Planning a family trip to England in 2026? One of the best ways to make memories is by visiting a zoo. England has some incredible zoos that combine fun, learning, and adventure. Here’s a family-friendly guide to the 15 best zoos in England you don’t want to miss.
1. Chester Zoo – A Day of Discovery
Chester Zoo is massive and perfect for kids who love to explore. From tropical birds to African savannah animals, there’s always something exciting around the corner.
Heart of Africa: See giraffes, zebras, and rhinos in a habitat that feels like the wild.
Monsoon Forest: Walk among exotic birds and playful monkeys in a rainforest environment.
Family Tips:
Arrive early to catch the feeding sessions.
Bring a picnic or try one of the onsite cafés.
Strollers and wheelchairs are available for hire.
- Tickets: Adults £27.50 | Kids £23.50 | Under 3 free
- Website: Chester Zoo
2. Whipsnade Zoo – A Safari Adventure
Whipsnade is like a safari in England! It’s huge, so perfect for kids to run, explore, and spot animals from afar.
Drive-through areas to see elephants, lions, and rhinos.
Mini steam trains — a favorite for younger children.
Family Tips:
Bring binoculars for a close-up view of animals.
Plan your route with the map — walking the entire zoo takes most of a day.
- Tickets: Adults £32 | Kids £24 | Family £95
- Website: Whipsnade Zoo
3. London Zoo – Central and Convenient
London Zoo is perfect if you’re in the city and want a fun, educational day out without leaving town.
Big cats, penguins, and reptiles.
Interactive learning zones and daily keeper talks.
Family Tips:
Buy tickets online to skip the queues.
Combine with a day in Regent’s Park for extra fun.
- Tickets: Adults £27 | Kids £19 | Family tickets available
- Website: London Zoo
4. Colchester Zoo – Interactive Fun
Colchester Zoo balances size and engagement — not too overwhelming but packed with activities and animal encounters.
Komodo dragons, orangutans, and Madagascar-themed zones.
Road train “Madagascar Express” around the zoo.
Family Tips:
Use the zoo’s app for feeding times and events.
Check seasonal special events for extra activities.
- Tickets: Adults £23 | Kids £19 | Family tickets available
- Website: Colchester Zoo
5. Marwell Zoo – Nature and Adventure
Marwell Zoo offers a relaxed, countryside experience with wide-open spaces, perfect for a laid-back family day.
Tigers, penguins, and rhinos.
Adventure playgrounds and picnic areas.
Family Tips:
Bring comfortable shoes for walking the trails.
Pack a picnic to enjoy the open lawns.
- Tickets: Adults £25 | Kids £20 | Family tickets available
- Website: Marwell Zoo
6. Twycross Zoo – A Primate Paradise
Twycross Zoo is world-famous for its primate collection. Kids will be amazed by gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans.
Gorilla Conservation Centre: Get up close to Western lowland gorillas in a naturalistic habitat.
Monkey Jungle: Interactive areas where kids can watch playful monkeys swing and climb.
Family Tips:
Plan at least half a day to explore the primate zones.
Attend keeper talks to learn fascinating facts about endangered species.
- Tickets: Adults £23 | Kids £18 | Family tickets available
- Website: Twycross Zoo
7. Bristol Zoo Gardens – Historic and Charming
Although smaller than Chester or Whipsnade, Bristol Zoo combines historic charm with modern animal habitats. Perfect for families with younger children.
Zoological Gardens: Established in 1836, it’s one of the oldest zoos in the UK.
Interactive Exhibits: Reptile house, primate area, and penguin pool.
Family Tips:
Visit in the morning to catch the feeding times.
Bring a camera — the gardens are very photogenic.
- Tickets: Adults £20 | Kids £16 | Family tickets available
- Website: Bristol Zoo Gardens
8. Paradise Wildlife Park – Adventure Meets Learning
Paradise Wildlife Park is ideal for younger children, with interactive experiences and educational programs.
Big cats, meerkats, and lemurs.
Adventure playgrounds and a soft play area.
Family Tips:
Check their “Animal Encounters” schedule — kids love feeding sessions.
Combine with nearby attractions for a full family day out.
- Tickets: Adults £21 | Kids £17 | Family tickets available
- Website: Paradise Wildlife Park
9. Yorkshire Wildlife Park – Safari-Style Fun
This zoo offers a safari experience with free-roaming species and large enclosures — very exciting for kids who like adventure.
Lion Country: Walk alongside lions in a safe environment.
Penguin Cove: Interactive penguin zone where you can watch them swim up close.
Family Tips:
Wear comfortable walking shoes — it’s a large park.
Bring binoculars for spotting animals at a distance.
