Into the Wild: Chester Zoo and the Monkey Forest

Following our regional departure, we make our way towards Keele, stopping at the delightful Derbyshire town of Ashbourne en route. An historic market town, Ashbourne is known as the gateway to Dovedale in the southern White Peak. Explore its cobbled streets, over 200 listed buildings, gingerbread shop and much more.

Following our brief visit, we continue to Keele and a two-night stay. This evening we enjoy dinner in the hotel.

Following breakfast, we head to Chester for one of the highlights of our trip, the amazing Chester Zoo. Located just outside the historic city of Chester, the zoo is the UK's most visited, with over 37,000 animals to discover across more than 128 acres. Come face to face with some of the world's most amazing wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, chimps, tigers, giraffes and so much more!

You'll also find beautiful gardens, home to thousands of plants including five national collections. Apart from the huge selection of animals and plants, you can enjoy a trip on the Islands Lazy River boat ride, and there are plenty of opportunities to take a break for a drink or a bite to eat at many locations around the zoo. This really is a day not to be missed!

Following breakfast, we visit the unique Monkey Forest in the Trentham Estate. Trentham Monkey Forest is a 60-acre woodland that 140 free-roaming Barbary macaques call home, living remarkably similar lives to those in the wild. It is the largest primate habitat in the UK and has been open since 2005!

The woodland focuses solely on the conservation of this endangered primate, and each visit contributes to their protection. Visitors can walk amongst the monkeys and observe their fascinating natural behaviours up close. This is the only place in the UK where you can do this, making it one of the most unusual days out in the country. Following our visit, we make our way home.