Chester Zoo

When it comes to days out with kids in the North West, Chester Zoo is the big one. Literally. There are over 30,000 animals – and more than 520 different species – spread across 130 acres.

It’s one of the most highly-rated zoos in the country and its huge size means there is plenty of space for the creatures who call it home – you don’t get that slightly icky feeling of looking at sad animals in small enclosures. Chester Zoo is also a big deal when it comes to animal conservation, both on-site and around the world.

The size is one of its attractions but also one of its drawbacks if you’re visiting with young children – there is a lot of walking. Bring bribery snacks. You have to accept that you won’t see everything – even if you trek all the way to the tigers, you can’t guarantee they won’t be sleeping out of view in the shade. If you bear that in mind, what you do see will be magical.

Our family favourites include the bats, capybaras and little monkeys in the yellow zone; the Monsoon Forest in the pink zone with its orang-utans, gibbons, tortoises, reptiles and frogs; the otters and penguins of the blue zone; the tarantulas, butterflies and chimps in the green zone; and the giraffes in the orange zone – look out for their long dark purple tongues.

Don’t miss the animal talks – it’s a good chance to find out more about some of your favourites creatures and maybe see a little more of them.

Animal experiences are also available such as behind the scenes at the elephant house or meeting and feeding the rhinos. Some of these are adults-only so check before booking.

You can also stay over on The Reserve and wake up to zebras playing outside your window.