Children can step into the shoes of real-life zoo staff this autumn when London Zoo opens ZooTown, a brand-new role-play space where imagination meet conservation.
Opening on Saturday 18 October, ZooTown is designed for children aged three to eight and packs more than a dozen hands-on play stations inspired by ZSL’s conservation work. Think a Vet Hospital, a Science Lab and a plant nursery where kids can try simple, playful versions of the jobs that keep a zoo running.
What to expect
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Over 1,000 toys to play with, including 300 “zebra poo” balls, 150 zoo post parcels and 13 different role-play experiences.
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Sensory play and smell interactives to keep both toddlers and older children engaged.
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A Vet Hospital stocked with 63 cuddly toy animals – parrots, Komodo dragons and tigers among them — each fitted with a scannable microchip by ZSL vets so children can practise “checking” animals like the real thing.
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Authentic soundscapes from the Zoo (listen out for gibbons Jimmy and Yoda, and the London Zoo sparrows) to make the play feel properly immersive.
ZooTown was created in consultation with ZSL experts and with input from children themselves, so every corner reflects ideas that actually appeal to little visitors. Emma Edwards, head of the London Zoo design team, says: “ZooTown is bursting with the magic of play; somewhere children can step into a world made just for them. It’s not just fun, it’s a doorway into curiosity and connection with wildlife.” She adds that simple activities. from chasing zebra poo to delivering post to the plant nursery, show children the many ways people help animals.
How to book:
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Tickets go on sale online three days before the first sessions: bookable from Wednesday 15 October alongside a London Zoo ticket.
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Each ZooTown session lasts 45 minutes.
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Gold members, Fellows and Patrons of ZSL can go for free; other visitors pay £1 per session.
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School visits will be available and should be booked directly with London Zoo’s Learning team (not via the public booking link).