Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
From happy customers
Loved by 47 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5
Dominic
AustraliaJan 2026
5/5
+1 more
The rooms were beautifully displayed with good and concise historical information. The entire experience from booking to viewing the property was easy, and the staff were exceptional.
Claudia
ItalyDec 2025
5/5
A visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh's royal residence, was a deeply evocative experience. The complex is impeccably maintained and managed with great attention to detail. The tour remains rich and engaging, offering an authentic journey through centuries of Scottish history.
The interiors, still used today by the Royal Family, are remarkably well preserved and restore a solemn and refined atmosphere. Each room tells stories of intrigue, power and destiny, linked in particular to the intense and tragic figure of Mary Stuart.
Holyrood Palace is an essential stop for anyone visiting Edinburgh: a place where history, elegance and emotion are harmoniously and unforgettably interwoven.
Justin
United KingdomJan 2026
5/5
#Me and my girlfriend went to edinburgh zoo and it was amazing! We were worried that because it was winter we wouldn't see any animals. However, we were suprised to see all the animals we went in for. The staff were lovely and the enclosures for the animals were amazing. My girlfriend was so excited to see the capybaras, she cried!! Amazing experience, would highly recommend to anyone that has a love for animals and conservation. The zoo seem to be participating in a lot of conservation work which i love to see as a wildlife and conservation management student at SRUC. 10/10 experience, thanks to everyone at Edinburgh Zoo
Chuma
United KingdomJan 2026
5/5
It was a long walk but worth it.
Saw the Penguin 🐧, tiger and Giraffes. Sadly I couldn't see the cheetah and zebra as they were hiding.
Fatehyab
IndiaDec 2025
5/5
Loved the dungeon experience
Everyone was extremely engrossed in their roles and felt like we were actually present
Had a wonderful time
Carole
United KingdomOct 2025
5/5
I had visited before but it was my daughter's first visit and she was picked as Sweaty Betty - she thoroughly enjoyed this and the Judge was particularly excellent in her role. We had a really enjoyable visit, with staff engagement making us laugh and scream in equal measure. I would certainly return to the Edinburgh Dungeons.
Harshil
United KingdomJan 2026
4/5
I recently visited the attraction booked through Headout, and overall, it was a wonderful experience that left me impressed with the level of care and organization. The animals were clearly well-maintained, housed in spacious enclosures that mimicked their natural habitats as much as possible, and they all seemed healthy, active, and content—no signs of distress or neglect. That said, to elevate it to a truly world-class level, I believe there could be improvements in a few areas. For instance, the populations of larger animal species felt a bit sparse; breeds like lions and tigers were present but challenging to observe closely or in greater numbers, which made it hard to fully appreciate their majesty from the viewing areas. Perhaps adding more individuals or adjusting the enclosure designs for better visibility would help. Additionally, I was disappointed to find no bears on site, even though they were referenced in the promotional materials—this might be worth clarifying or updating in the descriptions to set
Pearl
United KingdomJan 2026
4/5
We always visit a zoo wherever we are if possible.
Edinburgh Zoo is in the outskirts of town which was a bit odd.
My husband has mobility issues so the staff drove us to the top of the zoo by the dinosaurs exhibit & we slowly walked down. You can hire an electric buggy but theres some parts you cant get to as the slopes are too steep, even when walking down.
Not all the ankmals were out for viewing which i dont blame them, it was NY Day & very cold.
Penguin cafe was nice, a ham sarnie, a scone with jam & butter plus 2 large teas was £14 i think, which was the cheapest bill so far in Edinburgh!
We were there for 2hrs, if it wasnt so hilly we woulc have seen more.
But we enjoyed it.
Edinburgh Zoo I World’s first penguin breeding facility
Edinburgh Zoo spans 82 acres on Corstorphine Hill, offering views of the city and over 2,500 animals from around the world. Known for its pioneering penguin breeding, the zoo also houses chimpanzees, tigers, sloths, and koalas, with a strong focus on conservation and public education.
