Zoos in London: things to know before you go

Whether you want to learn about kings of the jungle or experience what life is like under the sea, we’ve got the answers to all your questions on zoos in London.

What can I do in London Zoo?

With over 19,000 animals at London Zoo, you won’t be short of animal inspiration. The whole family will enjoy the variety of attractions and shows on offer, while there’s something new to learn around every corner in this living museum of nature.

• Meet the animals. Enjoy daily London zoo events where you can get closer to the animals, under the watchful eye of experienced keepers ready to answer all your questions.
• Photo workshops. An opportunity to go behind the scenes and photograph animals up close. With professional tuition and advice, you’ll get superior snaps with your camera.
• Keeper for a day. A unique experience that provides hands-on insight into the daily life of being a zookeeper, with the chance to meet a variety of popular animals.

How long do you need to spend in London Zoo?

The sizable London Zoo is spread across 36 acres, so you’ll need at least two to three hours to get the full experience. To get your real money’s worth from the ticket price, however, you may end up staying at London Zoo for the whole day (or even overnight) to get the chance to see all the animals and exhibits on show!

Can you stay at London Zoo?

Book tickets for a stay in a London Zoo lodge and you’ll get the chance to find out what happens after-hours. If you've always wondered what goes on behind the scenes when the public have gone home for the day, this is your chance to find out more.

• Lookout Lodge. Experience ZSL Whipsnade Zoo after dark with a stay in a private lodge. Includes three educational tours at sunset, after dark, and in the morning, plus the chance to sleep next to the white rhinos and reindeer.
• Gir Lion Lodge. A unique insight into what goes on behind the scenes at London Zoo. This private lodge stay is situated inside the Land of the Lions exhibit - look forward to three educational tours during your visit.
• BedBUGS Sleepovers.A fantastic activity for kids at the zoo in London. Visitors get to stay overnight in the Bug House, enjoy talks and activities, and have a torchlit tour of the zoo.

What animals can you see at London Zoo?

London Zoo packs 23 individual animal exhibits into its grounds. From Galapagos tortoises, gorillas and meerkats to giraffes, lemurs and hippos, you'll be amazed at what you'll find.

• Tiger Territory. This carefully designed exhibit mimics the tiger's natural environment, and allows visitors the rare opportunity to get up close through floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
• Penguin Beach. The best time to see the resident colony of Humboldt penguins is at feeding time - where you can view them diving for food through a special underwater viewing area.
• Land of the Lions. Get up close to these beautiful creatures with a new interactive exhibit designed to transport visitors to their homeland of India and the vibrant Sasan Gir.