Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo, which opened back in 1963, promises a wild family day out for everyone. Ranked as the 11th best zoo in the world, and one of the top two zoos in the UK, Colchester Zoo is home to more than 240 different species of animal from across 10 different international regions, including Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, New Zealand, and the Americas. All animals at the zoo are categorised by type, with big cats, birds, insects, mammals, reptiles, and underwater creatures all being protected within their own natural habitats within the zoo enclosures. 

Along with the huge range of animals at Colchester Zoo, there's also five on-site play areas for little ones to enjoy, including an indoor soft play area which makes the zoo an excellent rainy day activity. There's also a face painting station, gift shop, lots of restaurants, and the impressive Colchester Zoo Discovery Centre. Within the Discovery Centre, you'll find the popular interactive zone featuring plenty of hands-on attractions which help children to learn more about animals and environments through touch. Here, kids can find out what a crocodile skin really feels like, and if they're feeling especially brave they can even hold a giant cockroach or stick insect! Plan your day by downloading the park map. 

The zoo is open from 9:30am every day except Christmas Day. Closing times vary from 4:30pm in winter to 6:00pm in summer, so it's always best to check the website (www.colchester-zoo.com) before planning your family day out. The zoo is located just 10 minutes by taxi from Colchester station, and there is a large, free car park on-site.