Why visit Edinburgh Zoo?
Animals you won’t find anywhere else in Scotland: Edinburgh Zoo is the only place in Scotland where you can see sloths, koalas, pygmy hippos, Sumatran tigers, and a bachelor herd of giraffes in one visit.
Adorable daily Penguin Parade: Gentoo, king, and northern rockhopper penguins waddle freely past visitors during the zoo’s iconic Penguin Parade, offering an unforgettable and up-close encounter with these playful birds.
Immersive and educational exhibits: Observe chimpanzees on the Budongo Trail, explore the Living Links research centre, and join daily keeper talks that make learning about animals fun, engaging, and surprisingly hands-on.
Support global conservation efforts: By visiting, you help fund breeding programs and wildlife projects that aim to protect and restore habitats and reverse the decline of over 50 endangered species by 2030.
A day out in a beautiful setting: Set on Corstorphine Hill, the zoo features scenic views, wide paths, play areas for kids, and relaxed picnic spots, making it ideal for day out adventures, full of mesmerizing wildlife!
Things to know before you book your Edinburgh Zoo tickets
Ticket types: Edinburgh Zoo offers entry tickets for independent visits or combo tickets that bundle zoo access with other popular Edinburgh experiences.
Entry ticket options: Select an entry ticket to either Edinburgh Zoo or Highland Wildlife Park and enjoy self-paced visits filled with diverse animals, scenic grounds, and engaging exhibits throughout the day.
A ticket that combines wildlife and witch trials: Visit over 2,500 animals at Edinburgh Zoo, then uncover 1,000 years of eerie tales and theatrical thrills with live actors during an 80-minute Edinburgh Dungeon show.
A mix of zoo view and city sights: Get entry to Edinburgh Zoo plus a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus pass with access to 3 routes, multilingual commentary, live guides, and discounts at top city attractions.
Which Edinburgh Zoo ticket is best for you?
If you want to see the best of Scotland’s wildlife
Go for: Entry tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: No
Visit Edinburgh Zoo, one of the UK’s top zoos, just 10 mins from Edinburgh city centre. See rare animals like pygmy hippos and enjoy interactive exhibits for all ages.
Spend the day at a Highland Wildlife Park surrounded by mountains. Spot endangered species and explore conservation exhibits across 105 hectares of outdoor trails and safari tracks.
Recommended tickets:
Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Ticket
Highland Wildlife Park Entrance Ticket
If you want to get more value for your money
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Yes, depending on the ticket chosen
See rare wildlife at Edinburgh Zoo, then step into live shows with Burke and Hare, witches, and plague doctors at the Dungeon’s interactive 80-minute experience.
Pair a visit to Edinburgh Zoo with a 24-hour bus ticket covering the castle, historic streets, and royal landmarks—all with your own sightseeing schedule.
Recommended tickets:
Combo: Edinburgh Zoo + Edinburgh Dungeon Tickets
Combo: Edinburgh Zoo Tickets and Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Plan your visit to Edinburgh Zoo
Opening hours:
January to February: 10am to 4pm
March: 10am to 5pm
April to September: 10am to 6pm
October: 10am to 5pm
November to December: 10am to 4pm
Closed on: Christmas
Best time to visit with kids: Visit during early summer for fewer crowds, blooming gardens, and mild weather. Additionally, weekdays are always much quieter than weekends and school holidays!
Best time to catch a talk with a keeper: Talks happen daily and cover different animals each day. Arrive mid-morning, check the screen near admissions, or ask staff to catch multiple talks between late morning and early afternoon.
Best time to attend special events: Plan your visit from April to September for seasonal events like Wild Discovery Days. Expect themed activities, animal talks, and hands-on experiences designed for kids, families, and curious animal lovers.
Best weather to visit the zoo: March to May and early autumn offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and scenic gardens. Spring blooms or autumn colours make for a beautiful visit.
