Check the feeding/talks timetable when you get there to plan which bits you want to get to for a certain time.

A fantastic day out with plenty to do and see. You will be there all day and you won't see everything so be ready to go back. Take a picnic as the food is neither great nor cheap.

Buy an annual pass - if you plan to visit more than once a year it is well worth it. You only need to visit 3 times and you are well in credit!!!

We love Colchester Zoo. If our 2 year had her way we would go every day. Our 6 year old also loves it. Plently to do and see. Loads of places to picnic and the food is good if you want to eat there. We sometimes pop in just to say hello to particular animals as we live close by. Having a Gold Card is excellent value for money.

Get there early to make the most of the day

Colchester Zoo is fab. No cars are allowed in so young children can run around to their hearts content. There is loads to see and the trains are great. We didn't even make it into the indoor play area we were so busy there. Definitely worth a visit.

get a platinum card for 2 years you can fast track the queues and get discount in the cafe and the shops.

We this place with our 18 month old daughter, who loves the ball pool and soft play centre. We all fed the giraffes and I took her into the walk around goat area where you can feed them as they run around free. The safari train is good as it takes you around part of the park to see the elephants if you need a rest. the Sea loin under water tunnel is excellent as you get to see them under the water. the penquins feeding time is enjoyable as you are up close and personal.

An annual pass is worth it if you go more than twice in one year - helps you bypass the HUGE queues in the warmer months as you are able to walk straight in!

I love this place. I've had a Gold (annual) Card for 8 years and never tire of it. There's been some amazing changes over that time. The animals are well cared for and have fantastic enclosures that are regularly updated. The play areas are well used by my own children and we take a picnic and eat somewhere different every time (followed by an ice-cream, of course). There's also a road train that I have been on more times that I care to mention.Amazing zoo, you HAVE to go!