Maldon Rd, Stanway, Heckfordbridge, Colchester CO3 0SL
Colchester Zoo
Colchester Zoo is a zoological garden situated near Colchester, England. The zoo opened in 1963 and celebrated its 50th anniversary on 2 June 2013. It is home to many rare and endangered species, including big cats, primates and birds as well as many invertebrates and fish species.
Location
About
Colchester Zoo, located in Heckfordbridge, England, is a popular tourist destination for families and animal lovers. With over 260 species of animals, Colchester Zoo provides a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of Colchester Zoo is the "African Plains" exhibit, where visitors can see a variety of African animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and elephants roaming in a realistic savanna setting. Another must-see exhibit is the "Rainforest Encounter," where visitors can explore the lush environment of the Amazon rainforest and see exotic animals such as monkeys, jaguars, and tropical birds up close.
The zoo also offers a number of interactive experiences, including the opportunity to feed giraffes, meet and feed animals such as meerkats, and take part in a animal encounter where you can get up close and personal with some of the animals.
In addition to its diverse array of animals, Colchester Zoo also has a number of facilities to make visitors' experience as enjoyable as possible. These include several restaurants, a large picnic area, and several gift shops. The zoo also has a well-maintained playground and a number of special events throughout the year, such as the "Zoo Nights" event where visitors can enjoy a summer evening exploring the zoo after hours.
Overall, Colchester Zoo is a great destination for families and animal lovers. Its combination of educational and interactive exhibits, along with its well-maintained facilities and special events, make it a must-visit destination in England.
Gallery
Things to do nearby
Colchester Zoo is one of the largest and most popular zoos in the United Kingdom. It is home to over 260 species of animals, including some of the rarest and most endangered species in the world. Located in Essex, England, it is easily accessible from many major cities and towns in the area. If you are planning to visit Colchester Zoo, there are plenty of other places and things to do nearby that you might want to check out.
1. Visit the town of Colchester
Colchester is a historic town that dates back over 2000 years. It is known for its Roman history and has many attractions related to this period, such as the Roman walls and the Colchester Castle Museum. The town also has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, theatres, and music venues.
2. Enjoy the countryside
Essex is known for its beautiful countryside, and there are many areas nearby that are perfect for hiking, cycling, or just enjoying a leisurely stroll. The Dedham Vale, which is part of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a particularly picturesque area that is well worth a visit.
3. Visit the coast
The Essex coast is just a short drive from Colchester Zoo and offers many attractions, including sandy beaches, seaside towns, and fishing villages. Popular destinations include Clacton-on-Sea, Brightlingsea, and Mersea Island.
4. Explore historic houses and gardens
Essex is home to many historic houses and gardens that are open to the public. These include the stately homes of Audley End and Layer Marney Tower, as well as the Beth Chatto Gardens and the Tiptree Jam Factory.
5. Visit the Colne Valley Railway
The Colne Valley Railway is a heritage railway that runs between Castle Hedingham and Chappel and Wakes Colne. It offers visitors the chance to experience a ride on a steam train and learn about the history of railways in the area.
6. Go shopping
If you are in the mood for some retail therapy, there are several shopping destinations within easy reach of Colchester Zoo. The Freeport Braintree Designer Outlet is a popular shopping center that offers discounts on designer brands, while the town of Colchester has many independent boutiques and shops.
7. Take a trip to London
London is just over an hour away from Colchester Zoo by train, making it an easy day trip destination. With its many attractions, including the British Museum, the Tower of London, and the London Eye, there is something for everyone in the capital.
In conclusion, Colchester Zoo is a great destination for animal lovers, but there are also many other things to do and see in the surrounding area. Whether you are interested in history, nature, shopping, or just relaxing in the countryside, there is something for everyone within easy reach of the zoo.
Opening Hours
| Wednesday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
|---|---|
| Thursday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Friday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Saturday | 9:30 am–4:30 pm |
| Sunday | 9:30 am–4:30 pm |
| Monday | 9:30 am–4 pm |
| Tuesday | 9:30 am–4 pm |