TL;DR: Chester Zoo in Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire, is an absolutely amazing family day out, boasting over 30,000 animals from more than 520 species across 130 acres. Get ready to explore the UK’s largest tropical biodome, enjoy five adventure playgrounds, and even take a Lazy River boat trip. You can save up to 20% on your tickets by booking online, and children under 12 months, along with carers, get in free! Plus, parking is free, making it super easy to visit.
| Key info at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Location | The zoo is located at Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU. |
| Admission | Carers and children under 12 months go free with adult admissions. |
| Best for | Families, animal lovers, and nature enthusiasts of all ages. |
| Booking | Visitors can save up to 20% off entry when booking online. |
What to See and Do at Chester Zoo 2026
Get ready for an absolutely incredible adventure at Chester Zoo, where you can truly unleash your wild side! This isn’t just any zoo, it’s rated the number one zoo in the UK by Tripadvisor, and for very good reason. We’re talking about a vast 130-acre home to over 30,000 animals, representing more than 520 species from all corners of the globe. You’ll meet playful lemurs, marvel at magnificent big cats, and discover the fascinating world of tiny insects, alongside so many other wonderful creatures!
But it’s not just about the animals, as amazing as they are! Chester Zoo is bursting with fantastic experiences for the whole family. For example, did you know it has over 10 indoor habitats? One of the biggest highlights is definitely the UK’s largest tropical biodome. Imagine stepping into a lush, warm world filled with exotic plants and animals, all under one roof! It’s a truly immersive experience that transports you straight to the tropics.
Need to burn off some energy? You’re in luck! There are five thrilling adventure playgrounds scattered across the zoo, perfect for little explorers to climb, slide, and play to their heart’s content. Meanwhile, the ‘Islands’ area offers a unique Lazy River boat experience, allowing you to drift past various island habitats and spot incredible wildlife from a different perspective. It’s such a relaxing and memorable way to see the zoo!
Don’t forget to take a moment to appreciate the stunning surroundings. Chester Zoo boasts award-winning gardens and thousands of plants, making it a beautiful place to simply stroll and soak in nature. Every corner you turn offers something new and exciting to see, from vibrant flower displays to towering trees. It’s an adventure for all your senses!
Exciting Events in 2026
Chester Zoo always has something special brewing, and 2026 is no exception! Make sure you check out these fantastic upcoming events:
- Earth Photo 2026: Running from Friday 21 August to Sunday 27 September, this exhibition will showcase breathtaking images of our planet.
- Planet Zoo 2 Experience: Get ready for an immersive experience on Saturday 12 September.
- Nature Fest: A weekend celebration of nature on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026.
- Run for Nature: Lace up your trainers for a cause on Sunday 20 September 2026.
- Murder Mystery Evening: A night of intrigue awaits on Friday 16 October.
- Sip and Paint: Unleash your creativity on Saturday 24 October and Sunday 20 December.
- Lanterns & Light: Get into the festive spirit from Friday 13 November all the way through to Sunday 3 January.
Chester Zoo Tickets and Prices 2026
Planning your visit to Chester Zoo? It’s super easy to get your tickets and save some money too! We love a good deal, and we know you do too. You can save up to 20% off your entry just by booking your tickets online in advance. Plus, remember that carers and children under 12 months go free with adult admissions. What a bonus!
If you’re looking to visit regularly, consider becoming a member! Members get unlimited access to the zoo, which is absolutely brilliant for repeat visits. In addition, you’ll receive free entry to other selected charitable zoos across the UK, 10% off in cafes and shops, discounted tickets on Member Days, and even early-bird priority to selected events. It’s definitely worth it for keen zoo-goers!
For specific ticket prices, it’s always best to check the official Chester Zoo ticket page or our own dedicated tickets page. That way, you’ll have the most up-to-date information before your visit!
How to Book Your Chester Zoo Adventure
Ready to dive into the amazing world of Chester Zoo? Booking your tickets is a breeze! We always recommend booking online in advance to not only secure your spot but also to snag those fantastic savings of up to 20%. It’s a win-win!
You can easily book your tickets directly through our Day Out With The Kids tickets page for Chester Zoo. This way, you’re just a few clicks away from securing your family’s next unforgettable day out! Alternatively, you can head over to the official Chester Zoo website to make your booking. Either way, get ready for a wild time!
Top Tips for Visiting Chester Zoo with Kids
We’ve got some brilliant tips to help you make the most of your family trip to Chester Zoo!
