We're here to help
We understand that you may have questions related to your visit, Zoo membership or general questions about our Zoos or ZSL.
To help, we've listed some quick links to popular information sections of our website, compiled some of our most asked questions and grouped other questions by theme.
Top Viewed Questions
Here are some of the most popular or frequently accessed articles by visitors.
Any disabled visitor is entitled to one free carer, but this ticket does not need to be booked in advance. The ticket is issued on arrival at the entrance, and you will need to show the relevant disability documentation.
Our ticket prices vary at each Zoo and throughout the year. Online prices are always better value that buying on the gate. You can find our prices here.
We’re open at 10am and last entry is 1hour before closing. You can check our seasonal closing times here
Once purchased, our tickets are non-refundable, and cannot be swapped to another date. E-tickets are only valid on the date stated on them, unless it is a flexi ticket. For more information please see our terms and conditions.
You will need to bring proof of eligibility with you and show this when you present your ticket(s) to our friendly staff at the admissions gate. This can either be by logging into your Universal Credit portal or by bringing your proof of benefit letter (one proof per household). To be eligible you must have received a Universal Credit payment within the last month, and you may also be asked to show photographic ID.
As a blue badge holder, you will be entitled to free car entry and one free carer admission ticket.
Yes, wheelchairs are available to hire from Whipsnade Zoo subject to availability. We recommend prebooking your wheelchair which can be done by call on 01582 871517 or filling out our contact form here.
We require a £25 deposit (card only) to hire a wheelchair which will be refunded to you upon return of the wheelchair – providing it is undamaged. Alternatively, you can rent a mobility scooter for a £20 hire fee and a £30 refundable deposit.
Entry to our indoor soft play area, Hullabazoo, is by pre-booking only. Hullabazoo Indoor Play tickets are free of charge with a valid membership or general admissions ticket and will only appear 24 hours in advance of your chosen slot.
No, we are a zoo. As the zoo is large and based over 700 acres of land, there is an option to drive in for a charge. Within the zoo, there are multiple car parks where you can park up, get out to see the animals nearby and then drive to the next parking stop. You can visit the entire zoo on foot.
We do have a small drive through safari section called ‘Passage through Asia’, where you can see a variety of deer, yak and camels. You can also see this section of the zoo by paying to ride on the Great Whipsnade Railway.
Please fill out our lost property form here. If your item has been found, a team member will get in touch with you.
If we haven't answerd your question, please select a topic below to see more information.
Can children visit Whipsnade Zoo without an adult?
No, children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult when they visit Whipsnade Zoo. Unaccompanied minors will be refused entry.
Are all animals on show?
We want to make sure you have a great day out when you visit but the welfare of our animals in important to use too, so we may. on occasions, have some important care that we need to do for our animals, that requires them to remain off show. You can download our Zoo app to keep up to date with the latest animal information.
Are any of the enclosures closed in the winter months?
Some of our animals do like to stay indoors when it is a bit colder or wet outside and as such, we have indoor viewing areas for most of our enclosures. Our brown bears go into hibernation during the winter season.
Are there animal shows and performances?
We have talks but not 'shows'. We want our visitors to enjoy and understand our precious animals, and for the species we look after to have as natural wild behaviour as possible. So, you can enjoy fun and informative short talks from our expert presenters throughout the day - but we don't ask our animals to participate in 'shows'. Please check our What’s On board onsite or download our zoo app.
Can I feed the animals?
We don’t allow visitors to bring food for our animals as they have a strict diet as part of their health and wellbeing. We do, however, have a range of animal experiences available where you can get closer to our animals and learn more about their eating habits.
Can I store my luggage when I visit?
Unfortunately there is no facility to store luggage at Whipsnade Zoo.
How do I report lost property?
To report a lost item at Whipsnade Zoo, please fill out our lost property log, and one of the team will get back to you if it’s been found.
Can I smoke or vape at the Zoo?
Smoking and vaping is not permitted anywhere across the zoo site and is only permitted within our external carpark. Please see our smoking policy for more details.
Where can I buy food at the Zoo?
