Quick Information

RECOMMENDED DURATION

3 hours

VISITORS PER YEAR

1300000

EXPECTED WAIT TIME - STANDARD

0-30 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)

Plan your visit

What is London Zoo?

London Zoo is a renowned haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an immersive experience with a variety of animals from diverse ecosystems. Situated in the heart of the city, the zoo offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. With its commitment to conservation, innovative exhibits, and immersive habitats, London Zoo serves as a hub for wildlife appreciation and understanding. Learn more about this incredible attraction.

Discover London Zoo in London

London Zoo
London Zoo
London Zoo
London Zoo
London Zoo

London Zoo Highlights

Gorilla Kingdom

Transporting you to an African rainforest, the Gorilla Kingdom introduces several captivating western lowland gorillas, the area also features enclosures for white-naped mangabeys, Celebes crested macaques, and more.

Komodo Dragon House

Encounter the impressive Komodo dragon and witness this formidable creature in action within its state-of-the-art lair, separated by more than 20 meters of komodo dragon-resistant glass for an intimate encounter.

Blackburn Pavilion

A vibrant rainforest-themed tropical bird aviary. Wander through lush habitats alongside over 50 exotic rainforest bird species, including the blue-crowned laughingthrush, trogons, and splendid sunbirds.

Into Africa

Observe diverse creatures including Rothschild's giraffes, African wild dogs, and pygmy hippos. The modern enclosure allows face-to-face interaction through a high-level viewing platform, making it a memorable encounter with these majestic animals.

Reptile House

One of the most famous buildings in the zoo, has housed reptile wonders since 1927.The revamped amphibian section, unveiled in December 2012, now features Chinese giant salamanders, African bullfrogs, and many more amazing creatures.

Tiger Territory

Roaming through an Indonesian habitat, visitors encounter these majestic creatures via floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Crafted in collaboration with ZSL's experts, the habitat caters to tigers' and visitor’s needs.

Land of the Lions

Unveiled in 2016, London Zoo's Land of the Lions showcases its Asiatic lion enclosure, mirroring an Indian town on Gir Forest's outskirts. Hanuman langurs, common dwarf mongooses, and Rüppell's vultures also inhabit this area.

Penguin Beach

Unveiled on May 26, 2011 the  pool stands as England's largest housing for penguins within a zoo. Beyond its allure, Penguin Beach serves as a breeding haven, complete with a penguin nursery, incubation unit, and a training pool.

History of London Zoo In A Nutshell

Established by Sir Stamford Raffles and Sir Humphry Davy in 1826, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) laid the groundwork for London Zoo. Opening in April 1828, the zoo initially catered to Society fellows, showcasing diverse species such as Arabian oryx, orangutans, and extinct creatures like quaggas and thylacines. Gradually, public access was granted in 1847, supporting the zoo's funding efforts.

The 1980s witnessed London Zoo's remarkable collection of 8,000 animals spanning 900 species.

In 1991, the zoo faced closure, but public support secured its survival. This led to a period of restoration, modernization, and enhanced relevance for the 20th century. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a temporary closure from March to June 2021, impacting the zoo's finances.

In 2022, the iconic Snowdon Aviary was reimagined into Monkey Valley, a vibrant new exhibit, showcasing the zoo's continuous evolution.

Learn More About London Zoo's History

Who Built London Zoo?

London Zoo's architecture has been shaped by prominent architects throughout its history. Decimus Burton, the first official architect from 1826 to 1841, designed initial structures including the Clock Tower and the Giraffe House.

Sir Peter Chalmers Mitchell and John James Joass contributed to the Mappin Terraces, while Berthold Lubetkin's Tecton Architectural Group created the Round House and the renowned Penguin Pool.

Architecture & Design of London Zoo

About London Zoo
  • London Zoo boasts iconic architecture, with Grade I and Grade II listed buildings. Decimus Burton, the first architect, shaped its layout, including the Clock Tower and Giraffe House. 
  • Notable structures include the Ravens' Cage aviary, Eastern Aviary, and the historic Stork and Ostrich House. The Mappin Terraces, designed by Sir Peter Chalmers Mitchell and John James Joass, mimic mountain landscapes. 
  • In 1964, the Snowdon Aviary emerged, a groundbreaking creation by Cedric Price, Lord Snowdon, and Frank Newby. Using aluminum and tension, it pushed architectural boundaries
  • Modernist highlights by Berthold Lubetkin's Tecton Group include the Round House and Penguin Pool.
  • Many of these architecturally significant spaces can be hired for events, reinvesting into the society's goals.
Map of London Zoo

Additional Information About London Zoo

About London Zoo

London Zoo is at the forefront of global conservation efforts, actively working to protect endangered species and their habitats.

  • Breeding Programs: London Zoo participates in over 130 breeding programs for endangered species.
  • Research and Science: The ZSL Institute of Zoology, closely associated with London Zoo, conducts groundbreaking research on animal behavior, genetics, and ecology.
  • Advocacy and Education: The zoo plays a vital role in raising awareness about conservation challenges.
  • Endangered Species Recovery: Some of the species bred at London Zoo are part of recovery programs for critically endangered animals. 
  • Conservation Leadership: As one of the world's oldest and most respected zoos, London Zoo takes on a leadership role in advocating for conservation policies and best practices in the global zoo and aquarium community.
Animals in London Zoo

Frequently Asked Questions About London Zoo in London

You can book your tickets online. Booking tickets online for London Zoo offers a convenient and efficient way to secure your visit.