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. It was eventually opened to the public in 1847. Today it houses a collection of 806 species of animals, with 19,178 individuals, making it one of the largest collections in the United Kingdom. The zoo is sometimes called Regent's Zoo. It is managed under the aegis of the Zoological Society of London (established in 1826), and is situated at the northern edge of Regent's Park, on the boundary line between City of Westminster and Camden (the Regent's Canal runs through it). The Society also has a more spacious site at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire to which the larger animals such as elephants and rhinos have been moved. As well as being the first scientific zoo, ZSL London Zoo also opened the first Reptile house (1849), first public Aquarium (1853), first insect house (1881) and the first children's zoo (1938). ZSL receives no state funding and relies on 'Fellows' and 'Friends' memberships, entrance fees and sponsorship to generate income At the beginning of the 1990s, the Zoo had almost 7,000 animals; the nearest any other collection came to in Britain was Chester Zoo, with just under 3,500 animals. Many of the species in London Zoo could not be seen anywhere else in the country, such as the wombat, Tasmanian devil or long-nosed potoroo. Although this vast collection was part of the Zoo's appeal, it may also have been one of the main causes of its financial problems. This contributed to the Zoo being faced with closure in the 1980s. Due to the public change of attitude to animals kept in captivity and unsuitably cramped space, the Zoo also suffered dwindling visitor numbers. However, when it was announced that London Zoo would close in 1991, a swell of public support in visitors and donations allowed the Zoo to continue its work, attempt to balance its books, and take on the huge task of restoring its buildings and creating environments more suitable for animal behaviour in the late 20th century. One benefit of the 'swell of public support' was the development of volunteer staff. Employed by both Education and Animal care, these volunteers give one day a week to assist the running of London Zoo and can be recognised by their red sweaters. The Zoo has been seen and mentioned in many films and books. My particular favorite is one of the opening scenes from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (2000). It was filmed int he Reptile House, when Harry speaks with the Python and makes the glass from its case disappear. Tourist Information ZSL London Zoo
Regent's Park London, NW1 4RY Phone: 0844 225 1826 Opening Times 7 Days a Week- 10:00am- 4:00pm, Last Entry- 3:00pm London Zoo is open every day of the year except Christmas Day. Tickets Tickets may be purchased either in advance online or at the gate upon arrival. Online Prices Adults £19.09 Children (3-15 years) £14.09 Children under 3 years FREE Exclusive online family offer £59.72 (2 adults + 2 children OR 1 adult + 3 children) Gate Prices Adults £20.00 Children (3-15 years) £15.00 Children under 3 years FREE Concessions (senior, student & disabled adult) £17.72 As part of your ticket, you can add an optional 10% donation which goes towards their conservation work in the UK & abroad. To learn more about the animals, maps, events, deals, etc. check out the official website below!
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