Zoo Nights

London Zoo

If you purchase via visitlondon.com, we will receive commission which supports our work creating jobs for Londoners.

Overview

Times

Fri at 6pm (June and July only)

Duration

Up to four hours (open from 6pm to 10pm only)

Age

18+

Accessibility

Please contact venue

Location

Address
London Zoo, Outer Circle, Regent's Park
London
NW1 4RY
Telephone:
+44 (0)34 4225 1826
Email
[email protected]
Public transport:
Tube: Camden Town Train: Euston / Kings Cross

About

See animals at dusk, enjoy live entertainment and tuck into delicious street food with Zoo Nights at London Zoo this summer.

Visit more than 8,500 animals and take part in fun activities on Friday nights from 6pm throughout June and July, when the zoo opens after hours for adults only.

Alongside the chance to learn more about the animals through expert talks and special trails, there’s also an international street-food market, pop-up watering holes and live performances to enjoy throughout the evening.

What is Zoo Nights at London Zoo?

Zoo Nights at London Zoo is an after-hours visitor experience for adults that’s only available on Friday nights from 6pm to 10pm throughout June and July.

Ticket holders get to explore the famous zoo at their own pace and without the daytime crowds, as well as enjoy expert animal talks, live entertainment, street food and drinks.

What to expect at Zoo Nights

Animal spotting

See more than 8,500 animals after hours, from Galapagos tortoises and a pygmy hippo to Linne's two-toed sloths and Sumatran tigers. Many of the zoo’s animals become more active in the evening, so Zoo Nights are a great time to spot them.

Expert talks

Learn more about the animals and their natural habitats with a host of animal talks. Just check the boards when you arrive to see what’s on that evening.

Bicentenary blue plaque trail

Learn more about London Zoo’s 200-year history along the bicentenary blue plaque trail. From Harry Styles to Joan Proctor, there’s plenty to discover!

International street-food market

After you’ve worked up an appetite, head to the street-food market for a range of tempting treats from around the world, from bold Indian bites to American-style hot dogs.

Watering holes

Set up at various locations, these pop-up watering holes serve drinks including beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks. The best part is that you can take your drink with you as you explore the zoo!

Cocktail garden

Head over to the Garden Lounge to chill out on the lawns and enjoy seasonal cocktails and mocktails. You can also order strawberries and cream to make the most of the summer vibes.

Live entertainment at the Mane Stage

Grab a bean bag or deck chair and enjoy live entertainment at the Mane Stage, featuring live musicians throughout the evening, an animal-themed game at 9pm and a gravity-defying acrobatic show at 9.40pm.

Disney's The Lion King Exhibition

Included in your Zoo Nights tickets, this exhibition themed around the iconic West End musical offers a rare opportunity to see the show’s fabulous costumes and props up close. Marvel at intricate designs and masks of beloved characters such as Mufasa, Simba, Nala, Rafiki and Zazu.

Book your London Zoo Nights tickets

You can buy official London Zoo Nights 2026 tickets with Visit London, using the booking button on this page.

Zoo Nights are only available for adults on Friday nights from 5 June to 24 July 2026.

Is it worth it?

Yes, Zoo Nights are absolutely worth it. It’s a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most famous zoos after hours and see the animals without the crowds. Taking place in summer only, it’s also a chance to enjoy live entertainment, expert talks, games and delicious food and drinks.

What’s included

  • After-hours entry to London Zoo with the chance to see more than 8,500 animals
  • Expert animal talks
  • Live entertainment including music, games and acrobatics
  • Entry to Disney’s The Lion King Exhibition
  • Access to Zoo shop, street-food market and drinking stations (food, drinks and souvenirs are not included)

Important information

Zoo Nights are only available for adults aged 18 and over on Friday nights, between 6pm and 10pm, from 5 June to 24 July 2026.

Zoo Nights are taking place at London Zoo, which can be found on the northern edge of Regent’s Park.

How to get there:

  • Tube – The closest Tube station is Camden Town (Northern line), which is a 16-minute walk away.
  • Bus – Bus routes 88 and 274 have stops close to London Zoo.
  • Cycling – If you are coming by bike, there is a public bicycle shed in the car park, opposite the main entrance to the zoo. There’s also a Santander Cycles docking station close to the main entrance.

London Zoo Nights FAQs

When is Zoo Nights 2026?

Zoo Nights are taking place on Friday nights, between 6pm and 10pm, from 5 June to 24 July 2026.

Is Zoo Nights adults only?

Yes, Zoo Nights are only available for adults aged 18 and over.

What’s included in a Zoo Nights ticket?

Zoo Nights tickets include entry to London Zoo after hours, as well as live entertainment, expert animal talks, entry to Disney’s The Lion King Exhibition and access to the Zoo shop, an international street-food market, a cocktail garden and various watering holes (food and drinks are not included).

Can you buy food and drinks at Zoo Nights?

Yes, you can buy street food from around the world at the international street-food market and drinks at various watering holes including a cocktail bar. You can also buy strawberries and cream from the Garden Lounge.

Are animals active during Zoo Nights?

Many of the zoo’s animals become more active in the evening, so Zoo Nights are a great time to spot them. However, animals have varying bedtimes, starting from 8.30pm onwards, so it’s best to arrive early to see them before they wind down for bed.

How long should I spend at Zoo Nights?

Zoo Nights are available from 6pm to 10pm on the evening booked. You can stay as long as you like during that time, although a minimum of one to two hours is recommended to fully enjoy the experience.

What time does Zoo Nights finish?

Zoo Nights finish at 10pm. Gates open at 6pm, with last entry at 9pm.