Top 9 Zoos in London … Your Full Guide 2023
- Rare species – They have successful breeding programs for endangered species like Amur leopards, Brazilian tapirs, and eastern black rhinos.
- Natural habitats – Immersive exhibits recreate animals’ natural habitats with plants and features from their native lands.
- Talks and feeding – Daily keeper talks explain animal behaviors and biology. Visitors can watch feeding sessions.
- Adventure playgrounds – There are indoor and outdoor play zones with equipment for all age groups.
Practical Information
Location: Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester CO3 0SL
Opening Hours: 9am-6pm daily
Ticket Prices: £32 for adults, £22.99 for children 3-15 years
Nearby Attractions: Colchester Castle, Hollytrees Museum, Escape Live
8. Wildwood Escot
Set across 225 acres of beautiful Devonshire countryside, Wildwood Escot features British wildlife in natural woodland habitats.
Key Features
- Native species – The zoo focuses solely on British species like red squirrels, otters, wildcats, owls, bats, badgers and more.
- Woodland habitats – The animals live in extensive naturalistic woodland, wetland, and meadow enclosures.
- Nature trails – There are 2.5 miles of walking trails winding through the zoo habitats and nearby countryside.
- Talks and feeding – Daily otter and bird of prey talks and feeding demonstrations.
Practical Information
Location: Ottery St Mary, Devon, EX11 1LU
Opening Hours: 10am-5pm daily
Ticket Prices: £15 for adults, £13 for concessions
Nearby Attractions: Bicton Park Botanical Gardens, Otterton Mill, Pitt Farm Shop & Café
9. Howletts Wild Animal Park
Home to the world’s largest herd of African elephants, Howletts features rare and endangered animals from around the world.
Key Features
- African elephants – It has a pioneering breeding program and herd of over 19 African elephants.
- Predators – Lions, tigers, cheetahs, and leopards prowl large paddock habitats.
- Ape experiences – Gorilla experiences provide close encounters with the majestic primates.
- Conservation breeding – Endangered animals like black rhinos and Przewalski’s horses.
Practical Information
Location: Bekesbourne, Canterbury, Kent CT4 5EL
Opening Hours: 9.30am-5pm daily
Ticket Prices: £24 for adults, £20 for children 3-15 years
Nearby Attractions: Canterbury, Dover Castle, Rare Breeds Centre
Which is the biggest zoo in London?
The ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire is the biggest zoo in London and the UK. It covers over 600 acres of parkland and is home to around 3,500 animals.
Which London zoo is best for small children?
The best London zoos for young kids are:
Battersea Park Children’s Zoo – Tailored for toddlers and young children with hands-on interactions.
Chessington World of Adventures – Great mix of zoo and amusement rides and play zones.
London Zoo – Has a petting zoo and children’s zoo area.
What is the most popular zoo in London?
The most popular and famous zoo in London is ZSL London Zoo in Regent’s Park. As the world’s oldest scientific zoo, it houses over 650 species and sees over 1 million visitors a year.
Which London zoo has giant pandas?
Giant pandas can be seen only at the ZSL London Zoo. It has a pair of giant pandas – male Bao Bao and female Ming Ming – which arrived in 2021 on loan from China.
What is the closest zoo to London?
The closest zoo to central London is Battersea Park Children’s Zoo in Battersea, under 4 miles from Westminster. Other zoos near London are Chessington Zoo (12 miles), London Zoo (4 miles), and Howletts Wild Animal Park (57 miles).
How much does it cost to visit London Zoo?
Ticket prices at London Zoo are £26 for adults and £20 for children aged 3-15 years. Other zoos like Whipsnade and Chessington charge £24-30 for adults. Discounted family tickets are available.
Conclusion
London’s zoos provide a wonderful opportunity to learn about amazing wildlife from around the world right here in the city. From majestic gorillas and stampeding rhinos to playful penguins and exotic butterflies, each zoo offers unique experiences and insights into the animal kingdom. Whichever London zoo you visit, you are sure to make memories to last a lifetime. Don’t forget to plan your trip in advance and check for money-saving deals on tickets. Enjoy your day out at London’s best zoos!
