service or taxi for the 15-minute trip to the aquarium.

 

4. Plantasia Tropical Zoo, Swansea

Step through a giant tree into a real tropical rainforest right in the heart of Swansea. Plantasia is a vibrant indoor zoo where nature enthusiasts of all ages can explore exotic plants and animals under one roof.

You’ll meet crocodiles, meerkats, monkeys and leopards. New arrivals like Iris the Rainbow Boa and a colony of Sun Beetles add even more life to the jungle. It's a brilliant interactive experience where you can press buttons, turn wheels and ask questions about biodiversity. It's also entirely undercover, so a great choice for a rainy day.

  • Top tip: Try the "Jungle Escape" game if you’re visiting with teens - an immersive, social challenge that adds a bit of mystery to your rainforest wander.
  • Getting there: The zoo is a very short walk from Swansea station, making it incredibly easy to reach by rail.

 

5. Manor Wildlife Park, Tenby

Manor Wildlife Park is famous for being Wales’ only walking safari. Its innovative walkthrough exhibits let you come face to face with many of its residents. You can feed a wallaby, share a bench with a lemur or meet giant rabbits and Cameroon sheep. The park has a strong focus on conservation and welfare, giving its animals more space to roam.

Grab a cuppa or handmade pizza at the café, where you’ll also see live streams of the seabirds of Skomer Island.

  • Top tip: Look out for the "Mini Keeper" and "Junior Keeper" experiences if you have young animal lovers in the family, a hands-on way for them to learn about wildlife care.
  • Getting there: Take the train to Tenby station. The park is about three miles away, easily reached by a short taxi ride.

 

Plan your wild adventure today

The best way to plan your adventure to see these amazing animals is our journey planning tool. We recommend checking your route before you set off. Buy your tickets early on our website or app to find our lowest-price fares with no booking fees.

Download the TfW app to check live updates and keep your tickets handy on your phone.

 

Wildlife trip FAQs

Can I get a discount for a family trip to the zoo?

Yes, family trips are more affordable with us. Two children under 16 can travel free with each fare-paying with a Family ticket.

Are these attractions accessible for wheelchairs?

Many of these locations, like Plantasia and Anglesey Sea Zoo, have excellent accessible facilities. If you need help with your train journey, you can book assistance in advance. We’ll be happy to help.

Should I buy my tickets at the zoo or online?

Most wildlife parks advise booking online in advance. It often helps you save money and ensures you can get in on busy days like bank holidays.

How do I get from the train station to the wildlife park?

Most of these spots are a short bus or taxi ride from the nearest TfW station. You can check local bus routes using our multimodal journey planner to see the best way to finish your trip.