Edinburgh Zoo: A Wildlife Sanctuary on Corstorphine Hill
Explore Edinburgh Zoo’s 82 acres of wildlife wonder, home to rare species and a hub for conservation and family adventures.
Edinburgh Zoo, set on 82 acres of scenic sloping parkland in Corstorphine, Edinburgh, is home to over 2,500 rare and endangered animals including chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, tigers, and Scotland’s only koalas and sloths. Visitors can enjoy immersive animal encounters, keeper talks, and family-friendly play areas, all while supporting vital conservation efforts. The zoo operates year-round with seasonal opening hours and offers a range of dining and shopping options.
A brief summary to Edinburgh Zoo
- 134 Corstorphine Rd, Edinburgh, Corstorphine, EH12 6TS, GB
- +441313349171
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Wear comfortable footwear as the zoo is set on a hillside with some steep paths.
- Book tickets online in advance to save money and avoid disappointment, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to see animals active during feeding times.
- Check the zoo’s website or app for daily updates on animal talks, encounters, and any temporary closures.
- Consider hiring a mobility scooter or wheelchair if you need assistance navigating the hilly terrain.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Frequent Lothian Buses services run from Edinburgh city centre to Edinburgh Zoo, with journey times of approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Bus routes 12 and 26 stop near the zoo entrance. Tickets cost around £2.00 to £3.00 one way. Service frequency is high during the day, making this a convenient and eco-friendly option.
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Car
Driving to Edinburgh Zoo takes about 15 minutes from the city centre via Corstorphine Road. Limited on-site parking is available at a charge of approximately £5 per vehicle. Due to restricted spaces, early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh to the zoo typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £8 to £15. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can be more expensive during peak times.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Corstorphine, walking to the zoo is possible and takes about 20 to 30 minutes over hilly terrain. Comfortable footwear is advised due to slopes and uneven paths.
Edinburgh Zoo location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Edinburgh Zoo
A Living Collection of Global Wildlife
Edinburgh Zoo is a renowned zoological park sprawling across 82 acres of wooded hillside in the Corstorphine area of Edinburgh. It houses more than 2,500 animals representing a diverse array of species, many of which are rare or endangered. Highlights include the Budongo Trail, where visitors can observe chimpanzees in a naturalistic habitat, as well as unique residents such as pygmy hippos, Sumatran tigers, and Scotland’s only koalas and sloths. The zoo’s layout encourages exploration through varied habitats that mimic the animals’ natural environments, offering an educational and engaging experience.Conservation and Education at Its Core
Operated by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), Edinburgh Zoo is not just a visitor attraction but a vital conservation charity. It supports breeding programs and global wildlife projects aimed at reversing the decline of over 50 endangered species by 2030. The zoo offers a busy schedule of educational events including keeper talks, animal encounters, and themed tours that deepen visitors’ understanding of wildlife challenges and conservation efforts. These activities provide interactive learning opportunities for all ages, fostering a connection between people and nature.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The zoo is designed to be family-friendly with several play areas, picnic spots, and accessible paths, though visitors should be prepared for some steep slopes due to the hillside location. There are multiple dining options ranging from casual eateries to picnic areas, alongside a well-stocked gift shop. Seasonal events such as the Giant Lanterns festival add a magical dimension to the visitor experience during winter months. While the zoo is open year-round except Christmas Day, opening hours vary seasonally, typically from 10am to 4pm in winter and extending to 6pm in summer.Accessibility and Practical Information
Edinburgh Zoo is located about three miles west of Edinburgh city centre and is accessible by frequent bus services. Limited parking is available onsite, and mobility scooters and wheelchairs can be hired to assist with the hilly terrain. Assistance dogs are permitted, but pets are not allowed to protect the welfare of the animals. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable footwear and check for any temporary closures of indoor enclosures or animal viewing areas, which may occur for health and welfare reasons.Seasonal Highlights and Special Events
Throughout the year, the zoo hosts a variety of events such as late-night openings in summer, festive activities including a Christmas grotto, and educational Wild Discovery Days. The Giant Lanterns event, returning with an aquatic theme, transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland during winter evenings. These events enhance the zoo’s appeal beyond regular visits, offering unique experiences that combine entertainment with wildlife education.Commitment to Animal Welfare and Sustainability
Edinburgh Zoo adheres to strict animal welfare guidelines, ensuring that all animals are cared for in environments that meet their physical and psychological needs. The zoo is actively engaged in sustainable practices and conservation initiatives, emphasizing the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and promoting biodiversity. By visiting, guests contribute directly to these efforts, supporting the zoo’s mission to create a world where nature is protected, valued, and loved.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