By bus: Lines 12, 26, 31, 100 (Airlink), AIRX, X18, N18, X19, X38 can take you to the zooClosest bus stop: Edinburgh Zoo (on Corstorphine Road, right outside the main entrance)
By train: ScotRail and other services to Haymarket or Waverley lead to the zooClosest train station: Haymarket Station (Waverley is also nearby with bus or taxi access)
By tram: Hop on the Edinburgh Trams line (Airport to Newhaven route)Closest tram stop: Balgreen (15-minute walk); Saughton is also within walking distance
By car: Accessible via A8, city bypass, or M8Closest parking: On-site car park at Edinburgh Zoo (limited paid spaces available)
By bike: No official cycle route, but bike-friendly roads nearbyClosest bike racks: Roadside near the zoo and across from Silvan House
Picnic areas: Enjoy outdoor meals at picnic benches located near the hilltop and main lawn, with space to relax, whether it’s sunny or drizzly.
Play areas: Find fun, safe play zones for kids throughout the zoo, designed with supervision and age-appropriate adventure in mind.
Lockers: Lockers are available near the main entrance on a first-come, first-served basis. Ideal for small suitcases and day bags (fees apply).
Food and drink: Choose from two restaurants, a café, and food kiosks serving everything from hot meals to snacks, ice creams, and quick bites.
Gift shop: Pick up animal-themed gifts, toys, books, and souvenirs at the zoo’s main gift shop, open daily and accessible without a zoo ticket.
Maps and guides: Printed maps and signposts make it easy to explore the 80+ acre site and find animals, cafes, and amenities quickly.
Edinburgh zoo app: Use the free app to check daily schedules, find animals, and plan your visit more efficiently while walking through the zoo.
Parking: On-site parking is limited and fills quickly, so pre-booking is advised.
Washrooms: Multiple toilets across the site, including gender-neutral and accessible options, are cleaned regularly and clearly signposted.
Accessible parking spaces: Limited Blue Badge parking spots are available in the main car park. Early arrival is recommended due to limited availability.
Free carer admission: One free carer ticket is available per paying visitor who requires assistance. Valid proof of entitlement must be shown on arrival.
Mobility aid hire: Manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired at the entrance. Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis with a deposit.
Mobility vehicle service: A free mobility vehicle operates year-round for guests needing support. It fits one wheelchair or pushchair and up to four passengers.
Changing Places toilet: A fully equipped Changing Places facility is available on-site for visitors with complex needs and limited mobility, offering extra space and support equipment.
Accessible routes and maps: Most zoo paths are wheelchair-friendly. Download the accessibility map in advance to avoid steep slopes and plan your route accordingly.
Sensory bags available: Visitors can borrow sensory bags with ear defenders, sunglasses, fidget toys, binoculars, and maps. A refundable deposit is required at the admissions desk.
Assistance dogs welcome: Trained assistance dogs are permitted with restrictions. Some areas are off-limits. Owners must follow BIAZA guidelines during their visit.
Ensure your own safety: Please don’t feed animals, climb fences, or cross barriers—these are in place for your safety and the animals’ wellbeing.
Don’t trouble animals: Avoid tapping or banging on exhibit glass. Sudden noise and movement can stress the animals.
No animals: Pets and dogs in training aren’t permitted.
Prohibited items: Barbecues, balloons, balls, radios, scooters, bikes, skates, and hoverboards are not allowed inside the zoo. Glass bottles, jars, and ice cream sticks are also not permitted for safety reasons.
No smoking: Smoking and vaping are allowed only in clearly marked designated zones.
No intoxicating substances: Anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be refused entry or asked to leave. Emergency services may be contacted if needed.
Download the Edinburgh Zoo app before your visit to access an up-to-date map, feeding times, keeper talks, and real-time animal location info.
Head to popular enclosures like the pandas or penguins early in the day to avoid peak crowd times and get better viewing spots.
