West Calder’s ‘premier’ wildlife
attraction, Five Sisters Zoo is all about conservation and education. Located in
West Lothian, it's one of many conservation-proud zoos in the United Kingdom. Here, you can enjoy keeper talks, discover hundreds of different species of animals, as well as many other exciting animal attractions.
The Animals
Once you've bought your family ticket the animal kingdom is your oyster! With over 180 different species of mammals, birds and reptiles there are plenty of animal enclosures to explore. There is a real emphasis on protecting endangered native and non-native wildlife at Five Sisters Zoo. Don't believe us? Take a trip to the three bears and four lions that were rescued from travelling circuses and are now well looked after at the park.
You may think The Lost Kingdom should have an Indiana Jones type flavour to it, however this temperature controlled tropical rain forest area is home to iguana, tortoise, birds, snakes and crocodiles – no archaeologists in site. It's the ultimate reptile house!
In the aviary a variety of bird species will fly freely above your head and there are lots of other furry friends from lemurs to capybaras and otters. Did you know there is a Lemur Feed activity held throughout the day at the zoo? Fetch your bucket kids it's time to feed the Lemurs their much loved grubs!
Stop off at the Monkey House and meet some mischievous friends. Take a stroll past the bear enclosure, marvel at striking Arctic Wolves or meet a family of rabbits. The wildlife at Five Sisters Zoo is so diverse and all family members have to the chance to interact and learn about each of these fascinating creatures.
Things To Do
Other than exploring the zoo and the wide selection of animals, families can pay extra and become a zoo keeper for the day. This interactive experience offers kids the opportunity to take care of animals, learn about nature and have fun all at the same time!
If you have restless toddlers why not take them to Leaping Lemur's Soft Play Centre? Kids will love the colourful 4-level play frame! There are special baby and toddler zones, cafe, seating and mezzanine area too.
Keeper talks a real family favourite! Kids who have a favourite animal in particular will love this activity as there are specific talks on individual animals throughout the day. Dive into the daily lives of meerkats, test your knowledge of Arctic Wolves or uncover the fascinating secrets of animal kingdom royalty in the lion enclosure! You will also learn about conservation too, so you can start to play a part in protecting wildlife today!
Keep your eyes peeled for popular events throughout the year too!
Food & Drink
Families can dine out in style at the Leaping Lemurs Restaurant! This restaurant is open every day from 10am - 5pm. Enjoy both hot & cold food, drinks, and kids lunchboxes starting at £4.00!
In busier months there is also the Brown Bear Cafe where you can also refuel and relax after your wild day out!
If you prefer to bring your own food from home, no problem! There's a large picnic area smack bang in the middle of the zoo. Here you will find a number of picnic benches, as well as a large grassy area. During peak times the Ice Cream Parlour and other snack bars will open here too.
Parking For Visitors
There is a large, FREE car park with plenty of room for coaches and minibuses. You are free to come and go to the car park from the zoo during the day, but the zoo advises to always keep your ticket on hand.
If the car park gets full and there are no more parking spaces, Don't worry! There's an overflow car park available to visitors which is also FREE. As the overflow car parks are a short distance away the zoo offers a free shuttle bus service in their fun mini bus to Five Sisters Zoo Park.
- Magical zoo visit
- Soft play centre & restaurant
- Conservation projects to support the animals & daily keeper talks