A First Timer’s Guide To London Zoo

London is a very old city, so it’s unsurprising that its attractions have often had almost 200 years to develop into the millions a year drawing landmarks they are today. One such attraction is London Zoo, the oldest scientific zoo in the world, dating back to 1826. London Zoo or the Zoological Society of London, is situated in Regent’s Park and guests of hotels near Paddington Station London needn’t travel far to reach it.

So, if you’re planning a day out with the family to this must-visit animal park, what should you know before visiting and if you’re short on time, which attractions are unmissable?

Where Is London Zoo? 

London Zoo is situated on the northwestern edge of Regent’s Park and is easy to reach for guests of spas near Paddington via Chalk Farm or Mornington Crescent tube stations. Other attractions in Regent’s Park include the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and Regent’s Park itself. 

Areas Of London Zoo 

London Zoo spans 36 acres and consists of a great many sections. To make the most of it in one day, try and get there for opening – 10 am, as the park closes at 5 pm and can get very busy in the afternoon. 

Tiger Territory And Land Of The Lions 

Opened in 2013, Tiger Territory currently has a family of 4 tigers and provides them with a 500 square metres of enclosure filled with Indonesian plantlife, much like their home territory. The Land of the Lions enclosure covers 2500 metres and was opened in 2016 with a design that resembles an Indian town, showing how natural and urban habitats often overlap. Whilst kept separate from the lions (for obvious reasons), the Land of the Lions is also home to mongooses, vultures and langurs. 

Reptile House 

The reptile house is one of the most popular areas of London Zoo, and has existed in some capacity since 1927. Guests of the Chilworth London Paddington can enjoy exhibits of boa constrictors, iguanas and even crocodiles within the popular complex. 

Gorilla Kingdom 

This 2007 opened enclosure is home to 6 gorillas and was opened by the Duke of Edinburgh. Alongside gorillas, other primates such as mangabeys, macaques and Diana monkeys also live in smaller enclosures in the district.

Other Areas

Though the above-mentioned enclosures are a focal point for larger and more exotic animals, the zoo also features the Casson Pavilion for rhinos and elephants and the Into Africa enclosure, where you can find a giraffe viewing platform that provides face to face observation.

Enjoy London Zoo On The London Pass 

Whilst London hotel special offers with breakfast are definitely great value, the London Pass takes the biscuit for bang for your buck in the city. These digital London passes provide access to many of the best paid attractions in the city, meaning that after paying for your 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 consecutive day passes, you can skip the queue at London Zoo and even visit as many times as you like within the timeframe of the pass you’ve purchased.