Tucked away in the tranquil surroundings of Regent’s Park and spread across 36 acres, London Zoo is a staple of the city’s culture and heritage. Featuring more than 10,000 animals, the London Zoo is a hub of biodiversity and learning in the bustling metropolis.
Its uniqueness in offering educational and entertaining programs alongside services in animal care makes it a must-visit centre for anyone interested in wildlife.
With architectural gems like the Grade I-listed penguin pool and a strong focus on sustainability, the London Zoo is as much a historical landmark as it is a modern-day attraction.
Background on London Zoo
London Zoo, the world’s first scientific zoo, was founded in 1826 by Stamford Raffles and Humphry Davy under the Zoological Society of London (ZSL). Originally meant for scientific study, it opened to the public in 1847.
In the 19th century, Charles Darwin visited the London Zoo and studied animals like Jenny the orangutan, which inspired his work on evolution.
The zoo features Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, including the Three Island Pond (1832), designed by Decimus Burton, showcasing two centuries of changing approaches to animal care.
London Zoo introduced many world-firsts, including the Reptile House (1849), Aquarium (1853), and the Insect House (1881).
Major post-war redevelopments in improving facilities for animal care include the Michael Sobell Pavilions (1972), now part of the Gorilla Kingdom, and the Lion Terraces (1975), now within the Land of the Lions.
Today, London Zoo combines its historical significance with conservation efforts, working on reintroducing tiny snails, breeding endangered animals like Sumatran tigers, preserving wild rhinos in Africa, restoring mangroves in Asia, bringing dormice back to the UK, and protecting habitats globally.
Where is London Zoo and how to get there?
London Zoo is near the park’s northern end at Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, NW1 4RY. It combines green spaces with easy access to Central London attractions. The park is well connected with other parts of London through public transport. There are many ways to get here:
- The nearest Tube stations are Camden Town (Northern Line, 16 minutes’ walk), Chalk Farm (18 minutes), Regent’s Park (Bakerloo Line, 21 minutes), and Baker Street (Jubilee and Bakerloo Lines, 24 minutes). Walking along Regent’s Canal from Camden Town offers a pleasant route.
- For London Overground users, Camden Road station is a 21-minute walk, or you can take the 274 bus, which stops close to the Zoo. Bus route 88 also serves the area.
- Drivers can park outside the congestion charging zone at the Outer Circle car park (use NW1 4SX for sat nav). The car park includes accessible spaces near the entrance. Remember, the Zoo lies within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).
Cyclists can secure their bikes at racks near the entrance or use the Santander Cycle docking stations. Due to limited parking, public transport is the best option.
What to expect when you visit?
A visit to the London Zoo provides a unique opportunity to explore diverse wildlife and learn about vital conservation efforts, all within the vibrant setting of Regent’s Park. Here’s all that you can expect when visiting London Zoo.
- Animal Exhibits
- You can observe more than 10,000 animals in the zoo, including lions, tigers, gorillas, giraffes, and penguins. Fantastic attractions include the Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory, and an interactive ‘Rainforest Li’ with an indoor rainforest you can walk through.
- Interactive Talks and Shows
- Daily programs and presentations like Penguin Beach or Tiny Giants offer a closer look at the care and feeding of animals. Those are included in the ticket price and are suitable for children and adults.
- Food and Drink Options
- Hot meals, snacks, and drinks are available at on-site cafés such as the Terrace Restaurant, Zoo Treats, and the Peckish Parrot Café. They also provide vegetarian and vegan options.
- Kid-Friendly Activities
- The Animal Adventure playground is ideal for kids to play and closely interact with animals such as meerkats, porcupines, pigs, coatis, alpacas, llamas, and goats. The area is designed with young visitors in mind, featuring low barriers that allow them to feel fully immersed in the animals’ world. Kids can watch the animals’ natural behaviours, creating a unique and engaging experience.
- Accessibility
- You can hire wheelchairs and mobility scooters at London Zoo. Wheelchairs are free with a £25 refundable deposit, while mobility scooters cost £20 with a £30 refundable deposit. Book them online in advance to guarantee availability.
Booking your tickets online is the quickest way to visit London Zoo. Pre-booking lets you skip the queues, save time, and enjoy discounts. Book in advance to get the best deal and enjoy a smoother visit!
What else can you do when you visit?
Once you’ve explored London Zoo, the surrounding area and London itself offer plenty more to keep you entertained:
- Camden Market
- A 10-minute drive from the London Zoo, Camden Market is a colorful place for bohemian shops, global food vendors, and music concerts. If you’re after a taste of London’s eclectic vibe, it’s a must-visit.
- Primrose Hill
- For an amazing view of the London skyline, visit Primrose Hill. Just under 10 minutes on foot from the London Zoo, this peaceful park is a favourite among people for picnicking, walking, or even watching the sunset.
- Madame Tussauds
- This wax attraction centre based near Baker Street is one of the most popular museums in the world with over 150 amazingly realistic wax figures for visitors of all ages.
FAQs
1. What are the ticket prices?
Tickets range from £33.00 to £27.00 per adult when booked online. Family packages are available for larger groups.
2. Are pets allowed?
No, but assistance dogs are welcome.
3. How long should I plan for my visit?
A standard visit lasts 3-4 hours, though you can easily spend a whole day exploring the exhibits and attending talks.
4. Is there parking available?
Yes, London Zoo provides a car park outside the congestion charging zone on Outer Circle in Regent’s Park.
5. Do I need to pre-book tickets?
Booking tickets online is recommended to secure entry and save time at the gate.
London Zoo is a testament to the enduring importance of wildlife conservation in an urban setting. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a quiet retreat into nature, or a way to engage with global biodiversity efforts, the zoo has something to offer.
So make a plan, grab your tickets, and prepare for a day full of discovery, learning, and unforgettable encounters with the animal kingdom. It’s a part of London you don’t want to miss.