Today's Announcements

From January 2020 Penguin Shores is due to undergo redevelopment work and will therefore be closed for approximately 6 months. Find out more here.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused and thank you for your understanding.

Our opening times:

We are open daily from 9.30am - 4.30pm.
On the 7th, 14th, 21st & 22nd December we are open until 7.30pm as part of our Christmas Starlight Night events.
Last admissions to zoo grounds is 1 hour before closing.

For more Visitor Information please click here.

Important Information

What's Happening

Check out a selection of events from our full calendar!
There's something for everyone, so why not grab a fantastic Zoo Pass and visit all year round!

14th Dec

Christmas Starlight Night

Add a spark of magic to your...

21st Dec

Christmas Starlight Night

Add a spark of magic to your...

22nd Dec

Christmas Starlight Night

Add a spark of magic to your...

14th Dec

Magic of Christmas

Join us at Colchester Zoo this Christmas...

28th Dec

Christmas Continues…

Join us on the 28th & 29th...

8th Feb

Zoo Photography for Children workshop

Here at Colchester Zoo we are offering...

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Animal Experiences

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Our Animals

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Plan Your Day

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Beautiful, Unusual & Rare Species Of The Animal Kingdom

We are proudly listed as the 11th best zoo around the world and in the top 2 zoos in the UK as part of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Attractions.

During your visit to Colchester Zoo, you will see many species from around the world and can learn more about them at our fantastic daily encounters, giving you the chance to see our animals being fed, watch a training session or perhaps just quiz their keepers!