Popular West Lothian zoo named ‘best family day out in Scotland’

A popular West Lothian zoo and conservation centre has been voted the best day out for the whole family in Scotland.

Five Sisters Zoo has been named the ‘Best Family Day Out’ at the 12th Edition of the Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards.

The ceremony, presented in association with Molson Coors, took place on Thursday the 16th of May 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow.

The event celebrated excellence within Scotland’s hospitality industry, recognising establishments that excel in providing outstanding experiences for their patrons.

Originally established as a garden centre by landscape gardener Brian Curran and his wife Shirley, Five Sisters Zoo evolved into a sanctuary for unwanted pets, eventually becoming an attraction for visitors. Officially founded in 2005, the zoo has grown to accommodate over 180 different species of mammals, birds, and reptiles, including rescued bears and lions formerly part of travelling circuses.

Accredited by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Five Sisters Zoo is dedicated to the conservation of endangered wildlife, both native and non-native species. Its mission emphasises the creation of safe, natural environments for all animals in its care, maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.

Last year, Five Sisters Zoo committed to the rescue and rehabilitation of Yampil, an Asiatic Black Bear rescued from an abandoned zoo in Ukraine amid the devastation of war. Despite facing significant challenges, including a funding gap of £90,000 for his specialised enclosure, the zoo has rallied support from the community to ensure Yampil’s well-being. Construction of his permanent home is underway, with completion expected by Summer 2024.

Brian Curran, Co-Founder of Five Sisters Zoo, said: “Receiving the ‘Best Family Day Out’ award at the Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards is a tremendous honour for us. It reaffirms our mission to provide families with meaningful experiences while fostering a deep appreciation for wildlife and conservation. We are grateful for the support of our visitors and community, and we remain devoted to the well-being of the animals in our care.”

Warren Paul, CEO and Founder of the Scottish Entertainment and Hospitality Awards, said: “Five Sisters Zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation and providing an exceptional experience for visitors sets a remarkable standard within the hospitality industry. Their commitment to animal welfare, coupled with their innovative approach to conservation efforts, makes them a deserving recipient of the ‘Best Family Day Out’ award. We applaud their tireless efforts and look forward to seeing their continued impact on both local communities and the wider conservation landscape. We take immense pride in offering a platform that encourages the Scottish public to explore and support their local businesses and attractions.”

For more information about Five Sisters Zoo and its conservation efforts, visit https://fivesisterszoo.co.uk, or to make a donation to the Yampil fundraising appeal, please visit: https://fivesisterszoo.co.uk/yampil-the-bear-rescue-fund.

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