We are open every day from 9:30am except Christmas Day and closing times vary according to season. Please note that the Zoo may close up to 30 minutes prior to the closing time stated depending on level of trade. Last admission to the zoo grounds is 1 hour prior to close.
Colchester Zoological Society is a full day experience and we recommend you arrive as close to opening as possible.
However if you arrive after midday it is important to note that the following areas close an hour before the rest of the Zoo: Kingdom of the Wild, Elephant Kingdom, The Madagascar Express Road Train, DinosaurRealm and a range of catering facilities.
Friday 26th December 2025 –
Friday 13th February 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4:00pm close
Weekends and School Holidays: 4:30pm close
Saturday 14th February 2026 –
Friday 27th March 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4:30pm close
Weekends and School Holidays: 5:00pm close
Saturday 28th March 2026 –
Friday 17th July 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 5:00pm close
Weekends and School Holidays: 5:30pm close
Saturday 18th July 2026 –
Monday 31st August 2026
Weekends and School Holidays: 6:00pm close
8th & 22nd August: 8:00pm close
Tuesday 1st September 2026 –
Sunday 4th October 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 5:00pm close
Weekends and School Holidays: 5:30pm close
12th & 26th September: 9:00pm close
Monday 5th October 2026 –
Sunday 1st November 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4:30pm close
Weekend and School Holidays: 5:00pm close
Monday 2nd November 2026 –
Thursday 24th December 2026
Monday to Friday Term Time: 4:00pm close
Weekends and School Holidays: 4:30pm close
Magic of Christmas Days: Open from 8:30am
Friday 25th December 2026
CLOSED
What’s on?
Don’t miss out! Take a look at all of the events taking place at the Zoo this year!
