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A comprehensive guide on getting to Edinburgh Zoo

Where is Edinburgh Zoo located?

Address: 134 Corstorphine Road, Edinburgh EH12 6TS

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Set on Corstorphine Hill, Edinburgh Zoo offers panoramic city views and is just 10 minutes from the city center. Surrounded by green hills, it’s close to Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Botanic Garden.

Closest Landmark: Edinburgh Zoo Main Entrance, 0 km from Corstorphine Road

Getting to Edinburgh Zoo by public transport

  • Best for: Budget-friendly and convenient travel from city center
  • Travel time: 15-30 minutes from Princes Street
  • Closest stop: Edinburgh Zoo (on Corstorphine Road, right outside the main entrance)
  • Timings: Frequent services, early morning to late evening

Take buses 12, 26, 31, 100 (Airlink), AIRX, X18, N18, X19, or X38. Stops are directly outside the zoo.

  • Best for: Visitors arriving from other cities or local rail travelers
  • Travel time: 20-30 minutes from Haymarket Station
  • Closest stop: Haymarket Station
  • Timings: ScotRail and other services operate daily from early morning to late evening

From Haymarket or Waverley, catch Scottish Citylink 909 to the zoo.

  • Best for: Smooth, traffic-free journey
  • Travel time: 20 minutes from Princes Street
  • Closest stop: Balgreen (15-minute walk) or Saughton (20-minute walk)
  • Timings: Early morning to late evening, aligned with tram schedules

Edinburgh Trams run from the Airport to Newhaven, stopping near the zoo for a short walk to the entrance.

Getting to Edinburgh Zoo by car

  • Best for: Families, flexible schedules, visitors carrying picnic gear or mobility aids
  • Travel time: 15 to 20 minutes from Princes Street (traffic dependent)
  • Distance: Approx. 4.5 km

From Princes Street, drive west via Queensferry Street, continue onto A8 (Glasgow Road), then turn onto Corstorphine Road (A8). This is the fastest and most direct route. An alternative route via Haymarket Terrace and Roseburn Terrace is slightly longer but useful during peak-hour congestion.

Cars parked on grass.

On-site parking: Available for limited paid spaces, including disabled parking

Nearby parking options:

  • Corstorphine Hill Car Park: 0.2 km, paid facility
  • Murrayfield Stadium Parking: 4 km, paid facility
  • Clermiston Road Car Park: 2.5 km, paid facility
  • Balgreen Road Car Park: 1 km, paid facility

Cycling/Walking to Edinburgh Zoo

  • Best for: Exploring the city and enjoying scenic routes
  • Travel time: 30–35 minutes walking from Balgreen; 15 minutes cycling
  • Distance: 4 km

Walking or cycling from the city center is a pleasant route, passing through residential streets and green areas. Bike racks are available near the main entrance, and paths are mostly flat with some gentle hills.

What is the best way to get to Edinburgh Zoo?

  • Budget-friendly: Take bus lines 12, 26, or 31 from the city center. Quick, cheap, and stops directly outside the entrance.
  • Fastest route: Drive via A8 from Princes Street for a 10-minute journey. On-site parking is limited; arriving early is recommended.
  • To sightsee: Walk or cycle from Princes Street to enjoy Edinburgh’s city streets and green spaces before reaching the zoo.

Frequently asked questions about getting to Edinburgh Zoo

How far is the zoo from Edinburgh city center?

The zoo is about 4 km west of Princes Street, roughly a 10–15 minute drive or 20-minute bus ride.

Which is the closest bus stop to Edinburgh Zoo?

Edinburgh Zoo stop on Corstorphine Road is directly outside the main entrance for most bus lines.

Which is the closest train station to the zoo?

Haymarket Station is the nearest major rail hub, with a short bus, tram, or taxi ride to the zoo.

Can I park at Edinburgh Zoo?

Yes, on-site parking is available, including limited spaces for disabled visitors. Nearby public car parks also provide alternatives.

What’s the cheapest way to get to Edinburgh Zoo?

Taking a bus from the city center is the most economical option, with multiple routes stopping directly outside the zoo.

Which is the fastest way to get there?

Driving from the city center via A8 typically takes 10 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.