Animal attractions in South West London

Tucked inside the leafy corners of Battersea Park lies one of London’s best-kept secrets, a little zoo with a big personality.

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo brings together playful animals, hands-on learning and plenty of laughter, making it one of the most joyful animal attractions in South West London.

Whether you come for the monkeys, the meerkats or just to spend a day outdoors, this small London zoo promises big smiles for everyone.

Meet the animals

From farmyard favourites to more unusual residents, the zoo is home to an exciting mix of species that will delight curious visitors of all ages. You’ll find cheeky squirrel monkeys, playful otters splashing in their stream and graceful ring-tailed lemurs basking in the sun. Keep an eye out for the magnificent emperor tamarins with their grand white moustaches and other fascinating animals you won’t find in many other city zoos.

Alongside the more exotic residents, you’ll also meet friendly farm animals including donkeys, goats, pigs and rabbits, offering children a chance to get up close to creatures they may have read about in books. Visit our Animals page to see the full list of residents waiting to say hello.

Keeper talks and animal experiences

Animal lovers can make their day even more memorable with the zoo’s daily Keeper Talks or pre-booked hands-on Keeper Experiences. Keeper talks take place throughout the day, giving visitors a chance to ask questions, watch feeding time and learn fascinating facts straight from the people who know the animals best. For something extra special, the Keeper Experiences let children and adults roll up their sleeves and join the team for real zoo life. An unforgettable zoo experience in London that makes every animal encounter feel even more meaningful.

Plan your visit

Whether it’s your first time visiting or a family tradition, planning ahead helps you make the most of your day. Our Plan Your Visit page includes everything you need to know about opening times, ticket prices and how to get here. The zoo is easy to reach by bus, train or bike, making it one of the most convenient animal attractions in South West London for families.

Before you arrive, take a look at our Zoo Map to plan your route around the enclosures, play areas and café. Whether you’re looking for things to do with kids in London or planning a relaxed family day out, Battersea Park Children’s Zoo offers the perfect mix of adventure and calm right in the city in the urban oasis of Battersea Park.

Accessibility for all visitors

Everyone deserves the chance to enjoy a day at the zoo, and accessibility is at the heart of the experience here. The pathways are flat and step-free, making it easy for wheelchairs and buggies to get around. There are accessible toilets, quiet spaces for those who need a little downtime, and friendly staff on hand to help with any additional support.

You can read more about the facilities on our Accessibility Information page, which outlines how the zoo ensures every visitor can enjoy their day comfortably. It’s one of the most accessible London attractions for families, schools and groups of all abilities.

A full day of fun

Battersea Park Children’s Zoo is more than just an animal attraction, it’s a place where imagination comes to life. After meeting the animals, let children burn off some energy in the adventure playground or enjoy a snack in our zoo café overlooking the park. There are plenty of picnic spots for sunny days, and the gift shop is full of wildlife-themed toys and souvenirs to remember your visit.

From birthday treats to spontaneous weekends out, the zoo offers a welcoming escape from the busy city, with every visit helping to support animal care and conservation projects. It’s proof that small London zoos can create the fondest memories.