A Day Out At Chester Zoo
Looking for a fun and educational day out for the whole family? Look no further than Chester Zoo! With over 35,000 animals and 500 different species, Chester Zoo is one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world. Located in the heart of Cheshire, England, this award-winning zoo offers visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animals, from tigers and lions to giraffes and elephants. Whether you’re a family with young children, a group of friends, or a couple looking for a romantic day out, there’s something for everyone at Chester Zoo. With interactive exhibits, daily animal talks and demonstrations, and a range of dining and shopping options, you can easily spend a full day exploring all that this amazing zoo has to offer. So why not pack a picnic, grab your camera, and head to Chester Zoo for an unforgettable day out with the whole family?
History of Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo has a long and fascinating history, dating back to 1931 when it first opened its doors to the public. At the time, it was the first zoo in the UK to be built without traditional cages, instead using moats and ditches to separate the animals from visitors. This innovative approach was the brainchild of George Mottershead, who had been inspired to create a new kind of zoo after visiting a cramped and depressing animal collection with his family. Mottershead believed that animals should be kept in spacious and naturalistic enclosures, which would allow them to live as close to their natural habitats as possible.
Read Popular Chester Date Ideas
Over the years, Chester Zoo has continued to evolve and expand, with new exhibits and attractions being added regularly. Today, it is one of the most respected zoos in the world, known for its commitment to conservation and education. The zoo is home to a number of endangered species, including Indian rhinos, Sumatran tigers, and African elephants, and works closely with conservation organizations around the world to protect these animals and their habitats.
Attractions at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo has a wide range of attractions and exhibits to suit visitors of all ages and interests. One of the most popular areas of the zoo is the Islands exhibit, which is home to a range of animals from Southeast Asia, including orangutans, gibbons, and sun bears. Visitors can explore this immersive exhibit on foot, crossing bridges and boardwalks that take them through lush tropical forests and past shimmering lagoons.
Read Best Zoos In England
Another must-see area of the zoo is the Realm of the Red Ape, which is home to a family of critically endangered Bornean orangutans. This exhibit is designed to mimic the orangutans’ natural habitat, with towering trees, dense vegetation, and a flowing river. Visitors can watch these fascinating primates swing from branches, play with each other, and interact with their environment.
For visitors who love big cats, the zoo’s Big Cat Falls exhibit is a must-visit. This exhibit is home to a range of majestic felines, including Amur tigers, jaguars, and African lions. Visitors can watch these powerful predators as they play, hunt, and rest, with glass viewing areas providing an up-close look at their behaviour.
The Best Attractions at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is home to some of the world’s most exotic and endangered animals, and there are plenty of exhibits to explore. The Islands is one of the most popular attractions, where you can take a boat ride through the replicated habitats of the Philippines, Bali, and Sumatra. The animals you’ll see here include orangutans, sun bears, and Sumatran tigers. Another must-see exhibit is the Elephant and Rhino House, which houses the largest indoor elephant facility in Europe. Here, you can watch these gentle giants up close as they play, eat, and interact with each other.

If you’re a fan of big cats, then you won’t want to miss the Jaguar Land exhibit. Here, you can see jaguars, pumas, and ocelots in their naturalistic habitats. You can also learn about the zoo’s conservation efforts to protect these endangered species. The Spirit of the Jaguar exhibit is another great attraction, where you can get up close and personal with the zoo’s resident jaguars through glass viewing windows. Other popular exhibits include the Chimpanzee Forest, the Penguin Island, and the Realm of the Red Ape.
Animal species found at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is home to over 35,000 animals from more than 500 different species, making it one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the world. Some of the most popular animal species at the zoo include:
- Elephants: Chester Zoo is home to a family of Asian elephants, including three calves that were born in 2020. Visitors can watch these gentle giants as they roam their spacious enclosure, interacting with each other and their keepers.
- Giraffes: The zoo’s giraffe exhibit is designed to replicate the savannahs of Africa, with tall trees and grasses providing shade and food for these elegant animals. Visitors can watch the giraffes as they stretch their long necks to reach leaves, or even feed them themselves.
- Penguins: The zoo’s Penguin Island exhibit is home to a colony of Humboldt penguins, which are native to the coasts of Peru and Chile. Visitors can watch these comical birds as they swim, dive, and waddle around their rocky island.
- Chimpanzees: Chester Zoo is home to a large group of chimpanzees, which are highly intelligent and social primates. Visitors can watch these fascinating animals as they play, groom each other, and communicate using a range of vocalizations and gestures.
