By Mac 
Updated 26/07/2025
Disclosure: The following article contains affiliate links. This means that if you book through my links, I may receive a small commission. There is no extra cost to you.
Key Takeaways: London Zoo
Central Location: Situated in Regent’s Park, easily accessible by public transport.
Immersive Exhibits: Highlights include Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory, Gorilla Kingdom, and Penguin Beach.
Daily Shows & Feedings: Learn about animal behaviour during live talks and feeding sessions.
Family-Friendly: Play areas, interactive exhibits, and child-friendly dining.
Educational & Fun: Combines conservation with engaging, hands-on learning.
Dining & Picnics: Multiple food outlets and picnic zones throughout the zoo.
Full-Day Experience: Plan for 4–6 hours or a full day to explore comfortably.
Accessible: Wheelchair-friendly paths, accessible facilities, and carer support available.
Introduction to London Zoo
Tucked away in the heart of Regent’s Park, London Zoo is a vibrant oasis where nature, wonder, and wildlife collide. As you step through its historic gates, you’re welcomed by lush landscaped gardens, the cheerful chatter of exotic birds, and the distant roar of lions echoing through the trees. Located in one of London’s most picturesque royal parks, just a stone’s throw from the city’s iconic landmarks, this world-renowned zoo offers a perfect escape from the urban bustle. Whether you’re travelling with children, exploring as a couple, or adventuring solo, London Zoo promises a day of discovery, connection, and unforgettable encounters with animals from around the globe. It’s more than a zoo, it’s a journey into the wild right in the heart of England’s capital.
A Day at the Zoo: What to Expect
A visit to London Zoo is nothing short of a full-day adventure, offering a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and awe-inspiring moments. From the moment the gates open, visitors are immersed in a world of fascinating creatures and beautifully designed habitats. You can wander through the rainforest in Rainforest Life, where monkeys swing overhead and sloths nap in the treetops, or step into Land of the Lions, a remarkable recreation of an Indian Gir forest complete with elevated viewing walkways.
Daily talks and feeding times bring the zoo to life, offering up-close encounters with penguins, giraffes, and meerkats, while younger guests can burn off energy at the Animal Adventure play zone. Along the way, there are plenty of spots to relax with a picnic or enjoy a snack from one of the on-site cafés.
Whether you spend your time marvelling at the towering Galápagos tortoises or learning about conservation at the Tiger Territory, every moment is designed to inspire a deeper connection to wildlife. By the end of the day, you’ll leave with memories, photos, and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.
Key Highlights:
- Morning Exploration: Start your day by visiting some of the zoo’s most popular exhibits.
- Midday Shows and Feeding Times: Catch exciting animal shows and feeding sessions.
- Afternoon Activities: Participate in interactive experiences and educational talks.
- Evening Relaxation: Wind down with a visit to the tranquil gardens and less crowded exhibits.
Morning Exploration: Iconic Exhibits
Start your day at London Zoo by heading straight to some of its most iconic and immersive exhibits. Early mornings are ideal—the zoo is quieter, the animals are often more active, and you’ll have the chance to enjoy these impressive habitats without the crowds. It’s the perfect time to soak in the sights, sounds, and serenity of this world-class attraction.
Key Highlights:
Land of the Lions
Step into the sights, sounds, and scents of Sasan Gir, India, in this beautifully themed habitat dedicated to the endangered Asiatic lion. With high walkways, crumbling temple ruins, and interactive elements, the exhibit places you just feet away from these majestic cats as they prowl, rest, or interact with each other. Interpretive signs and cultural features make this more than just an animal viewing area—it’s an immersive experience that transports you across continents.
Tiger Territory
Venture into the dense, leafy environment of the Tiger Territory, home to the elusive Sumatran tigers. Designed to resemble the tigers’ natural habitat, this tranquil space offers floor-to-ceiling viewing windows and shaded areas where these critically endangered big cats can often be seen prowling, lounging, or stalking their enrichment toys. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of conservation efforts for one of the world’s most threatened predators.
Gorilla Kingdom
Just a short stroll away is Gorilla Kingdom, a lush, tree-lined enclosure housing a close-knit family of western lowland gorillas. With expansive indoor and outdoor viewing areas, you can watch these intelligent primates as they forage, groom, and interact with one another in a space designed to mimic their natural forest environment. It’s a moving experience that offers a glimpse into the complex social lives of one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Penguin Beach
Round out your morning with a visit to Penguin Beach—the largest penguin pool in England. Sit along the glass-fronted edge of the pool and watch the colony of Humboldt penguins dart through the water, sun themselves on the rocks, or waddle to their feeding stations. Morning feedings are a real treat, with keepers offering engaging commentary while the penguins splash and scramble for their favourite fish.
