London Zoo

A Legacy of Scientific Discovery

Nestled at the northern edge of Regent's Park, where the city lines of Westminster and Camden meet, you will find a place defined by its deep history. Known as the world’s oldest scientific zoo, London Zoo was established for the purpose of scientific study before opening its doors to the public in 1847. To walk through its gates is to step into a timeline of conservation; it was here that the first reptile house, the first public aquarium, the first insect house, and the first children's zoo were all established. The site remains one of the largest zoological collections in the United Kingdom, housing over 8,000 individuals from more than 300 species.

Immersive Habitats

Explore a variety of specialized environments designed to showcase animals in settings that reflect their natural behaviors and origins. You can wander through:

• Monkey Valley: A Grade II* listed building with a pyramidal aluminium framework where you can walk through a primatarium housing a troop of eastern black and white colobus monkeys.
• Land of the Lions: An expansive area designed to resemble an Indian town on the edge of the Gir National Park, featuring Asiatic lions alongside Hanuman langurs and various bird species.
• Tiger Territory: A 2,500-square-metre enclosure filled with authentic Indonesian plant life and a protective net canopy, home to Sumatran tigers.
• Gorilla Kingdom: A moated island providing a sanctuary for a group of western lowland gorillas, along with smaller enclosures for white-naped mangabeys and Sulawesi crested macaques.
• The Casson Pavilion: A Grade II listed building that currently serves as a home for red river hogs and babirusas.

A Unique Heritage

The zoo's history is marked by its resilience and commitment to the animals in its care. During the Second World War, while many of the most valuable animals were moved to safety at Whipsnade, the grounds remained a site of survival, enduring bombings that damaged several houses. Today, the institution continues to be a leader in conservation, participating in breeding programmes for over 130 species and maintaining a diverse collection that includes unique residents like the wombat and the Tasmanian devil.

The Heart of London

Beyond the gates, you are situated within one of the city's most beautiful "green lungs." Regent’s Park offers a serene escape from the urban bustle, providing a scenic backdrop for your visit. Whether you are observing the majestic lions or exploring the intricate habitats of the primates, you are experiencing a landmark that has been at the forefront of zoological science since 1828.