Pack a picnic! While there are plenty of cafes and shops, bringing your own snacks and drinks can save you time and money. Plus, there are some lovely picnic spots around the zoo. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be covering a lot of ground exploring those 130 acres! And don’t forget waterproofs, because, well, this is the UK after all, and you never know what the weather might do!
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and make the most of your day by arriving when the zoo opens at 10am.
- Plan Your Route: With so much to see, it’s a good idea to have a rough plan of the animals and attractions you definitely want to visit. Grab a map on arrival!
- Utilise the Playgrounds: Those five adventure playgrounds are a lifesaver for letting kids burn off energy between animal encounters.
- Don’t Miss the Biodome: The UK’s largest tropical biodome is a must-see, especially if the weather isn’t playing ball.
- Consider a Membership: If you live nearby or plan to visit more than once, a membership offers incredible value with unlimited access and discounts.
- Hydrate and Snack: Keep energy levels up with regular drinks and snacks. You’ll be doing a lot of walking!
- Photo Opportunities: There are countless amazing photo ops, so make sure your phone or camera is fully charged to capture all those precious family memories.
And if you’re looking for other exciting things to do in the Cheshire area, why not check out BeWILDerwood Cheshire? It’s another fantastic outdoor adventure park based on children’s books, perfect for getting wild! You might also love a trip to The Ice Cream Farm which is a short drive away, offering a delicious treat after a day of exploring.
Food, Facilities and Accessibility at Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is incredibly well-equipped to ensure your family day out is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. You’ll find numerous cafes and shops dotted around the site, offering a variety of food and drink options to refuel hungry adventurers. Whether you’re after a full meal or just a quick snack, there’s something for everyone.
One of the best bits? Free parking is available! This takes a huge weight off your mind when planning a family trip. It’s so convenient to know you won’t have to worry about parking fees. Plus, with children under 12 months and carers going free, it helps make the day more accessible for families.
The zoo is located at Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU, making it easy to find. Chester Zoo strives to be inclusive, so if you have any specific accessibility needs, we recommend checking their official website for detailed information on facilities like accessible routes, sensory guides, and mobility scooter hire to ensure your visit is as smooth as possible.
Chester Zoo: Our Verdict for Families 2026
What can we say? Chester Zoo truly lives up to its reputation as the number one zoo in the UK! We think it’s an absolutely essential family day out in 2026. With over 30,000 animals, countless interactive exhibits, incredible indoor habitats like the tropical biodome, and those fantastic adventure playgrounds, there’s literally something to captivate every single member of the family, no matter their age. You could easily spend a full day here and still not see everything!
The combination of amazing wildlife, beautiful gardens, fun activities, and excellent facilities makes it a perfect choice for families seeking both education and entertainment. So, go on, unleash your wild side! We wholeheartedly recommend packing up the kids, booking those tickets online for a saving, and heading to Chester Zoo for an unforgettable adventure. You won’t regret it!
For more amazing family days out and to discover other fantastic attractions, be sure to explore our main attractions listing page on Day Out With The Kids!
Frequently asked questions
What is Chester Zoo?
Chester Zoo is the UK’s number one rated zoo, home to over 30,000 animals from more than 520 species across 130 acres. It offers incredible family experiences, including the UK’s largest tropical biodome, five adventure playgrounds, and a Lazy River boat trip.
How can I save money on Chester Zoo tickets?
You can save up to 20% off your entry tickets to Chester Zoo by booking them online in advance. Additionally, carers and children under 12 months can enter for free with adult admissions, and parking is also free.
What special events are happening at Chester Zoo in 2026?
Chester Zoo has an exciting lineup of events in 2026, including the Earth Photo exhibition (August 21 – September 27), Planet Zoo 2 Experience (September 12), Nature Fest (September 12-13), Run for Nature (September 20), Murder Mystery Evening (October 16), Sip and Paint (October 24 and December 20), and Lanterns & Light (November 13 – January 3).
Is Chester Zoo accessible for families with young children?
Absolutely! Chester Zoo is very family-friendly, offering specialised play areas like Toddlewood on the Hill and Tiptoe Valley for the youngest visitors. There are also numerous cafes, shops, and facilities available to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day out for everyone.
What are some top tips for visiting Chester Zoo?
We recommend arriving early at 10am, planning your route with a map, wearing comfortable shoes, and bringing waterproofs. Don’t forget to utilise the five adventure playgrounds and definitely visit the UK’s largest tropical biodome! Packing a picnic and staying hydrated are also great ideas.