Pack a refillable water bottle. Refill stations are available across the zoo and help cut down on plastic waste during your visit.
If you want to see the animals more active, visit during cooler weather or early morning hours, when they’re most likely to be moving around.
Dress in layers and wear good walking shoes. The weather can shift quickly, and the zoo’s terrain includes hills, grassy areas, and gravel paths.
Bring binoculars or a zoom lens if you want a closer view of animals in larger, open habitats like the giraffe or monkey enclosures.
Grasslands Restaurant: Enjoy street pizzas, deli-style sandwiches, and fresh salads in a relaxed, pastel-toned space with upgraded amenities and allergen-friendly, locally sourced options.
The Gannet: Sustainably focused restaurant serving traditional Scottish dishes like Cullen skink, vegan haggis, and locally grown chips.
Penguins Café: Bright café overlooking Penguins Rock, serving breakfast rolls, soups, ciabattas, and kid-friendly treats with views of the Pentland Hills from the outdoor deck.
Park Kiosks: Card-only kiosks throughout the zoo serve quick snacks, drinks, and Rockhopper Ice Cream. Ideal for short breaks or casual bites between exhibits.
Lauriston Castle (5.1 km): A 16th-century mansion with Edwardian interiors, Japanese gardens, and coastal views. You can visit this castle for free!
Edinburgh Castle (5.7 km):** Historic fortress atop Castle Rock featuring the Crown Jewels, Stone of Destiny, military museums, and panoramic city views.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (6.2 km): Spanning 70 acres, this world-renowned garden houses over 13,000 plant species, glasshouses, and seasonal exhibitions.
Immersive, actor-led shows bring Scotland’s dark history to life through themed sets, special effects, and thrilling rides. Best suited for ages 8 and up.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edinburgh Zoo tickets
Tickets are often slightly cheaper online, and booking in advance guarantees entry on busy days, especially weekends and holidays.
It’s best to arrive 10–15 minutes before your selected time to allow for queuing and security checks.
Yes, general admission includes scheduled daily talks and the Penguin Parade (weather and animal willingness permitting).
Weekday mornings (outside school holidays) are generally quieter. Sensory maps and sensory bags are available to help neurodiverse visitors.
The zoo remains open in all weather. Tickets are non-refundable, so dress accordingly. Some indoor areas provide shelter.
Yes, you can combine your Edinburgh Zoo ticket with the Edinburgh Dungeon or a 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour through select combo tickets available online.
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drugs, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
For safety, guests under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Inclusions
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Standard entry tickets to Edinburgh Zoo
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Edinburgh Zoo + Edinburgh Dungeon
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
Sharp metallic tools or objects, drones, alcohol, smoke bombs, fireworks, glass bottles, illegal substances, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, and large bags are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Note that children under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Edinburgh Zoo
Radios, bikes, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to pram/stroller users.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Edinburgh Dungeon
Photography is strictly prohibited at the venue.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 4 years are not allowed on this experience.
Guests aged 16 or 17 are required to present ID or a parent/guardian’s written permission.
The recommended age to visit the dungeon is 8 and above.
For your convenience, elevators are available throughout the venue.
Safety first! Some shows of this experience are restricted for people with back issues and pregnant people.
Available facilities: restroom.
Inclusions
#
Edinburgh Zoo
Standard entry tickets to Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Dungeon
Entry to the Edinburgh Dungeon
80-mins show
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Edinburgh Zoo + Edinburgh bus tour
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Edinburgh Zoo
Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drugs, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
For safety, guests under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to pram/stroller users.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Edinburgh bus tour
Pets are allowed on the bus.
Mobility scooters are allowed if folded and stored as luggage.
Low-floor ramps are available for easy access.
Screens are conveniently available on the lower decks of City Sightseeing and Regal route buses.
Great news! If you're traveling with children aged 15 and under, they can hop on board for free with the 24-hour ticket.
