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What type of attraction is London Zoo?

London Zoo, previously known as ZSL London Zoo or London Zoological Gardens and sometimes called Regent's Park 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.



The ZSL London Zoo is a world-class scientific and conservation-focused zoological garden, distinguished as the oldest scientific zoo in the world (founded in 1828). Located on the northern edge of Regent's Park, it is a "living museum" of natural history that transformed from a private collection for study into a public attraction in 1847. In 2026, it serves as a major hub for global conservation efforts managed by the Zoological Society of London. The zoo is categorized by immersive "biomes" rather than simple cages, such as the Land of the Lions, which recreates an Indian village, and Gorilla Kingdom. It is famous for its "pioneering" structures, having opened the world's first reptile house, public aquarium, and insect house. As an attraction, it offers an "educational-leisure" experience where visitors can participate in "Keeper for a Day" programs and "Friendly Spider" workshops. While it is a family-friendly tourist destination, its primary identity remains rooted in animal welfare, scientific research, and the preservation of endangered species from across the globe.

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It's an educational experience. London Zoo is not just a pretty face but an educational and interactive experience, both for youngsters and adults. Priding itself on “bringing down the barriers”, you will find out so much more about animals and their habitats than before!

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Schönbrunn Zoo (German: Tiergarten Schönbrunn; also simply called Vienna Zoo) is a 17-hectare (42-acre) zoo in the city of Vienna, Austria. Established in 1752, it is the world's oldest zoo still in operation.

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The Zoological Society of London is a charity devoted to the worldwide conservation of animals and their habitats. It was founded in 1826. Since 1828, it has maintained London Zoo, and since 1931 Whipsnade Zoo.

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London Zoo – World's Oldest Scientific Zoo Opened to general public in 1847, this animal abode accommodates 16,000 animals in just 36 acres of land. This is one of the biggest zoos in the world!

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The animals we look after are our highest priority, and their welfare and wellbeing is paramount to our vision of a world where wildlife thrives. Caring for them is a complex business with specialists in many different areas including health, nutrition, behaviour, enrichment and veterinary care.

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The zoo's heaviest animal is Maggie, a giraffe, who comes in around 750 kilograms (about 1,653 pounds).

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Travel by train to get 2FOR1 admission tickets to London Zoo. This offer requires 2 valid National Rail tickets and the cheapest, if applicable, of the two visitors, goes free. Visitors should request 2FOR1 discount codes on the Days Out Guide web page, before pre-booking their 2FOR1 entry tickets here.

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On average, visitors spend about 3 to 4 hours at London Zoo for a well-rounded experience. This time frame allows you to explore various exhibits, attend animal feedings, and enjoy demonstrations.

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The first public exhibit of animals may have been created by Egypt's Queen Hatshepsut around 1480 B.C. Researchers think the zoo was started with animals brought home from an expedition the queen sent to a far-off land known as Punt, which may have been modern-day Eritrea.

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