Are all areas of the attraction accessible by wheelchair?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible. Chester Zoo is fully accessible with plenty of accessible pathways around the zoo. There are also accessible toilets available across the zoo, including changing spaces with a hoist, adjustable bed and sink in the Jubilee toilets. Please note that there's a £25 refundable deposit for wheelchair/electric scooter hire.

Can wheelchairs be rented? If so, what is the cost?

Yes, wheelchairs can be rented. The cost is £25 per rental.

Do you offer special assistance for visitors in the wheelchair?

Yes, special assistance is available.

Is Chester Zoo wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Chester Zoo is wheelchair friendly and has accessible toilets. Chester Zoo is fully accessible with plenty of accessible pathways around the zoo. There are also accessible toilets available across the zoo, including changing spaces with a hoist, adjustable bed and sink in the Jubilee toilets. Please note that there's a £25 refundable deposit for wheelchair/electric scooter hire.

Is Chester Zoo baby friendly?

Yes, there are baby changing facilities.

Are all areas of the attraction accessible with a pushchair?

Yes, all areas are pushchair friendly.

Is there a restroom for mothers that are breastfeeding?

Yes, there are breastfeeding rooms available.

No, Chester Zoo have stated they are not dog friendly. Registered service and guide dogs only

Is there food and drink available to buy?

Yes there is dining and snack options. There are plenty of amazing places to eat at Chester Zoo. Stop by the House of Sumatra, Bembe Kitchen, Manado Street Kitchen and more! You'll find plenty of delicious hot or cold food and refreshments.

Can visitors bring their own food?

Yes, guest are allowed to bring their own food There are plenty of benches and spaces to sit and enjoy a picnic!

How do I book a carer ticket?

Simply bring along one of the following supporting documents:Disability Allowance LetterPIP LetterAccess PassAny other appropriate supporting documentation issued by the local council.

How long does it take to walk around Chester Zoo?

Generally, most people spend a whole day at the zoo as there’s so much to see and do.

What time should I arrive at Chester Zoo?

We recommend arriving early to avoid the crowds and make the most out of your visit.

Yes, there is parking. There is free onsite parking available.Free disabled parking at the main entrance. Just let the car park attendant know when you arrive and they will direct you.

How far is the parking from the attraction?

There is on-site parking available

Can parking spaces be pre-booked or reserved?

No, parking can not be pre-booked or reserved.

Are there accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, there are accessible spaces for visitors with disabilities. Accessible parking spaces are available directly in front of our entrance gates. Please follow car park signage or speak to a parking attendant for directions.

Does your attraction offer private hire, for parties or events?

Yes, Chester Zoo has stated that you can hire privately for parties/events. Chester Zoo itself is not available for hire, but there are designated rooms like The Square that are available for hire.

What type of packages do you offer?

You can host birthday parties, weddings and corporate events at Chester Zoo.

Can you rent a private room? If so, what are the costs?

You can hire rooms for weddings, special events, conferences and more, please see the below links: https://www.chesterzoo.org/explore-chester-zoo/weddings-special-events/birthday-parties https://www.chesterzoo.org/explore-chester-zoo/conferences-corporate-events-meetings https://www.chesterzoo.org/explore-chester-zoo/weddings-special-events

Is catering provided?

Yes, private catering can be provided.

What is the maximum number of guests allowed?

The maximum number of guests allowed is 380.

How frequent is public transport to the attraction?

Buses run 7 days a week at frequent times.

What are the closest public transport stops or stations to the attraction?

The closest station is Chester Station or Bache Station.

Do visitors need to pre-book time slots or tickets to get into the attraction?

No, Chester Zoo had stated that you do not need to pre-book. Pre-booking is not essential, but prices are often cheaper online.

Are there toilets available?

Yes, there are toilets available to the public.

Are there baby changing facilities available?

Yes, there are baby changing facilities available

Are there accessible toilets?

Yes, there are accessible toilets available Accessible toilet facilities are available across the zoo site, including a changing spaces inside the Jubilee toilets with a hoist, adjustable bed and sink. Visitors do not need a key to access these facilities.

