Tucked away in the leafy surroundings of Brent Lodge Park, Hanwell Zoo offers visitors a unique blend of animal encounters, family-friendly facilities, and local heritage. Known affectionately as the “Bunny Park”, this compact yet charming zoo has been welcoming guests since 1975 and has steadily grown into a much-loved attraction. As a proud member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA), Hanwell Zoo provides an engaging and educational experience for families, schools, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
A Diverse Variety of Animals
Despite its modest size, Hanwell Zoo houses an impressive variety of animals that appeals to children and adults. The animal collection has expanded significantly over the years, with carefully maintained enclosures designed to balance welfare and visitor engagement.
Mammals
Visitors can encounter a fascinating range of mammals, from the popular meerkats and playful capybara to the distinctive porcupines and armadillos. The zoo is also home to alpacas, miniature donkeys, and goats, perfect for younger guests to admire. Exotic highlights include the margay, a rare nocturnal wild cat, and the ever-popular ring-tailed lemurs, along with lively marmosets and tamarins.
Birds
Bird lovers will appreciate the colourful diversity of Hanwell Zoo’s aviaries. Flamingos grace the ponds, while peafowl roam the grounds. Rare species such as red-crowned cranes, black-cheeked lovebirds, red fody, and hammerkop add to the collection. Waterfowl including Mandarin ducks and white-faced whistling ducks create a lively atmosphere, making the bird section a highlight of the visit.
Other Species
Adding to the zoo’s appeal is a small aquarium featuring species such as clownfish, popular with younger visitors. During certain times of the year, guests can also enjoy the butterfly house, a seasonal exhibit that showcases delicate and colourful species in a tropical environment.
Nocturnal Enclosure
For those intrigued by elusive creatures, the nocturnal enclosure houses the rare grey slender loris alongside the margay. This dimly lit area allows guests to observe animals that are normally hidden during daylight hours, offering a unique educational insight into nocturnal wildlife.
Family-Friendly Facilities and Amenities
Hanwell Zoo is particularly well-suited to families with young children, offering a range of amenities designed for comfort and accessibility.
Children’s Play Area
Adjacent to the animal exhibits lies a large children’s playground, complete with sandpits, water features, slides, and climbing equipment. This area provides a safe and engaging space for children to burn off energy while parents can relax nearby.
The Millennium Yew Maze
Within the surrounding Brent Lodge Park, the Millennium Yew Maze is an additional attraction. Comprising around 2,000 yew trees, this maze is a fun and interactive challenge for visitors of all ages, blending natural beauty with playful exploration.
Food, Toilets, and Accessibility
The on-site café offers refreshments and snacks, with a family-friendly menu suitable for children. Clean and well-maintained toilets, including accessible facilities, ensure comfort throughout the visit. The site itself is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
Parking and Access Challenges
While the zoo provides free parking, spaces are limited and can quickly fill during peak times such as weekends and school holidays. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early or use public transport options, with Hanwell being well-connected to West London bus routes and nearby train stations. Despite this minor challenge, the convenience of free parking remains a benefit compared to larger city zoos.
Opening Times and Admission Costs
Hanwell Zoo remains one of London’s most affordable wildlife attractions, making it especially appealing to families on a budget.
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Opening Hours:
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April – September: 10:00 – 17:00
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October – March: 10:00 – 16:00
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Closed on Christmas Day
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Admission Fees:
Adult tickets are typically under £5, with concessions and children’s prices even lower. Season tickets are available for regular visitors, offering excellent value for families and local residents.
The pricing strategy makes Hanwell Zoo a cost-effective option compared to larger attractions, while still providing an enriching experience.
Visitor Experience and Reviews
Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff, clean facilities, and the obvious care given to the animals. Many visitors note that the zoo’s smaller scale allows for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for young children who may find larger zoos overwhelming.
While some enclosures may show signs of age, reviews consistently recognise the charm and value of the zoo. Its emphasis on education, accessibility, and affordability makes it a treasured part of the local community.
The History and Heritage of Hanwell Zoo
The origins of Hanwell Zoo lie in the Brent Lodge Park Animal Centre, originally established to house rescued pets, including rabbits and tortoises. This is where the nickname “Bunny Park” began, a title still affectionately used by locals.
The park itself has a longer history as part of a private estate before being converted into public recreational grounds. Over the years, Brent Lodge Park has hosted local festivals, horticultural shows, and community events, with the zoo at the heart of this vibrant history.
Why Hanwell Zoo Matters Today
While not competing with major attractions like London Zoo, Hanwell Zoo plays a vital role in providing an accessible, educational, and family-friendly experience for West London residents. Its smaller scale allows children to enjoy close-up encounters with animals without the crowds or high costs of larger sites.
The zoo also supports conservation awareness, introducing younger generations to the importance of wildlife protection in an approachable way. Schools and community groups frequently use the zoo as a teaching resource, reinforcing its role as a local hub for environmental education.
Summary: A Hidden Gem in West London
Hanwell Zoo offers far more than a simple day out. With its varied animal collection, family-focused facilities, and historic parkland setting, it represents one of London’s best-value attractions. Although parking can be limited and some enclosures are modest compared to larger zoos, the overall experience is warm, welcoming, and memorable.
For families with young children, animal lovers, and those seeking a budget-friendly wildlife encounter, Hanwell Zoo remains a true hidden gem in West London.
