Chester Zoo Reopens

Yay…..you can probably still hear the cheers now after the brilliant recent news. And what news might that be? Chester Zoo reopens on Monday June 15th. That’s what. And isn’t that such great news. Not only for the people of Chester, but for people from all over.

We were all well aware of the devastating news last week that all zoos were to remain closed indefinitely. I think the word “indefinitely” was the real kicker of course. How could they plan? What effect would it have on the staff and management?

Anyone who has seen any of the live virtual tour visits that Chester Zoo had provided over the last few months will have witnessed the efforts and the dedication the Chester Zoo team put in.

Not only that, the Zoo had gone to great lengths to make sure everything was in place in terms of safety and security for when it was to reopen. To have all of that undermined to a certain extent by a rather harmless looking word like “indefinitely” could have been a major blow.

Chester Zoo Reopens

But, no need to dwell any more on the “closed indefinitely” announcement. Events now have changed with the latest decision that Chester Zoo reopens. Of course, things will not be the same as before. They can’t be for obvious reasons.

But the important thing is is that it is reopening and it is the first step forward on the road to getting back to some sort of normality. Yes, it will be strange for visitors initially. But I think we all know and expect that. It is the decision to allow zoo’s to reopen though that will let us all see, yet again, how professional and dedicated our Chester Zoo team are. Visitors will need to ‘go with the flow’ in the early days of reopening while taking the first steps on the road back to normality.

Chester Zoo Reopens – What Are The Changes?

Anyone thinking of making a visit to Chester Zoo will have to be aware of the various changes that are in place. Have a read of the following and take note.

The first thing to be aware of is that all visitors must now book online before visiting. To book you will need to head on over to this special ticket booking link on Chester Zoo’s website HERE.

Reduced Numbers

Fewer numbers will be admitted as well for now. Even though Chester Zoo covers 128 acres the numbers still need to be considered. We’ve been there when there’s been up to 14,000 people in and it did seem crowded. So, obviously, there won’t be any such numbers now. The online booking system (as per the link above) will monitor numbers accordingly.

In arriving at the Zoo you will notice changes straight away. For instance, there are self-scanning ticket lanes, two metre social distancing floor markings, a multitude of hand sanitisation points and a vast array of new signs and protective screens in key areas and locations.

Also, you will need to be aware of the closure of all indoor animal areas, cafes and restaurants (including the Oldfield pub). But outdoor kiosks will be open where you can buy your refreshments. There will be a greater number of outdoor picnic areas available but hard screen surfaces such as cash ATM’s and interactive, touchscreen computers will be under cover.

Viewing window areas will have one metre stand off markings to avoid touching the windows and of course there will be an army of staff on hand to be of assistance. There will be plenty of staff about to ensure social distancing and there will also be stringent deep cleaning going on on a regular basis.

All in all the Zoo have put in a tremendous effort to be able to welcome visitors again.

Chester Zoo Reopens – Let’s Not Forget The Residents

As you will now know there are a variety of changes to be aware of. And at first it may seem a little strange. But nothing we can’t all get used to. However, let’s not forget what a visit to Chester Zoo is all about. We visit so we can see the magnificent animals residing there. For that reason alone it will be time to get excited.

So, a message to the meerkats, all you elephants, rhinos – young and not so young – and all other residents, get ready. Your public can’t wait to see you again. It will soon be time to be on your best behaviour. I’m sure if the residents could speak they would say, “Welcome Back”

And I’m sure I speak for so many when I say “Welcome Back Chester Zoo”

Enjoy your visit to Chester Zoo everyone. As always, stay safe.

Chester Zoo Blog Posts

To see all of my Chester Zoo blog posts (and there’s a fair few of them) click this link HERE.

Chester Zoo Page

As well as a separate category for Chester Zoo blog posts, there is also a Chester Zoo page where you can find out even more information on our famous world famous attraction. You can find out more HERE. Be aware though that you may need to double check the opening times to be on the safe side.

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