Queues were seen ‘like never before’ outside Bristol Zoo as the 186-year-old institution opened its doors for the final time ever today.
The world’s oldest provincial zoo has been forced to shut due to the impact of the pandemic and lockdowns.
Bristol Zoo Gardens, which has been open for 186 years on the edge of Clifton Downs, will be turned into sustainable homes, with the Bristol Zoological Society saying their ‘hands were forced’.
The society said: ‘For many years, Bristol Zoo Gardens has faced various challenges. Namely, declining visitor numbers, the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and the challenges of meeting the changing needs of the animals.’
The zoo, which opened its doors in Clifton in 1836, is the fifth oldest in the world, and it still boats many of its original Victorian buildings, including its fate house, the old giraffe house and its monkey temple.
It was also home to the popular TV show, Animal Magic, which ran from 1962 to 1983. Presenter Johnny…
