How to get to Whipsnade Zoo

We're the UK's biggest zoo, set in 600 acres of beautiful parkland on the Chiltern Hills, north of London, the Zoo is home to more than 10,000 animals, many of which are endangered in the wild.

Directions to get to Whipsnade Zoo map

Getting to the Zoo by car

Only 20 minutes from the M25 (junction 21), Whipsnade Zoo is signposted from the M1 (junction 9 and junction 12) and all major roads - just follow the elephant on the above map.

Whipsnade Zoo coach travel information

Getting to the Zoo by bus

Centrebus local bus services 40 and 40A operate from Dunstable to Whipsnade Zoo. A Whipsnade Zoo Group Ticket is available offering up to 5 people travelling together unlimited travel on the day of purchase in the Luton & Dunstable Zone plus to and from Whipsnade Zoo on services 40 and 40A. See Centrebus website for full details including costs, route maps and timetables.

Car parking and car admission

When visiting Whipsnade Zoo by car there are two options:

  • You may park in our free external car park and walk around the Zoo
  • You may drive into the Zoo for an extra charge and park in specified areas around the Zoo 
  • Elephant bathing in sand and dust
    Animals at the Zoo

    Animals

    From a herd of Asian elephants to 30 different species of butterflies, we have over 10,000 animals at the Zoo

  • A butterfly on a leaf at Whipsnade Zoo
    Journey into the wild

    Habitats

    Connect with nature's most spectacular animals and learn about their unique habitats. From what it takes to provide expert care for a herd of elephants, to exploring one of the largest butterfly biomes in the UK.

  • family meeting giraffes at whipsnade zoo
    Get closer to nature

    Whipsnade Zoo Experiences

    Go on the ultimate animal adventure with us and experience wildlife like never before. Make memories which last a lifetime and take in the full wonder of the natural world, by meeting our animals, experiencing the life of a Zookeeper and sleeping over at

  • Whipsnade Zoo Map - Spring 2023
    Finding your way around the Zoo

    Whipsnade Zoo Map

    Use our map to find your favourite animals around the Zoo. 

  • Steam train at Whipsnade Zoo
    Our seasonal opening times

    Opening Times

    We're normally open from 10am every day of the year, with seasonal closing times.