Edinburgh: Late Night Edinburgh Zoo Entry Ticket

Exploring Edinburgh Zoo during daylight hours is a popular choice, but what about experiencing it after sunset? The Late Night Edinburgh Zoo Entry Ticket offers a unique chance to see the zoo in a calmer, more peaceful atmosphere, with the added perk of reduced prices. While it’s not a full-day tour, this experience provides a different perspective on your favorite animals, especially if you love quieter environments and stunning views.

What really makes this experience stand out are three things we particularly appreciate: the tranquility of visiting animals in the evening, the chance to meet giraffes against the dramatic backdrop of the city and Pentland Hills, and the opportunity to check out Europe’s largest penguin pool. A small downside might be the limited hours, with some animal houses closing early and fewer animals visible compared to daytime visits. But overall, it’s perfect for those craving a more relaxed zoo experience, or anyone keen to see Edinburgh’s wildlife scene in a new light.

This tour is especially suitable for wildlife lovers, families looking for a different evening activity, or visitors who want to combine sightseeing with a leisurely animal encounter. If you’re after an engaging, less crowded visit with beautiful views and good value, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Enjoy quiet, peaceful animal encounters in the evening atmosphere
• Reduced ticket prices for after 4pm entry—great value
• Stunning views of giraffes against Edinburgh’s skyline and the Pentland Hills
• Largest penguin pool in Europe is a highlight for penguin enthusiasts
• Flexibility to extend your daytime visit into the evening
• Accessible with wheelchair-friendly options and English hosts

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect at Edinburgh Zoo’s Late Night Entry

This experience is centered around visiting the zoo after 4 pm, with the opportunity to explore until the zoo closes at 9 pm. The tickets are designed for a one-day window, meaning you can start your visit anytime after 4 pm on your chosen date. The tickets are cheaper—£10 for children and £15 for adults on specific summer Saturdays—making it a smart choice if you’re budget-conscious.

The atmosphere during these late hours is noticeably calmer, as the crowds thin out and animals settle into their evening routines. You’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace, with fewer visitors around, allowing for better animal observation and a tranquil environment.

Arrival and Entry

Your ticket will be checked at the Edinburgh Zoo Admissions Area, where you’ll show your voucher. The zoo remains open until 9 pm, with last entries allowed at 8 pm. Since some animal houses close earlier, you might not see certain nocturnal or shy animals, but the overall experience of wandering through the grounds at dusk is quite special.

The Animal Encounters

The highlight for many visitors is observing the giraffe herd against the impressive backdrop of Edinburgh’s cityscape and the Pentland Hills — a truly picturesque scene. You could also visit the largest penguin pool in Europe, where the playful penguins may be more active during the cooler, quieter hours, and enjoy seeing animals in a less frantic, more natural state.

Food, Drinks, and Souvenirs

Food and drinks are available for purchase throughout the evening, allowing you to grab a snack or a drink without the daytime crowds. The gift shop stays open until 9:30 pm, giving you a chance to pick up a memorable souvenir or a special gift before you leave.

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The Experience: What Makes It Special

From the reviews, we learn that the late-night visits offer a chance for visitors to speak leisurely with zookeepers and observe animals in a calmer, less crowded environment. One reviewer described it as “One of the best ideas ever,” highlighting how the quieter setting allowed for a more personal experience with the animals.

However, some visitors noted that not all animals are active or visible during these hours, especially those that require more peace and quiet during their rest periods. One traveler mentioned walking through an environment that was undergoing cleaning, which partly limited animal sightings, but still enjoyed the experience overall.

The Value of the Ticket

Compared to a full-day visit, these late-night tickets are significantly more affordable, especially considering the tranquility and unique photo opportunities. The reduced rate on summer Saturdays makes this an attractive option, and the flexible timing allows for combining with daytime sightseeing.

Accessibility

The experience is wheelchair accessible and hosted by English-speaking staff, ensuring the visit is comfortable for a broad range of visitors. The relaxed hours mean less rushing and more opportunity for detailed observation.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Arrive after 4 pm to maximize your time and enjoy the quieter atmosphere.
• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s some walking on sloped surfaces.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for photos, especially of giraffes and panoramic views.
• Check closing times of specific animal houses, as some close earlier.
• Consider bringing cash or card for food, drinks, or souvenirs from the shop.
• If you’re a zoo member, you get in for free, so it’s worth checking if your membership applies.

Is This Experience Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a different way to experience Edinburgh Zoo, especially during the summer months. The peaceful evenings create a quiet, intimate environment perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike. The stunning views of giraffes with Edinburgh in the background are a bonus, making it a memorable outing.

While some animals might be resting or less active during these hours, the opportunity to see the penguins at their coolest, and to chat with zookeepers in a relaxed setting, makes this a worthwhile activity. Plus, the reduced ticket cost means you get good value for a unique, less touristy experience.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy quiet evenings, wildlife photography, and scenic vistas. It’s also ideal if you want to avoid the busier daytime crowds or extend your visit without paying full-price.

FAQ

Can I visit the zoo before 4 pm using this ticket?
No, the tickets are valid from 4 pm onwards. If you arrive before, you’ll need a different ticket for daytime entry.

What’s the latest I can enter the zoo?
You must arrive before 8 pm, as the last entry is at that time. The zoo closes at 9 pm.

Are all animals visible during late-night visits?
Not necessarily. Some animal houses will close earlier, and quiet animals may be resting, but you’ll still get a peaceful glimpse of the zoo’s residents.

Is parking included in the ticket?
No, parking fees are separate and not included.

Can I extend my visit into the evening if I’ve been there during the day?
Yes, visitors who arrive during the day are welcome to stay until the zoo closes, provided they have the appropriate ticket.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families seeking a calmer, scenic outing. The special atmosphere makes it an engaging experience for kids and adults alike.

The Edinburgh Zoo Late Night Entry Ticket offers a refreshing twist on traditional zoo visits. Its greatest strengths are the quiet ambiance, the visual drama of animals against Edinburgh’s skyline, and affordable pricing. While it might not showcase every animal or provide the same buzz as a daytime trip, it compensates with superior tranquility and scenic views.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and budget-friendly evening with wildlife, this experience fits the bill. Perfect for animal lovers, photographers, or those simply wanting a different perspective on Edinburgh’s natural attractions, it’s a memorable way to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces after hours.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a serene evening activity, this tour offers a distinctive way to connect with nature and enjoy Edinburgh’s beautiful surroundings in a relaxed setting. Be sure to plan ahead, arrive prepared for some walking, and enjoy your quiet, scenic, and memorable zoo experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: