TL;DR: Chester Zoo is an incredible day out for families in 2026, boasting over 30,000 animals from more than 520 species across 130 acres. You can explore amazing indoor habitats, enjoy thrill-seeking adventure playgrounds, and even take a Lazy River boat trip. Make sure to book online to save money, and don’t miss out on their exciting events throughout the year, from Earth Photo to Lanterns & Light!
| Key info at a glance | |
|---|---|
| Location | Address: Upton-by-Chester, Chester, CH2 1EU |
| Opening times | Opening times today: 10am – 6pm (Last entry at 5pm) |
| Admission | Under 1s and carers go FREE with adult admissions |
| Best for | Under 1s and carers go FREE with adult admissions |
| Booking | Save up to 20% off entry when you book online |
What is Chester Zoo All About?
Are you ready for an absolutely wild adventure? Chester Zoo, nestled in Upton-by-Chester, Chester, is not just any zoo, it is an award-winning conservation and education charity that offers an unforgettable day out for the whole family! We are talking about over 30,000 animals from more than 520 incredible species calling this amazing place home!
Spread across a massive 130 acres, there is so much to see and do. Imagine yourselves exploring over 10 indoor habitats, including the UK’s largest tropical biodome, where you will feel completely immersed in exotic worlds. For the little ones, and even the big ones, there are five thrill-seeking adventure playgrounds that promise hours of fun and burning off some energy! Furthermore, you can even take a trip around Islands on the Lazy River boat experience, which is just brilliant for soaking in the sights and sounds!
Chester Zoo is dedicated to preventing extinction, and every visit helps support their vital conservation work around the globe. How amazing is that? With over 30,000 animals from more than 500 species in their care, they are a true leader in wildlife conservation, working both locally and internationally to protect endangered creatures. Your family day out truly makes a difference here!
Chester Zoo Tickets 2026
Planning your visit to Chester Zoo in 2026 couldn’t be easier, and we have a fantastic tip for you. Did you know you can save up to 20% off entry when you book online? That’s right, more pennies for ice cream or souvenirs!
Families with very young children will be pleased to hear that under 1s and carers go free with adult admissions, making it even more accessible for everyone to enjoy. For all the latest ticketing information and to snag those savings, head over to the Chester Zoo tickets page on our website. It is the best way to guarantee your entry and start your adventure smoothly!
Special Packages and Experiences
Looking for something extra special? Chester Zoo often offers unique experiences beyond general admission. For example, they have an ‘After Hours Explorer’ package that allows exclusive guided tours of certain animal habitat areas after general closing. Imagine seeing the animals as the park quiets down, it is truly magical! Moreover, as the festive season approaches, you might even find a ‘Magical Lanterns & Light Getaway’ to illuminate your winter evenings. These special packages are perfect for making your visit even more memorable.
Chester Zoo Opening Times 2026
Ready to dive into the animal kingdom? Chester Zoo is open from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 5pm. This gives you plenty of time to explore all the incredible habitats and see as many animals as possible. We always recommend arriving as early as you can to make the most of your day!
While the general opening times are consistent, remember that special events might have different timings, so always double-check the official Chester Zoo website before you set off. Today, for example, the last entry is at 5pm, giving you a full seven hours to enjoy everything on offer. Make sure to plan your arrival to maximise your fun!
How to Book Your Chester Zoo Adventure
Booking your family’s fantastic day out at Chester Zoo is super straightforward. The easiest way to secure your tickets and take advantage of those online savings is through the Day Out With The Kids tickets page. It is quick, simple, and ensures you’re all set for an amazing time.
Just pick your preferred date, select the number of adults and children in your group, and you’re good to go! Remember, booking in advance online not only saves you money but also guarantees your entry, especially during busy periods like school holidays and weekends in 2026.
For more information about the attraction itself, including details on accessibility and facilities, visit the Chester Zoo attractions listing on our site.
Top Tips for Your Chester Zoo Visit 2026
- Arrive Early: Get there for opening at 10am to make the most of your day and see the animals at their most active. The car park is spacious and free, so no need to rush for a spot!
- Book Online: Seriously, save up to 20% on your entry tickets by booking through the Day Out With The Kids website. It is a no-brainer!
- Wear Comfy Shoes: With 130 acres to explore, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear is an absolute must.
