Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh Zoo is one of Scotland’s most popular wildlife attractions and the home of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS). Set across more than 82 acres of wooded hillside overlooking the city, the zoo is home to over 2,500 animals from around the world. Visitors can explore a wide variety of habitats while learning about global conservation work and the efforts being made to protect endangered species.

One of the zoo’s most famous attractions is the Penguin Parade, where visitors can watch the resident penguins take a daily walk around the zoo. Guests can also meet Sir Nils Olav, the world’s only knighted penguin and a beloved resident of the zoo. Throughout the day, keeper talks provide opportunities to learn more about animals such as mischievous meerkats, sun bears, birds and reptiles.

Several immersive exhibits allow visitors to get closer to wildlife than ever before. In Tiger Tracks, visitors can watch Sumatran tigers walk overhead through a glass tunnel, while walkthrough habitats allow close encounters with animals including monkeys, lemurs, pelicans and wallabies. For those interested in smaller creatures, the Wee Beasties exhibit showcases reptiles, amphibians and insects from around the world.

Edinburgh Zoo offers a range of facilities to support a mobility friendly visit. The zoo has its own car park with dedicated disabled parking spaces located around 100 metres from the entrance. There is level access between the car park and the main entrance, although the zoo is built on a hillside and some areas include steep slopes or steps that may not be suitable for wheelchairs. An accessibility map is available to help visitors plan the best routes around the zoo.

A mobility vehicle service operates throughout the year for visitors with accessibility requirements. The vehicle has space for one wheelchair user and additional passengers, helping visitors travel between key areas of the zoo more easily. During the busier months between April and October an additional vehicle operates to transport one of the zoo’s mobility scooters alongside other passengers.

Accessible toilet facilities are located in several areas of the zoo including Park Reception, Budongo Trail, the Magic Forest, Member’s Gate and the Grasslands Restaurant. These facilities include handrails, lowered sinks, transfer space beside the toilet and emergency alarm cords.

Edinburgh Zoo also offers sensory support for visitors who may benefit from additional assistance. Sensory bags can be borrowed from the admissions area with a refundable deposit. These bags include accessible maps, ear defenders, sunglasses to reduce bright light, fidget toys and binoculars to help visitors enjoy the animals.

Visitors who require a carer to accompany them during their visit can receive free carer entry alongside a paying disabled guest. Supporting evidence such as a Personal Independence Payment letter, Disability Living Allowance documentation or an Access Card with the +1 symbol may be required on arrival.

Fully trained assistance dogs are permitted in the zoo when accompanying their handler. However, dogs must remain on a lead and under control at all times and are not permitted in indoor exhibits, walkthrough habitats or certain outdoor areas to protect the animals.

With its spectacular setting, fascinating animals and strong conservation mission, Edinburgh Zoo offers a memorable and educational wildlife experience for visitors exploring Scotland.