Look, the kids are alright, but sometimes you just need a break from them, don’t you? Nobody understands that quite like ZSL London Zoo; despite being one of the best family-friendly days out in London, they’ve hit upon a genius plan to give animal-loving adults a break from the little ‘uns. It’s called Twilight at London Zoo, and on Thursday and Friday nights through the summer, the famous zoo will welcome adults through the gates for a kid-free evening of cocktails, face painting, games, and animal watching.
A popular option before the pandemic (we’ve visited before in the previous guise of Zoo Nights and loved it), Twilight at London Zoo is easily the best way to enjoy the zoo if you’ve not got a toddler or two in tow. The twilight sessions will run on Thursday and Friday nights beginning June 30, with the zoo becoming an adults-only space from 6-10pm. You’re invited to discover the secrets of the Zoo after hours, at a more relaxed pace. It’s also a fascinating glimpse into what the animals get up to after the crowds have gone home, whether you’re wandering through the butterfly house, searching for lions, or watching the penguins zoom through the water.
There are 15,000 animals at London Zoo, but they’re far from the only attraction at the Twilight sessions. Zookeepers will be offering talks, guided tours, and fascinating insights into the secret lives of the zoo’s residents, so you’ll leave equipped with plenty of animal knowledge. You’re also likely to leave with your face painted, as from past experience the eco-friendly face-painting stands have proved popular with the crowds!
Elsewhere at the Twilight at London Zoo sessions, you’ll discover pop-ups bars and chilled live music areas, where you can take life at a slower pace. That includes a secret cocktail garden hidden deep within the heart of the zoo, which we’d advise you to make your objective for the evening – along with the penguins, of course. Street food stalls will be on hand to satiate any hunger pangs that arise, and there are even rumours of a Zooniversity Challenge gameshow, which is sure to be a hoot.
You’ll be able to enjoy the Twilight at London Zoo sessions from June 30 until July 22, and whilst there are several dates to choose from, tickets are expected to disappear fast, so get yours soon. One thing’s for sure – you’re not going to find another cocktail bar with its own lions anywhere else in town…