We have a variety of pop-up outdoor food outlets at the Zoo that offer a selection of food options, Find out more here
Can I bring my own food into the Zoo?
You are welcome to bring your own food and we provide tables across our site.
Do you cater for food allergies?
We cater for a variety of dietary needs, including specific allergy or dietary requirements. Please speak to a member of staff at our catering outlets who can help you with your food choice.
Where can I park my car?
Parking is available in our free external car park on a first-come first-served basis. Please see parking information for more details.
How much does it cost to take my car into Whipsnade Zoo?
Car entry costs vary throughout the year. Blue Badge holders can bring their vehicle in free of charge. Please see prices here.
Does your external car park or car entry have height restrictions?
No, there are no height restrictions for car park or car entry. Coaches are unable to enter the zoo but can park in our external car park.
When do the external car park open/close?
The external car park at Whipsnade Zoo is open from 8am, closing one hour after the Zoo closes.
Can you hire pushchairs?
Our single buggies are £10 to rent whilst our double buggies cost £15. Both require a £15 refundable deposit (card only).
Can I bring my bike into the Zoo?
Bicycles, electric scooters and motorbikes are not allowed on Zoo premises. We have a cycle rack for visitors to use, which is located outside of the Zoo's Visitor Centre. Please note, Whipsnade Zoo cannot be held responsible for any damage or theft, bikes are left at the owner's risk.
What is ZSL?
We are a science-driven conservation charity working to restore wildlife in the UK and around the world. We’re a powerful movement of conservationists, working together to save animals on the brink of extinction and those who could be next. We protect species, restore habitats, train the next generation of conservationists and find ways for everyone – from pre-schoolers to politicians – to create change for nature. Through our conservation zoos, we bring people closer to wildlife, allowing them to connect with animals in new ways. Nature can recover, but right now it needs all our support. Find out more about ZSL
Do I have to arrive at the time stated on my ticket?
No, you don't have to enter the Zoo at the exact time on your ticket. You can visit anytime from the time stated on the ticket up until one hour before the Zoo closes. Closing times on selected dates may be affected by special events. To find out our current opening times click here.
How do I redeem my Buy A Gift/Virgin Experience Days voucher?
We are now accepting Buy A Gift, Red Letter Days and Virgin Experience Days vouchers. To book your Zoo visit, please click this link to complete the form and include the following information:
- Name of Zoo
- Date of trip
- Voucher number
Can I use my Blue Peter badge to obtain free entry? What do I need to show for this?
Any child, aged 5 - 15 years, who produces a valid Blue Peter badge card at the gate will be given free entry when accompanied by a full paying adult. One full paying adult will be required for each qualifying child and the adult ticket must be purchased upon arrival at the Zoo.
Do you offer discounts for people travelling on public transport?
Yes. If you travel to Whipsnade Zoo by National Rail or schedule bus, you will be given a 50% discount on Zoo admission tickets sold at the Gate. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. You will need to present a valid National Rail train ticket at the Gate for each person, which is dated for the same day of your visit. Discount is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time, without notice.
I am bringing children with me who are under three. Do I need to pay for them?
Children under the age of 3 years are entitled to free entry to both of our Zoos. Please ensure you book a ticket for them when you book yours so that we know how many visitors to expect.
Do you sell a family ticket?
We do not have a family ticket available as part of our standard ticketing, although we do sell Family Memberships offering unlimited visits to the zoo. We may occasionally offer a family ticket as a promotion, either available through whipsnadezoo.org or a third-party seller, although only tickets purchased through whipsnadezoo.org or londonzoo.org can be redeemed against a membership upgrade. ZSL general terms and conditions apply to all family tickets regardless of where they are purchased.
Can I buy tickets when I arrive?
Yes, although please note prices are higher if you buy at the gate. You will always find the best value by booking your tickets in advance of your visit.
Can I buy flexible tickets?
Flexi Tickets can be booked online and must be redeemed within 12 months from the date of purchase and can also be used as Gift Tickets. When you have decided when you want to visit, you can redeem your ticket online here.
Do you offer a discount for students?
