Wild Worlds

A series of outdoor creations will form Chester Zoo's first ever large-scale gardens and science festival this summer.

From a botanist’s lab to oversized talking chairs and a dormouse garden, a wide range of specially commissioned artistic collaborations will inspire a connection between people and wildlife, gardens and science.

Running from 26 May to 30 September, nine interactive installations, on public display for the first time, will be complemented by a major programme of events to form the zoo’s new Wild Worlds festival.

Chester Zoo is England's most popular visitor attraction outside London. It is also a conservation and education charity fighting to prevent extinction of threatened animal and plant species.

World class science and education programmes are at the heart of the fight to prevent extinction. It is hoped that the unique new Wild Worlds festival will inspire more than 800,000 visitors over the summer – through exhibits that are fun, interactive and unique.

The zoo's 125 acres of zoological gardens will be transformed by a journey of discovery through previously unseen new worlds, extraordinary spaces, specially commissioned creations and new artistic collaborations.

The Wild Worlds festival has been inspired by the beautiful world of plants and animals at the zoo as well as its people - experts in wildlife, science and conservation.

The installations will transform areas of the zoo into spaces that are fun and playful, curious and quirky or enriching and contemplative. Visitors will find something new at every turn – art, music, science, entertainment or just quiet contemplation.

The Wild Worlds festival is free with normal zoo admissions. Zoo tickets can be purchased in advance via www.chesterzoo.org