Horrible Science at London Zoo

Step into a Horrible Science adventure at London Zoo

This summer, from 18 July to 2 September, London Zoo transforms into a world of weird, wild and wonderful science as Horrible Science arrives. Expect laugh out loud experiences, hands-on discoveries and a trail packed with gruesome, grotty and genius moments.

Track down wildlife pioneers from the past, and uncover the clever, curious and courageous work behind two centuries of groundbreaking science here at London Zoo.

From time-travelling scientists to mind blowing discoveries, it’s a fun day out filled with science and nature – where your family becomes part of the story.

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A perfect family day out

Your visit to London Zoo comes with an extra dose of science-fuelled fun this summer. As you explore the Zoo, you can catch a live sketch show on the Main Lawns at selected times, alongside an interactive trail that turns children into junior conservationists.

Everything is included in your Zoo visit, with activities running throughout the day, so you can discover it all at your own pace.

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Don’t miss the live sketch show – Back from the Brink!

Something strange is happening at the Zoo. A science experiment has gone spectacularly wrong, time is glitching, and scientists from London Zoo’s past are suddenly reappearing. They have one bold idea: to bring an extinct animal back to life.

But they can’t do it without you… you’ll help decide which creature to revive – a giant lizard, an enormous vampire bat or a giant ancient hippo – but the real challenge isn’t bringing back the past, it’s protecting the future.

Through playful storytelling and hands-on moments, you’ll discover how ZSL is working in our zoos, labs and in the field to save animals on the brink of extinction, and why the choices we make today matter more than ever.

Take on the Horrible Science Trail

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be a scientist, this is your chance to find out. The Horrible Science trail takes you on a journey across the Zoo, where each stop reveals a new clue, a new challenge and a new story to uncover.

As you make your way around, you’ll track down scientists, solve puzzles and fill in missing words to complete your Horrible Science paper chain, all while discovering the strange, surprising and sometimes downright disgusting side of science. It’s an experience designed to keep curious minds engaged from start to finish.

Throughout the trail, you’ll uncover the stories of six real ZSL scientists, from pioneers of reptile care to fearless explorers and experts in animal health.

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Plan your visit to London Zoo this summer

With so much to explore, there’s never been a better time to visit London Zoo. Alongside the Horrible Science activities, you’ll discover 8,000 incredible animals, immersive habitats and unforgettable experiences around every corner.

It’s a great value day out filled with curiosity, adventure and discovery – an unforgettable day for the whole family.

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What else does my Zoo ticket include?

• Expert zookeeper talks: Every day, year round.
   
• FREE entry for kids under 3: Plus up to 30% discount for children aged 3-15**.
   
• Exciting walk-through habitats where you can can get really up close to the animals, without any barriers: go in with the lemurs, colobus and squirrel monkeys, spiders and beautiful butterflies.
   
• No VAT! There’s no VAT on your zoo admission tickets, so you can be sure every penny you spend on zoo tickets goes to making incredible memories and supports our vital wildlife conservation work around the world. Thank you!
   
• Indoor spaces so you can enjoy wonderful wildlife whatever the weather: Discover the Secret Life of Reptiles and Amphibians, Galapagos tortoises, the world-famous giraffe house, Tiny Giants, the Attenborough Komodo dragon house, and the heated butterfly experience and London's only living rainforest - beautifully warm all year round. Plus, sheltered viewing areas right across the Zoo. 

And of course, over 8,000 amazing animals!

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** 'Up to 30%' based on the saving for a Child ticket compared to a full-price Adult ticket.