Animal Experiences in London
It’s no doubt that being around animals can brighten your day and lift your mood almost instantly. However, not everyone is lucky enough to be able to own a pet, especially when living in such a busy and expensive city like London. Luckily, London offers a wealth of opportunities for you to be able to get in touch with your natural side, even if it’s just walking around one of its many parks. On Bindy, we’ve created a guide with our recommendations on some of the incredibly unique experiences the city has, where you can learn, get up close, and just be around animals and nature. Read on for our top 5 picks:
1. ZSL London Zoo
Probably one of the most famous zoos in the world, ZSL is the world’s oldest scientific zoo, and is home to over 19,000 animals! The zoo really does put conservation at the heart of what it does, and its quality and care towards its animals shines through the minute you step into the park. Apart from their daily events and classic meet and greets, the zoo also has lodges where you can stay overnight, right within roaring distance of their Asiatic lions- a night’s escape from the hustle and bustle of London, where you can really feel connected to nature around you.
2. Paradise Wildlife Park
A family run wildlife park, Paradise Wildlife is renowned for its conservation work, especially with big cats. As the UK’s first jaguar habitat, the park now contains some of the most endangered big cat species in the world, such as snow leopards, white lions, and of course, tigers. Check out their wide range of animal encounters, where you can feed red pandas, tickle a tapir- or even meet a wolf!
3. Walthamstow Wetlands
A haven of tranquillity, the Wetlands are a perfect place to unwind and detach yourself from the hectic life of a city. One of the largest urban wetland nature reserves in Europe, they support a significant number of species of birds, including its own heronry. Pop down for one of their weekly activities, such as walks and talks on wildlife, tree planting, or even a sensory nature walk.
4. Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium
Sometimes, all you need in life is to just sit and exist around animals. We understand, and we get you! Lady Dinah’s is London’s longest running cat café, and is home to some beautiful feline friends. Escape your worries of everyday life, and just enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as you embrace the peace that cats bring in the cafe’s basement forest.
5. Mudchute Park and Farm
Set in 32 acres of ‘countryside’ in East London, Mudchute is a working community farm, with over 100 animals including classic farm animals, a stables, and an aviary. Minutes from the concrete jungle of the city, pop on down to get a refreshing break and join in on their daily farm routine, which often includes feeding, talks, and getting up close and personal with their animals.
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Whether it's enjoying London's Royal Parks or discovering a lovely city farm, head over to our Nature & Animals category for a taste of the great outdoors.