Edinburgh Zoo to reopen from this week as Scottish Government launches 'routemap' out of lockdown

Edinburgh Zoo will be opening its gates to the public once again this week as the country shows signs of easing out of lockdown.

Edinburgh Zoo announces that it will open this week to visitors picture: JPI Media

The city attraction made the announcement as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed a four nation discussion is underway to develop a “routemap” out of lockdown.

A spokeswoman for Edinburgh Zoo confirmed in a statement that doors will open on weekends only, starting as early as this Friday.

The statement read: “As current Scottish Government guidance means we can open our gates to provide a safe, outdoor environment for City of Edinburgh residents, we will be reopening the zoo on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting this week.

“Safety comes first and there will be a wide range of measures in place to protect our visitors, staff and animals. This includes everyone needing to book tickets in advance.”

Tickets for 26 to 28 February are only available to members and prepaid ticket holders as a gesture of thanks from the zoo’s charity to those who have supported the attraction and its animals during the pandemic.

March weekend tickets will go on general sale next week, and there may be extra days where it opens, depending on demand.

The statement added: “We are asking everyone to follow government guidance which means you must not travel from outside the local authority area or gather in groups of more than two households with more than two adults.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported us by donating, adopting, joining as a member and much, much more – you are helping to care for our animals and protect endangered species in Scotland and around the world.”

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