Chester Zoo is one of the best zoos in the UK with a fantastic collection of rare and endangered animals and a strong conservation and education programme.
In the middle of Cheshire, this 128-acre zoo is a must-visit for all ages.
As soon as you walk through the gates you are surrounded by greenery and the sounds of animals from around the world and its magic.
Chester Zoo has been around since 1931 when it was founded by George Mottershead.
The zoo’s purpose has always been conservation and education and has grown and changed over the years to become one of the biggest and best zoos in Europe.
Today, Chester Zoo is home to over 35,000 animals from more than 500 species so if you love animals and conservation then this is a must-visit.
Plan Your Day
The zoo is split into several different areas each with its own attractions and habitats.
These areas include the Tropical Realm, Monsoon Forest and the Islands, which give you a glimpse into the different ecosystems of the world.
The zoo also has several interactive exhibits like the Wildlife Connections Hub and the Nature Play area where you can get hands-on.
One of the best things about Chester Zoo is the indoor and outdoor habitats so you can see the animals in their natural environment whatever the weather.
The zoo also has a monorail which gives a great view of the animal enclosures and is a great way to rest your feet after a long day of walking.
Animals and Displays
Chester Zoo has an incredible collection of animals including some of the rarest and most endangered in the world.
From the giraffes and elephants to the okapi and Sumatran tigers, you will see and learn about new and interesting animals every time you visit.
Some of the must-see’s include the Fruit Bat Forest, the Spirit of the Jaguar and the Asian Plains each giving a glimpse into the habitats and behaviour of the animals.
The Islands is one of the most popular areas and opened in 2015.
This area is designed to be like the tropical islands of Southeast Asia and has habitats for animals like the Visayan warty piglet and the Moloch gibbon.
You can also take a leisurely boat ride through the island habitats and enjoy a relaxing and educational experience.
Conservation
Chester Zoo is committed to conservation and breeding programmes and works to save and protect some of the world’s most endangered species.
The zoo’s wildlife endocrinology laboratory is a world leader in its field and uses cutting-edge technology to monitor and manage the reproductive cycles of animals to ensure successful breeding and conservation.
Conservation isn’t just about breeding programmes; the zoo also supports conservation projects in the wild working with partners to protect and restore habitats for endangered species.
Whole animal conservation means the zoo’s work has a lasting impact on the survival of species.
Facilities
Chester Zoo is fully accessible for visitors with disabilities with free parking and accessible paths throughout the site. The zoo has several eateries and picnic areas so it’s perfect for families and groups of all sizes.
You can bring your own food and picnic in one of the designated areas or choose from a range of on-site dining options including street food, cafes and restaurants.
You can also buy souvenirs and gifts at the Gift Shop so you can take a bit of the day home with you.
Plan Your Visit
Planning your day at Chester Zoo is easy with the zoo’s online tools. You can download a PDF map or use the zoo’s app to plan your day and find your way around.
The zoo offers experiences like early access photography sessions and behind-the-scenes tours to get close to the animals.
If you want to make the most of your visit the zoo has various ticket options including online discounts and student and children’s rates.
The zoo also has accessibility options including free entry for carers and family tickets.
More Info
- Buy online for the best prices and to skip the queues.
- Use the zoo’s map and app.
- Bring your own food and picnic in one of the designated areas.
- Visit the Gift Shop.
- Check the website for events and workshops.
Chester Zoo is not just a zoo; it’s an experience that will leave you feeling happy and informed. Conservation, animals and a warm welcome for all ages.
“Conservation and sustainability must be at the centre of everything we do so the next generation can live in the world we live in. Our plastic recycling project deals with the environmental issue but is also a great educational tool to give students the skills and knowledge to make a change.” – Pat Link, Head of STEAM, Neston High School.
Recent Stats and Research
Recent research shows that conservation and sustainability should be part of education. A 2023 report found that 75% of students in environmental projects are more likely to pursue careers in this field.
A 2022 BBC report also found that teaching real-life environmental issues helps students engage better and understand statistics.
A 2020 survey by the UK Association for Science Education found that 80% of teachers think hands-on activities are essential.
They believe outdoor learning is also vital for students to understand environmental issues and sustainability.
These findings show how programs like Chester Zoo’s plastic recycling project can empower young people.
Such initiatives help the next generation make a positive impact.
Overall, these studies show that conservation and sustainability should be a top priority in education, as Pat Link emphasizes the importance of making these topics central to our work.
FAQ
How much is Chester Zoo at the gate?
Chester Zoo gate prices vary depending on the time of year, age and type of ticket. Find current prices here, and add a 10% donation to support the zoo’s mission to save species.
Is 4 hours enough to explore Chester Zoo?
Chester Zoo has 11 miles of paths and you can easily spend a whole day here. 4 hours might be enough for a quick visit but we recommend you plan for longer to make the most of your day.
Is it cheaper to book Chester Zoo online?
Booking in advance for Chester Zoo doesn’t mean you’ll get a discount. But do book online to guarantee availability, especially during peak times. And online booking lets you plan your day.
How long to walk around Chester Zoo?
11 miles of paths. Time depends on your pace and how long you spend in each area. Plan for the whole day.