Chester Zoo
What can be said about Chester Zoo that hasn’t been said before?
For those that don’t know, Chester Zoo is a zoological garden situated at Upton by Chester, in Chester, Cheshire, England. It was opened in 1931 by George Mottershead and his family. It is one of the UK’s largest zoos at 125 acres, housing in the region of 20,000 animals. Quite a staggering number really. Imagine the food bill there every week!!
Visiting Chester Zoo today with it’s acres and acres of sprawling land it is hard to imagine it’s humble beginnings.
We are sure many of you watched the BBC drama about Chester Zoo back in 2014. It is a drama based on the Mottershead family and their dreams of opening a zoo without bars. Because of the Mottershead family’s dedication, the City has plenty reason to be proud of their Zoo.
For those that did see it, here is a quick reminder. For those that didn’t, we hope you like this short clip…..
Our Zoo – A Trailer
The Secret Life Of The Zoo
This documentary shows that Chester Zoo is not just about the 20,000 or so animals but also the 700 hard working staff and volunteers who work there. This army of ever willing and professional staff do all they can to keep this huge, fascinating, popular, wonderful place ticking over.
As well as looking after the animals, these dedicated professionals are also discovering new ways to carry out conservation tasks and giving guests a truly memorable day out.
In a sense, their work is vocational. They work so hard because they love animals. Not only that, they care about nature, obviously love Chester Zoo and they have a desire to be the best conservation charity in the world!
Having visited Chester Zoo many times, it is fair to say that the staff and volunteers alike do Chester Zoo proud.
Here is a short clip from the popular Channel 4 documentary…..
The Chester Zoo Experience
Having grown up in Chester I have witnessed the many changes over the years. To say that they have been quite spectacular is an understatement. It seems like there is something new to see with every visit. So much more than just money has been poured into Chester Zoo’s development. There has quite clearly been much thought, dedication and devotion and many, many man hours invested. In addition, there is always plenty of staff on duty, who are extremely helpful if you need guidance or directions.
We in Chester are lucky because it is right on our doorstep. For any visitors coming to our famed, historic City, a visit to Chester Zoo is not only a must but it is also, most of all, an incredible experience. And it is also an educational one at that.
Having an annual membership and living only 2 miles away, means we can visit on a regular basis. Consequently, each visit is unique as there is so much to see. Furthermore, it is not only popular with the locals either. Walking around the zoo it is noticeable that there are a multitude of non local accents to be heard. As a result, the Zoo is constantly busy. It is also worth noting that, understandably so, the Zoo is particularly busy during school holidays.
Islands
A recent, new attraction to the zoo is Islands. The Islands project, opened in July 2015, is a £40m development. As a result it is the “biggest and most ambitious” in the history of UK zoos as exotic islands are now recreated in Cheshire. While exploring the six South Asian islands, you can take a leisurely boat trip to soak up the atmosphere.
A quick video will give you an idea of Islands is all about…..
As a conservation charity, new arrivals and a successful breeding programme, is not only so very exciting, but in addition it is also vital to the future of many of the species that the Zoo looks after.
Take a look at one of the baby elephants….it seems like it’s already settling into Zoo life.
There is so much to do and see at Chester Zoo. You will not be disappointed when you visit and you will probably already be planning your next visit. Take a picnic or choose what’s on offer from one of the many food kiosks that are available. Maybe next time you come, another new baby will be the centre of attention.
In addition to this page, I also have a separate blog category for Chester Zoo that shows latest news, updates and information. You can find this category HERE.
How To Get There
By Bus – current bus timetable HERE
By Train – details of how to plan your train journey HERE
If travelling by Car – details HERE
Travelling by Coach – details HERE
NB: There is a huge car park offering free parking.
Here are Chester Zoo opening hours
Opening time Closing time
Sat 22 July – Sun 3 September 10am 6pm
Mon 4 September – Sun 1 October 10am 5pm
Mon 2 October – Sun 29 October 10am 4.30pm
30 October to Sat 23 December 10am 4pm
Sun 24 December 10am 3pm
Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closed Closed
Wed 27 December – Sun 31 December 10am 4pm
Telephone Number – 01244-380280
Check out ticket admission prices HERE
If you wish to know more about the beautiful city of Chester and Chester Lifestyle – click HERE.
Chester Zoo – More Posts On Chester Lifestyle.
For more articles and posts about Chester Zoo on my Chester Lifestyle website, see the links below….
Visit to Chester Zoo in April – a post about another great day out at Chester Zoo – click HERE.
Rare Newts Born At Chester Zoo – Read more HERE.
Chester Zoo Voted Third Best In The World – only 3rd!! Read more HERE.
