Edinburgh Zoo is one of the UK's leading conservation zoos, set on 82 acres of hillside parkland just 10 minutes from the city centre. Home to the UK's only giant pandas and over 1,000 animals from around the world, it's been welcoming visitors since 1913 and remains Scotland's most popular paid wildlife attraction.
What sets Edinburgh Zoo apart is its commitment to conservation. As part of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, the zoo participates in over 100 conservation breeding programmes for endangered species. Every visit helps fund vital conservation work in Scotland and around the world.
The zoo is built on a sloping hillside, which creates natural habitats and excellent viewing opportunities but does mean plenty of walking uphill. The rewards are worth it—from the famous Penguin Parade to intimate encounters with everything from tiny poison dart frogs to magnificent Asiatic lions.
Animals at Edinburgh Zoo
Giant Pandas
Giant Panda EnclosureYang Guang and Tian Tian, the UK's only giant pandas, are the star attractions. Watch them munching bamboo in their specially designed enclosure.
Penguin Rock
Penguin RockHome to three species of penguin including gentoos, rockhoppers, and king penguins. Don't miss the famous Penguin Parade (seasonal).
Asiatic Lions
Wee Beasties TrailMagnificent lions in a naturalistic habitat. Part of the international conservation breeding programme for this endangered species.
Chimpanzees
Budongo TrailEdinburgh Zoo has one of the largest chimpanzee groups in any zoo. Watch their fascinating social interactions from the viewing areas.
Koalas
Koala TerritoryThe UK's only koalas can be found here, munching eucalyptus in their climate-controlled Queensland Wetlands habitat.
Sun Bears
Sun Bear WoodThe world's smallest bears are incredibly playful. Their enclosure features climbing frames and enrichment activities.
The Giant Pandas
Edinburgh Zoo is the only place in the UK where you can see giant pandas. Yang Guang ("Sunshine") and Tian Tian ("Sweetie") arrived in December 2011 on loan from China, and have become the zoo's biggest stars.
The pandas live in purpose-built enclosures with both indoor and outdoor areas. They spend most of their day eating bamboo—up to 38kg each per day! The best times to see them active are usually morning and late afternoon. Staff deliver fresh bamboo throughout the day.
While viewing is included in standard admission, the pandas' visibility depends on their mood and the weather. They may be in the indoor viewing area or outside. Be patient and you'll almost certainly get to see these incredible animals during your visit.
Zoo Highlights & Experiences
Penguin Parade
A daily procession of penguins waddling through the zoo. Free with admission, but arrive early for the best views. Seasonal - check dates.
Keeper Talks
Throughout the day, expert keepers share fascinating facts about the animals during feeding times and special talks.
Budongo Trail
Award-winning indoor chimpanzee enclosure simulating a Ugandan forest. Interactive exhibits teach about primate conservation.
Magic Forest
Adventure playground perfect for younger visitors to let off steam. Climbing frames, slides and nature play.
Wee Beasties
Get up close with smaller creatures including meerkats, otters, and various reptiles and invertebrates.
Hilltop Safari
Electric hillside transport for those who want to save their legs on the steep hillside terrain.
Tips for Visiting Edinburgh Zoo
- ✓The zoo is built on a hillside - wear comfortable walking shoes
- ✓Download the free zoo app for interactive map and feeding times
- ✓Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds
- ✓Penguin Parade happens daily (seasonal) - arrive 15 mins early for good spots
- ✓Bring layers - weather can change and some areas are outdoors
- ✓Allow at least 3-4 hours for a full visit
- ✓Food is available but bringing a picnic can save money
- ✓The Hilltop Safari can help if you have mobility concerns or young children
Visitor Information
Opening Times
- Summer (Apr-Sep): 10:00am - 6:00pm
- Winter (Oct-Mar): 10:00am - 5:00pm
- Last admission: 1 hour before closing
- Closed: Christmas Day
Ticket Prices
- Adults: £22-£28 (varies by season)
- Children (3-15): £16-£20
- Under 3s: Free
- Online discount: Up to 10% off
Getting There
Located on Corstorphine Road, about 3 miles west of the city centre. By bus: Routes 12, 26, 31 from Princes Street stop outside. By car: Parking available (charges apply). By tram: Edinburgh Zoo stop on the tram line.
Facilities
- Gift shops and cafés throughout
- Picnic areas available
- Baby changing facilities
- Wheelchair accessible (but hilly)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are Edinburgh Zoo tickets?
Adult tickets cost around £22-£28 depending on the season. Children (3-15) pay approximately £16-£20. Under 3s are free. Book online for discounts of up to 10% off gate prices. Annual passes offer excellent value for Edinburgh residents.
What are Edinburgh Zoo opening times?
Open daily 10am-6pm (April-September) and 10am-5pm (October-March). Last entry is one hour before closing. The zoo closes on Christmas Day. Extended hours during school holidays and special events.
Does Edinburgh Zoo still have pandas?
Yes, Edinburgh Zoo is home to the UK's only giant pandas, Yang Guang (male) and Tian Tian (female), on loan from China. They arrived in 2011 and can be seen daily in their purpose-built enclosure.
How long do you need at Edinburgh Zoo?
Most visitors spend 3-4 hours exploring the zoo. If you want to see everything including shows and keeper talks, allow a full day. The hilly terrain means it can take longer than expected to cover the whole site.
Is Edinburgh Zoo good for toddlers?
Yes, Edinburgh Zoo is very family-friendly with many animals that appeal to young children. The Magic Forest playground, Living Links exhibit, and Wee Beasties area are particular favourites. Buggy-friendly paths are available but the hills can be challenging.
Can you see the pandas for free at Edinburgh Zoo?
Panda viewing is included in general admission - there's no extra charge. However, the pandas may be inside or outside depending on weather and their mood, so sightings aren't guaranteed.
What is the Penguin Parade?
The famous Penguin Parade lets penguins voluntarily waddle out of their enclosure and through a section of the zoo. It's free with admission but only runs seasonally - typically March to October, weather permitting.
Is there parking at Edinburgh Zoo?
Yes, the zoo has a car park adjacent to the entrance. Parking charges apply (approximately £7-8 per day). It can fill up on busy weekends and school holidays, so arrive early or consider public transport.