Visit London Zoo
Walk through the gates at the northern edge of Regent’s Park and spend the day moving between big cats, primates, reptiles, birds and smaller species from around the world. London Zoo is compact enough to explore on foot without feeling like an expedition in itself, but varied enough to fill several hours. The experience is less about ticking off individual animals and more about seeing how a modern conservation zoo combines exhibits, breeding programmes, research and public education. Opened in 1828, London Zoo was the world’s first scientific zoo, originally created by the Zoological Society of London for study rather than public entertainment. It opened to the wider public in 1847 and went on to introduce several innovations, including the world’s first public aquarium in 1853. Today it remains part of ZSL, a conservation charity whose work extends well beyond the zoo itself. Allow at least half a day, and longer if you want to see talks, feeding sessions or seasonal events. The zoo normally opens from 10am throughout the year except Christmas Day, with closing times varying by season. Booking online in advance is sensible, particularly at weekends and during school holidays. Add this to your list and spend a day at the place where the modern scientific zoo began.