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ZSL London Zoo - In A Nutshell
Handy information
| ⏰ Suggested Duration: | 4-5 hours |
| ☀️ Best Time to Visit: | early morning or late afternoon |
| 🎟️ ZSL London Zoo Tickets | €33.11 |
| 🚇 Closest Metro | Camden Town station |
Must-see
Meet the Monkeys exhibit
Penguin Beach live feedings
Land of the Lions exhibit
Things to know
Opened in: 1828
Location: Regent's Park
ZSL London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo
Home to over 20,000 animals
Opening Hours And Address
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry - one hour before closing)
Address: ZSL London Zoo, Regent's Park, London NW1 4RY
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Why Is ZSL London Zoo Worth Visiting?
- Magical animal encounters: Get up close and personal with over 750 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and penguins.
- Wild exhibits: Explore immersive exhibits, from the rainforests of South America to the African savannah.
- Entertaining shows: Watch daily animal shows and feeds, including the popular penguin parade and bird displays.
- Sustainable efforts: Discover the zoo's conservation efforts and learn how you can help protect endangered species.
- Unique events: Attend special events like Zoo Nights and Sunset Safari for an unforgettable visit under the stars.
ZSL London Zoo Tickets
Embark on an adventure at ZSL London Zoo, where captivating wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments await - purchase your tickets now and be part of the incredible conservation journey.
History Of ZSL London Zoo
ZSL London Zoo is a historic landmark in London that has been in operation for almost 200 years. Founded in 1828, it is the world's oldest scientific zoo. Throughout its long history, the zoo has played an important role in advancing our understanding of wildlife and conservation.
During the Victorian era, the zoo was a popular destination for Londoners seeking entertainment and exotic adventure. The zoo's collection of exotic animals and impressive architecture made it a must-visit attraction for curious visitors. However, it was also a place of scientific research, with the zoo's founder, Sir Stamford Raffles, and Charles Darwin conducting groundbreaking studies of animal behavior and evolution.
The zoo was heavily impacted during World War II, with many of the animals evacuated for their safety. After the war, the zoo shifted its focus to conservation, becoming an important voice in the movement to preserve endangered species. In the 1960s, the zoo became a leader in animal welfare, implementing new standards for animal care and breeding.
Today, ZSL London Zoo is home to over 750 species of animals, making it one of the most diverse zoos in the world. The zoo is dedicated to animal conservation and education, making it an important place to learn about the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. A trip to the zoo is not only a fun day out, but it is also an opportunity to support a vital cause.
ZSL London Zoo Architecture
ZSL London Zoo, situated in the heart of London, boasts a fascinating architecture that is a mix of traditional Victorian style and modern elements. The zoo first opened its doors to the public in 1847, and since then it has undergone several renovations and expansions. The original entrance gate, built in 1828, is still standing and has been beautifully restored. The animal habitats are designed to simulate their natural habitats - the Penguin Beach is shaped like a penguin watering hole, while the Tiger Territory has been designed to resemble the ruins of an ancient temple. The Reptile House is a Grade II listed building, famous for its design that inspired a scene in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.
The zoo's architecture has been influenced by several prominent architects, including Decimus Burton, John James Joass, and Cedric Price, among others. The latest addition to the zoo's architecture is the Land of the Lions exhibit, which has been designed to resemble an Indian village and features intricately designed temples and architecture.
Visitors interested in architecture will be fascinated by the unique design elements and rich history of ZSL London Zoo.
Highlights of ZSL London Zoo
1Land of the Lions
Get transported straight to the Sasan Gir in Gujarat, India and marvel at the majestic lions roaming freely in this incredible exhibit.
2Penguin Beach
Watch penguins waddle around their icy habitat, as they dive and swim in the pool sharing waves with each other.
3 Tiger Territory
Come face-to-face with the Sumatran tigers at this unique exhibit. This award-winning attraction gives diners the chance to dine right next to these big cats while enjoying a meal.
4Rainforest Life
Trek through the Amazonian jungle and explore the canopy, seeking out two-toed sloths, cute emperor tamarin monkeys, and various exotic birds.
5Gorilla Kingdom
Discover the African rainforest through the eyes of some of its most fascinating inhabitants. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the stunning silverback gorillas.
6Reptile House
Drop by one of the UK's most ancient tropic houses to watch a range of reptiles including snakes, iguanas, tortoises, and chameleons.
7Aquarium
Travel under the seas with a trip to the aquarium and its over-more than 600 different species of aquatic life, including clownfish, jellyfish, seahorses, and even giant octopuses.
8Meet the Monkeys
Get up close and personal with the family of monkeys and learn about their behavior and history while feeding them some of their favorite treats at the zoo's Monkey Island.
9Into Africa
Discover an array of African wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and okapis in the Into Africa exhibit, where you can also learn about the current conservation work being done to help save these animals from extinction.
10Butterfly Paradise
Take a break from walking and immerse yourself in calming surroundings, where you rejuvenate amidst beautiful butterflies, swooping and soaring around you creating a colorful paradise that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Best Time to Visit ZSL London Zoo
The best time to visit ZSL London Zoo is typically on weekdays during the off-peak season or during early mornings when the animals are more active, allowing you to enjoy a less crowded and immersive experience.
