Zoo in London

A visit to a zoo in London is among the favourite ways to spend time for families and animal lovers. These places offer a chance to see wildlife from around the world. MakeMyTrip features 3910 zoo attractions in London for 2025, each with safe enclosures and engaging exhibits. From exotic animals to interactive spaces for children, every corner of the zoo is designed to educate and entertain. Shaded areas, cafes and rest stops make it easy to spend a full day exploring. With London zoo ticket prices starting from INR 266, it’s an affordable outing for all ages. Spend time with your loved ones this October by booking your London zoo tickets through MakeMyTrip.

Zoos in London: Wildlife Adventures Across the UK Capital’s Green Spaces

London pulses with history, culture, and pockets of serene greenery where wildlife thrives. Among these sanctuaries, three standout zoos in London offer unique encounters with both native and exotic species. Whether you're a local craving a family outing or a visitor exploring beyond the city’s urban buzz, these destinations promise immersive wildlife experiences infused with education, conservation, and fun.

Each zoo in London brings its own character: one nestled inside Regent’s Park with centuries of legacy; another sprawling through Bedfordshire with vast grounds and open enclosures; and a third blended with theme park thrills, animal attractions, and rides. All are accessible, engaging, and designed for all ages and feature interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes experiences, and ticket options to suit different budgets and schedules.

Why Visit a Zoo in London

Close-up Wildlife Moments

Get safely near animals in thoughtfully designed habitats, join feeding sessions or keeper talks, and capture photo-worthy moments without disturbing wildlife.

Immersive, Natural-looking Environments

Explore environments that mimic savannahs, rainforests, and wetlands, encouraging animals to display natural behaviour in rich, engaging settings.

Learning Meets Fun

From interactive displays to guided tours and special events, each zoo in London strikes a balance between education and entertainment.

Convenient Access

All are easily reached by public transport or car, with clear directions, parking when needed, and visitor-friendly layouts for families.

Value and Variety

Advance online booking, family deals, and membership options bring good value while supporting conservation efforts.

Picture-perfect Settings

From regal parkland views to open plains and chiming rides, each offers stunning backdrops for memorable snapshots.

Top Zoos in London

London is home to three leading zoological attractions that each bring a distinct flavour to the city’s wildlife landscape. From Regent’s Park’s historic grounds to Bedfordshire’s vast safari-style spaces and Surrey’s blend of rides and animal encounters, these zoos in London provide unforgettable days out for all ages.

1. London Zoo

Location: Regent’s Park, Central London

Overview:

London Zoo is the oldest scientific zoo in the world, established in 1828, and remains a pioneering force in wildlife education and conservation. Spanning 36 acres in Regent’s Park, it combines heritage charm with modern, immersive habitats designed for both animals and visitors. Operated by the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the zoo plays a central role in global conservation projects, scientific research, and wildlife protection programmes. Families can stroll through themed zones like Gorilla Kingdom, Land of the Lions, Tiger Territory, and Penguin Beach, while adventurous learners can explore the In with the Spiders exhibit or colourful rainforest enclosures. Keeper talks, feeding demonstrations, and interactive play areas ensure the zoo is as educational as it is entertaining.

Key Highlights:

• Gorilla Kingdom, Land of the Lions, and Tiger Territory with up-close views of big cats and primates
• Millennium Conservation Centre with invertebrates and coral reef displays
• “In with the Spiders” walk-through experience
• Regular keeper talks and seasonal family events

Featured Animals: Tigers, lions, gorillas, penguins, zebras, meerkats, Komodo dragons, flamingos, sloths, lemurs, snakes, tropical fish, and butterflies

Opening Hours: London Zoo opens daily at 10:00 AM with closing times ranging from 4:00 PM in winter to 6:00 PM in summer. Last entry is 1 hour before closing.

Ticket Prices: Adults pay between ₹2,700 and ₹3,200, while children’s tickets cost ₹1,800 to ₹2,200. Children under 3 enter free, and booking online usually gives extra discounts.

