National Conservation Zoo

Opening times today: 10am - 3:30pm (Last entry at 2:30pm)

Now Sold Out

Thank you for your interest in our Universal Credit Tickets, but they are now all sold out (General admission tickets still available for all dates)

This Christmas, from 17 to 31 December 2025, we’re offering £1 tickets to people receiving Universal Credit. We're helping families on lower incomes enjoy the zoo during the festive period and connect with nature.

You’re eligible if you’ve received Universal Credit within the last month, which incorporates the following:

  • Universal Credit
  • Working Tax Credit
  • Child Tax Credit
  • Income Support
  • Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Employment and Support Allowance
  • Housing Benefit

You are also eligible if you receive:

  • Disability Living Allowance (just select the Universal Credit ticket)
  • PIP (just select the Universal Credit ticket)

Please bring proof of eligibility and photo ID on the day.

Book Universal Credit Tickets

Offer terms and conditions

  1.    Our Christmas Universal Credit day admission tickets can be booked exclusively online for the following dates: 17th December 2025 – 31st December 2025 and can be booked here.
    2.    A limited number of tickets are available for each day. Tickets are only valid for the date purchased.
    3.    Tickets are available for those currently receiving Universal Credit, DLA, PIP and have received a corresponding payment within the last month. A maximum of 6 tickets can be purchased per eligible household for any single day.
    4.    Tickets can not be redeemed against, or exchanged for entry for any other experience or event entry (e.g. Lanterns & Light). No cash alternative is available, tickets cannot be re-sold or exchanged
    5.    Both proof of Universal Credit or DLA/PIP status and photographic proof of identity must be presented at the admissions gate when visiting the zoo along with your ticket(s). Discounted tickets will not be accepted without both your proof of eligibility and proof of ID. If booked for a child receiving DLA, and the child has no photo ID, proof of address (e.g., a doctor's letter) or scan of a birth certificate will be accepted instead.
    6.    Proof of eligibility can be gained either by logging into your Universal Credit portal or by bringing a proof of benefit letter (one proof per household). https://secure.dwp.gov.uk/get-a-proof-of-benefit-letter/
    7.     All visits are subject to availability
    8.     Any other additional paid for activity are exempt and do not apply
    9.    Full zoo regulations apply
    10.    Chester Zoo has the right to refuse entry and withdraw the promotional offer at any time.
    11. This discount is not available in conjunction with any other promotions and Universal Credit/PIP/DLA tickets are not valid for the rainy day guarantee.
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Frequently asked questions

Universal credit tickets can be purchased online in advance only.

Purchase Universal Credit Tickets