Additionally you can learn more about the best time to visit London.
ZSL London Zoo Timings
- The zoo is open every day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- The last admission time is at 3:00 PM.
- The zoo is open for Zoo Nights events from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM on selected Fridays and Saturdays.
- The zoo is closed on Christmas Day (25th December).
Exhibitions/Museums:
- Penguin Beach closes half an hour before the zoo's scheduled closing time.
- The Reptile House and BUGS are closed from 3:30 PM.
- The Terrace Restaurant is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- The Aquarium is open from 10:00 AM to 3:45 PM.
- The Into Africa exhibit is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Land of the Lions is open from 10:00 AM to 3:45 PM.
- Tiger Territory is open from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.
Getting There
Getting to ZSL London Zoo is easy with various options available for public transportation. Located in the heart of London, the zoo is easily accessible by bus, train and tram.
- By Bus: Buses 274 and C2 run directly to the zoo from various parts of the city. Bus 24 also stops nearby, making it easy to hop off and walk a short distance to the zoo.
- By Train: The nearest train station to the zoo is Camden Town Station, which is a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take the Overground to Camden Road Station and walk for 20 minutes. Both stations are well-connected to other parts of London.
- By Tram: Tramlink services run from various areas including Croydon and Wimbledon, stopping at nearby stops such as Brixton and Tooting Broadway.
- By Tube: The nearest tube station to the zoo is Mornington Crescent on the Northern line, which is a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can take the Jubilee line to Baker Street and change to the bus or take a short taxi ride.
Insider Tips to Visiting ZSL London Zoo
Here are some insider tips to help you have the best time here -
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds and the long queues at the entrance.
- Make sure to check the feeding times of the animals and plan your visit accordingly. You can find the feeding schedules on the zoo's official website.
- Another great tip is to visit on a weekday if possible, as weekends tend to be much busier. If you do end up visiting on a weekend, consider booking a special experience, such as the animal enclosure tours or the VIP guided experience, which allows you to skip the lines and get up close with the animals.
- Don't forget to bring comfortable shoes and clothing, as the zoo is quite large and there's a lot of walking involved. Also, consider bringing your own food and drinks to save money, as the food prices inside the zoo can be quite high.
- Finally, if you're interested in learning more about the animals, take advantage of the free talks and demonstrations that are held throughout the day. These are a great way to get more information about the zoo's inhabitants and their behaviors.
Restaurants Nearby
If you're looking for an upscale dining experience, The Ledbury is perfect. The restaurant has a Michelin-star and offers contemporary French cuisine. You can enjoy dishes such as loin of roe deer or turbot with smoked eel. The restaurant is only a 15-minute walk from the zoo.
Located in Primrose Hill, this cozy eatery is perfect for brunch or lunch. The food is fresh and homemade with vegan and vegetarian options available. Try their homemade granola with yogurt or their shakshuka with sourdough bread. The restaurant is only a 10-minute walk from the zoo.
For a unique dining experience, try Shaka Zulu. The restaurant offers traditional South African cuisine with entertainment such as live music and dancing. Try their signature dish, the braai platter which includes lamb chops, boerewors, and chicken wings. It's only a 20-minute walk from the zoo.
If you're looking for something different, try Feng Shang Princess, a floating restaurant on a canal boat. They offer Chinese cuisine and dim sum, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Try their crispy duck pancakes or steamed sea bass with ginger and spring onion. The restaurant is only a 10-minute walk from the zoo.
Other Attractions around ZSL London Zoo
Located just 2.5 miles from ZSL London Zoo, Camden Market offers a unique shopping experience with a variety of food, fashion, and music stalls. It's a great place to soak up the local culture and enjoy some tasty street food.
The stunning Regent's Park is only half a mile away from the zoo and is a must-visit for nature lovers. Take a stroll through the beautiful rose gardens or hire a boat on the lake for a relaxing afternoon.
If you love celebrity culture, then visiting the world-famous Madame Tussauds wax museum is a must. Situated just 1.5 miles from the zoo, this attraction is full of replicas of famous figures from history, film, and pop culture.
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Located 3.5 miles away from the zoo, The British Museum boasts a vast collection of art and artefacts from around the world. Explore the halls of ancient Egyptian mummies and discover historical treasures from across the globe.
Just 2 miles from the zoo, the Sherlock Holmes Museum is dedicated to the beloved fictional detective. Step back in time to the Victorian era and explore the recreated interiors of 221B Baker Street, the home of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson.
For some evening entertainment, head to London's West End, just 3 miles from the zoo. With a variety of musicals, plays, and comedies on offer, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
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Hotels Around ZSL London Zoo
Luxury Stays
Economical Stays
FAQs
Entrance fees depend on the time of year. Check the website or plan to pay around £30 per adult.
You can see a variety of animals, including primates, big cats, reptiles, and birds.
Yes, you can bring food and drinks into the zoo.
Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours to see most of the exhibits.
Yes, there are accessible routes throughout the zoo and wheelchair rentals available.
There are some animal experiences available, including feeding the giraffes and participating in hands-on activities in the children's zoo.
Weekends and school holidays tend to be the busiest times. Consider visiting during weekdays if possible.
Yes, there are exhibits and activities suitable for all ages, making it a great destination for families.
