Chester Zoo in August offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors, making it a popular destination for zoo enthusiasts. The zoo is open daily from 10 am, except for Christmas, and attracts 1.9 million visitors every year. In August, the zoo hosts the “Young Conservationist Holiday Course,” a three-day program for children to learn about conservation and wildlife.
Young Conservationist Holiday Course
The Young Conservationist Holiday Course is a three-day program designed for children to learn about conservation and wildlife. During this course, participants will have the opportunity to:
- Explore the zoo’s diverse habitats and learn about the animals that call them home
- Engage in hands-on activities and experiments to understand the importance of conservation
- Meet and interact with the zoo’s expert keepers and learn about their daily responsibilities
- Participate in interactive workshops and games to develop their knowledge and appreciation for the natural world
The course is suitable for children aged 8-12 and runs during the summer holidays, including August. Booking in advance is recommended as spaces are limited.
Afterglow at Chester Zoo
For those interested in after-hours experiences, Chester Zoo introduces “Afterglow” during summer evenings, including August. This event provides 5 hours of zoo time for up to 50% less than a standard day ticket price, from 3 pm to 8 pm. Afterglow includes:
- Spectacular entertainment, such as live music, street performers, and interactive games
- Unique animal encounters, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the zoo’s residents
- Access to immersive experiences, such as the Tropical Realm and the Islands
- Free entry for zoo members, with booking in advance recommended due to limited capacity
Afterglow is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to explore the zoo in a more relaxed and atmospheric setting, with the added bonus of reduced ticket prices.
Animal Talks and Encounters
Throughout the day, Chester Zoo offers a variety of animal talks and encounters, allowing visitors to learn more about the plants and animals at the zoo. These include:
- Giraffe talks and feeding sessions, where visitors can observe the zoo’s giraffe herd and learn about their behavior and conservation
- Snow leopard talks, providing insights into the lives of these elusive and endangered felines
- Keeper talks at various animal habitats, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the zoo’s daily operations and conservation efforts
Interacting with the animals and learning from the zoo’s knowledgeable staff contributes to the overall educational and immersive experience at Chester Zoo.
Getting to Chester Zoo
Chester Zoo is easily accessible by various transport options, and ample free parking is available at the main entrance. The zoo recommends downloading the zoo map or using the app for a personalized guide during the visit. Some outlets, like Bembe Kitchen, Manado Street Kitchen, and The Oakfield, only accept card or contactless payments, so visitors should plan accordingly.
Ticket Prices and Memberships
Ticket prices for Afterglow vary according to the date, with adult tickets ranging from £20.00 to £23.00 and child tickets from £13.00 to £15.00. Infants under 12 months are free, and toddlers (1-2 years) have a small fee. Carers can enter for free but should book a ticket in advance.
Members of the zoo receive free entry to Afterglow but should sign up for the member newsletter to secure their spot. Membership options include:
- Adult membership: £69 per year
- Child membership: £45 per year
- Family membership: £189 per year
Membership benefits include free entry to the zoo, discounts on food and merchandise, and exclusive access to member-only events and experiences.
Conclusion
Chester Zoo in August offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for visitors, from the Young Conservationist Holiday Course to the Afterglow event. Visitors can enjoy animal talks, learn about conservation, and see unique animals while contributing to the zoo’s vital conservation work. With easy accessibility, a variety of dining options, and flexible ticket options, Chester Zoo is a must-visit destination for zoo enthusiasts in August.
References:
– Chester Zoo – TripAdvisor
– Chester Zoo Events
– Chester Zoo Afterglow
– Chester Zoo Plan Your Visit