Edinburgh Zoo, Scotland - Tickets and Prices
Getting around - other related articles in this section > Tourist Info > Things to do > Short Break Tours > Edinburgh Castle > Edinburgh Tattoo > ZooIf you're a bit overdone on the tartan and bagpipes, the 82 acre Edinburgh Zoo can offer a bit of relief. Home to over 1,000 rare animals including the bongo, Asiatic lion and the Oriental small clawed otter, the Edinburgh Zoo affords visitors with a peaceful and educational day out of the city centre.
Founded in 1909 and opened to the public in 1913, the Edinburgh Zoo was designed as a revolutionary 'open zoo,' where animals are confined by strategically placed moats and ditches rather than by bars. Guests were finally able to view the animals without peering through cages, which were dismissed as an unstylish Victorian notion.
The Edinburgh Zoo boasted the first penguins to be seen outside of the South Atlantic. In 1914 the Zoo received three king penguins from a whaling expedition docked in Leith ; by 1919 they were successfully breeding the artic birds and hatching their eggs in captivity.
Today the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland owns and operates the Edinburgh Zoo, which offers activities for visitors of all ages. Children can experience several play areas as well as free safari rides and hands-on meetings with the animals. There are always events such as keeper talks and discussions on conservation. Amenities include a number of restaurants and gift shop.
Zoo ticket prices, opening hours and location
Opening hours change with the season, but the zoo remains open until at least 4.30pm year-round. Ticket prices for adults are £9.00 and £6.00 for children (under 3s get in free). Concessions are available; plus discounts for multiple ticket purchases).
Located three miles west of the city centre, the Edinburgh Zoo is open year round. For more information call 0131 334 9171 or visit them at www.edinburghzoo.org.uk
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