This is a rip-off.

The evening opening is advertised as 18.00 - 20.00

However, only once inside does the brochure warn you that the animals are all in bed by 9pm, and all the inside viewing areas closed. Many attractions, eg the monkeys, are closed well before.

By contrast though, the tourist tat shops, cafes, carousel and silent disco are all open until 10pm....by strange coincidence, these are the things visitors will have to pay again for !

The only animal we saw after 8pm was a rat in Regents Park on the way home.

The picnic was great if you're a pigeon. If not, you'll need another meal within the hour.

London Zoo is so much more than just somewhere to see the animals. It is a great place to visit with or without children.

I had not been to the Zoo for years and ventured along just to have a day out in the fresh air and was amazed at how interesting is is for an adult.

Of course they have the fabulous new Animal Adventure area for children and all the regular animals but there is also all the conservation work done by ZSL which just emphasises how fortunate we are to have such an attraction in the heart of London.

I checked on their website for opening details and again discovered a whole world of great resources and found the Kid zone addictive with their interactive games, books and learning aids.

I might even try out their Zoo Night.... now that is something different to do in London on Friday night.

I know its not cheap but with all the discount vouchers around and deals on trains it is a must for the summer in London.

It is such a pity that the new baby elephant is at their other zoo at Whipsnade - this is just adorable! Think it would be well worth a visit up the M1 just to see her!

The London Zoo is a gem in the middle of the city. You do not necessarily need to bring children along, it's great fun for everyone! If you're not tight on the cash walk through it on a Sunday in the off season and you get to see some amazing animals and discover your inner child. If you like photography this is a brilliant opportunity to get those amazing snaps of exotic species without paying a fortune on flights and safaris.
Can be advised as a romantic spot if both of you are into the same things. If you are a little bit worried about animal welfare and give the animals you see one too many human qualities, avoid the cages with primates and cats. (Not that the animals aren't cared properly for, but some worry a little bit too much, and I thought a warning was in order..)
For extra loveliness go through the butterfly tunnel and see the love birds in their cage.

Often a half-term choice, London Zoo is going from strength to strength and continues to be a hugely entertaining and educatiional place to take the children.