Zoos and animal farm parks in North West

A family guide to North West

Family days with farm animals, zoos and wildlife, hands-on activities and plenty of space to explore.

The North West is rich in animal days out, from big-name zoos to working farms. Chester Zoo, Blackpool Zoo and Knowsley Safari Park are all listed here, and Wild Discovery is an on-site zoo at Ribby Hall Village with bird displays and animal talks throughout the day. Walton Hall and Gardens has a free children's zoo, plus a treetop adventure course and adventure golf. Farms offer a closer, hands-on day. Croxteth Park Farm is a traditional working Victorian farm with rare breeds of livestock, one of the biggest rare breed farms in the country, with friendly staff who take time to explain the different species. Apple Jacks Adventure Farm has indoor and outdoor play areas for any weather, and Wythenshawe Park combines an onsite farm with a toddler playground and woodland walks. Dairy farms add milkshakes to the mix. Huntington Hall Farm in Cheshire has a milking parlour that visitors can watch on a live TV feed, and Park Farm Milkshake Shack has no entrance fee, animal petting, tractor climbing and a life-size milking cow. The Haybarn Farm Shop has Highland cows to see and a picnic area, and Parker's Animal Sanctuary introduces rescued donkeys and poultry. Bowland Wild Boar Park and Smithills Open Farm are also listed. Family days with farm animals, zoos and wildlife, hands-on activities and plenty of space to explore.