Took a toddler to Chester Zoo in pouring rain and still had a brilliant day'

Despite torrential rain, Manchester Evening News reporter Ashlie Blakey visited Chester Zoo with her 20-month-old daughter Annie and still had a standout day. With tickets pre-booked, the pair arrived around 10:30am on a Friday and found parking a few minutes’ walk from the entrance. Elephants were the first big hit, followed by indoor stops once the weather worsened, including Chester Zoo’s 10 indoor habitats such as the Butterfly House and Tropical Realm reptile area. Highlights included a close-up jaguar, while the Monsoon Forest orangutans were described as the top attraction. The article also notes family-friendly facilities across 130 acres—baby-changing options, maps, play areas—and a £12 handprint craft keepsake made next to the elephant enclosure.