Chester Zoo has been crowned the UK's top zoo by TripAdvisor for the second year running, amassing a record 11,666 'excellent' ratings on the world's largest travel guidance platform. The Cheshire-based attraction, which is home to around 30,000 animals and 500 different species, also features among Europe's top 10 zoos.
Conservation Efforts Highlighted
Jamie Christon, CEO of Chester Zoo, expressed his delight at the recognition, stating: 'We're over the moon to be named the UK's top zoo by TripAdvisor. This recognition is built entirely on genuine reviews from our visitors – and that means the world to us.' He emphasised the zoo's conservation work, including developing the world's first vaccine for a deadly virus threatening Asian elephants, saving a tiny snail species from extinction, and planting thousands of new trees to create woodland habitat.
New Attractions and Accommodations
The zoo recently opened Heart of Africa in 2025, the largest zoo habitat ever created in the UK, spanning more than 17 football pitches and home to 57 iconic African species. Additionally, new overnight lodges called The Reserve were unveiled, offering 51 luxury lodges with safari-style experiences, including giraffe feeding stations and roll-top baths. Guests can enjoy two-day access, valet parking, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Top 10 UK Zoos and Aquariums
The TripAdvisor list also includes Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World in Shropshire (second), Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster (third), West Midlands Safari Park (fourth), Whipsnade Zoo (fifth), London Zoo (sixth), Jimmy's Farm and Wildlife Park (seventh), The Deep in Hull (eighth), Colchester Zoo (ninth), and Folly Farm in Wales (tenth).
