Welcome to Colchester Zoo, a whimsical wonderland nestled near Colchester, England. With a history that stretches back to 1963, this zoo recently celebrated its 60th anniversary!
Spanning 60 acres of pure animal magic, Colchester Zoo is home to over 160 rare and endangered species that reside in meticulously crafted habitats. From the steamy realms of Komodo dragons to the expansive African plain where rhinos, giraffes, and more roam, this place is a living tapestry of Earth’s biodiversity.
Grab your explorer’s gear and dive into the wild wonders of Colchester Zoo. It’s a journey through habitats and across continents, where every corner turned reveals a new enchanting chapter in the book of nature.
One of the best ways to enjoy the zoo and the other attractions nearby is to book into a lodge with it’s own private hot tub. Thankfully you’ll find a great range of lodges available within a short driving distance (11 minutes upwards) of the zoo.
Here are some of our lodge recommendations:
1. The Essex Golf and Country Club – Earls Colne, Colchester
Distance: 11 miles away
Driving time: About 23 minutes
Best route: Via the A120
Nestled in the idyllic landscape of Earls Colne, Colchester, Essex Country Club offers a haven of luxury lodges, blending relaxation and recreation seamlessly. These luxury lodges have their own private hot tubs and are within a hop and a skip from the zoo.
Golf enthusiasts will find their paradise on the 18-hole Championship golf course, surrounded by breathtaking green vistas. The Aura Spa awaits, with its indoor pool and indulgent beauty treatments.
After a day at the zoo, you can choose to relax in your own private hot tub, enjoy one of the treatments at the on-site spa or get a workout at the gym. There’s also a bar and restaurant with the lodge park so nobody has to draw the short straw and drive.
2. Coopers beach lodges – Mersea Island, Colchester
Distance: 11.1 miles away
Driving time: About 21 minutes
Best route: Via B1025
Directions to Colchester zoo from the lodge
Whether you’re a beach lover, a nature enthusiast or just looking to unwind on a seaside escape, Coopers Beach, set on charming Mersea Island, is the place to be when you really want to get away from it all.
Enjoy traditional seaside activities such as crabbing and fishing trips, head out on a countryside walk or take a trip to see views of the Blackwater Estuary and spot migrating birds. With all of this close by, you’ll love spending your days outdoors.
On park you’ll find facilities such as a choice of indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools, adventure playground and multi-sports courts to keep the family entertained.
The zoo is just over a 10 minute drive away so your excited passengers won’t have too long to wait.
3. Warren Lodges, Maldon
Distance: 17.8 miles away
Driving time: About 33 minutes
Best route: Via B1025
Directions from the lodge to the zoo
Guests will be able to find these idyllic lodges within the 325 acres of Warren Golf and Country Club. Just over half an hour by car to the zoo and just over an hour from central London, these cabins are a convenient choice for couples or families looking for a relaxing lodge break with lots to do nearby.
Onsite, guests will be able to find a well-equipped gym, a luxurious indoor pool, and a massive play area. For the golf enthusiasts of the family, there is of course the opportunity to play a few rounds (private tuition is also available).
For small families looking to stay at the country club, ‘Orchard’ is worth noting. This light and spacious cabin includes its own outdoor hot tub and can accommodate up to four guests and two pets (for an additional charge).
‘Bassetts’ Lodge is perhaps more suited for bigger groups wanting to entertain! Whilst not pet-friendly, this three-bed holiday home can sleep up to six people and also features its own hot tub.
Apple Mount Retreat – Thorpe Morieux, Near Lavenham
Distance: 23.4 miles away
Driving time: About 46 minutes
Best route: Via A134
Directions from this lodge to the zoo
Apple Mount Retreat is a high-quality adults-only luxury glamping park in Suffolk. Lose yourself in a real haven of tranquillity with beautiful wooden glamping pods and a large luxury tipi tent available to book.
Accommodations are modern, stylish and packed with the latest tech and comforts to ensure you’ll have a perfect cosy stay with everything you need. Apple Mount Retreat has private hot tubs next to your property to unwind amid the natural setting.
Set within 2½ acres of woodland countryside, you’ll be able to spot all kinds of wildlife and relax in the natural beauty of the area.
There’s plenty to keep you entertained here too, from hiring eBikes to having a game of Tennis on the onsite court. Apple Mount also has a fab outdoor heated swimming pool that’s open from April to September. Or how about booking one of the holistic therapies available?