Join in the biggest paint-by-numbers ever, this May half term!

Our May half term event is now over for 2026.

Thank you for helping us to create something wild and joining our GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title attempt. 

More than 14,000 people have helped make us history, as the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for most contributions to a painting-by-numbers has officially been broken by ZSL, in our 200th year. 

More about our achievement

23–31 May 2026 | Included with General Admission

This May half term, be part of something truly special. For nine days only, London Zoo transforms into a vibrant creative hub and we want families, friends and curious minds of all ages to help create a massive, collaborative artwork – made through the most contributions to a paint-by-numbers – all in celebration of ZSL’s 200th anniversary this year.

Inspired by nature, wildlife and the remarkable people who shaped our story, this is your chance to be part of smashing an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title!

Included in your regular ticket price, this is more than a family day out – it’s a celebration of creativity, community and wildlife.

Best prices online - book tickets today

One Artwork. One Epic Challenge. One Visitor at a Time

Every visitor is invited to paint one individual piece of the artwork. Each piece is unique, but together they’ll create a striking large-scale installation that grows day by day. Whether you’re a confident painter or picking up a brush for the first time, your contribution matters. By the end of the week, thousands of small creative moments will come together as one unforgettable collective achievement.

Book zoo tickets today to be part of this epic GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS challenge.

Inspired by Nature, Wildlife and ZSL’s 200 Year History

The unique artwork draws inspiration from the natural world — its colours, patterns and creatures — and will include 200 animals to celebrate ZSL’s 200 years of pioneering science, global conservation, and inspiring connections between people and wildlife. As you paint, you’ll also discover stories of individuals who helped shape the ZSL of today and their contribution to conservation.

Family-Friendly Arts & Activities All Week

Alongside the main artwork, enjoy a range of smaller drop-in and self-guided activities, perfect for younger children, anyone who wants to indulge a passion for art, or simply explore the wonders of colour and pattern in nature. There’s no booking required — just turn up, get hands-on and have a whole day of wildly creative fun together.

• Transformation station: Become your favourite wild creature with beautiful face painting^! Our talented artists will transform you into roaring lions, playful penguins and more.
• Animal drawing classes: Join our pop-up drawing sessions and learn how to sketch amazing animals like lions, giraffes, penguins and elephants – perfect for budding artists of all ages
• Guess Zoo?: Can you identify the animal from just its pattern? Take on the Guess Zoo challenge and discover the surprising colours, patterns and textures of the natural world.
• Thermal kaleidoscope: See animals in a whole new light. Explore thermal images to discover how a variety of animals manage heat in different ways and in diverse environments.
• Camouflage quiz: Something’s hiding on the screen… can you spot the camouflaged animal before the 5-second countdown ends?
• Wild costume challenge: Pick some paws, tack on a tail and whack on some whiskers to put your opponent to the test! Feathers or fur? Spotted or stripy? Can they guess what animal you are by asking the right questions? Let the wild guessing begin!

Be guided throughout with your very own activity sheet, including space for animal drawing and an extra animal-spotting challenge to help you explore the zoo. Perfect for curious and creative explorers!

Best prices online - book now