Inclusions
#
Edinburgh Zoo
Standard entry tickets to Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
24-hour hop-on hop-off tour of Edinburgh
Access to 3 routes: City sightseeing tour, Edinburgh tour, Regal tour
Audio commentary in English, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Scottish, German, Portuguese, Spanish & Chinese (City Sightseeing & Edinburgh tours)
English-speaking guide (Edinburgh tour)
Discounts at the Royal Botanic Garden, Royal Yacht Britannia, Palace of Holyroodhouse & more (full list here)
Headphones (Regal tour)
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What’s not allowed
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Photography is strictly not allowed inside the State Apartments.
Large bags, rucksacks and suitcases (30L or over) are not allowed inside for security reasons.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Edinburgh Zoo
Safety is a priority, so guests under the age of 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades or skates and glass items are not allowed on this experience.
Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
Smoking is not allowed, including e-cigarettes.
Accessibility
Palace of Holyroodhouse
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible, except in some parts of Mary, Queen of Scots' rooms.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Edinburgh Zoo
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Your guide dogs are welcome at the venue.
Additional information
Palace of Holyroodhouse
As the Palace of Holyroodhouse is a working royal palace, security and opening arrangements may be subject to change at short notice.
The palace is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
The Palace of Holyroodhouse is open to the public on December 23. It is, however, closed on Christmas.
Edinburgh Zoo
Re-entry after entering isn’t permitted without park authority approval.
The park may close in extreme weather; tickets will be valid for a later visit.
Visitors wearing costumes might be asked to remove them for safety.
Facilities: parking.
Inclusions
#
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Entry to the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Audio guide in English, Brazilian Portuguese, French, Gaelic, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Russian, and Spanish
Edinburgh Zoo
Entry tickets to Edinburgh Zoo
Exclusions
#
Palace of Holyroodhouse + Edinburgh Zoo
Guided tour
Transfers
Food and drinks
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tickets
NaN
Edinburgh Zoo Entrance Tickets
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drugs, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
For safety, guests under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
Sharp metallic tools or objects, drones, alcohol, smoke bombs, fireworks, glass bottles, illegal substances, rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, and large bags are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
Note that children under 15 must be accompanied by a guardian.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Edinburgh Zoo
Radios, bikes, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to pram/stroller users.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Edinburgh Dungeon
Photography is strictly prohibited at the venue.
For safety reasons, guests under the age of 4 years are not allowed on this experience.
Guests aged 16 or 17 are required to present ID or a parent/guardian’s written permission.
The recommended age to visit the dungeon is 8 and above.
For your convenience, elevators are available throughout the venue.
Safety first! Some shows of this experience are restricted for people with back issues and pregnant people.
You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combos
NaN
Combo (Save 5%): Edinburgh Zoo Tickets + Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
Edinburgh Zoo + Edinburgh bus tour
Ensure your entry tickets and ID is on hand for a smooth experience.
This experience is accessible to wheelchair users.
For your convenience, guide dogs are welcome to join you.
Edinburgh Zoo
Sharp metallic tools or objects, alcohol, drugs, drones, radios, scooters, bikes, rollerblades, roller skates, hoverboards, barbecues, balloons, balls, ice-cream sticks and glass items are not permitted on this experience.
Your pets are not permitted on this experience.
For safety, guests under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
Smoking is prohibited, including e-cigarettes.
This experience is accessible to pram/stroller users.
Available facilities: parking.
Visitors wearing costumes may be asked to remove them for safety reasons.
Re-entry after admission is not permitted without prior approval from park authorities.
In case of extreme weather, the park may close; tickets will be transferred to a convenient revisit date.
Edinburgh bus tour
Pets are allowed on the bus.
Mobility scooters are allowed if folded and stored as luggage.
Low-floor ramps are available for easy access.
Screens are conveniently available on the lower decks of City Sightseeing and Regal route buses.
Great news! If you're traveling with children aged 15 and under, they can hop on board for free with the 24-hour ticket.
