Chester Zoo is now officially the UK’s most-visited attraction outside London that charges admission, with statistics showing it enjoyed almost two million guests last year.
In data provided by tourism expert, VisitEngland, Chester Zoo ranked third for popularity only being beaten by Tower of London and Kew Gardens in the capital. In 2024, 1,947,544 people attended the zoo, replicating the same results as seen the year before.
Dom Strange, commercial director at Chester Zoo said that the high numbers represent a growing interest among the public regarding conservation and wildlife. He commented:
“None of this would be possible without our visitors. Every person who comes to the zoo for a fun and inspiring day out is helping to fund our vital work. The more visitors we can attract to the zoo, the more species-saving work we can carry out.”
The recent recognition follows the launch of the “Heart of Africa” habitat at Chester Zoo. An epic undertaking, acknowledged as the biggest zoo development for the UK, the new habitat is 22.5 acres in size and provides a home for 57 different species.
The zoo’s wider mission stretches far beyond building animal exhibits. Today, its tireless teams are engaged in conservation efforts in around 20 countries, scientific research focused on saving endangered species from extinction and education programmes connected to the curriculum in the UK.
Located just a short drive away from the city centre, Chester Zoo can be found in Upton-by-Chester and is open every day of the week between 10 am and 5 pm.
