Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Chester.

Chester Zoo

10:00–16:00 · Every day, 2 November to 23 DecemberCloses 15:30 on Lanterns & Light dates from 13 November; last admission an hour before closing

Christmas and New Year

24 December 10:00–15:00; 27–31 December 10:00–15:30Closed 25 and 26 December

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the zoo

Chester Zoo is at Upton-by-Chester, a suburb of Chester, signposted from the A41. Parking on site is free.

• By car: follow the brown tourist signs onto the A41 and stay on it until the roundabout signed for the zoo; ignore your satnav once on the A41, and don’t turn down Flag Lane North.
• By bus or train: Stagecoach buses 1 and X1 run between Chester and Liverpool, and Chester and Bache stations are a couple of miles away.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Accessible toilets across the site, and a changing space with a hoist in the Jubilee toilets.
• Free wheelchair and scooter hire, booked in advance.
• Daily animal talks, included with admission.
• The Oakfield pub, June’s Food Court and the Bembe Grill for refreshments.

Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather: most of the zoo is outdoors. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Chester Zoo has accessible pathways and free disabled parking at the main entrance. Wheelchairs and electric scooters can be hired free with a £25 refundable deposit, but must be booked in advance by phone. Elephant Bridge and the Wooden Bats Bridge are steep, and the Lazy River boat takes wheelchairs but not scooters. A Quiet Room near the Madagascar Grasses Garden offers a calm space.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask zoo staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the zoo thoughtfully

• Keep to the visitor paths, walk rather than run, and supervise children.
• Stay on the paths, follow the rangers’ guidance and give the animals space; bags are searched at the main entrance.
• Smoking and animals are not permitted on the site.
• Commercial photography and filming, including product promotion, need permission.
• Follow the signs and staff guidance, including any restrictions in the exhibition spaces.

A little care helps keep the animals calm and the zoo pleasant for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Oakfield, a pub in the Victorian house at the heart of the zoo, serves freshly prepared meals; June’s Food Court and the Bembe Grill by the main entrance offer quicker food.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Bring a refillable bottle: there are water refill stations around the zoo.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: go to the zoo’s main entrance with your tickets ready; bags are searched on the way in.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, a waterproof layer and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow time for the Islands habitats and the Lazy River boat ride.