Frequently Asked Questions

The prices to come into the zoo vary depending on the time of year and whether you are an adult, child or entitled to a concession. You can also choose to pay the donation price to enter the zoo and if you are a UK tax payer you can gift aid this. More information on prices.

Q2. How do I get to Chester Zoo?

Chester Zoo is easily accessible by rail and road. Check out how to get here for more information.

Q3. Can I hire a wheelchair?

We have a limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters available to our guests and all we ask for is a donation towards the upkeep. Pre-booking is essential via 01244 389482 and a £10 refundable deposit is required.

Q4. What time does the zoo open?

The zoo opens every day of the year, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day, at 10.00am. Full opening times.

Q5. Is it far to walk around the zoo?

There are 11 miles of pathway around the zoo which guide you past all our animal exhibits. You can also use the monorail (extra charge applies) to cross to the other side of the zoo and view the animals from up above. Or you can take a leisurely boat ride (extra charge applies) and meander along the zoo waterway. More information.

Q6. What animals will I be able to see at Chester Zoo?

There are 7000 animals and 400 species at Chester Zoo, our animals section gives you full details of what you may see during your visit. Most of the animals will be easy to see however some animals e.g. Tigers and Lions have 360 degree viewing enclosures, so in some areas the planting will appear overgrown which is to enable the animals to have some quiet time and on very busy days, there may be crowds at certain viewing windows so some patience may be required.

Q7. We come to Chester Zoo a few times a year, can we buy an annual pass to the zoo?

Annual passes area available as part of our membership package.

Q8. Can I adopt an animal at Chester Zoo?

Anyone can join the adoption scheme for as little as £50 a year.

Q9. Is there an admission charge for carers?

Carers are charged at concessionary rate. ID needs to be shown-we accept blue badges and DLA letters.

Q10. Can I leave the zoo briefly and return?

As long as you get your hand stamped at the pass out gate you can come and go as you please.

Q11. Is there anywhere to store our belongings?

We have lockers at the main gates where you can store your belongings, the charge is £1 per locker.

Q12. Is there an indoor picnic area?

There is a room next to Arara Kiosk where you can eat your picnic indoors if you need to.

Q13. Is there an ATM at Chester Zoo?

There is an ATM at the main entrance and also one by the Ark Restaurant. This machine will charge to make a withdrawal.

Q14. Is smoking allowed within Chester Zoo?

Smoking is only permitted outside. You are not able to smoke in any of our restaurants or in any of the indoor animal areas.

Q15. When are the animals fed?

Current animal talk and feed programme.

Q16. Can I feed the animals? Is it possible to hold any of the animals?

We receive may requests to hold and feed the animals but due to bio security measures and very strict health and safety regulations in place Chester Zoo operates a 'no handling' policy. The Keepers are always wiling to spend time with visitors to answer any question they may have and our Presenters hold regular 'Animal Talks' throughout the day which are very informative. Please click here for the current programme.

Q17. Does Chester Zoo have a volunteer programme?

Due to the amount of interest we receive we are unfortunately unable to offer voluntary work at present.

Q18. Can I do work experience at Chester Zoo?

We do have limited work experience opportunities available but we have very specific requirements. Please click here for full details including the qualifications and experience required to work with animals in a zoo environment.

Q19. Does Chester Zoo do anything to help animals in the wild?

Chester Zoo invests a vast amount of funds, time and technical support into a wide variety of conservation activities in the wild around the world. More information.

Q20. How can I become a keeper at Chester Zoo?

This may help you get an idea of “what it takes” to become a keeper.

Q21. Can I buy any Chester Zoo related gifts?

You can buy a number of gifts from our online shop. For that extra special gift we offer Keeper for a Day and Gardener for a Day packages.

Q22. Can I bring a group to the zoo?

We welcome groups of all sizes at Chester Zoo, please check out our special Group section.