Today: overcast · 15°C
Comfortable and mostly dry
Wet weather
A rainy-day pick
Setting
Outdoor
Entry
Expensive
Who for
Toddler-friendly · Ages 0–18+
Colchester Zoo is one of the UK's leading zoos, home to over 260 species in spacious, naturalistic enclosures spread across 60 acres of parkland and lakes. Families can explore themed zones like 'Lost Madagascar' with lemurs and 'Worlds Apart' featuring tigers and lions. Daily animal talks and feeding demonstrations offer engaging learning opportunities.
For kids, there are multiple play areas including the 'Turtle Forest' indoor soft play, the 'Sea Lion Splash' outdoor splash park (summer only), and the 'Outdoor Adventure Play' with slides and climbing frames. The zoo also has a train ride and a variety of hands-on encounters like feeding giraffes.
Facilities include multiple cafes and picnic areas, pushchair-friendly paths, baby-changing stations, and wheelchair hire. The zoo is mostly outdoor, but the indoor play zone and some animal houses provide shelter on rainy days.
Practical tips: Arrive early to see animal feeds; book tickets online for discounts; allow a full day; wear comfortable shoes.
What parents should know
Colchester Zoo is one of the UK's leading zoos, home to over 260 species in spacious, naturalistic enclosures spread across 60 acres of parkland and lakes.
Getting there
Plan Your Visit
Colchester Zoo is located in Stanway, just south of Colchester. From the M25, it's about a 40-minute drive via Junction 28 to the A12. From Southend, it's approximately a 1-hour jo
Getting there
Public Transport Options
Colchester North Train Station is accessible by Liverpool Street services from London within an hour or via the Lowestoft or Norwich networks to Ipswich and then on to Colchester.
General
Opening Hours
The zoo opens daily at 9:30 AM and closes at varying times depending on the season. It's closed on Christmas Day.
Location and map
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