AS one of the oldest visitor attractions in Northern Ireland, Belfast Zoo was finally able to reopen again today.
Lots of smiling faces could be seen passing through the gates of the popular visitor attraction in the north of the city.
It is among many outdoor visitor attractions across the north that were allowed to reopen to the public again following a relaxation of lockdown restrictions.
Visitors were able to get a glimpse of dozens of animals, including Asian elephants, Barbary lions, Rothschild's giraffes and California sea lions.
The zoo, which has been home to animals since 1934, also houses penguins, apes, Malayan tapirs, giant anteater and Malayan sun bears.
Under the coronavirus safety measures, the attraction is currently operating on a ticket-only basis, which have to be purchased before visiting.
For people wanting to visit over the next few days, the zoo has advised: "We have a very busy weekend ahead so please be aware that queues into the zoo are likely.
"We ask you to please be patient as our staff work hard to get everyone into the zoo as quickly as possible.
"Remember to arrive on time for your selected entrance slot, have your online booking reference available and adhere to social distancing requirements as you queue."
Major accessibility improvements have also been carried out during the lockdown closure.
A new 'Changing Places' facility, which is a specialist accessible toilet with changing facilities, was installed for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities, their carers, assistants and families.
The accessible facility is designed with enough space and equipment for people who are not able to use the toilet independently. It has also recently upgraded its accessible car parking bays to provide direct low-level access to the zoo’s visitor centre.
The zoo is operating hourly sessions between 10am and 3pm until May 2. After May 2, sessions will run between 10am and 4pm.
