See & Do
Chester Zoo


Chester Zoo
Autumn adventures at Chester Zoo
Home to over 30,000 animals, Chester Zoo brings you face to face with roaring big cats, free-flying birds, colourful reptiles and so much more.
Explore 128 acres of immersive habitats - from dense rainforests and tropical caves to open wetlands and Himalayan mountains. Don’t forget to visit the spectacular new Heart of Africa. Inspired by African landscapes, species and culture, it brings giraffes, painted dogs, warthogs and more in a space that replicates the African savannah – designed to connect you with the wonders of the natural world.
Designed with families in mind
Young adventurers can take on the Treetop Challenge or drive all-electric off-road vehicles. There’s also face painting, fairground rides and five epic playgrounds across the zoo packed with climbing nets, water play, giant slides and sand pits.
For a slower pace, wander through award-winning gardens, with sensory-friendly spaces, Changing Places facilities, and mobility scooter hire to help everyone enjoy their day.
Refuel your adventure
From sizzling street food to relaxed family lunches, there’s something for every appetite. Visitors can grab fresh food from kiosks and cafés, or take a break at The Oakfield, the zoo’s Grade II listed pub with garden views.
You’ll find vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and kid-friendly options, plus picnic spots and shaded areas.
Experiences at Chester Zoo
Choose from more than 20 Experiences where you can dine, tour or get even closer to some of the zoo’s most extraordinary animals – including giraffes, penguins and meerkats. It’s a chance to see the zoo from a new point of view and make lasting memories.
Easy to get to. Easy to get around.
Chester Zoo is just a short bus ride from Chester Train Station. There’s free on-site parking, including dedicated EV charging spaces, and step-free access throughout the zoo.
Visitors can download the free Chester Zoo app for live talk times, maps, animal facts and more.
A day out that gives back
Chester Zoo is a not-for-profit conservation zoo. Every ticket, meal, and souvenir helps fund projects that protect wildlife in the UK and across more than 20 countries. That makes a day out here not just memorable, but meaningful too.
Download the Zoo map
Download and print a version of the zoo map before your visit. You can also purchase a map when you arrive, if you'd prefer.
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Content from around the site

Chester Zoo Wedding Showcase
Dates: 26th Feb - 26th Feb 2026
Join us for an special evening at Chester Zoo where dreams of your big day begin to take shape!

Chester Zoo Wedding Showcase
Dates: 26th Feb - 26th Feb 2026
Join us for an special evening at Chester Zoo where dreams of your big day begin to take shape!

Christmas Wreath Making at Chester Zoo
Dates: 30th Nov - 30th Nov 2025
Celebrate the season with a creative afternoon inspired by the beauty of nature. Join us at Chester Zoo for Christmas wreath making - where festive spirit meets the wild.

Christmas Wreath Making at Chester Zoo
Dates: 23rd Nov - 23rd Nov 2025
Celebrate the season with a creative afternoon inspired by the beauty of nature. Join us at Chester Zoo for Christmas wreath making - where festive spirit meets the wild.
Businesses close to Chester Zoo

The Oakfield at Chester Zoo
Once the home of the Mottershead family who founded Chester Zoo, The Oakfield is a truly unique contemporary British pub

The Reserve - Chester Zoo
Extraordinary experiences that protect the wild world.

Upton by Chester Golf Course
All who play here comment on the excellent natural landscape and sculpting of this wonderful course. The course offers a fair test to golfers of all levels.

Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel and Spa
Discover the beautiful Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa set within 27 acres of Cheshire woodland, where youll experience peace and tranquillity yet just minutes from Chester city centre.