London Zoo: Celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III with the animals - how to get tickets

ZSL London Zoo will welcome visitors during Coronation weekend of Saturday May 6 to Monday May 8.

A range of events will be put on, with guests invited to “discover the kings and queens of the animal kingdom” at daily talks, and come face to face with more than 14,000 animals, from the queen honeybee in Tiny Giants to critically endangered Asiatic ‘lion king’ Bhanu in Land of the Lions.

Kids can get stuck into crown-making and face-painting, while grown-ups can take a guided tour exploring the historic zoo’s royal heritage.

Young conservationists will take home a pouch of wildflower seeds to sow and watch bloom, in honour of the King, who has a history of environmentalism and has been ZSL’s Vice Patron in his capacity as the Prince of Wales since 2014. The seeds can grow into garden safe havens for millions of our country’s insects, birds and small mammals.

London Zoo

London Zoo’s CEO, Matthew Gould, said: “We’re excited to celebrate the Coronation at London Zoo. The Royal Family have been part of our story since the start, when we were granted our Royal Charter by King George IV in 1829. Since then every monarch, including the late Queen Elizabeth II, has served as our Royal Patron. Their support has made an enormous difference to our conservation work.”

Royal visits

Monarchs have supported and visited London Zoo, the world’s first scientific zoo, since it opened almost 200 years ago. It was a favourite of the young Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret during their childhood.

Since joining ZSL’s Exceptional Young Zoologist Club aged just 13, the King has been a long-time supporter of ZSL, the international conservation charity.

The Big Help Out at London Zoo

A volunteering taster session at the zoo on Monday May 8, with activities ranging from preparing activities for the red river hog to cleaning up after the pygmy hippos.

Matthew said: “We have an amazing team of volunteers at both London and Whipsnade zoos. But we’re always looking for more animal lovers to support our work and help enthuse our visitors with a passion for wildlife.

“An official part of the Coronation weekend programme, The Big Help Out, is the perfect opportunity to try something new and support ZSL’s mission to create a world where wildlife thrives.”

To join The Big Help Out, download the official app and search ‘London Zoo’ for opportunities.

How to get London Zoo tickets

All additional Coronation activities are included with zoo entry and under-3s go for free.

Single adult tickets range from £27.73 to £32.27. Children’s tickets are £21.00.

Book ahead at www.londonzoo.org