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ZSL was founded on the 29th April 1826. It's our Birthday!

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Patronage Events

As a valued member of our Patron programme, you'll be invited to a range of exclusive online and in-person events. These unique experiences are designed to bring you closer to the heart of ZSL’s vital work, offering you an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look like never before. Keep an eye on your inbox, as you'll be the first to hear about all our upcoming Patron events. We look forward to you and your guests joining us on an unforgettable journey to creating a world where wildlife thrives.

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Exclusive upcoming events 

Festive Drinks reception 

Wednesday 2 December 2026 from 6pm, London Zoo 

Celebrate the season with fellow supporters at our festive drinks reception. Together, we'll
reflect on the difference your generosity has made this year, share highlights from across
ZSL's work, and look forward to another year of impact for wildlife.

RSVP  

Exclusive early openings at our Conservation Zoos 

Next date: Dates for 2027 TBC

Swing by on four selected Sundays a week before school holidays for an hour's long sneak peek of what happens at the Zoo before general opening. See the animals slowly waking up and going about their own morning routine, whilst our team of zookeepers, staff and volunteers get the Zoo ready to welcome visitors. Plus, we’ll be bringing you right up-close to a different species for each of the early opening dates with additional activities and talks!

Keep updated on the next early openings at London Zoo here and Whipsnade Zoo here. 

 

Download your 2026 calendar

Make sure you don't miss out on your Patron events throughout our 200th anniversary year and secure your spot to get closer to wildlife than ever before. 

What's going on at our conservation zoo's?

Events at our Conservation Zoos

Select dates throughout the year

At London and Whipsnade Zoos, there’s always something to celebrate! From unique animal awareness days to seasonal festivities, every visit brings something special. As a Patron, you’ll even have the chance to receive an exclusive pin badge to mark certain events, adding an extra touch of excitement. We look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories with your family while celebrating the wonders of wildlife!

Explore upcoming events at London Zoo here and Whipsnade Zoo here. 

Bicentenary Science and Conservation events

Select dates throughout the year

We host a wide variety of science and conservation events, both in-person and online, as we hope to offer you exciting opportunities to actively engage with our work. To celebrate our 200th anniversary we have a range of upcoming bicentenary talks for you to enjoy. Whether it’s deepening your understanding of wildlife through our science events or exploring a specific project – there is an event for you. Plus they are all free to attend!

You can find out the next Science and Conservation event here. 

Past events

Patron Morning: From Forests to Grasslands 

Sunday 4 October from 8:45am at Whipsnade Zoo 

Explore Whipsnade Zoo with a guided tour to see some of our incredible animals including the cheetah cubs, tapir and capybaras. You will also have the chance to enjoy refreshments and the opportunity to meet fellow supporters.

ZSL in Action: Highlights from 2025 

Thursday 22 January, 2pm-3pm 

In this online event, you’ll hear from experts on the ground about the exciting work taking place across ZSL. We’ll shine the spotlight on some of our highlights from 2025, which are only possible thanks to your support.

ZSL Wild Talks - Trailblazers & Pioneers: 200 Years of Wildlife Science 

Tuesday 3 February, 6pm-7.30pm, Huxley Lecture Theatre, London Zoo 

The first of our ZSL 200 Anniversary Lecture series looks back at the pioneers who changed how we understand animals, and the projects shaping the future of conservation.

Patron Morning with the Primates 

Saturday 28 February, 8.15am-10.30am, London Zoo 

Enjoy seeing some of our primates start their day at our next Patron morning at London Zoo. You will be taken on a guided tour before the zoo opens to visitors, with refreshments and the opportunity to meet fellow supporters.

ZSL Wild Talks - Breaking Barriers: Women in Wildlife 

Tuesday 10 March, 6pm-8pm, Huxley Lecture Theatre, London Zoo 

From Sophia Raffles to Joan Procter to Dame Georgina Mace, women have always been a driving force in ZSL’s story. This lecture celebrates their impact and showcases today’s women leading vital projects across the globe. There will also be the opportunity to meet some of our female Trustees, and hear how you could get involved further in the Governance of ZSL.

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