London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo. It was opened in London on 27 April 1828, and was originally intended to be used as a collection for scientific study. In 1831 or 1832, the animals of the Tower of London menagerie were transferred to the zoo's collection. It was eventually opened to the public in 1847.
OPENING TIMES
ZSL London Zoo is open from 10am every day of the year (except Christmas Day) with seasonal closing times.
ACCESSIBILITY
ZSL London Zoo seeks to provide equal opportunity for all to enjoy the animal exhibits and visitor facilities.
Parking
There is a disabled parking bay in front of the entrance to the Zoo, and disabled visitors can also park on the main road for up to four hours. We do also have disabled parking spaces in the main car park.
Access
The Zoo is more than 170 years old and contains many old buildings, 12 of which are listed. However, most of the Zoo is accessible for wheelchair users and those with walking difficulties.
Land of the Lions is wheelchair friendly and has a lift available for visitors to use.
Tiger Territory is wheelchair friendly and has a lift available for visitors to access the higher viewing platform.
The Aquarium has wheelchair access via an entrance to the left of the main doorway.
The historic Lubetkin penguin pool (listed Grade 1) has limited viewing for wheelchair users and very small children.
The paths are generally tarmac and there is level or ramped access to most buildings. We should also add that the slopes leading to the two tunnels in the Zoo are rather steep.
Wheelchair Hire
We have a limited number of wheelchairs available for hire. We recommend booking these in advance by calling our Supporter Services team on 0344 225 1826 or emailing generalenquiries@zsl.org. A deposit of £25 will be required, which will be refunded when the wheelchair is returned undamaged.
Mobility Scooter Hire
We have 1 mobility scooter available to hire for a hire fee of £10 and a £50 refundable deposit will be required, which will be refunded when the scooter is returned undamaged. This must be pre-booked in advance by ringing Supporter Services on 0344 225 1826 or emailing generalenquiries@zsl.org.
Access for Conference and Banqueting clients
Access for some conference and banqueting rooms is limited or currently unavailable. The following areas are fully equipped – The Prince Albert suite, Huxley Lecture Theatre, Bartlett Room and Regent’s Canal Room. The Raffles Suite and Mappin Pavilion have partial access facilities. Please contact us to find out more about the room you are using. 020 7449 6562 or email functions@zsl.org.
Accessible toilets
Assistance dogs
Dogs are not currently permitted on site at ZSL London Zoo, with the exception of ADUK accredited assistance dogs under specific conditions.
