Days Out

Edinburgh Zoo

Zoo in Edinburgh · 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS

Edinburgh Zoo draws 700,000 annual visitors seeking wildlife experiences without international travel. Located on Corstorphine Hill, it represents Scotland's leading zoo attraction and primary destination where local families reconnect with the natural world beyond tourist-heavy areas.

What Makes This Edinburgh's Go-To Family Day Out

The facility encompasses 2,500+ animals across 82 acres, balancing expansive adventure with manageable crowds. The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) operates serious conservation initiatives preventing species extinction, distinguishing this venue from typical animal facilities.

The penguin parade draws the largest crowds, though locals appreciate quieter moments: chimpanzee interactions, lion feeding times, and Poly (the one-eyed penguin) who recovered from surgery.

Getting There and Making It Work

Bus 26 from Princes Street reaches the entrance within 20 minutes; driving from the suburbs offers straightforward access, though weekend and holiday parking fills quickly. Full-day visits optimise animal activity during feeding periods.

Edinburgh's seven hills present challenges; Corstorphine slopes require effort pushing pushchairs but provide elevated animal views and city panoramas.

Who It Actually Works For

Toddlers enjoy farmyard sections and animated creatures, though walking distances risk afternoon fatigue. Primary school-age children represent ideal visitors — mature enough for conservation narratives, young enough for Komodo dragon amazement.

Teenagers initially hesitant often engage during keeper demonstrations or photography opportunities. Parents find sufficient genuine interest and quality beverages maintaining engagement throughout visits.

Special Offers

Common Questions About Edinburgh Zoo

How much does Edinburgh Zoo cost?

Ticket pricing varies by date and visitor age. Online advance booking secures the best rates. Kids Pass members receive up to 35% admission discounts.

Where is Edinburgh Zoo?

Edinburgh Zoo is located at 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS, United Kingdom.

Is Edinburgh Zoo suitable for toddlers?

Yes, the venue attracts young families. Most exhibits accommodate pushchairs with designated younger visitor areas including a farmyard section.

Is there parking near Edinburgh Zoo?

Public car parks and street parking are available nearby. Weekend and holiday periods fill up quickly, so arriving early or using bus route 26 from Princes Street is recommended.

Can I save money on Edinburgh Zoo tickets?

Kids Pass members save 35%+ on admission across thousands of UK family attractions. Membership starts from £3.99/month, often recouping costs on the first visit. Booking online in advance also secures better rates.

Nearby Attractions

  • Pizza Hut Corstorphine — 0.9 miles · Restaurant
  • Toby Carvery Edinburgh West — 1.1 miles · Pub Restaurant
  • Toby Carvery Lauriston Farm — 1.8 miles · Pub Restaurant
  • Nando's Edinburgh - Craigleith — 2.0 miles · Restaurant
  • ODEON Luxe Edinburgh West — 2.4 miles · Cinema
  • Domino's Pizza - Edinburgh - Dalry Road — 3.4 miles · Delivery

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