- Tickets: Adults £24 | Kids £20 | Family tickets available
- Website: Yorkshire Wildlife Park
10. ZSL London Wetlands Centre – Nature & Wildlife Learning
If your kids love birds and aquatic animals, this is a hidden gem. The centre focuses on wetland habitats and conservation.
Wildlife Hides: Spot herons, kingfishers, and otters.
Hands-On Education: Interactive learning spaces for children.
Family Tips:
Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
Great for toddlers and young children — easy walking paths and sensory areas.
- Tickets: Adults £14 | Kids £7 | Family tickets available
- Website: ZSL London Wetlands Centre
11. Paignton Zoo – Devon’s Wildlife Wonderland
Paignton Zoo is a family favorite with a focus on conservation, education, and immersive experiences. Its tropical gardens and exotic animals make it perfect for a full-day visit.
Tropical Rainforest Zone: See free-flying birds, reptiles, and tropical plants.
Big Cats & Lemurs: Kids love watching these active animals up close.
Family Tips:
Wear comfortable shoes — the zoo is on a hill with scenic walking paths.
Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the designated areas.
- Tickets: Adults £18 | Kids £15 | Family tickets available
- Website: Paignton Zoo
12. Cotswold Wildlife Park – Family-Friendly & Scenic
Set in a beautiful estate, the Cotswold Wildlife Park combines wildlife and gardens. Kids love the train rides and hands-on activities.
Safari Drive & Giraffe Feeding: Interactive opportunities with giraffes and other animals.
Adventure Play Areas: Great for younger children to explore safely.
Family Tips:
Bring a camera — the estate gardens are stunning.
Check for seasonal events like “Meet the Animals” sessions.
- Tickets: Adults £20 | Kids £15 | Family tickets available
- Website: Cotswold Wildlife Park
13. Howletts Wild Animal Park – Rare Species & Conservation
Howletts specializes in rare and endangered species. Kids and adults alike enjoy seeing animals that are hard to find elsewhere.
Top Highlights:
Gorilla Forest & Tiger Territory: See big cats and primates in naturalistic habitats.
Conservation Programs: Learn how the park protects endangered species worldwide.
Family Tips:
Go early to avoid crowds and see the animals at their most active.
Don’t miss the daily feeding and keeper talks.
- Tickets: Adults £25 | Kids £18 | Family tickets available
14. West Midland Safari Park – Drive-Through Adventure
This safari park combines a drive-through wildlife experience with traditional zoo exhibits, making it extra exciting for kids.
Safari Drive: Lions, rhinos, and elephants roam in large open spaces.
Adventure Theme Park: Roller coasters and rides add another layer of fun for children.
Family Tips:
Bring binoculars for a better view of the safari animals.
Allocate a full day to enjoy both the safari and the amusement rides.
- Tickets: Adults £28 | Kids £22 | Family tickets available
- Website: West Midland Safari Park
15. Borth Wild Animal Kingdom – Hidden Gem in Wales (Close to England Border)
Although slightly over the border in Wales, Borth Wild Animal Kingdom is worth a family day trip from northern England. It’s small, charming, and highly interactive.
Lemur Walk: Kids can get close to playful lemurs.
Animal Encounters: Feedings and talks that educate and entertain.
Family Tips:
Perfect for a half-day trip with younger kids.
Check local tide and travel conditions if coming from northern England.
- Tickets: Adults £15 | Kids £10 | Family tickets available
Final Thoughts
Visiting zoos in England is more than just a fun day out — it’s a chance for families to learn about wildlife, conservation, and the environment while creating unforgettable memories. From massive safari-style parks like Whipsnade to intimate, interactive experiences like Colchester Zoo and Borth Wild Animal Kingdom, there’s a zoo to suit every family’s style and pace.
Check opening hours and seasonal events.
Book tickets online to avoid queues.
Consider combining zoo visits with nearby attractions for a full day of fun.
Encourage children to learn about conservation — many zoos offer interactive programs and workshops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the best zoo in England for families?
While it depends on your location and children’s ages, Chester Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo are consistently top-rated for family visits due to their variety of animals, interactive experiences, and educational programs.
2. Are zoo tickets expensive in England?
Ticket prices vary by zoo and age. On average:
Adults: £20–£32
Children: £10–£23
Many zoos offer family passes and annual memberships for savings.
3. Can I take a stroller or wheelchair into the zoos?
Yes! Most major zoos, including Chester Zoo and Colchester Zoo, are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. Many also offer rental services for convenience.
4. Are these zoos educational for children?
Absolutely. All the zoos listed participate in conservation, research, and educational programs. Many offer interactive exhibits, animal talks, and workshops designed for kids of all ages.
5. What’s the best time of year to visit a zoo in England?
Spring and summer are ideal because animals are more active and outdoor exhibits are fully open. Early morning visits are great for seeing feeding sessions, while weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends
