Explore the Top 5 Biggest Zoos in the UK by Size
Published: 5 Apr 2026
The UK is home to some of the largest and most impressive zoos in Europe, offering unforgettable wildlife experiences. Ranging from safari-style parks to traditional enclosures, these destinations give animals plenty of space to roam and visitors many ways to explore.
Many parks let you get close to wildlife with drive-through safaris, interactive exhibits and rare animal encounters that make every visit special.
Biggest zoos in the uk can vary in sizes as some count only areas open to visitors, while others include full estates, safari reserves or conservation land. The land area figures used in this guide come from official zoo websites and other trusted sources. To keep comparisons consistent, all zoos are measured in total hectares.
In this 2026 guide, we highlight the top 5 biggest zoos in the UK based on total land area, giving you a clear picture of their scale and offerings.
Comparison of Biggest Zoos in the UK by Area and Key Attractions
| Zoo / Park | Location | Size | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZSL Whipsnade Zoo | Bedfordshire, UK | ~242 ha (600 ac) | Open-range habitats with safari-like sections, elephants, lions, giraffes, Great Whipsnade Railway, and active conservation programs |
| Knowsley Safari Park | Merseyside, UK | ~220 ha (550 ac) | Drive-through safari experience with giraffes, rhinos, big cats, walk-through zones, interactive feeding, and family-friendly attractions |
| West Midlands Safari Park | Bewdley, Worcestershire, UK | ~200 ha (494 ac) | Four-mile safari drive featuring tigers, cheetahs, rhinos, themed walk-through exhibits, and a small amusement zone for children |
| Chester Zoo | Cheshire, UK | ~128 ha | Immersive biomes, Monsoon Forest, Islands habitats, Heart of Africa savannah, and extensive conservation programs (walking zoo experience) |
| Highland Wildlife Park | Kingussie, Scotland | ~105 ha | Drive-through reserve area for some species, polar bears, Amur tigers, Scottish wildcats, and scenic Highland landscapes (safari-inspired sections) |
Top 5 Biggest Zoos in UK (Ranked by Area)
This list ranks the biggest zoos in UK by total land area, including safari parks
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo – Bedfordshire
Location: Bedfordshire, UK
Size: ~242 hectares (600 acres) – UK’s largest zoo by area
Managed by: Zoological Society of London (ZSL)
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo is widely recognized as the biggest zoo in the UK, covering approximately 242 hectares. Its large open enclosures and safari-style layout make it one of the largest wildlife parks in Europe.
Here, animals roam in spacious habitats that mimic their natural environments. You can see elephants, lions, giraffes, rhinos, and many more species along walking paths or by hopping on the Great Whipsnade Railway. While it’s not a traditional safari park, the open-range layout gives a safari-like feeling across its vast grounds.
Beyond sightseeing, Whipsnade plays a major role in conservation. It participates in breeding programmes for endangered species and funds global wildlife projects. A visit here combines education, adventure, and up-close encounters with animals thriving in naturalistic enclosures.
Knowsley Safari Park – Merseyside
Location: Merseyside, UK
Size: ~220 hectares (550 acres) – one of the UK’s largest safari parks
Managed by: Knowsley Leisure & Safari Park Ltd
Knowsley Safari Park is one of the UK’s top safari style parks, offering a full drive-through experience across 220 hectares. Visitors can tour in their own vehicles or take a guided ride, seeing giraffes, rhinos, exotic deer, and big cats roam freely in open habitats.
The park also features walk-through zones, interactive feeding sessions, and playgrounds, making it a perfect family day out. It combines wildlife immersion with entertainment and education.
Knowsley is active in conservation and research, participating in breeding programmes for endangered species and showcasing how zoos care for animals behind the scenes.
If you’re curious about other amazing zoos across the UK, check out our full guide to the Biggest Zoos in Europe for more safari-style adventures and wildlife experiences.
West Midlands Safari Park – Worcestershire
Location: Bewdley, Worcestershire, UK
Size: ~200 hectares (494 acres) – one of the UK’s largest safari-style parks
Managed by: West Midlands Safari Park Ltd
West Midlands Safari Park is another classic safari-style destination, giving visitors a four-mile drive through open habitats where cheetahs, tigers, rhinos, and giraffes roam freely. It’s one of the best places in the UK for a hands-on safari experience without leaving the country.
In addition to the safari drive, there are walk-through areas with themed exhibits, a reptile house, animal talks, and a small amusement zone for kids. This mix of safari, wildlife education, and family fun makes it a standout attraction.
Chester Zoo – Cheshire
Location: Cheshire, UK
Size: ~128 hectares – one of the UK’s largest and most visited zoos
Managed by: Chester Zoo Ltd
Chester Zoo is a walking-focused zoo with immersive habitats covering 128 hectares. While it’s not a safari-style park, it’s known for diverse biomes and interactive experiences. Highlights include the Monsoon Forest, Islands habitats, and the award-winning Heart of Africa savannah exhibit, featuring giraffes, zebras, and rhinos.
Founded in 1931, the zoo is deeply involved in global conservation, breeding programmes, and educational projects. Every visit combines learning with exciting encounters across hundreds of species.
Not sure which one to visit? Check out our detailed comparison of Whipsnade Zoo and Chester Zoo to decide which zoo suits your trip best.
Highland Wildlife Park – Scotland
Location: Kingussie, Scotland, UK
Size: ~105 hectares – Scotland’s largest wildlife park
Managed by: Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS)
Highland Wildlife Park sits within the stunning Cairngorms National Park and blends walk-through enclosures with a small drive-through area for some species. You’ll find European elk, bison, Przewalski’s horses, polar bears, Scottish wildcats, Amur tigers, and red pandas.
The park focuses on conservation and habitat authenticity, giving animals plenty of space in naturalistic enclosures. While smaller than Whipsnade or Knowsley, it offers a unique Highland wildlife experience in a rugged and scenic environment.
FAQs About Biggest Zoos in the UK
The biggest zoo in England is ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, known for its expansive grounds and safari‑style enclosures.
There are more than 300 licensed zoos in the UK, according to data compiled from international wildlife charity Born Free’s database of UK zoos.
Chester Zoo has one of the largest animal collections in the UK, with thousands of animals across hundreds of species.
ZSL Whipsnade Zoo covers about 242 hectares (600 acres), making it one of the most spacious zoological parks in Europe.
Yes — Whipsnade is much larger. London Zoo is compact at around 15 hectares, while Whipsnade’s grounds are vastly more extensive.