Chester Zoo

Chester, Cheshire

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About Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo is one of the UK’s best-loved family days out, packed with wild adventures, unforgettable animal encounters and inspiring discoveries around every corner. Set across 130 acres in Cheshire, this world-famous conservation zoo is home to over 30,000 animals and more than 520 species, from big cats and elephants to lemurs, penguins, reptiles, birds and some of the world’s most endangered wildlife.

Discover Over 35,000 Amazing Animals
Chester Zoo is home to thousands of extraordinary animals!
Wander through lush habitats and come face-to-face with Sumatran tigers, elusive Sunda gharial crocodiles and the striking Boelen’s python. Listen for the calls of birds, watch elephants roam and see monkeys swing through the trees.
But this isn't just a zoo, it's a global conservation powerhouse. Every visit supports projects that protect wildlife, restore habitats and fight extinction in more than 20 countries worldwide. Chester Zoo is making a difference where it matters most.
Every step brings a new discovery. Whether you're marvelling at a towering giraffe or spotting tiny frogs hidden in the rainforest, you're part of something bigger. This isn't just a day out, this is conservation in action.
Step into the Wild at the Heart of Africa
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Chester Zoo’s Heart of Africa!
This immersive habitat transports families straight to the African savannah by exploring a NEW ecosystem, observing a mixed savannah, like majestic giraffes, playful zebras, and ostriches, and even learning all about the Maasai Olympics! You can also enjoy African craft sessions, observe the science that shapes their conservation and even let loose on the new Pamoja Village play area, where you can also grab a bite to eat!
With exciting viewing areas, interactive learning opportunities, and stunning scenery, the Heart of Africa is a must-see for families looking to experience wildlife up close and make magical memories together!
Get Even Closer To Wildlife
Make your visit to Chester Zoo unforgettable with a unique Experience. Enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, up-close animal encounters, and exciting ways to connect with nature.
From learning about wildlife conservation to meeting truly incredible animals, there’s an adventure for everyone to enjoy. Book your Chester Zoo experience for an even more memorable day out!

Attraction Details

Opening Times

Regular Times

Monday, 10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday, 10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday, 10:00 - 17:00
Thursday, 10:00 - 17:00
Friday, 10:00 - 17:00
Saturday, 10:00 - 17:00
Sunday, 10:00 - 17:00

Chester Zoo opens daily from 10:00, with last admission 1 hour before closing. The zoo is closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Plan Your Visit

Typical visit time more than 5 hours

Suitable for Kids and Adults too

Tried & Tested by Real Families

The Halsall Family

Family of 2 (1 adult, 1 kid)

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Chester Zoo

Visited: Aug 2026

"It was a rainy day, but even that didn’t manage to ruin this fun day out to the Zoo" ...read more.

Safety & Cleanliness5.0

Rides & Entertainment5.0

Food & Drink5.0

Queues & Crowds5.0

Fun & Delight5.0

Value for Money5.0

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FAQs

Directions

Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo, Upton by Chester, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 1LH, England

Tel: 01244380280

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This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.

Last updated: 11:39 18/09/2026

By Train

Chester Zoo is a couple of miles from Chester Station and Bache Station.

By Bus

You can take the Stagecoach 1 & X1 Service from Chester to Liverpool, as well as the PR3 and 5 buses, which run seven days a week.

By Car

Chester Zoo is not far from the M56 or Chester city centre. Follow the motorway signs to Chester, then follow the brown tourist zoo signs.

Once on the A41, stay on that road until you reach a roundabout with signs for Chester Zoo. Don’t turn down Flag Lane North; it’s a dead end.

Chester Zoo

About Chester Zoo

Discover Over 35,000 Amazing Animals

Step into the Wild at the Heart of Africa

Get Even Closer To Wildlife

Attraction Details

Opening Times

Regular Times

Pricing & Tickets

Facilities

Plan Your Visit

Tried & Tested by Real Families

Chester Zoo

FAQs

Directions

Chester Zoo Reviews

More fun places to visit in Chester