Chester Zoo

Chester Zoo is consistently voted the UK's best zoo and is one of the largest and most progressive zoos in Europe, housing over 35,000 animals representing more than 500 species across 128 acres of beautiful gardens. The zoo is renowned for its immersive, barrier-free exhibits that create naturalistic habitats. Islands is the zoo's most ambitious project, a Southeast Asian inspired zone featuring Sumatran tigers, orangutans, and exotic birds in a lush tropical setting with traditional Indonesian architecture. The Monsoon Forest is a vast indoor tropical habitat where visitors walk among free-flying birds, crocodiles, and tropical plants in a climate-controlled rainforest. The Realm of the Red Ape showcases Bornean and Sumatran orangutans with climbing structures and forest areas designed to encourage natural behaviours. The elephant habitat is one of Europe's largest, providing extensive grasslands and a breeding herd of Asian elephants. Children will love the Madagascar exhibit where playful lemurs can be observed in walkthrough areas, and the adorable penguins in Penguin Island. The Butterfly Journey is a tropical house where hundreds of butterflies fly freely around visitors. The zoo operates a monorail that provides an overview of the park and easy transportation for families. With multiple adventure playgrounds, including a water play area, numerous dining options, and regular keeper talks throughout the day, Chester Zoo offers exceptional value and a full day of entertainment. The zoo's commitment to conservation is evident throughout, with projects supporting endangered species globally.