Kangaroos at Banham Zoo (c) Norfolk Tourism

Animals, Zoos and Wildlife

From cute and cuddly to big and scary, creatures with scales, fur or feathers, Norfolk has many wonderful places to see some amazing animals. Great fun for the whole family, from toddlers to grandparents, visit one of Norfolk's zoos or wildlife parks and enjoy a fantastic day out to see exotic animals, rare breeds and family favourites!

Poitu donkey at Banham Zoo (c) Norfolk Tourism

Zoos and animal parks

Everyone loves the zoo and with almost 1000 incredible animals to see, Banham Zoo is perfect for a fun-filled day out. See the magnificent big cats including tigers and leopards being fed, watch the birds of prey glide through the air at one of the displays and visit the farm barn to see some of the more cuddly residents! Or perhaps take a trip to Africa to see lions - the kings of the jungle, enormous elephants, giraffes, zebras and much more! Africa Alive! gives visitors the chance to see and learn all about African animals with feeding talks, live displays and a road train safari round the park. And if that isn't enough take a trip to the beautiful Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens where you can take the Tiger Tree Walk and peer down on the tiger enclosure, watch the hilarious gibbons and monkeys play, and then venture into the reptile and swamphouse to learn all about creatures with many or no legs!

Browse zoos and animal parks in Norfolk

Enjoy nature at Sculthorpe Moor Community Nature Reserve

Nature reserves

A must visit while in Norfolk has to be Pensthorpe Nature Reserve, a stunning reserve that will be adored by all those who love nature and the great outdoors. With an adventure play area, nature trails to follow and pond dipping for children, everyone will enjoy being in the fresh air and learning about wonderful nature. Get close to Norfolk's nature at Sculthorpe Moor Community Nature Reserve - a haven for many beautiful, rare and interesting species and the perfect place for a spot of birdwatching or a peaceful walk. There are plenty of amazing nature reserves around Norfolk - so get out your binoculars and get nature spotting!

Browse nature reserves in Norfolk

Farms and animal centres

Snettisham Park is another great place to visit to enjoy the outdoors. Take a trip on the unique deer safari to see the proud stags and adorable newborn deer or stroll around the discovery trail through 150 acres of gorgeous countryside. There is also a farm where children can feed lambs and piglets, an adventure playground and also a tearoom for some delicious refreshments! Every county has its own unique breeds and at the Hillside Animal & Shire Horse Sanctuary you can see Norfolk's very own heavy horses, along with many other horses, ponies and all sorts of rescued farm animals. To see some more unusual species of animal, small and large, visit Church Farm. This rare breed centre is home to special breeds of sheep, pigs, goats, rabbits and guinea pigs - so mum, dad and the kids will all be amazed at the unusual horns, hair and spots on offer!