Belle Vue Zoological Gardens "Showground of the World" This web site tells the history of the Belle Vue Zoological Gardens in Manchester, England. Opened in 1836 by John Jennison, the gardens operated for over 150 years finally closing in early 1982. In its day Belle Vue was one of the premier tourist attractions in the North-West of England. So, step inside and learn more about Belle Vue.   Ticket holders this way