Animal Encounters and Experiences
If you want to get even closer to the animals, then you can book one of Chester Zoo’s animal encounters or experiences. These allow you to interact with the animals under the supervision of a keeper and learn more about their behaviour and conservation. One of the most popular experiences is the Giraffe Feed, where you can hand-feed these majestic animals and get a giraffe kiss! You can also book a Penguin Encounter, where you can meet the zoo’s resident penguins and learn about their care and behaviour.
For a truly unique experience, you can book a Red Panda Encounter, where you can meet these charming animals up close and even feed them bamboo. The zoo also offers a range of animal experiences for children, including Junior Zookeeper and Meet the Meerkats. Keep in mind that these experiences are very popular and must be booked in advance to avoid disappointment.
Feeding and Petting Animals
If you’re traveling with young children, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to feed and pet some of the animals at Chester Zoo. The zoo offers a range of feeding experiences, including the Giraffe Feed, the Penguin Feed, and the Red Panda Feed. You can also feed the farm animals at the zoo’s petting zoo, which includes pigs, goats, and chickens.
Read Skegness Natureland Review
For a unique experience, you can book a Bat Encounter, where you can feed and interact with the zoo’s fruit bats. The zoo also offers a range of feeding experiences for adults, including the Carnivore Feed and the Primate Feed. These allow you to get up close to the animals and learn about their behaviour and feeding habits.
Best times to visit Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is open year-round, with different opening hours depending on the season. During the summer months, the zoo is open from 10am to 6pm, while during the winter months it closes earlier, at 4pm. The busiest times to visit are during school holidays and weekends, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds it’s best to visit during term time on a weekday.
Another factor to consider when planning your visit to Chester Zoo is the weather. While the zoo is open in all weather conditions, some exhibits may be closed, or animals may be less visible during heavy rain or extreme heat. It’s always best to check the weather forecast before you visit, and to dress appropriately for the conditions.
How to get to Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is located in Upton-by-Chester, just outside the city of Chester. It is easily accessible by car, with ample on-site parking available. If you’re travelling by public transport, the zoo is well-served by local buses and trains. The nearest train station is Chester Zoo Station, which is just a short walk from the zoo’s main entrance.
Ticket prices and discounts at Chester Zoo
Ticket prices at Chester Zoo vary depending on the season and the age of the visitor. Adult tickets start at £28, while children’s tickets start at £22. Family tickets are also available, which offer a discount for groups of two adults and two children. If you’re planning to visit more than once, an annual pass may be the best value option. This allows you to visit the zoo as many times as you like throughout the year, and also includes discounts on food, drink, and shopping.
Food and drink options at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo has a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From fast food outlets and coffee shops to sit-down restaurants and picnic areas, there’s something for everyone. Many of the zoo’s eateries offer healthy and sustainable options, with a focus on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. If you’re looking for a special treat, the zoo’s Bembe Kitchen is a must-visit. This African-themed restaurant serves up a range of delicious dishes, including grilled meats, stews, and vegetarian options.
Family-friendly activities at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is the perfect destination for a family day out, with a wide range of activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. If you’re visiting with young children, the zoo’s play areas and interactive exhibits are sure to be a hit. The zoo also offers a range of educational programs and workshops, which allow children to learn more about the animals and their habitats.
For older children and adults, the zoo’s daily animal talks and demonstrations are must-see. These interactive sessions provide a fascinating insight into the lives of the animals and allow visitors to ask questions and learn more about their behaviour and biology.
Accommodation near Chester Zoo
If you’re planning to make a weekend of your visit to Chester Zoo, there are plenty of accommodation options nearby. The zoo itself offers a range of on-site accommodation, including lodges and glamping tents that allow you to stay overnight in the heart of the zoo. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, there are also plenty of hotels and guesthouses in the surrounding area, ranging from budget-friendly options to five-star resorts.
Conservation Efforts at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is not just a fun day out; it’s also a world leader in conservation efforts. The zoo is involved in over 80 conservation projects worldwide and is committed to protecting endangered species and their habitats. You can learn more about the zoo’s conservation efforts by visiting the various exhibits and reading the information boards.
Chester Zoo also offers a range of conservation experiences, including the Conservation Carousel and the Zoo Rangers program. These allow you to learn more about the zoo’s conservation work and get involved in hands-on activities. The zoo also has a range of sustainable initiatives, including a solar farm and a rainwater harvesting system.
Conclusion
Chester Zoo is one of the most impressive and diverse zoos in the world, offering visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal with a wide range of animals from around the globe. Whether you’re visiting with young children, a group of friends, or as a couple, there’s something for everyone at this award-winning attraction. So why not pack a picnic, grab your camera, and head to Chester Zoo for an unforgettable day out with the whole family?