This early-day circuit sets the tone for the rest of your visit, offering unforgettable first encounters and stunning photo opportunities while the zoo is still calm and peaceful.
Midday Shows and Feeding Times
As the day warms up and the zoo fills with excitement, midday is the perfect time to take a break from walking and enjoy the range of interactive shows and feeding sessions that bring London Zoo to life. These experiences not only offer a chance to see the animals in action but also provide educational insights from the expert keepers who care for them daily. It’s a great way to rest, recharge, and deepen your understanding of wildlife conservation while staying entertained.
Key Highlights:
Animal Adventure Show
Gather at the open-air Animal Adventure theatre for a lively, family-friendly show where birds, reptiles, and small mammals take centre stage. This interactive presentation introduces guests to some of the zoo’s most charismatic creatures, with keepers sharing fun facts and surprising behaviours. Whether it’s a parrot demonstrating its flying skills or a hedgehog waddling across the stage, it’s a hit with children and adults alike.
Penguin Feeding
One of the zoo’s most popular daily events, the Penguin Beach feeding session draws a crowd for good reason. Watch dozens of Humboldt penguins glide through the water with impressive agility as keepers explain what these birds eat, how they communicate, and what makes them so well-adapted to life both on land and in the sea. The informative talk adds context to the spectacle, making it both entertaining and educational.
Big Cat Feeding
Don’t miss the thrilling spectacle of big cat feeding time at either Land of the Lions or Tiger Territory. As the lions or Sumatran tigers are given their carefully prepared meals, keepers discuss their natural hunting behaviours, dietary needs, and the important conservation work being done to protect these magnificent species. Seeing a tiger stalk its food or a lion roar before feeding is a truly unforgettable moment.
Reptile House Feeding Session
Head into the cool, dimly lit Reptile House to witness an up-close feeding session with snakes, lizards, or even crocodiles. The keepers provide fascinating details about each species’ eating habits, hunting techniques, and sensory adaptations. It’s a quieter but no less captivating experience—especially for those curious about creatures that slither or creep.
These midday activities add another layer to your zoo visit, offering chances to ask questions, learn more about animal welfare, and watch the animals behave as they would in the wild, all guided by the knowledgeable and passionate staff who care for them every day.
Afternoon Activities: Interactive and Educational
As the day continues and you’ve explored the zoo’s major exhibits, the afternoon offers a fantastic opportunity to slow down and immerse yourself in hands-on learning and unique animal encounters. These interactive and educational experiences are perfect for families, curious travellers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. They offer a deeper appreciation for the zoo’s conservation mission while creating memories that will last long after your visit.
Key Highlights:
Meet the Animals
Step beyond the barriers in specially arranged sessions that let you get closer to some of the zoo’s most popular residents. Under the guidance of trained staff, visitors can meet and observe animals like lemurs, meerkats, and goats in a safe and controlled environment. These up-close moments are ideal for children and budding zoologists, as they offer a rare chance to witness natural behaviours, such as grooming, foraging, and social interaction, from just a few feet away.
Keeper Talks
Scattered throughout the afternoon are a series of informal keeper talks at various enclosures. These engaging sessions are a great way to learn fascinating facts about the animals, their personalities, feeding routines, and the conservation work being done to protect them in the wild. Whether you’re standing by the giraffe house or near the otter enclosure, the keepers’ personal stories and behind-the-scenes insights add depth and heart to your zoo experience.
In with the Spiders
For the bold and curious, In with the Spiders is one of the zoo’s most unique exhibits. This walk-through experience invites visitors into an open space where harmless spiders roam freely within a carefully monitored environment. Educational signage and staff members are on hand to teach you about these often-misunderstood creatures—their anatomy, webs, and importance in ecosystems. It’s an eye-opening activity for those looking to face their fears or simply learn more about arachnids.
Butterfly Paradise
Escape into the warm, humid air of Butterfly Paradise, a tropical haven filled with colourful butterflies flitting among exotic plants and flowers. As you stroll through this enchanting enclosure, you’ll see a wide variety of species up close, often landing nearby or even on your clothing. Informational displays guide you through each stage of the butterfly life cycle, from caterpillar to chrysalis to winged beauty, making this a calm and magical experience for all ages.
These afternoon activities offer a wonderful balance of relaxation, discovery, and interaction. Whether you’re making eye contact with a meerkat, watching a spider spin its web, or admiring the delicate wings of a butterfly, each moment adds a layer of connection to the animal world and the zoo’s mission to protect it.
