Chester Zoo

The basics

There is a lot to see at Chester Zoo and you can easily spend a day here. Exhibits include the Asiatic Lion Habitat, Madagascar, Spirit of the Jaguar, Realm of the Red Ape, Tropical Realm, plus an aquarium, several botanical gardens, and more. At the Islands exhibit, which recreates six different island habitats in Southeast Asia, you can take a Lazy River Boat Trip.

There are also several children’s play areas, shops, kiosks, and picnic lawn areas. The zoo also hosts special events, educational talks, and other programs from time to time.

Things to know before you go

• Book your tickets ahead of time for extra savings and to skip the lines.
• Children aged two and under, and carers for disabled guests can enter for free.
• Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
• The zoo is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers; strollers can be rented, and wheelchairs and electric scooters can be borrowed for free with a refundable deposit.

How to get there

Chester Zoo is located in Upton-by-Chester. Take the A41 until the roundabout with a large wooden sign, then follow signs to the zoo. There is free parking on-site. You can also take the #1 bus from Chester, or the X8 bus from Chester Station.

When to get there

The zoo is open daily from 10am and closes between 4pm and 6pm, with holiday closures for Christmas Day and Boxing Day. It can get very busy on weekends and school holidays. Visit during the week for a quieter experience. 

Nearby Attractions

There are plenty of attractions around Chester to appeal to visitors of varying interests. History buffs can visit Grosvenor Museum, Chester Roman Amphitheatre, Chester Castle, Chester Cathedral, the ruins of St. John’s Church, and the Walls of Chester. Nature lovers can explore Burton Mere Wetlands or River Dee, while shoppers can indulge in retail therapy at Chester Row or Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet.