Opening and Closing Times

Colchester Zoo is a full day out the whole family can enjoy! You may need to visit twice to see everything!

We are open every day from 9.30am except Christmas Day. Closing times vary according to season.
Please note that the Zoo may close up to 30 minutes prior to closing time stated depending on level of trade.

Last admission to the zoo grounds is 1 hour prior to close.


Wednesday 14th February 2024 – Thursday 28th March 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.00pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 5.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.30pm

Friday 29th March 2024 – Friday 19th July 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 5.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.30pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 5.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 5.00pm

Saturday 20th July 2024 – Sunday 1st September 2024
Monday to Sunday: 6.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 5.30pm

Monday 2nd September 2024 – Friday 4th October 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 5.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.30pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 5.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 5.00pm

Saturday 5th October 2024 – Sunday 3rd November 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.00pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 5.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.30pm

Monday 4th November 2024 – Tuesday 24th December 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 3.30pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 4.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.00pm

Wednesday 25th December 2024 – CLOSED

Thursday 26th December 2024 – Tuesday 31st December 2024
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4.00pm close
Earliest closing time of 3.30pm

Weekends and School Holidays: 4.30pm close
Earliest closing time of 4.00pm


All of the above dates and closing times are subject to change.

Colchester Zoo management reserve the right to close all or parts of Colchester Zoo as required. Please read our entry terms and conditions prior to your visit.

Operating Hours:

Some catering and retail outlets will close at least one hour prior to the zoo grounds. Please visit our Food and Drink page for information on food at the Zoo.

Please note that the Zoo car parks close a maximum of 30 minutes after the Zoo closes.

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