Evening Relaxation: Gardens and Tranquil Spaces
As the sun begins to dip and the energy of the day settles, London Zoo takes on a softer, more tranquil charm. The crowds begin to thin, the animals grow calmer, and the peaceful ambience of the gardens and indoor exhibits creates the perfect atmosphere to unwind. This is a wonderful time to slow your pace, soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings, and enjoy the zoo from a gentler perspective.
Key Highlights:
Rainforest Life
Step into the warm, dimly lit enclosure of Rainforest Life, where the dense canopy, rustling leaves, and distant animal calls mimic the atmosphere of a real tropical rainforest. This immersive space is home to tamarins, marmosets, sloths, and nocturnal creatures that are often more active in the late afternoon and early evening. As you wander through the elevated walkways and peek into the foliage, you’ll notice subtle movements and curious glances from the treetops, offering a quiet yet captivating encounter with some of the zoo’s most elusive residents.
Aquarium
Continue your calming journey with a visit to the Aquarium, a peaceful haven filled with gently glowing tanks and the soothing sound of water. As you move from tropical freshwater streams to coral reef ecosystems, you’ll discover a kaleidoscope of marine life, neon tetras darting among aquatic plants, clownfish weaving through sea anemones, and the graceful glide of stingrays and eels. The dim lighting and rhythmic movement of the fish create a meditative setting, making it an ideal stop before the end of your day.
ZSL Gardens
Finally, take a quiet stroll through the ZSL Gardens, a series of beautifully landscaped areas that weave through the zoo’s grounds. From seasonal flower beds to shady tree-lined paths, the gardens are a hidden gem that many visitors overlook in the excitement of the main exhibits. Benches placed in scenic spots offer ideal places to sit and reflect on the day’s experiences. Whether you’re sipping a final coffee or simply soaking in the peaceful ambience, these gardens provide a perfect setting to unwind and let your zoo adventure gently conclude.
As your visit comes to an end, this slower-paced section of the zoo invites you to relax, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world, making for a soothing finale to a vibrant and inspiring day at London Zoo.
Dining Options: Where to Eat
No full-day adventure at London Zoo is complete without taking time to refuel; fortunately, the zoo offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste, appetite, and schedule. Whether you’re after a sit-down meal, a quick snack between exhibits, or a scenic spot to enjoy your packed lunch, you’ll find plenty of choices that are both convenient and delicious. With family-friendly menus and vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-aware options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Key Highlights:
The Terrace Restaurant
Located near the entrance, The Terrace Restaurant is the zoo’s main dining hub and an ideal spot for a proper lunch break. The menu features a wide selection of freshly prepared meals, including seasonal hot dishes, jacket potatoes, fresh salads, pasta, and tasty desserts. With indoor and outdoor seating, the relaxed, canteen-style space is perfect for families and groups who want to unwind in comfort before heading back out to explore.
Animal Adventure Café
Situated close to the popular children’s play zone, Animal Adventure Café is a go-to option for families with younger children. The menu includes kid-friendly classics like chicken nuggets, sandwiches, fruit pots, and juices, along with healthy snack options to keep energy levels up. Its location makes it convenient for a quick bite before or after a visit to the petting zoo or play area.
Penguin Beach Bar
Overlooking the lively Penguin Beach, this outdoor kiosk is perfect for visitors who prefer something lighter or are short on time. The Penguin Beach Bar serves a range of quick options, such as sandwiches, wraps, snacks, and hot or cold drinks. It’s a great place to enjoy a coffee or ice cream while watching the penguins glide through the water, a refreshing pause in the middle of your zoo journey.
Picnic Areas
If you prefer to bring your own food, London Zoo welcomes picnics and offers several well-maintained areas for al fresco dining. Shaded spots near The Great Lawn or the peaceful gardens provide a lovely setting for a homemade lunch. Some picnic areas even include benches and tables, making them ideal for families and groups looking for a budget-friendly, relaxed dining experience.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee on the go, enjoying a hearty lunch, or spreading out a picnic blanket in the sun, London Zoo’s food and drink offerings are designed to keep you comfortable and satisfied throughout the day—so you can focus on the fun and discovery all around you.
Practical Information
To make the most of your visit to London Zoo, it’s helpful to plan ahead with some essential practical details. From opening hours to accessibility and ticket options, here’s what you need to know before you go:
Opening Hours
London Zoo is open every day of the year except Christmas Day.
Standard hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (last entry at 4:00 pm)
Opening times may vary seasonally, so it’s always a good idea to check the zoo’s website before your visit.
