London Zoo, located in Regent’s Park, offers a world of wildlife and educational experiences for kids of all ages. With over 750 species of animals and various interactive exhibits, the zoo provides a unique opportunity for children to learn about wildlife conservation and the natural world.
Animal Experiences for Kids
Junior Keeper for a Day
- Ages: 11-15 years old
- Cost: £190 per ticket (includes zoo admission for the Junior Keeper and one accompanying caregiver, a “Keeper Kit”, and 10% off in the Gift Shop)
- Time: 9:30 am on Sundays and weekdays during school holidays
- Activities: Cleaning, feeding, and making enrichment for animals, asking experts about zookeeping, and receiving a certificate at the end
- Note: An accompanying parent/guardian must be on site and contactable, but they will not take part in the experience or access behind-the-scenes areas
Toddler Activities
Sensory Stories at the Zoo
- Ages: 0-8 months
- Cost: £12 per child (accompanying adult goes free)
- Time: 10:30 – 11:15am at the coral exhibit in Tiny Giants
- Activities: Exploring the underwater world through sights, sounds, and textures
Monkey Valley
- Ages: All ages
- Cost: Free with ZSL membership or zoo ticket
- Time: Open during zoo hours
- Activities: Observing black and white colobus monkeys in a walkthrough exhibit, relaxing in Colobus Park, and practicing colobus leaps
Play at the Zoo
- Ages: Toddlers
- Cost: Free with zoo admission
- Time: During zoo hours
- Activities: Animal Adventure, petting pygmy goats, and exploring other animals at Animal Adventure
ZSL Membership
- Cost: £105 for adult, £52.50 for child (ages 3-15), under 3s enter for free
- Benefits: Free entry to both London and Whipsnade Zoos all year round, supporting global conservation work, and creating a world where wildlife thrives
Tips for Visiting London Zoo with Kids
- Pick your day carefully: Avoid rainy days, as animals prefer to hide. Winter days mean smaller crowds, and autumn and spring offer more to see due to less shade.
- Get there early: The zoo opens at 10 am year-round, but closing times vary. Arrive early to make the most of reduced opening hours in winter and skip queues.
- Use public transport: The zoo is better accessed by public transport, as parking is scarce and there’s limited paid parking around. The nearest stations are Camden Town and Regent’s Park, and the number 274 bus stops very close to the entrance.
- Book tickets in advance: Best value tickets are available online, with advanced booking recommended. Family days out get even better value with Zoo membership, offering a whole year of wonder-full days out.
References
– https://www.londonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/zoo-experiences/animal-experience-for-kids-junior-keeper-for-a-day
– https://www.londonzoo.org/plan-your-visit/more-info/toddler-activities-zoo
– https://www.mummytravels.com/tips-for-visiting-london-zoo-with-kids/