Chester Zoo is a major zoological garden located in Upton by Chester, in Cheshire, England. It is one of the UK's largest and most popular zoological parks, and is home to thousands of animals across hundreds of species, many of which are endangered in the wild.
Chester Zoo was officially opened on 10th June 1931 by its founder George Mottershead. It has since become a leading conservation and education charity, as well as a popular visitor attraction.
Chester Zoo's opening hours can vary depending on the time of year. Typically, the zoo is open every day from 10 am to 4 pm in the winter, with longer hours in the summer months. Visitors should check the zoo's official website for the most up-to-date information.
While you can purchase tickets on the day of your visit, it is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak times such as school holidays and weekends, to ensure entry and possibly benefit from advance booking discounts.
Chester Zoo hosts a variety of special events, exhibitions, and seasonal attractions throughout the year, including educational talks, animal feeding experiences, and holiday-themed happenings. Visitors should check the zoo's website for the latest events.
Yes, Chester Zoo is accessible by public transport. There are buses from Chester Railway Station to the zoo, as well as other services from various points around Chester and the surrounding areas.
Chester Zoo works to be as accessible as possible for visitors with disabilities, offering wheelchair hire, accessible pathways, and toilets. There are also certain provisions for assistance dogs. Visitors should verify specific access details before their visit.
Yes, Chester Zoo has large parking facilities, including free car and bicycle parking. There are also designated parking areas for visitors with disabilities near the entrance.
Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and use the picnic areas provided throughout the zoo. However, barbecues and alcohol are not permitted on-site.
There are numerous accommodation options nearby, ranging from hotels and bed and breakfasts to guest houses and self-catering apartments, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets.