Universal Credit tickets
We want to help as many people as possible to experience a day out at the zoo and learn how we can all protect, value and love nature. We also know how hard things are for many people right now, especially for those on low incomes.
This is why have made reduced price tickets available online for those currently on Universal Credit, income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Housing Benefit, Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit and Income Support.
These tickets are available for up to six people per household and proof of receipt of one of the above benefits must be brought along on the day. To qualify you must have received a payment in the last month and you will be asked for named ID (for example, passport, driving license or bank card).
You must book these tickets online in advance – you cannot walk up to the zoo and buy as only full price tickets are available on the gate. We will be allocating tickets flexibly to ensure a great experience for all.
What to expect on the day
You’ll be asked to supply proof of eligibility and named ID (for example, passport, driving license or bank card) along with showing your booking reference – your confirmation email has your booking reference on it and can be shown on your phone so don’t worry if you don’t have a printer!
Any questions or if you don’t get a confirmation email please drop us a line at info@rzss.org.uk.
How get a proof of benefits letter
Edinburgh Zoo is on a hill so please ensure that sure you have comfy shoes and don’t worry if you have access requirements as our team can help.
We have great options for food and drink or visitors are welcome to bring a picnic – we have picnic benches all over the zoo as well as space on the beautiful lawn if you want to bring a blanket to sit on. Please remember that the animals have their own diets so please don’t share your food with them and make sure that litter is put in one of the many bins around the zoo.
The animals are free to do what they want all day long so if you don’t see your favourite animal straight away, don’t worry, you can always go back later in your visit. If you’re struggling to see a particular animal, please do ask one of the team to help you spot them!
School holidays and weekends are our busiest times so if you book your ticket during this time you may have a short wait to get in. To avoid the queues, we suggest booking a time slot later in the day or visit off-peak.
Frequently asked questions
Why is this offer just available for visitors in receipt of Universal Credit and other support?
Our 2030 strategy aims to bring over one million people closer to wildlife, creating opportunities for everyone to learn how to protect, value and love nature. This offer is only available for people on low incomes but we have a wide-ranging community programme where we work with communities and support groups across Scotland to increase access for all. Our membership scheme also provides a great value way to enjoy unrestricted, incredible days out at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park all year round.
What if I want to bring a group to Edinburgh Zoo?
We offer discounted rates for 15 people or more. You may also qualify for a discounted rate through our community programmes which support the work of partner charities and community groups.
When does this offer finish?
This offer started on Wednesday 3 July 2024 and has been introduced at Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park permanently.
Why are there no tickets available on the day I want to visit?
Tickets are limited but check back nearer the time as extra tickets may go on sale.
What about your rainy day guarantee?
Universal Credit tickets are not covered under the rainy day guarantee. Learn more about our rainy day guarantee.
Why are tickets only available online?
We want to manage numbers on site to ensure a great experience for all. We’ve also heard from other organisations who have introduced similar schemes that customers preferred to order online, for a number of different reasons.
