London Zoo travel guide

Established in 1828, London Zoo in Camden Town is the world's oldest scientific zoo. Originally intended for scientific study, it opened to the public in 1847.

ZSL London Zoo has been a hub of pioneering spirit in the zoological world. It was home to the world's first reptile house (1849), first public aquarium (1853), and the first insect house (1881).

In 1931, London Zoo made history by opening the first public Penguin Pool. This popular feature was followed by the iconic Snowdon Aviary in 1964, pushing the boundaries of zoo design.

Despite facing closure due to financial difficulties in the 1990s, the zoo was revitalized with new exhibits like the 'Land of the Lions' and 'Tiger Territory'. Today, the zoo houses over 673 species, continuing its mission of conservation, science, and education.

A visit to London Zoo in Camden Town is not just an exciting day out but also a journey through the history of zoos and their evolution.

Discover London Zoo, a prime feature of London, in the vibrant City of Westminster. London Zoo is situated at Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, UK, just a short distance from The Regent's Park and Madame Tussauds London, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of London Zoo, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of London, a city in England rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit London to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of London Zoo. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive London travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

London Zoo is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in London, England. If you're flying in or planning to book a flight to London, Gatwick Airport is approximately 26.8 miles (43.1 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach London Zoo by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in London, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach London Zoo, which is located 2.2 miles (3.6 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY, UK.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at London Zoo!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to London, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring London Zoo.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic zoo in England.

The best time to explore London Zoo lies within the warm months of late spring through early autumn, specifically from April to October. During this period, London's typically mild weather allows for comfortable exploration of the zoo's vast array of exhibits. Furthermore, many of the zoo's animals are most active and visible in these pleasant conditions. The summer months, while offering extended opening hours, can often attract larger crowds. Thus, the shoulder seasons of late spring or early autumn are recommended for those wishing to avoid peak crowd levels. Additionally, the zoo hosts a variety of special events throughout the year. 'Zoo Nights', a popular event featuring food markets, live music, and after-hours animal viewing, takes place on select Fridays in June and July. Another highlight is 'Boo at the Zoo', a ten-day Halloween event in October, offering family-friendly activities and themed animal talks. It is wise to check the zoo's event calendar in advance to align your visit with these unique experiences. Therefore, to optimize your visit, consider both seasonal weather patterns and the zoo's special events schedule to determine the best time to explore London Zoo.

Choosing the right accommodation near London Zoo from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in London can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from London Zoo, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond London Zoo, London boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in London offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in London is Trafalgar Square, located at Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DS, UK. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Madame Tussauds London is worth seeing when you're in London. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Marylebone Rd, London NW1 5LR, UK.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Big Ben completes any trip to London. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at London SW1A 0AA, UK, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in London below to discover even more incredible places to explore.