Visitor Tips:

• Book tickets online for better value and skip queues
• Check the map and daily talk schedule before your visit
• Bring a hat and water bottle for sunny days
• Arrive early to see popular animal presentations

2. Whipsnade Zoo

Location: Whipsnade, near Dunstable, Bedfordshire

Overview:

Whipsnade Zoo is the UK’s largest zoo, spread across 600 acres of countryside. Opened in 1931, it offers an expansive safari-like experience where visitors can walk, drive, or ride the park’s steam railway between exhibits. Its vast size allows for large herds of animals to roam, creating naturalistic encounters more akin to wild habitats. The Passage through Asia drive-through, wide savannah-style enclosures, and themed zones make it ideal for those wanting an adventure beyond the city limits. It also offers indoor play areas, bird shows, and seasonal educational programmes.

Key Highlights:

• Expansive habitats like Lions of the Serengeti and Passage through Asia
• Free-roaming areas where certain species wander freely
• Great Whipsnade Railway train ride offering views of the park

Featured Animals: Lions, tigers, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, lemurs, chimpanzees, flamingos, hippos, wallabies, camels, and red pandas

Opening Hours: Whipsnade Zoo opens every day at 10:00 AM, with seasonal closing times varying between late afternoon in winter and early evening in summer.

Ticket Prices: Adult tickets cost around ₹3,000–₹3,500, children’s tickets ₹2,200–₹2,700, with free admission for under-3s and better value through online booking.

Visitor Tips:

• Book online for lower prices
• Consider driving through enclosures for a unique perspective
• Pre-book the indoor play area for children when available

3. Chessington World of Adventures

Location: Chessington, Surrey

Overview:

Chessington World of Adventures began as a zoo in 1931 and has since transformed into a full resort combining a theme park, zoo, and SEA LIFE centre. It blends thrilling rollercoasters and water rides with immersive animal exhibits, making it one of the most versatile days out near London. Visitors can encounter tigers, gorillas, and sea creatures before heading straight into themed adventures such as the Gruffalo River Ride or Mandrill Mayhem coaster. Seasonal festivals, live entertainment, and over 40 rides ensure that both animal lovers and thrill-seekers find something to enjoy.

Key Highlights:

• Over 40 rides plus zoo and SEA LIFE aquarium included in one ticket
• Family rides like the Gruffalo River Ride and Mandrill Mayhem coaster
• Seasonal events such as Zootastic and Howl’o’ween

Featured Animals: Tigers, gorillas, lions, penguins, sea lions, giraffes, zebras, otters, meerkats, exotic birds, reptiles, sharks, rays, and clownfish

Opening Hours: Chessington typically opens from 10:00 AM, with seasonal schedules meaning earlier closures in winter and extended hours during the peak summer months.

Ticket Prices: Standard day tickets range from ₹3,200–₹3,700, with midweek parent-and-toddler tickets priced between ₹2,900–₹3,400 and savings online for advance purchase.

Visitor Tips:

• Buy tickets online for significant savings
• Check ride height restrictions before visiting
• Look for “Twice the Fun” promotions for added value
• Use parking and lockers for convenience

Tips for Visiting Zoos in London

Book Early and Save

Reserve tickets online in advance using trusted platforms like MakeMyTrip to save money, secure entry slots, and avoid long queues during weekends, holidays, and peak school periods.

Plan Strategically

Check the zoo map, daily talk times, and feeding schedules beforehand so you can prioritise must-see exhibits, shows, and experiences without missing anything.

Stay Sun-safe

Even in cooler weather, bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a refillable bottle to stay comfortable during long walks across outdoor zones.

Arrive Early for Popular Features

Animal shows, keeper talks, and rides can fill quickly, so arrive a few minutes early to secure the best views and seating.

Choose the Best Transport Option

London Zoo is central and easy via tube; Whipsnade allows cars inside; Chessington works best by train to Chessington South station.

Upgrade with Experiences

Enhance your visit with behind-the-scenes encounters, close-up animal sessions, or premium packages that add personalised touches and unforgettable memories to your day.

Memberships & Savings

Annual passes for ZSL zoos or Chessington include unlimited visits, special discounts, and priority event access, ideal for families or wildlife enthusiasts who like to visit frequently.