Membership FAQs
Check out the frequently asked questions below for some of the common things we're asked about membership.
What date does the membership start from?
If a start date is not specified the membership will begin on the day it is processed. Membership is valid for one year.
If I come into the zoo today, can I take out a membership when I arrive?
Yes – you will see the Guest Services pavilion straight ahead after entering the zoo through the main entrance. Just pop in and see us with your admission receipt and we will deduct your entry fee from that day off the membership fee (on a like for like basis).
We will process the membership there and then, aswell as giving you with your welcome pack and membership cards.
How much does membership cost for one year?
Joint membership – two adults under the age of 65 – costs £110 per year. If one adult is over 65, this price decreases to £102, and if both adults are over 65, it costs £92 per year.
For a single adult under the age of 65, membership is £66 per year, and for an adult over 65, £56. Junior membership (age 3-17) is £36 each year, and if you are a full-time student with a valid NUS card, membership is £46 per year.
Can I take out a membership as a gift for somebody else?
Yes, however you must specify that it is a gift and if you want the welcome pack to be sent to yourself or straight to the members on the application form. If you opt for the pack to be sent to the members, we can include a gift card message from you at no extra cost.
What are the benefits of membership?
The main benefit of membership to Chester Zoo is unlimited, free entry for 12 months (during normal opening hours). We are only closed two days a year – Christmas Day and Boxing Day – and open at 10am each day.
• You will also benefit from at least one free annual entry to other zoos and attractions: Belfast Zoo, Bristol Zoo, Colchester Zoo, Dublin Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo, Fota Wildlife Park, Living Coasts and Gardens, Marwell Zoo, Paignton Zoo, Twycross Zoo and Woburn Safari. Membership cards and initial joining letter must be shown to gain free entry to these attractions.
• You will also receive a Members' discount in zoo shops and cafes (excluding kiosks). Adult members receive an exclusive car sticker and junior members will receive a set of stickers.
• As part of your membership, you will receive a subscription to our Z magazine (quarterly). There are members’ talks and presentations advertised in our Z magazine, and junior members will have the opportunity to take part in events and days out (age restrictions and additional costs apply).
• There will be two Members’ Days held throughout your membership year. Each one featuring a series of ‘Meet the Keeper’ opportunities and talks. Members are able to bring in guests on this day at half price (maximum of 12 half price guests).
What happens on Members’ Days?
Members can bring up to twelve guests in at half price on these special days. There will also be opportunities to meet the animal keepers and ask any questions about the animals. During 2012 these will be held on Saturday 21st April, Friday 6th July and Sunday 4th November. Members will be reminded of these dates in our Z magazine.
Do I have to have my photograph on my membership card?
Yes, all members are required to display their photograph on their membership card. The photograph will be taken at the Guest Services pavilion.
How long does the membership pack take to be delivered?
You should allow up to 2 weeks for your membership welcome pack to be processed and posted to you. Alternatively you can take out membership on the day of your visit at the Guest Services pavilion or buy online.
If you have taken your membership out online, you will receive an email confirming your application and asking you to print out a confirmation letter to bring to the zoo on your next visit. Please present this letter at the Guest Services paviilion to get your membership cards.
How can I apply for membership?
There are several ways you can apply. The quickest and easiest way is online, especially if you want to visit Chester Zoo in the next week or so, since you can gain entry with your confirmation email. Follow the links under Support Us.
You can also take out membership at the Guest Services pavilion, located just inside the main entrance.
Alternatively, if you ring 01244 650208 and provide an address, we can send an application form to you or take the membership out over the telephone if you have a debit/credit card.