If you are a full-time UK or international student then you will be entitled to our concession rate ticket, both online or at the gate. Please note that the discount is only valid when you present your valid student.
Do you do discounts for NHS and military staff?
We offer Blue Light Card members a discount on dated Zoo admission tickets to Whipsnade Zoo. To use the discount, please log into the Blue Light Card website and follow the ticket link on the Zoo page. Your discount will be applied automatically at the checkout. Then present your tickets, with proof of Blue Light Card membership, at the gate, on the day of your visit.
Can I make a group booking?
Yes. If you want to book for a group of 15 or more people you can book online and receive a 15% discount on group bookings.
Do you offer a discount for Max Card holders?
A Max Card holder will need to show their valid card upon arrival to purchase the discounted tickets. A maximum of six tickets can be purchased per Max Card. These tickets cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or promotion. Max Card tickets are subject to availability and are valid for one day of general Zoo admission only and are not valid for special events, experiences or Membership. Full ZSL terms and conditions apply.
Do I need to print my tickets?
If you have purchased your tickets directly from ZSL via our website or phone line, you do not need to print your tickets; they will be accepted when displayed on smart devices such as phones or tablets. Simply download your tickets and present the relevant barcodes to a member of our admissions team on arrival.
I have a London Pass/Go City Explorer Pass – is Whipsnade Zoo included?
No, London Pass/Go City Explorer Pass only includes London Zoo.
I have a disability. What tickets do I buy?
Adult and child guests who are registered disabled are entitled to our disabled adult or child ticket rates. An essential carer can enter free with each ticket. Please make sure you bring along your supporting documents that shows you require a carer.
These may include the following:
- Disability Allowance Letter
- PIP letter
- Freedom pass
- Any other appropriate supporting documentation as issued by your local authority
Can you hire wheelchairs?
Yes, wheelchairs are available for hire from Whipsnade Zoo subject to availability. We recommend prebooking your wheelchair which can be done by call on 01582871517 or filling out our contact from here.
We require a £25 deposit (card only) to hire a wheelchair which will be refunded to you upon return of the wheelchair – providing it is undamaged.
Alternatively, you can rent a mobility scooter for a £20 hire fee and a £30 refundable deposit.
Can I bring an assistance animal into the Zoo?
Assistance animals are not currently permitted inside Whipsnade Zoo because we have free-roaming animals such as mara, wallabies, Chinese water deer and muntjac around our Zoo.
Can I take my car into Whipsnade Zoo as I have a blue badge?
If you have a blue badge, you can take your vehicle into Whipsnade Zoo for free. Alternatively, there are designated disabled spaces available in our external car park.
Are there accessible facilities available at your Zoos?
We work hard to ensure Whipsnade Zoo is accessible for all visitors. Please see more information about accessibility at Whipsnade Zoo here.
How can I buy Membership?
The quickest and easiest way to buy a Membership and become part of the ZSL family is through our website
How much does Membership cost?
You can save 20% if you pay by annual Direct Debit. Please find a full price overview below:
Package | Gold | Silver | ||
Direct Debit (20% discount incl.) | Standard price | Direct Debit (20% discount incl.) | Standard price | |
Family 1 adult, up to 4 children | £ 180.00 | £ 225.00 | £ 137.00 | £ 171.25 |
Family 2 adults, up to 4 children | £ 269.00 | £ 336.25 | £ 199.99 | £ 249.99 |
Joint adult | £ 198.00 | £ 247.50 | £ 150.30 | £ 187.88 |
Adult | £ 110.00 | £ 137.50 | £ 83.50 | £ 104.38 |
Joint concession | £ 178.20 | £ 222.75 | £ 135.27 | £ 169.09 |
Concession | £ 99.00 | £ 123.75 | £ 75.15 | £ 99.94 |
Single Child | £ 70.00 Direct Debit £ 87.50 full price | |||
Under 3's | FREE |
How are Gold and Silver Membership different?
Silver members will enjoy free access to Whipsnade and London Zoos and receive exclusive digital communications keeping you up to date with the latest news from the Zoos.