Location and Getting There
The zoo is located within the northern edge of Regent’s Park in central London.
Address: London Zoo, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY, England
Public Transport:
Tube: The nearest stations are Camden Town (15-minute walk) and Regent’s Park (20-minute walk).
Bus: Several routes stop nearby, including 274 and C2.
Rail: Euston and Marylebone stations are both within a short taxi or bus ride.
Car: Limited parking is available in the zoo’s private car park (fees apply). Consider using public transport where possible.
Tickets and Entry
It’s strongly recommended to book tickets online in advance for discounted rates and to avoid queues.
Standard admission: Prices vary by season and age group.
Discounts: Concessions are available for seniors, students, and children.
Membership: ZSL members and patrons enjoy free unlimited entry and other benefits.
Accessibility
London Zoo is committed to being accessible to all visitors.
Most paths are wheelchair-friendly, and accessible toilets are available.
Free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for hire (advance booking recommended).
Facilities
Toilets and baby-changing areas are located throughout the zoo.
Gift shops offer a variety of souvenirs, toys, and educational materials.
Free Wi-Fi is available in many areas.
Lockers are available near the entrance for storing small bags.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
Arrive early to avoid the busiest periods and catch the animals at their most active.
Wear comfortable footwear—there’s plenty of ground to cover.
Pick up a zoo map or download the ZSL app for navigation and event times.
Keep an eye on the daily schedule for feeding times and talks.
With a little planning and these practical tips in hand, your visit to London Zoo will be comfortable, enjoyable, and filled with memorable moments.
Accommodation: Where to Stay Near London Zoo
Whether you’re looking for a memorable overnight experience at the zoo or a comfortable nearby hotel, London Zoo is surrounded by excellent accommodation options to suit all budgets and travel styles.
Stay at the Zoo: ZSL Lodges
For a truly unique experience, book an overnight stay at the ZSL Lodges, located within the zoo grounds. Enjoy exclusive after-hours access, behind-the-scenes tours, dinner, breakfast, and the unforgettable chance to sleep just metres from the animals. Ideal for families, couples, and wildlife lovers alike. Advance booking is essential.
Nearby Hotels – Family-Friendly and Convenient
Boutique & Stylish Stays
Budget-Friendly Options
Picnic & Parking Notes
Most hotels in the area are within easy reach of public transport.
London Zoo also offers limited paid parking on-site, ideal if you’re bringing a picnic or planning to drive.
Tip: For the best rates, book accommodation at least a month in advance. Staying nearby allows you to arrive early and make the most of your zoo visit.
Conclusion: A Memorable Day at London Zoo
A visit to London Zoo is far more than a walk through animal enclosures; it’s a full-sensory experience that combines adventure, education, and a deep connection to nature. From the roar of the lions in the morning to the peaceful flutter of butterflies in the afternoon, every moment offers something unique for visitors of all ages.
Set in the heart of one of London’s most beautiful parks, the zoo blends world-class conservation with unforgettable animal encounters, interactive exhibits, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re watching penguins dive, walking among spiders, or relaxing in the ZSL gardens, your day will be filled with wonder, learning, and fun.
Perfect for a family outing, a day with friends, or even a solo escape into the wild, London Zoo is a must-visit destination that leaves lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural world.
FAQs
Where is London Zoo located?
London Zoo is in Regent’s Park, central London. The address is Outer Circle, Regent’s Park, London NW1 4RY, England.
What are the opening hours?
The zoo is generally open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:00 pm. Hours may vary seasonally, so check the official website before your visit.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book online for guaranteed entry and to access discounted rates. Same-day tickets are available if capacity allows.
Is the zoo suitable for young children?
Absolutely. London Zoo is very family-friendly, with dedicated play areas, child-friendly meals, interactive exhibits, and easy walking routes.
Are there places to eat inside the zoo?
Yes. Options include The Terrace Restaurant, Animal Adventure Café, and Penguin Beach Bar, as well as designated picnic areas for those bringing their own food.
Can I bring a picnic?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy it in the zoo’s outdoor picnic zones.
Is London Zoo accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes. Most areas are wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available for hire. Accessible toilets and free entry for carers are also provided.
How long should I plan to spend at the zoo?
To experience everything comfortably, plan to spend at least 4–6 hours. A full day is ideal for enjoying shows, talks, and all exhibits.
Is there parking available?
Limited paid parking is available near the zoo, but public transport is highly recommended due to its central location.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dos are not allowed, except for registered assistance dogs. Special rules apply regarding entry for assistance animals — check ahead for guidance.
