About Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo is one of the UK’s most popular wildlife attractions, offering an engaging and educational experience centred on animal welfare, conservation, and family-friendly entertainment. The zoo is home to a wide variety of species living in spacious, naturalistic habitats.
Things to See & Do
- Dinosaur Realm – a walk-through attraction featuring life-sized prehistoric creatures
- Lost Madagascar Road Train – a scenic ride offering views of animals and zoo landscapes
- Outdoor Play Areas – adventure play spaces designed for children of all ages
- Jungle Tumble – indoor soft play area for younger visitors
- Discovery Den & Crazy Sand – interactive learning zones encouraging hands-on exploration
- Face Painting Station – fun designs available during busy and seasonal periods
Animal Encounters & Experiences
- Hand Feed Lorikeets – enjoy a colourful and memorable bird-feeding experience
- Close-up animal encounters offering insight into animal care and behaviour
- Meet species from around the world, including elephants, big cats, reptiles, and primates
- Educational talks and presentations delivered by knowledgeable keepers
Food, Shops & Visitor Facilities
- Penguini’s Restaurant – family-friendly meals and refreshments
- The Gourmet Sausage Outpost – quick hot food options
- Coffee Lounge – hot drinks, snacks, and light bites
- Meerkat Hangout – casual dining with animal views
- Gift Shop – souvenirs, toys, and conservation-focused gifts
Conservation & Visitor Information
Colchester Zoo is deeply committed to global conservation efforts, supporting wildlife protection projects and raising awareness of endangered species. With year-round events, educational initiatives, and engaging exhibits, it offers a rewarding day out for families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts.
News
- CZS are delighted to announce that on 22nd June 2026, Fennec fox, Pinky, gave birth. With the arrival of the little ones being over just a month ago, […]
- Update 22.07.26 OJ and Diego also hatched a second chick, three days later on the 7th May. This chick had a few medical problems at the start, but […]
- We are proud to announce that we have been awarded ‘runner-up’ in the 2026 Sustainability Award from the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA). Each […]
- In the early hours of Wednesday 27th May 2026, the Animal Care Team were delighted to discover that cherry-crowned mangabey, Maja, had given birth to a healthy baby. […]
- We are delighted to announce that on Saturday 9th May 2026, coppery titi monkey, Copper, gave birth to a single offspring. The Animal Care Team are pleased to […]
- We are delighted to announce that our golden lion tamarin family has grown once again with the arrival of a single offspring on 29th April 2026! The new […]
- We are pleased to announce that we have been recognised in Tripadvisor’s® Travellers’ Choice® Awards for 2026, as a Top-rated attraction in England and ranking among the top […]
Opening Times
| Monday: 9.30am – 5pm | |
| Tuesday: 9.30am – 5pm | |
| Wednesday: 9.30am – 5pm | |
| Thursday: 9.30am – 5pm | |
| Friday: 9.30am – 5pm | |
| Saturday: 9:30am – 5:30pm | |
| Sunday: 9:30am – 5:30pm |
Address
Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL
Phone Number
01206 331292Website
Social
Colchester Zoo Map Location
COLCHESTER WEATHERTicket Price List
| Ticket Type | Gate Price (With Donation) |
Gate Price (Without Donation) |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (16–59 yrs) | £25.85 | £23.50 |
| Child (3–15 yrs) | £20.90 | £19.00 |
| Senior (60+ yrs) | £24.20 | £22.00 |
| Under 3 | FREE | FREE |
| Assistant | FREE | FREE |
Prices shown include and exclude an optional donation where applicable.
Photos Of Colchester Zoo
People Also Ask
Do you offer family tickets at Colchester Zoo?
Colchester Zoo does not currently offer a family ticket. All admission tickets are priced individually, allowing visitors to choose the most suitable ticket type for their group.
Do children need to be supervised at Colchester Zoo?
Yes. Children under the age of 16 years must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult aged 16 or over at all times while inside Colchester Zoo.
Unaccompanied children will not be admitted. During late-night openings, this policy remains strictly enforced.
Unaccompanied children will not be admitted. During late-night openings, this policy remains strictly enforced.
Can I buy Colchester Zoo tickets on arrival?
Tickets do not need to be pre-booked, and visitors can purchase admission on arrival. However, booking tickets online in advance is recommended to secure the best available prices.
Is parking free at Colchester Zoo?
Yes, Colchester Zoo offers free on-site parking in its large visitor car park. Vehicles are parked at the owner’s risk, and the zoo cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage.
Can I bring bikes, scooters or skateboards into Colchester Zoo?
For safety reasons, bicycles, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades, and ride-on toys are not permitted inside the zoo.
A bicycle rack is available in the car park. Three-wheeled trikes may be allowed if used strictly as a buggy and pushed by an adult.
A bicycle rack is available in the car park. Three-wheeled trikes may be allowed if used strictly as a buggy and pushed by an adult.
Can I hire a wheelchair, mobility scooter or stroller?
Yes, Colchester Zoo offers a range of hire options including wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers, subject to availability.
Are dogs allowed at Colchester Zoo?
Dogs are not permitted anywhere on the Colchester Zoo site, including the car park.
The only exception is registered guide and assistance dogs, which are permitted under specific conditions. Dogs must not be left in vehicles under any circumstances.
The only exception is registered guide and assistance dogs, which are permitted under specific conditions. Dogs must not be left in vehicles under any circumstances.
Are there picnic areas at Colchester Zoo?
Yes, there are multiple picnic areas located throughout the zoo, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visitors may also return to their car for picnics — a re-entry wristband must be collected when exiting.
Visitors may also return to their car for picnics — a re-entry wristband must be collected when exiting.
Is Colchester Zoo a smoke-free attraction?
Yes. Colchester Zoo is a smoke-free and vape-free family attraction. Smoking and vaping are only permitted in the designated area outside the main entrance.
What is Colchester Zoo’s photography policy?
Visitors are welcome to take photographs for personal use. Commercial photography or image sales require prior written permission from Colchester Zoo.
What happens to lost property at Colchester Zoo?
Lost property items are retained for approximately 3–4 weeks. Unclaimed items are then donated to charitable organisations.
Is free Wi-Fi available at Colchester Zoo?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout Colchester Zoo. Please speak to a member of staff for the current access details.
Are lockers available at Colchester Zoo?
Lockers are available near the main entrance and can be rented using card payment only.
Medium lockers: £3 (4 hours) or £5 (8 hours)
Large lockers: £6 (4 hours) or £10 (8 hours)
Medium lockers: £3 (4 hours) or £5 (8 hours)
Large lockers: £6 (4 hours) or £10 (8 hours)