Chester Zoo Review
Chester Zoo Review: Are you ready to embark on an epic adventure with your little ones? Look no further than Chester Zoo – the ultimate destination for family fun and wildlife wonders. Let me share my experience and top tips for making the most of your visit.
I have been going to Chester Zoo since I was six years old, and now I get to take my children, who are three and ten years old, again, but this time with a press pass during the Easter Holidays. We are so excited to give our honest chester zoo review.
With 35,000 animals and 128 acres of zoological gardens, there’s plenty to do. So be prepared for lots of walking. if you have little ones, a pushchair is a must, or you can do what we did if you travel on public transport and hire when you arrive.
Looking for more fun things to do in Chester with the kids?
Table of Contents
Website: Chester Zoo | Start Your Adventure | Creating Unforgettable Experiences
Prices:
Day Ticket Including Gift Aid Adult £33.00 / Child (3-15yrs) £26.00 / Student £32.00 / 2 & under £2.50 / Under 12 months FREE
Annual Membership – Can be paid monthly Adult £110.00 / £99.00 Junior Explorer (3-17) £82.00
Our Top Picks
Roaring Excitement with the Snow Leopards:
So, the latest buzz is the fantastic arrival of the snow leopards. It’s a sight to behold, trust me! We just went to the enclosure during lunch. There was a 20-minute wait, but we arrived just before the queue started building. They have an outdoor enclosure, but do not worry if they have gone to sleep; you still get to see them both, and they are just as beautiful as you would expect. These lovely creatures are so captivating, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to teach your little ones about the importance of conservation.
Bat House
As you enter the dimly lit interior of the Bat House, your senses come alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of the bat’s world. The air is heavy with the musky scent of earth and dampness, so it certainly hits you with the gentle rustle of wings overhead. Please take a moment to let it all sink in, as you may find your little ones either delighted or a little concerned. Kimi is definitely getting braver each time we go, but it truly is something to see them swooping in front of you as you walk past!
Lemur Walk Through
One of the things that sets the Lemur Walk-Through apart is the opportunity to get up close and personal with these adorable primates. As you wander through their habitat, you’ll find yourself surrounded by curious lemurs who are just as interested in you as you are in them. It’s a truly magical experience that’ll make you feel like you’re part of their world.
Spirit Of The Jaguar
There’s something truly awe-inspiring about coming face to face with this elusive big cat. As you watch him roam through his lush habitat, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence for these powerful creatures. Don’t remember to look up! Above your head, on the rope, you’ll spot the adorable sloths making their slow and steady journey. It’s a delightful surprise that adds more wonder to your jungle adventure. These gentle creatures enchanted my little ones, and I admit, I was too! Although Eliza was slightly concerned, he was going to drop in the piranha tank!
Outdoor Play Areas: Where the Real Fun Begins:
Not only are there fantastic animals and conservation areas to visit, but they also continue adding significant outdoor play areas! We would have taken photos, but many children were playing. The excellent water stream play is where the children can build and clock the dams as they run downhill, just outside the play theatre.
Then, over the way, a larger play area for bigger kids and a sand play area for small children just over the path, finished with a huge playground area for older kids just by the main eating square. Chester Zoo knows how to keep the kiddos entertained with its awesome climbing frames, water play zones, and sand pits. My little explorers couldn’t get enough of it! And bonus points for allowing me to sit down and enjoy peace while they burned off some energy. I understand why the annual pass is so popular.
Top Tips from One Mum to Another:
Pack like a Pro:
Remember the essentials—sunscreen, hats, snacks, plenty of water and a picnic. Trust me; you’ll thank me later when you’re prepared for whatever the day throws your way. It can also save you a small fortune.
Arrive Early, Beat the Crowds:
Mornings are your best friend at Chester Zoo. Get there early to avoid the queues and maximise your day. The animals are usually more active in the morning – a bonus! Plus, head straight to the snow leopards before the queues build up.
Check The Feeding Times:
Even if you catch one, do it; it’s so much fun. We always love seeing the penguins being fed. Check out the App and the plan your visit page.
Consider the Annual Pass:
If your little ones are anything like mine, they’ll repeatedly beg to return to Chester Zoo. Save yourself some hassle (and cash) by investing in an annual pass. It’s a game-changer, I promise! I know it’s a costly ticket for the day or yearly pass, but many of our readers swear by the annual pass and get so much use out of it over the school holidays. On the upside, although expensive, I am happy the monies support such a fantastic conservation effort.
Pushchair Hair:
Eliza is old enough that she doesn’t want her buggy for a day out, but at three and a half years old, Chester Zoo is a big ask for those little legs. We paid for our buggy single, which also has a sunshade. It was £10 and well worth the money, saving us hassle with the buggy on the train. They also have a double buggy as well for about £15. You only need to leave your buggy through the Lemur walk-through or the boat ride, but there is a little buggy park where you can leave it.
Let’s Wrap It Up:
Mums, Chester Zoo isn’t just a day out – it’s a whole adventure waiting to happen. From the breathtaking snow leopards to the endless play opportunities for the kids, it’s a place where memories are made and imaginations run wild. So, pack up your picnic basket, grab your little explorers, and prepare for a day of laughter, learning, and lion-sized fun at Chester Zoo. Trust me, you won’t regret it. We hope our Chester zoo review was helpful for you.
#Chester zoo review