As well as one year of free entry to our Zoos and exclusive communications, Gold members will also enjoy:
- 10% off in our Zoo shops and restaurants
- 10% off in the ZSL online shop
- 10% off our animal experiences at London and Whipsnade Zoos
- Priority booking and discounts on selected events
- Exclusive daily Hullabazoo Indoor Play session (*)
- 50% off car entry at Whipsnade Zoo
- Discount on the Great Whipsnade Railway
- Exclusive member updates
- 10% off car parking during peak times and free off-peak parking at London Zoo (**)
(*) The first Hullabazoo Indoor Play session of the day (10.30-11.00) is reserved for Gold members. Spaces are limited and subject to conditions.
(**) At London Zoo, parking is free for Gold members in conjunction with Zoo visits from 10AM Monday - Friday, excl. weekends, bank holidays and school holidays.
External parking at Whipsnade Zoo is always free.
Can I pay for my Membership using a monthly Direct Debit?
We don’t offer monthly Direct Debit. The payment will be annual.
I’ve just signed up to become a member, when can I visit the Zoo?
Your membership starts from the date of purchase. Members can visit during our Zoos' opening hours without the need to pre-book. Simply show the QR code you received via email, along with valid ID for all adults (+16) listed on the package, to the admissions team on the day of your visit.
How do I get my Membership card?
On your first visit to the Zoo, please present your confirmation email or letter on arrival. You will be directed to our Membership Kiosk or Desk where we will take your photo and issue you and the members on your membership with a card. Please ensure you bring a form of photo ID with you.
Can I mix and match Gold and Silver Membership packages for my family?
It is not possible for members of the same household to have different levels of Membership at ZSL. This allows us to provide the best service to our members.
To buy joint or family Membership, do we have to live at the same address?
Yes, members need to be living at the same address. This is to allow us to claim Gift Aid on your Membership.
If our family package, which accommodates a maximum of two adults, does not meet your specific needs, please contact us directly by completing this form to discuss further options on a case-by-case basis.
Do Single Child members (and under threes) get the same benefits?
Single Child members, and those under the age of three, share the same benefits as the adult member they are visiting the Zoo with that day.
Can I buy Membership as a gift?
Yes, you can find out more about Membership as a gift here, on the phone by calling 0344 225 1826 or at our Membership Desks or Kiosk at London and Whipsnade Zoos. All Gift Memberships enjoy Gold Member benefits! Please note there’s no Direct Debit payment option available for these.
I’ve just visited, how can I become a Member?
You can upgrade day admission tickets purchased from ZSL (except for promotional offers) against Membership within 14 days of your visit and you will only need pay the difference.
If you have just visited one of our Zoos and would like to become a member, simply fill in this form and our team will set you up within 5 working days.
How can I cancel my membership?
We’ll be very sad to see you go. The support from our members is vital to our global conservation work and the continued care of our animals. To cancel your membership, please complete this form and we’ll action your request and then confirm the last date you can visit
Who can use my Membership?
Membership is for use by the named holder only and is not transferable under any circumstances. Any misuse of a Membership card will result in it being indefinitely confiscated with no refund given. A card cannot be given away, sold or transferred. Membership card photocopies are not valid. Please ensure you bring your Membership card along for each visit, as this will permit your entry to our Zoos.
I’ve lost my Membership card, can I get a new one?
We can replace your card for a charge of £5. You can collect this on your next visit to the zoo, please bring along photographic ID for entry.
Can I change my Membership once it’s already started? Can I add more members?
Please call us on 0344 225 1826 and we can take a pro-rata payment to upgrade to Gold or to add new members to your Membership. Please note that memberships cannot be downgraded outside of the renewal period.
Can I downgrade from Gold to Silver Membership once it’s already started?
Once your Membership year is completed, should you wish to renew your Membership, you will be able to choose to continue receiving Gold-level benefits, or switch to entry-only Silver Membership. You can only downgrade your membership from Gold to Silver at the time of renewal.
My child turned 3 or 16, what do I need to do?
Please complete this form and our Supporter Contact team will add your child onto the Membership for a pro-rata rate until the expiry of the Membership. The pro-rata child rate starts on the day you add the child to the Membership until the expiry date. This might change your Membership into a family package. If your Membership is due to renew and your child has turned 3 or 16, we will amend the package to reflect that and include the new details in your renewal notification.
