London Zoo

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The term 'zoo' was first used in reference to London Zoo in the 1840s, evolving from the term 'zoological garden'.

2. 2

   The Penguin Pool, designed in 1934, is considered a landmark of Modernist architecture, though penguins have since moved to a more naturalistic habitat.

3. 3

   The zoo's Mappin Terraces, opened in 1913, were an early pioneer in creating enclosure designs that replaced traditional iron bars with landscape features.

4. 4

   Winifred the bear, who lived at the zoo from 1914 to 1934, was the real-life inspiration for A.A. Milne's Winnie-the-Pooh character.

5. 5

   The zoo houses the 'Bugs' exhibit, which is the only facility in the United Kingdom dedicated entirely to invertebrate conservation.

6. 6

   Charles Darwin was a regular visitor to the zoo, particularly to study the behaviour of Jenny the orangutan, the first to be kept at the facility.

Overview

London Zoo is the world's oldest scientific zoo, founded in 1826 by the Zoological Society of London. Located in the northern part of Regent's Park, the facility spans 36 acres and houses over 14,000 animals. Key attractions include the Land of the Lions exhibit, which features an amphitheatre-style viewing area, and the Gorilla Kingdom. The zoo is home to a colony of Humboldt penguins, which visitors can view at Penguin Beach. Giraffes, tigers, and a wide array of reptiles reside in historically significant enclosures designed by architects like Berthold Lubetkin. It operates as a global centre for animal conservation and scientific research.

Insider tips

• Download the zoo map in advance to locate specific keeper talks, which happen throughout the day.

• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate footwear as the site is large and requires significant walking on outdoor paths.

• Check the website for 'Zoo Nights' if visiting in summer, which are adult-only evening events.