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Edinburgh Zoo entrances | A detailed guide on how to access the attraction

Quick overview

  • Shortest queues (most days): Members Gate (exclusive to RZSS members)
  • Skip-the-line or timed tickets: Main Entrance (Visitor Centre)
  • Guided tours meet here: Main Entrance (Visitor Centre)
  • Wheelchair access: Main Entrance (step-free route via the visitor building)

​Choose the best entrance

How many entrances are there at Edinburgh Zoo?

There are two distinct entry points for an Edinburgh Zoo entry: the Main Entrance visitor centre and a dedicated Members Gate. Both are located on the south side of the park off Corstorphine Road (A8). While the general public must pass through the main building to scan tickets, members can bypass this hub entirely.

Compare your options

TicketUse this entrance/laneSkips the ticket queue?Notes

Standard timed entry

Main Entrance

Yes (ticket desk line), No for security/scanning

Arrive within your selected 30-minute time slot

RZSS Membership

Members Gate

Yes

Located at the top left of the main zoo car park for fast-track entry

Pre-booked groups

Main Entrance

Yes

The group leader must check in at the main visitor services desk

Choose the best entrance for you

Main Entrance (Visitor Centre)

  • Location: Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6TS.
  • How to spot: Large, modern visitor pavilion set back from the main A8 road with clear signage. Google Maps.
  • Best for: General public ticket holders, online pre-booked timed entries, and first-time visitors.
  • Crowds and waits: Peak: ~15–30 mins | Shoulder: ~5–10 mins.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible step-free ramp leads from the pavement up into the main admission building.
  • Pro tip: Pre-booking your timed slot online ensures a faster scanning process, letting you bypass the manual ticket-purchasing queues entirely.

Planning your Edinburgh Zoo entry? Book timed entry and go straight to the ticket scanner.

Members Gate

  • Location: Top left corner of the main Edinburgh Zoo car park.
  • How to spot: A dedicated, fast-track turnstile gate separate from the main visitor pavilion. Google Maps.
  • Best for: Valid Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) members.
  • Crowds and waits: Peak: ~5 mins | Shoulder: ~0 mins.
  • Accessibility: Step-free via the sloping surface of the car park, though the path climbs gently.
  • Pro tip: Keep your digital or physical RZSS membership card ready before approaching the gate to make the fast-track process seamless.

Accessible entrances at Edinburgh Zoo

An accessible Edinburgh Zoo entry is fully optimised through the Main Entrance visitor pavilion. There are designated blue badge parking spaces at the front of the car park, with a smooth, step-free tarmac path leading to the entrance doors. Inside, automatic doors and level flooring provide a smooth passage to the scanners.

Carers accompanying a visitor with disabilities are eligible for free entry, which can be processed directly at the main admissions windows. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for hire inside the main entrance building, though prior booking via their official channels is highly recommended due to limited daily availability.

Security, bags & re-entry

  • For a safe Edinburgh Zoo entry, bag checks are conducted randomly at the admission gates. 
  • Large suitcases and bulky luggage are not permitted inside the park, and there are no locker facilities available on-site, so please keep your bags compact.
  • Re-entry is permitted on the same day. If you need to return to your vehicle in the car park, simply speak to the staff at the main exit turnstiles to receive a re-entry hand stamp before stepping out.
Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions about Edinburgh Zoo entrances

The Main Entrance visitor centre allows entry throughout the day, but the absolute last entry to the zoo is strictly one hour before closing time. Be sure to check the seasonal hours before you arrive, as closing times range from 4pm in winter to 6pm in summer.

More reads

Map

Plan your visit

Zones

Ticket options