I have a disability. What Membership do I buy?
Adults who are registered disabled are entitled to our concession package whilst disabled children should select a single child membership. We recommend checking our family packages for the cheapest option. Any member registered disabled will be eligible to bring an essential carer in with them at no entry charge. Please make sure you bring along your supporting documents that shows you require a carer on your first visit.
These may include the following:
- Disability Allowance Letter
- PIP letter
- Freedom pass
- Any other appropriate supporting documentation as issued by your local authority
How do I redeem my half-price tickets?
As a thank you for renewing by Direct Debit, Gold members receive two half-price zoo tickets per member per year automatically upon renewal to bring family and friends along. To book these, simply log in to your account during the ticket booking process with the email address your membership is associated with (where you receive membership communications on). Your half-price ticket discount will automatically be applied for eligible tickets in the basket. Find out more here.
Do you offer a Childminder Membership?
Yes, we offer a one Adult and up to six Children package for Ofsted registered childminders. The membership costs £242 for one year and grants access to all Gold member benefits. Childminder members will have the flexibly to bring any 6 children they care for into the Zoo with them each day. To sign up, please email [email protected] with your up-to-date Ofsted registration details.
How can I get a discount on experiences?
Gold members, Fellows and Patrons are entitled to 10% discount on London and Whipsnade Zoo animal experiences and overnight Lodge stays. To access your experience discount online, simply log in to your account during the experience booking process with the email address your membership is associated with (where you receive membership communications on). 10% discount will automatically be applied for eligible experiences in the basket.
How do I book on to a Gold Member Hullabazoo Play Session?
Gold members have exclusive access to Hullabazoo Indoor Play at Whipsnade Zoo every day from 10:30 to 11:15am. Pre-booking is required online, and tickets released one day in advance. Once you log in to your account during the booking process with the email address your membership is associated with (where you see communications on), and the 10:30am booking window will be available for you to book.
I’m having trouble logging in to access my benefits.
Firstly, make sure you’re using the email address associated with your membership – it’s the one you’re receiving membership communications on. If you’ve forgotten your password or haven’t logged in within the last 2 years, click the “Forgot Password” link in the login section to reset it.
Still having trouble? You can also reach out to us via our contact form and we’ll be happy to assist.
What is Gift Aid?
Gift Aid allows charities like us to reclaim tax from the government on your ZSL Zoo Membership. This enables us to claim an additional 25p for every £1 you spend, at no extra cost to you. You can gift aid your membership here.
Is ZSL part of Merlin?
ZSL is not under the Merlin Group; therefore, we do not accept Merlin passes. Our Zoos are part of ZSL, a global science-led conservation charity and so for those wishing to support us whilst enjoying the benefit of entry to both our Zoos, we do offer annual memberships. For more information, please visit our membership page.
Please contact [email protected] to make a booking for onsite visits or outreach. Please note this email address is for education enquiries only. Any non-education enquiries sent to this email address may result in a delayed response.
Can I buy Experiences as a gift?
We offer gift experience vouchers that can be used to redeem against the value of an animal experience. For more information visit our Gifts section. We also offer flexi ticket vouchers which are open-ended tickets valid for a single visit within 1 year.
My preferred experience is booked up, do you have a waiting list?
Unfortunately, we do not generally hold a waiting list for our experiences. If we do get cancellations, these tickets will be added to our website for sale.
How many people can stay in on an overnight lodge experience?
Lookout Lodges at Whipsnade Zoo can sleep a maximum of two adults and two children aged between 5- 13 years. Any child over the age 13 will classify as an adult.
Are the lodges Wheelchair Accessible?
Lookout Lodges at Whipsnade Zoo offer a double and a twin lodge that has level access for wheelchair users. We have a disabled toilet a short walk from the lodge area, but unfortunately, this does not include a wheelchair-accessible shower.
Wheelchair users can bring along a carer and will receive a 30% discount on the full price of the lodge.