- Pack a Picnic: While there are fantastic dining options, bringing your own snacks and drinks can save you money and give you flexibility.
- Download the Map: Familiarise yourselves with the zoo layout before you arrive or use the official Chester Zoo app to navigate. This helps you plan your route and ensures you don’t miss your favourite animals.
- Check the Schedule: Look up feeding times and keeper talks for your favourite animals. These are often highlights of the day and offer incredible insights.
We love a good zoo trip, and Chester Zoo is definitely one of the best. The sheer variety of animals and the dedication to conservation make every visit feel special and impactful. Don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to capture all those amazing moments!
Unmissable Events at Chester Zoo 2026
Chester Zoo is not just about the animals, they also host a brilliant array of events throughout the year! 2026 is packed with exciting opportunities to make your visit even more spectacular. Here’s a sneak peek at some of what’s on offer:
| Event | Dates in 2026 |
|---|---|
| Earth Photo | Friday 21 August – Sunday 27 September |
| Nature Fest | Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 September |
| Run for Nature | Sunday 20 September |
| Murder Mystery Evening | Friday 16 October |
| Sip and Paint | Saturday 24 October & Sunday 20 December |
| Lanterns & Light | Friday 13 November – Sunday 3 January |
As you can see, there is something for everyone! Whether you are into photography, nature, unique evening experiences, or getting into the festive spirit with the enchanting Lanterns & Light, Chester Zoo delivers. Make sure to check their official website for full details and booking information for these specific events, as some may require separate tickets or have age restrictions. The Earth Photo exhibition, for example, is running until Sunday 27 September 2026, offering a fantastic opportunity to see stunning wildlife photography.
Where to Eat at Chester Zoo 2026
Exploring 130 acres of amazing animal habitats is bound to make you hungry! Luckily, Chester Zoo has some fantastic options to refuel your family during your 2026 visit. There is a main restaurant open daily for lunch, offering a convenient and tasty stop for a sit-down meal.
Beyond that, you will find a variety of cafes, kiosks, and refreshment stands scattered throughout the zoo, catering to different tastes and dietary needs. From quick snacks to satisfying hot meals, there is plenty to choose from. Of course, you are also welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots around the grounds. It is all about making your day as enjoyable and stress-free as possible!
Nearby Attractions to Chester Zoo
If you are planning to make a longer trip out of your visit to Cheshire, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions nearby that you might enjoy. While Chester Zoo could easily fill a whole day, sometimes you just want more adventure!
For instance, why not explore the historic city of Chester itself, with its famous Rows and ancient walls? Or perhaps you could venture a little further afield to places like The Ice Cream Farm for a sweet treat and some play. For those who love a bit of mystery and exploration, a treasure hunt trail in nearby areas can be a lot of fun, such as the Carlisle Treasure Hunt Trail a little further north or Curious About Newcastle.
There are always exciting places to discover for families in the North West of England, and Day Out With The Kids is here to help you find them! For even more amazing family days out across the UK, you can always check out our full listings and plan your next adventure.
Frequently asked questions
What is Chester Zoo all about?
Chester Zoo, located in Upton-by-Chester, Chester, is an award-winning conservation and education charity. It is home to over 30,000 animals from more than 520 species across 130 acres. You can explore indoor habitats, adventure playgrounds, and enjoy a Lazy River boat trip, all while supporting vital conservation work!
How can I save money on Chester Zoo tickets in 2026?
You can save up to 20% off entry to Chester Zoo by booking your tickets online in advance. Under 1s and carers also go free with adult admissions, making it even more affordable for families.
What are the opening times for Chester Zoo in 2026?
Chester Zoo is open from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 5pm. We recommend arriving early to make the most of your day! Special events may have different timings, so always check their official website before your visit.
Are there any special events at Chester Zoo in 2026?
Yes, Chester Zoo hosts a variety of exciting events throughout 2026. Highlights include Earth Photo (until Sunday 27 September), Nature Fest (Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 September), Run for Nature (Sunday 20 September), and the enchanting Lanterns & Light (from Friday 13 November – Sunday 3 January).
What are the best tips for visiting Chester Zoo in 2026?
We recommend arriving early to make the most of your day, booking online to save up to 20%, and wearing comfy shoes to explore the 130 acres. Don’t forget to pack a picnic, download the zoo map, and check the schedule for feeding times and keeper talks!