Chester Zoo
The Animals at Chester Zoo
There are over 400 different species in Chester Zoo, including some of the most endangered species on Earth. The Zoo has more than one million visitors every year and is a favourite attraction for kids all year round.
The animals live in spacious enclosures designed with their needs in mind. Some, like the lions and tigers, have 360 degree viewing enclosures to give them enough space to have 'quiet time' when they need it.
Animal attractions include the Twilight Zone Bat Cave, where bats will fly all around you, and Islands in Danger, which gives you a taste of the tropical rainforest. Be transported to the Central American jungle with Spirit of the Jaguar, and see an Indonesian forest teeming with life in Realm of the Red Ape.
Other highlights of Chester Zoo include elephants, bears, rhinos, tropical birds and even butterflies!
The Chester Zoo Gardens
Chester Zoo's award-winning landscaped gardens make the Zoo even more spectacular. There are numerous garden areas to explore, including the mountain-inspired Andes Garden and the historic Roman Garden. You can also visit the Grow Zone, a version of a potting-shed where you can go behind-the-scenes to see how it all happens. The gardens reflect the natural habitats of some of the most exotic species - many of the plants are either rare or extinct. Most importantly, the gardens teach visitors all about how their own gardens at home provide an important refuge for native wildlife.
Family days out at Chester Zoo
The Zoo has plenty of attractions specially designed to help kids have fun on their day out. There's the Fun Ark and Ape Around play areas, where they can swing, slide and climb just like the animals! They can have their face painted, or try their hand at painting pottery in the pottery studio. There are daily 'Animal Talks' next to the enclosures, where they can learn all about the animals and ask any burning questions. There's also a Children's Farm, complete with Marmot Mania, brass rubbings and 'let's make' centre.
Conservation
Not only is Chester Zoo great fun, it's also a great learning experience. The whole Zoo is geared towards conservation and most of the animals are part of breeding programmes which will help to ensure their species continues under the threat of extinction. There is a host of interesting information throughout the Zoo all about conservation projects and threats the animals face in the wild. By visiting Chester Zoo, you help to support the Zoo's conservation work at home and abroad.
Food and drink
Eating and drinking is all part of a good day out - and at Chester Zoo, your choices are endless. You can dine at leisure in the elegant surroundings of Oakfield Manor, or enjoy a drink and light lunch in the beer garden of the fully-licensed Acorn Bar. If you fancy a bit of African Atmosphere, try the eco-friendly Cafe Tsavo, or there's the Ark Restaurant for hot or cold meals. You'll also find many takeaway kiosks throughout the Zoo - so there's something to suit every taste and budget.
Chester Zoo's facilities
Getting around Chester Zoo is easy - you can take the Zoofari overhead railway and waterbus. You can also hire pushchairs and wheelchairs, and there are lockers available if you need to store any of your belongings. Everythere is wheelchair accessible, and car parking is free too - perfect for family days out.
So for a unique, exciting and interesting experience, visit the UK's number one zoo!
Prices
Adult £14.95
Child £10.95
Concessions £13.50
Opening times
Open from 10am all year except Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Address
Chester Zoo, Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1LH
Bookings and enquiries
01244 380280
