Chester Zoo, Chester, England
Chester Zoo is a zoological garden in England, located in the city of Chester. It is home to more than 21,000 animals, making it one of the largest and most popular zoos in the UK. Established in 1931, Chester Zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts and is one of the most important animal conservation centers in the world. It is a major tourist attraction in Chester, welcoming more than 1.9 million visitors each year.
History
Chester Zoo was founded in 1931 by George Mottershead and his family, who purchased a small collection of animals for the zoo from London Zoo. Over the years, the zoo has grown to become one of the most popular and successful zoos in the UK, with more than 21,000 animals housed in 125 acres of land. The zoo is renowned for its conservation efforts, and has been involved in many successful conservation projects, including the reintroduction of the European bison and the red squirrel.
Attractions
Chester Zoo offers a wide range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, gorillas, and many more. Visitors can explore the zoo’s many animal habitats, which have been carefully designed to recreate the animals’ natural environment. The zoo also offers a range of interactive experiences, such as the ‘Meet the Animals’ experience, which allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s animals.
What to Expect
Visitors to Chester Zoo can expect a fun and educational day out. The zoo offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages, from interactive animal experiences to educational talks and demonstrations. The zoo also has a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, so visitors can enjoy a bite to eat or pick up a souvenir of their visit.
Tours
Chester Zoo offers a range of guided tours for visitors to enjoy. The zoo’s guided tours are led by experienced guides, who will provide visitors with interesting facts and information about the zoo and its animals. The tours are a great way to get an in-depth look at the zoo and its animals, and are suitable for all ages.
Admission
Admission to Chester Zoo is free for children under 3 years old, and tickets for adults and children aged 3 and over can be bought online or at the zoo. There are also discounted tickets available for group visits and for visitors with disabilities.
Tips for Tourists
Visiting Chester Zoo can be a fun and enjoyable experience for all the family. Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
- Wear comfortable shoes – the zoo is spread over 125 acres, so comfortable footwear is essential!
- Plan your visit in advance – the zoo can get busy, so it’s best to plan your visit in advance to avoid long queues.
- Bring a picnic – the zoo has a range of restaurants and cafes, but you can also bring your own food and drinks to enjoy in the zoo’s picnic areas.
- Check the zoo’s website for special events – the zoo often hosts special events and activities, so it’s worth checking the website before your visit.
Practical Information
Chester Zoo is open every day of the year (except Christmas Day) from 9.30am to 5.30pm, and is located just outside the city of Chester. The nearest train station is Chester Station, which is a 15-minute walk from the zoo. There is also a free shuttle bus which runs between the station and the zoo. Parking is available at the zoo, and there is a charge for this.
Chester Zoo is a fantastic day out for all the family, offering a wide range of attractions and activities. From interactive animal experiences to educational talks and demonstrations, there’s something for everyone at the zoo. With its commitment to animal conservation, Chester Zoo is a great place to visit for those looking to learn more about wildlife and the environment.
