The Northumberland Zoo Cafe, also known as the Bear Falls Cafe, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Northumberland Zoo. Located conveniently next to the zoo’s entrance, this cafe offers a variety of hot and cold food options, making it a perfect spot for a refreshing break during your zoo adventure.
Convenient Location and Amenities
The Northumberland Zoo Cafe is easily accessible, situated right next to the zoo’s main entrance. This makes it a convenient choice for families and visitors looking to grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The cafe also features a soft play area adjoined to it, providing a fun and safe space for children to enjoy while their parents relax and recharge.
Diverse Menu and Dining Options
The Northumberland Zoo Cafe offers a wide range of food and drink options to cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. Visitors can choose from a selection of hot meals, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages, ensuring there’s something to satisfy everyone’s appetite. Additionally, the cafe welcomes visitors to bring their own picnics, with several designated outdoor areas available for al fresco dining.
Picnic Areas and Outdoor Seating
While the Northumberland Zoo Cafe offers indoor seating, the zoo also provides several designated outdoor areas for picnics. These include spaces outside the cafe, near the Adventure Land play area, opposite the Wallaby Walkabout entrance, and in the Domestic Farm Animal Area. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy a picnic surrounded by the zoo’s natural beauty.
Diverse Animal Exhibits and Experiences
The Northumberland Zoo is home to over 80 species of animals, from the tiny Harvest Mice to the majestic Snow Leopards. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits and experiences, including Keeper Talks & Displays, where they can learn more about the animals and watch them being fed. The zoo also offers Experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with some of the animals.
Additional Attractions and Facilities
In addition to the zoo’s animal exhibits, the Northumberland Zoo offers a variety of other attractions and facilities for visitors to enjoy. These include the Zoo Gift Shop, the Adventure Land adventure trail, the Bear Falls Softplay area, the Classic Tractor Museum, and the Wild Theatre, where keepers showcase some of the amazing animals in action.
Accessibility Considerations
While the Northumberland Zoo strives to be accessible for all visitors, there are some areas that may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Between the car park and the zoo entrance, there is some loose stone that can make it difficult for some children’s buggies and wheelchairs. Additionally, the ‘River Walk’ inside the zoo is not currently wheelchair-friendly due to steep inclines. However, the zoo’s pathways are a combination of concrete and tar planings, which can also be challenging for some wheelchairs to navigate. The zoo is actively working on improving accessibility in these areas for the future.
Parking and Ticketing Information
Parking at the Northumberland Zoo is free, and overflow parking is also available. The zoo is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm, with last entry at 4 pm. Tickets can be booked in advance on the zoo’s website, and prices vary depending on the age of the visitor and the time of year. As of June 5, 2024, ticket prices for a family of five are £33.
In conclusion, the Northumberland Zoo Cafe, or Bear Falls Cafe, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Northumberland Zoo. With its convenient location, diverse menu, and designated outdoor picnic areas, the cafe offers a delightful dining experience that complements the zoo’s wide range of animal exhibits and attractions. While there are some accessibility considerations, the zoo is committed to improving these areas for the benefit of all visitors.
References:
– Tripadvisor Review 1
– Northumberland Zoo Website
– Tripadvisor Review 2
– Northumberland Zoo Homepage
– Northumberland Zoo Attractions