Chester Zoo has been officially named the best zoo in the United Kingdom by Tripadvisor, based on consistently excellent reviews from millions of visitors. The travel guidance platform highlighted that the conservation zoo in Upton-by-Chester, Cheshire, received an impressive 11,666 'excellent' ratings and was also included in Europe's top ten zoos and aquariums for 2026.
Spanning 130 Acres with 30,000 Animals
The sprawling zoo covers 130 acres and is home to approximately 30,000 animals, including more than 500 threatened species. It is one of the largest zoological parks in the UK, offering visitors a chance to see a wide variety of wildlife up close. Among its protected animals are the Sumatran orangutan, Sumatran tiger, jaguars, greater one-horned rhino, sun bear, warthog, and okapi.
Conservation and Education Charity
Chester Zoo is not just a day out; it is a nationally renowned conservation and education charity dedicated to preventing animal extinction. The zoo's efforts include developing the world's first vaccine for a deadly virus threatening Asian elephants, pulling a tiny snail species back from the brink of extinction, and planting thousands of new trees to create woodland habitat.
Visitor Experiences and Amenities
Beyond the animals, the zoo features gardens, play areas, various eateries including an on-site pub and restaurant, and a virtual reality experience. Visitors can also stay overnight at The Reserve, a new hotel with 51 luxury African-themed lodges that opened last summer, offering a UK safari getaway.
Heart of Africa Habitat
Last year, Chester Zoo opened the largest UK zoo habitat, Heart of Africa, spanning 2.5 acres—equivalent to more than 17 football pitches—and home to 57 African species. This expansion has been a major draw for visitors.
Visitor Reviews
One TripAdvisor reviewer wrote: 'Have been visiting this zoo since 1961... I have visited many different zoos in many different countries and places, and still Chester Zoo beats them all hands down. The new African area and the lodges are amazing.' Another said: 'Such an amazing day... Forever my favourite zoo, as someone who’s visited many across the world! The emphasis on conservation is amazing.'
CEO Statement
Jamie Christon, CEO of Chester Zoo, said: '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. Every visit to Chester Zoo directly supports our vital conservation work.'
For more information or to book tickets, visit the Chester Zoo website.
