ZSL London Zoo
The world's oldest scientific zoo, in Regent's Park — gorillas, penguins, a walk-through monkey enclosure and big conservation cred.
The call
Worth it if you're traveling with kids and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is ZSL London Zoo worth it?
ZSL London Zoo deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
It's a proper full-day outing where kids run from the tigers to the bug house to the giraffes, all with a genuine conservation mission behind it.
- 02
The honest catch: it's expensive for a family, the central-London site is compact for some big species, and it's a slog in bad weather.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You're traveling with kids
With kids, ZSL London Zoo is an easy yes.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, ZSL London Zoo is an easy yes.
You want time outdoors
ZSL London Zoo rewards a trip built around nature & scenery.
You want context, not just the photograph
ZSL London Zoo rewards a trip built around depth & learning.
Think twice if
You're watching the budget
Save the money. ZSL London Zoo does not return enough for the price.
You only have one day
Leave ZSL London Zoo for a longer trip.
You're traveling solo
Solo, skip ZSL London Zoo.
You want the trip to feel easy
ZSL London Zoo offers some relaxation, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- £33–£38
- Timing
- Dry days are far better; arrive at opening to make the most of a 3–4 hour visit.
- Booking
- Cheaper booked online in advance.
- Allow
- 3–4 hrs
- Accessibility
- Largely step-free with accessible paths across Regent's Park site.
- Getting there
- Camden Town Tube and a walk, or a bus to Regent's Park; the canal boat from Little Venice also stops nearby.