London is famous for its iconic landmarks and stunning architecture, but it’s also a surprising haven for animal lovers.
The city’s commitment to conservation and animal-friendly spaces is evident everywhere. From zoos and wildlife centres to parks where animals roam freely alongside you, there’s always a chance to connect with them.
If you’re eager to meet animals up close or find peace amid the city’s noise, this guide will help you discover what to do in London for animal lovers to explore.
Spot unique species in the “Rainforest Life” exhibit at London Zoo
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Location: Regent’s Park
Contact: +44 344 225 1826
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Seasonal variations apply)
Pricing: £££
London Zoo is also a centre for teaching, conservation, and immersive experiences.
Its Rainforest Life exhibit offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to walk into a tropical ecosystem full of monkeys, sloths, and colourful birds. Unlike many zoos, London Zoo prioritises up-close, naturalistic encounters that feel less like observing and more like experiencing.
London Zoo is also very active in global conservation projects, which means that your visit directly helps protect species that are in danger all over the world.
Pro tip:
For a closer connection with the animals, join a keeper-led experience such as “Meet the Monkeys” or a giraffe-feeding session.
Watch the meerkats at Battersea Park
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Location: Battersea Park
Contact: +44 20 7924 5826
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Pricing: ££
Battersea Park Children’s visitors can enjoy close encounters with fascinating creatures like meerkats, otters, and even armadillos during keeper-led experiences.
The setting feels intimate and welcoming, perfect for families or anyone looking for a peaceful and interactive outing.
One of its highlights is the adventure playpark, where children can climb on a real tractor or play in the sandpit, adding extra excitement to the visit
Pro tip:
Visit during the keeper feeding talks to see the animals at their most active and learn engaging facts about their behaviour.
Attend workshops on animal care at Mudchute Park and Farm
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Location: Pier St, Isle of Dogs
Contact: +44 20 7515 5901
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pricing: £
Mudchute Park and Farm offers a refreshing escape from the city with its 32 acres of countryside in East London.
Visitors can meet animals like sheep, goats, pigs, and horses during self-guided exploration of the farm’s grounds. There are also opportunities to interact with animals during events, such as feeding times or special sessions hosted by the staff.
Beyond animal encounters, Mudchute offers animal care workshops that teach practical skills such as grooming, feeding, and understanding animal behaviours.
Pro tip:
Visit their café for homemade treats, and consider volunteering for a more immersive experience.
Hike trails to observe birds and foxes in their habitat at Hampstead Heath
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Location: Hampstead
Contact: +44 20 7332 3322
Hours: Open 24/7
Pricing: FREE
Hampstead Heath is the perfect place to see animals in their natural surroundings.
The woodlands and meadows are full of life, with foxes, hedgehogs, and birds often spotted as you walk through.
The ponds are peaceful, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, when ducks and swans come out to feed and rest.
In the warmer months, the Heath comes alive with butterflies and insects attracted to the wildflowers. This creates a beautiful, buzzing ecosystem that animal lovers in London will surely love.
Pro tip:
Strolling through the Heath at dawn or dusk offers the best chance to spot foxes and hear the melodic calls of native bird species.
Join a guided alpaca walk at Vauxhall City Farm
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Location: 165 Tyers Street
Contact: +44 20 7582 4204
Hours: Tue–Sun, 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Pricing: FREE
Vauxhall City Farm is a cosy and charming place where you can get up close to the animals. You can meet alpacas, goats, rabbits, and chickens. You can even take part in fun activities like feeding them!
One of the best things to do here is the alpaca walk—it’s such a unique experience to stroll alongside these adorable animals and learn more about them as you go.
The farm also has workshops where you can learn about animal care and farming in a hands-on way.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to explore the rest of the farm and grab a coffee at The Old Dairy café inside the farm before your walk for a relaxed start to your visit.
Walk through the glass tunnel surrounded by sea animals at Sea Life
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Location: County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road
Contact: +44 333 321 2001
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Pricing: £££
Sea Life London Aquarium is a great spot to learn and see the amazing marine life.
The best part is walking through the glass tunnel surrounded by sharks and other sea creatures, making you feel right there with them in the ocean.
The interactive rock pools are so much fun—you can gently touch starfish and learn about the creatures that live along our coastlines.
The Coral Kingdom is stunning, with the UK’s largest living coral reef, and the jellyfish display in Ocean Invaders is mesmerising.
Pro tip:
Book tickets online for discounts and to avoid long queues.
