Chester Zoo, located in Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire, England, is one of the largest zoos in the UK, spanning across 51 hectares (128 acres) of zoological gardens. The zoo’s total land holding is approximately 160 hectares (400 acres), with 110 acres dedicated to the zoological gardens and the remaining 390 acres used for agricultural purposes and storage.
The Size and Scope of Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is a vast and expansive zoological park, covering an impressive 128 acres of land. This makes it one of the largest zoos in the United Kingdom, offering visitors a truly immersive and diverse wildlife experience.
The zoo’s total land holding is even more substantial, reaching an impressive 400 acres. However, only 110 of these acres are dedicated to the zoological gardens, with the remaining 390 acres used for agricultural purposes and storage.
This extensive land area allows Chester Zoo to house a remarkable collection of over 35,000 animals from 400 different species, with around half of them being threatened. The zoo’s commitment to conservation and animal welfare is evident in the diverse range of habitats and exhibits it provides for its residents.
Unique Exhibits and Experiences
Chester Zoo is renowned for its innovative and engaging exhibits, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural world in unique and captivating ways.
The Twilight Zone Bat Cave
One of the zoo’s most popular attractions is the Twilight Zone Bat Cave, which provides a glimpse into the mysterious world of bats. Visitors can observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat, learning about their behavior and adaptations.
Islands in Danger
Another standout exhibit is the Islands in Danger, which transports visitors to the tropical rainforests of the world. This immersive experience allows visitors to witness the diverse array of species that call these endangered habitats home, and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them.
Spirit of the Jaguar
Chester Zoo is also home to the Spirit of the Jaguar exhibit, which is considered one of the largest and best in the world. This exhibit showcases the jaguars’ different habitats and allows them to display their natural behavior, providing visitors with a unique and educational experience.
Accessibility and Visitor Information
Chester Zoo is designed to be accessible and user-friendly for all visitors. The zoo offers a downloadable PDF map and a mobile app to help visitors navigate the expansive grounds, ensuring they can make the most of their visit.
Additionally, some of the zoo’s outlets, such as Bembe Kitchen, Manado Street Kitchen, and The Oakfield, have transitioned to card or contactless payments only, so visitors should plan accordingly.
The zoo is open every day of the year, except Christmas Day, and offers various ticket options to suit different budgets and needs. Online ticket prices including a 10% donation are as follows:
| Ticket Type | Off-Peak | Standard | Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (16+) | £30.00 | £32.00 | £33.00 |
| Child (3-15) | £23.00 | £24.00 | £26.00 |
| Student | £29.00 | £29.00 | £29.00 |
| Toddler (1-2) | £2.50 | £2.50 | £2.50 |
| Baby | Free | Free | Free |
| Carer | Free | Free | Free |
For those interested in planning a school trip, Chester Zoo offers excellent curriculum-linked workshops and free learning resources to help maximize the educational experience.
Conclusion
Chester Zoo is a true gem in the world of zoological parks, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural world on a grand scale. With its expansive 128-acre zoological gardens, diverse collection of over 35,000 animals, and unique exhibits, Chester Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in wildlife and conservation.
Whether you’re a seasoned zoo enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Chester Zoo is sure to leave a lasting impression and inspire a deeper appreciation for the incredible diversity of life on our planet.
References:
– Chester Zoo Official Website
– About Zoos – Chester Zoo
– Google Travel – Chester Zoo