Northumberland Zoo

Northumberland Zoo is a family-run, not-for-profit zoo located in Felton, Northumberland, England. It occupies about 20 acres and is home to more than 80 species, ranging from tiny harvest mice to snow leopards.

WWW northumberlandzoo.co.uk

History

The zoo began with a tearoom that added poultry and livestock to its grounds in 2009.
The zoo opened in 2011 as Eshottheugh Animal Park, adding exotic species like meerkats. it changed its name to Northumberland County Zoo in 2015, before shortening it to its current name in 2018. It became a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2021.

The site began as a small tearoom established by the Bradley family, which later added poultry and livestock around 2009. Northumberland Zoo
In 2011, it officially opened as Eshottheugh Animal Park, introducing more exotic species like meerkats and raccoons.
The zoo gained its official zoo licence in June 2015. Northumberland Zoo
In 2015, the name was changed to Northumberland County Zoo, and later in 2018 to Northumberland Zoo.
In 2021, Northumberland Zoo became a full member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
In 2025, the zoo achieved accreditation from the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria.

Animals and exhibits

Native British Species - Eurasian harvest mouse and White-clawed crayfish

Scottish wildcat
Serval
Asian small-clawed otter
Snow leopard
Raccoon
Arctic fox
Prairie dog
Canada lynx
American kestrel
Tawny owl
Barn owl
Common buzzard
Snowy owl
Harris's hawk
Bengal eagle owl
Ural owl
Great grey owl
Common raven
Asian brown owl
Greater rheaCapybara House - Capybara and South American tapir
Guinea pig
European fallow deer
Meerkat and Cape porcupine
North American Porcupine and Siberian Chipmunk
Grey parrotFruit Bat Island - Livingstone's fruit batRainforest Lookout - Pygmy marmoset
Red Squirrel

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: During winter, the zoo operates from 10:00 to 16:00, with last entry at 15:00. Northumberland ZooTicket Prices: As of the latest schedule, adult tickets are £16.50 when booked in advance, and £17.00 at the gate. Prices for children and seniors vary. Northumberland ZooAccessibility:

* The site is wheelchair- and pushchair-accessible in many areas, though some steep paths may be difficult to navigate. Northumberland Zoo
* Free entry is available for one carer per paying guest, upon presentation of valid proof of eligibility. Northumberland ZooVisitor Rules: No visitor dogs are allowed on site. Northumberland ZooFacilities: There are picnicking areas, toilets, and hand-washing stations. Northumberland Zoo

Challenges and Controversies

In September 2024, Northumberland Zoo reported that the name “Northumberland Zoo” had mistakenly appeared on NatWest bank statements for people who had never visited. Some believed the charges were fraud.
NatWest later acknowledged a “third-party supplier” error, and said the bank corrected the way transactions appeared to customers.
The incident raised concerns about reputational damage for the zoo, especially since many visitors believed they were being charged incorrectly.

Governance and Recognition

Memberships: The zoo is a full member of BIAZA since 2021.Accreditations: In 2025, the zoo achieved accreditation from the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria , reflecting high standards in animal care, conservation, and education.Mission and Vision: According to its website, the zoo’s mission is to share a passion for wildlife and promote conservation, while its vision is to change perceptions about wildlife to encourage better environmental decisions.

Conservation

The zoo participates in various conservation efforts as a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Eurasian harvest mice and White-clawed crayfish, breeding them in the Native Britain house, and working with conservation groups.
Breeding Livingstone's fruit bats, as one of only three zoos to hold them. In 2023 a baby fruit bat was born.
Snow leopards