Verdict
Destinations
Attraction · London

ZSL London Zoo

The world's oldest scientific zoo, in Regent's Park — gorillas, penguins, a walk-through monkey enclosure and big conservation cred.

Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →
The verdict

Who it's worth it for

Great for
  • Families with kids
  • Couples
  • Nature lovers
  • The genuinely curious
Depends
  • Anyone here to unwind
Not for
  • Travellers on a budget
  • If you've only got a day
  • Solo travellers

Worth it for families with kids, couples and nature lovers; not for travellers on a budget.

Why we say this

Insider secrets & local vibes

A proper full-day outing where kids run from tigers to the bug house to giraffes, with a genuine conservation mission behind it.
Not independently verified — estimated
It's expensive for a family, around £33–£38 a head.
Not independently verified — estimated
The central-London site is compact for some big species and a slog in bad weather.
Not independently verified — estimated
What it feels like

Reading the room, traveller by traveller

  • With kids

    A classic full-day animal adventure, from the walk-through enclosures to the reptile house.

  • Multigenerational

    Lots to see across ages, though the day involves plenty of walking and a steep family bill.

  • With friends

    Enjoyable for animal lovers, though it's pitched squarely at families.

Good to know

Before you go

Cost
£33–£38
Time
3–4 hrs
Last verified
2026-06-17
Best time
Dry days are far better; arrive at opening to make the most of a 3–4 hour visit.
Getting there
Camden Town Tube and a walk, or a bus to Regent's Park; the canal boat from Little Venice also stops nearby.
Booking
Cheaper booked online in advance.
Accessibility
Largely step-free with accessible paths across Regent's Park site.
Alternatives

If it's not your thing, try

cheaper, indoor, far quicker animal fixfree wild deer-spotting if you want animals without the gate price
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Sources

What we checked

  • Opened in 1828 as the world's first scientific zoo; run by the Zoological Society of London
  • Sits within Regent's Park in central London
Independent — no pay-to-rank Graded for who you are Verified 2026-06-17How we grade →