Please contact us via our enquiry form if you have questions regarding our accessible lodges.
Do you offer single occupancy rates for overnight lodge experiences?
We offer a single occupancy rate for those who wish to stay in a lodge on their own. Single occupancy guests are entitled to a 30% discount on the full-paying price of two guests. This can be booked online by selecting the relevant ticket type.
Do you offer disabled rates for disabled visitors for overnight lodge experiences?
Disabled guests attending with a carer are entitled to a 30% discount on the full-paying price of two guests.
What are the age restrictions on the lodges?
Guests aged 14 years and over, are welcome to attend our adult only nights with an accompanying adult. The accompanying adult must be over the age of 18.
On family nights, children aged 5 - 13 can stay in a lodge with an accompanying adult. Children under 5 are not able to attend.
Young adults aged 14-17 years are welcome to stay in a lodge on their own but must have an accompanying adult aged over 18 years old staying in an adjacent lodge on the same night.
What is the age restriction on animal experiences?
We have several animal experiences where age restrictions apply. Any child under the age of 16 will need to be accompanied by a paying parent or guardian over 18. Please visit our Whipsnade Zoo experience pages for more details.
Can my carer take part in the experience?
All guests who are registered disabled will be entitled to have a free carer accompany them during the experience. They will not be able to take part in the experience but will be there for support.
Do you have ZSL Member discount on experiences?
We offer 10% discount to ZSL Gold Members on all experiences booked directly with us, on your chosen date, subject to availability. This discount does not apply to open-ended vouchers.
Can I change the date of my experience?
A date change or refund can be provided as long as it is a minimum of two months before the date of your Keeper for a Day, Lookout Lodge, Nature Night, Hullaba-Snooze Sleepover, Rhino Keeper, Elephant Keeper and Dinner with the Rhino experience.
Once a date has been booked for Meet the Animals experiences, Junior Zoo Academy, Zoo Explorers, Behind the Scenes Tours, Alpaca Walking, Heritage Tours and Footplate experiences a date change or full refund can be provided as long as it is a minimum of 14 days before the date of the experience. After this time, only exceptional circumstances will be considered for date changes, extensions or refunds.
What does the purchaser receive?
The purchaser of the adoption will receive an email confirmation which should appear in their inbox shortly after the purchase has been made. If the purchaser has not received this email please click on this link to complete the form so we can check whether your order has been successful.
The purchaser may choose to provide their address as the nominated delivery address. Animal Adoption packs are sent out within 1 - 2 working days.
What should I do if I want to adopt an animal which you no longer offer for adoption?
We would hope that even though you are unable to adopt your preferred animal you would still choose to support ZSL and we would encourage you to make a donation instead by visiting our donation page.
Your donation will not go directly to your preferred animal, but it will help us to continue the important work that ZSL does in over 50 countries around the world, as well as help towards the running costs of both London and Whipsnade Zoo.
I am planning on visiting the zoo, will I see my adopted animal?
Not all of our adoptions are animals you can see in our Zoos, as they represent the range of species that we care for in our Zoos as well as across global conservation work. For up to date information on the animals in our zoos, download our Zoo App.
Can I purchase a corporate adoption rather than one for an individual?
The adoption packs are designed as individual gifts only. If you are interested in a corporate adoption or sponsorship of an animal, please contact our Corporate Partnerships team at [email protected].
We want as many people as possible to be able to enjoy a brilliant day out with us, to benefit from the amazing animals who live at Whipsnade Zoo, connect with nature and help us create a world where wildlife thrives.
To help people who might find cost or other challenges a barrier to visiting Whipsnade Zoo, our Community Access Scheme provides discounted tickets.
Full details and answers to common questions can be found here.
What is ZSL Fellowship?
Fellowship is our academic programme for ZSL. For nearly 200 years our Fellows have been at the forefront of scientific discovery, pioneering conservation work and world leading animal husbandry. Fellows have included Sir David Attenborough, Charles Darwin and Dame Georgina Mace.
