CHAPTER XXXIV 



THE GARDENS OF THE BRISTOL, BATH, AND WEST OF 

 ENGLAND ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY, CLIFTON 



The foundation of Zoological Gardens for Clifton and 

 Bristol was first laid by the establishment of ' the 

 Bristol and West of England Zoological Society ' in 

 1835, when the twelve acres of land now laid out 

 were purchased. The situation of this ground, better 

 known nowadays as ' the Clifton Zoo,' lies at a high 

 level north of Bristol. At the north entrance, out- 

 stretched as far as the eye can reach, extend the 

 Clifton and Durdham Downs. Facing the south 

 entrance is Clifton College, whilst in close proximity 

 is the famous suspension bridge spanning the Avon 

 Gorge. 



The Clifton Zoological Gardens have long since 

 acquired a reputation as one of the most favourable 

 localities in the country for the breeding and rearina; 

 of wild animals in captivity. This is a distinct 

 advantage no one will dispute. Moreover, although 

 so popularly known as Zoological Gardens, they are, 

 as was originally intended, combined Zoological and 

 Botanical Gardens. Nor has the latter half of the 

 scheme been neglected ; for the Gardens, occupying 

 a remarkably sheltered and retired position, are taste- 



