Cleres Zoological Park

Cleres Zoological Park is a zoo located in the town of Clères in Normandy, France, about 22 kilometres north of Rouen. Set on 13 hectares of wooded grounds surrounding a 14th-century château, it combines a historic estate with a modern wildlife collection.

What can visitors see at the park?

The grounds are home to roughly 200 mammals and 1,500 birds, making Cleres one of the more notable zoological parks in the Normandy region, particularly for its bird collection. Animals are kept in naturalistic, wooded enclosures, so a walk through the park feels closer to strolling through an English-style landscape garden than visiting a conventional city zoo. The château standing at the heart of the grounds anchors the whole site and gives the visit a distinctly historic feel.

What is the history behind the château and the park?

The château at Clères dates back to the 14th century and served for centuries as a noble residence. Over time, the surrounding land was shaped into a landscape park and later converted into a zoological garden, with the existing trees and terrain used as the natural backdrop for the animal enclosures. This approach has preserved the site's historic, picturesque character even though it now functions primarily as an educational and recreational attraction.

When is the best time to visit?

The park is open to visitors only during the season running from February to October. Outside this window it remains closed to tourists, so anyone planning a trip to Normandy should check the exact opening dates for the year in advance. Spring and summer tend to be the best times to walk among the birds and mammals, when the park's greenery is at its fullest and the animals are most active.

Who is this destination suited for?

Cleres Zoological Park appeals to families with children, nature lovers, and anyone interested in regional architecture and history. The combination of a historic château with an extensive bird collection means a visit blends natural and historical education in a single location. The spacious, wooded grounds make for a relaxed, multi-hour walk away from the crowds of Normandy's bigger tourist attractions.

How do you get to Clères?

Clères sits on a route that is easy to reach from Rouen, making the park a convenient day-trip destination for anyone staying in or around the city. Its proximity to Rouen means visitors can pair a morning or afternoon at the park with a visit to the city's cathedral and historic centre on the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Cleres Zoological Park located? The park is in the town of Clères in Normandy, about 22 kilometres north of Rouen.

How many animals live in the park? The collection includes roughly 200 mammals and about 1,500 birds, spread across 13 hectares of grounds.

Is the park open all year round? No, the park only welcomes visitors between February and October.

What makes Cleres stand out compared to other zoos in the region? The pairing of a 14th-century château with wooded grounds and an extensive bird collection gives the park a distinctive, landscape-garden character rarely found in conventional zoos.