Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Edinburgh.

November to February

10:00–16:00 · Every dayLast entry 15:00; closed 25 December

March and October

10:00–17:00 · Every dayLast entry 16:00

April to September

10:00–18:00 · Every dayLast entry 17:00

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

Finding the zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is on Corstorphine Road, on the slopes of Corstorphine Hill in the west of Edinburgh.

• By bus: Lothian buses 12, 26 and 31 stop outside the main entrance, and the Airlink 100 between the airport and the city centre also serves the zoo.
• By car: the zoo has a paid car park with limited spaces, which can fill early in school holidays.
• 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:

• Toilets, including a Changing Places toilet.
• A quiet space beside the flamingos, with a baby care room.
• Picnic areas with views across the zoo.
• The Gannet, Penguins Café and Grasslands for food and drink.

The zoo is on a hillside, so wear comfortable shoes and allow time for the slopes. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Edinburgh Zoo is on a hilly site, and some routes have steps or steep slopes that are unsuitable for wheelchairs; an accessibility map helps plan a route. A free mobility vehicle runs all year, manual wheelchairs can be borrowed for a refundable deposit, and there is a Changing Places toilet. Registered assistance dogs are welcome in most areas, but not in indoor or walk-through exhibits.

• 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.
• Keep to the paths and follow the keepers’ guidance; balls, balloons, glass and alcohol are not allowed, and only assistance dogs may come in.
• 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 keeps the animals calm and the zoo pleasant for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Gannet, Penguins Café and Grasslands serve meals, street food vans and kiosks offer snacks, and you are welcome to bring a picnic.

• 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 and a waterproof layer: most of the zoo is outdoors.

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 main entrance on Corstorphine Road and have your ticket ready to scan.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes for the hill, a waterproof layer and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: allow most of the day for the hillside and its animals.