A Zoo That Became a Theme Park
Most visitors think of Chessington as a theme park that happens to have some animals. In reality, it is the other way around. The site opened as Chessington Zoo in 1931, established by Reginald Goddard on the grounds of Burnt Stub Mansion. For over 50 years it operated purely as a zoo before the Tussauds Group bought the site and added theme park rides from 1987.
The zoo element has never gone away. Animals remain a core part of the Chessington experience, and the zoo areas are included in the general admission to the park. You do not need to pay extra to see the animals.
Trail of the Kings
The main zoo section is called Trail of the Kings. This walking route takes visitors through a series of animal enclosures set among the park's landscaped grounds. The trail is designed to flow naturally between themed areas, so you encounter animals as you move between rides and attractions.
Western Lowland Gorillas
The gorilla enclosure is one of the most impressive areas. Chessington is home to a troop of western lowland gorillas, and the viewing area lets you observe them at close range. The enclosure includes indoor and outdoor spaces with climbing structures and enrichment features.
Sea Lions
The sea lion cove is a popular stop, especially when keeper talks and feeding sessions take place. The sea lions are active and entertaining, and the displays are a good chance to learn about their behaviour and conservation status.
Penguins
Chessington's Humboldt penguins live in a purpose-built enclosure near the Sea Life centre. Penguin feeding times draw crowds, and the enclosure is designed so visitors can watch them both above and below the waterline.
Other Animals
Beyond the headline species, Trail of the Kings includes meerkats, capybaras, red pandas, various monkey species, reptiles and a range of birds. The animal collection is smaller than a standalone zoo like London Zoo or Whipsnade, but there is enough to fill an hour or two of exploring.
Sea Life Centre
Chessington also has an on-site Sea Life centre, which is included in the park admission. This indoor aquarium features sharks, rays, tropical fish and a walk-through ocean tunnel. It makes a good retreat on rainy days and gives younger children a change of pace from the rides.
How the Zoo Fits Into Your Day
Many families treat the zoo as a welcome break between rides. The walking routes are shaded and quieter than the main ride areas, and the pace is more relaxed. Keeper talks and feeding sessions run throughout the day and are worth timing your visit around.
If you are visiting mainly for the animals, arrive early and head to Trail of the Kings before the ride queues build up. The animals tend to be more active in the morning, and the paths are far less crowded. The zoo is one of the reasons Chessington works so well for a broad range of ages — our guide to what age Chessington is best for has more on this.
Conservation Work
Chessington participates in several international breeding programmes for endangered species, including the western lowland gorilla programme. The park also funds conservation projects in the wild, though this work is not always visible to day visitors.