Now a community of thousands, Fellowship offers a unique opportunity to engage with ZSL’s world-leading conservation science, providing access to expert knowledge, research resources, and global conservation initiatives. Fellows benefit from exclusive events, behind-the-scenes access to ZSL’s work, voting rights on society matters, and unlimited visits to ZSL’s zoos.
For further information, please visit the ZSL Fellowship page on our website.
How do I qualify for Fellowship?
Application for Fellowship is open to those over the age of 16 who can demonstrate the following:
- An active interest or involvement in the fields of zoology, biology or a related area.
- Current studies in conservation, zoology, or a related life science or subject.
- Three years or more continuous years and up to date commitment to ZSL as a Member
- ZSL volunteering – past and present – or former ZSL employment.
How can I become a ZSL Fellow?
To become a ZSL Fellow you can register online.
To apply for ZSL Fellowship, you will need to enclose your application (at least 250 words) alongside supporting documentation such as a CV. Student in an eligible subject and Students in a non-eligible subject, wishing to apply for Student Fellowship and Concession Fellowship respectively, will also need to provide a copy of their supporting course documentation.
What are the benefits of Fellowship?
As a ZSL Fellow, you will receive the following academic privileges:
- Voting rights on ZSL matters, an invitation to the Annual General Meeting and the right to stand for ZSL Council.
- Discounts on Wiley books at 20%.
- Discounts on ZSL's ticketed lectures and symposia
- Borrowing rights in the extensive ZSL Library at Regent’s Park, the largest zoological collection in the country and a great place to study and research.
- Invitations to ZSL events with opportunities to meet ZSL staff.
- Volunteering opportunities
As a ZSL Fellow, you will also receive Gold Member benefits plus the following:
- Unlimited entry to London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo
- Personal sign-in of one additional family member per visit
- Two additional half-price entrance tickets per year, upon joining and after renewal
- Complimentary car entrance at Whipsnade Zoo all year round
- Complimentary off-peak car parking at London Zoo outside of peak times
- Shop and café discounts at 10%
- Discounts on ZSL Zoo Experiences and select events at 10%
- Free subscription to Wild About, our award-winning magazine
Do I have to bring the same free guest on each visit?
You can bring a different guest per day on each visit with your Fellowship.
Do I get Wild About magazine if I am a Fellow?
Yes, you will receive a Wild About Magazine as a Fellow alongside The Zoologist, the Fellows exclusive publication
How old do you have to be to become a ZSL Fellow?
You can become a Fellow from 16 years onwards and must be 18 years to vote
How to I redeem by half price vouchers?
Fellows receive two half price vouchers on joining and at renewal which can only be redeemed against zoo entry. To book these, simply log in to your account during the ticket booking process with the email address your Fellowship is associated with (where you receive Fellowship communications on). Your half-price ticket discount will automatically be applied for eligible tickets in the basket.
Can I donate branches, trees, or 'browse' from my garden for your animals?
Yes, we happily accept donations of fresh plant material such as leafy branches from trees and shrubs. We work with local tree surgeons who contacts us when suitable materials are available, and we work with private landowners too. We do not take donations of Christmas trees.
To safeguard our animals and protect the plants on our sites, it is imperative that the material is confidently identified to species level, and is not:
- From trees or shrubs that are diseased (e.g., ash die-back)
- From trees or shrubs affected by pests (e.g., leaf miners)
- Treated with pesticides, fungicides, herbicides etc.
Contaminated in any way by e.g.:
- Mud
- Animal (or human) urine and faecal matter
- Oil/fuel spillage
- Heavy traffic pollution
- Road grit/salt
- Pond water etc.
We can't accept oak species (Quercus sp.) from the general members of public due to the risk of infestation from the Oak Processionary Moth caterpillars.
Our Browse Team will collect the material within a reasonable distance, but there must be enough material to fill a flatbed van. The material should ideally be cut the same day as collection takes place.
Many plant species are toxic or hazardous to our animals, so confident identification of the species is essential.
For further discussion, please contact the Browse Team via email: [email protected]
What other items can I donate for your animals?
At certain times of the year, our experts will have an Amazon Wishlist running with specific items we need for our animals. While we can't accept many donations of food for biosecurity reasons, there are lots of different ways you can support us.