Tonight:
5°c
Go wild in the dark at London Zoo
Oliver Franklin11 Aug 2010
Now this is something special: this Friday evening, the capital's nature lovers – and some of the trendiest partygoers – will be spotted strolling the paths of Regent's Park and through the gates of ZSL London Zoo, open late for the this summer's exclusive London Zoo Lates.
Nouveau naturalists and Attenborough enthusiasts can pick up a flute of bubbly from the stocked champagne bar and roam the grounds, taking in the astonishing array of wildlife as you've never seen them before.
Strap on the special headphones and dance to the animal-friendly silent disco, or marvel at the unique surroundings: particularly spectacular are the Asiatic lions at the revamped Big Cat enclosure, as is hanging out with the monkeys (literally: the gorgeous little scamps are free to roam among the visitors) at the new Rainforest Life exhibit.
Sumptuous-sounding picnics from Gordon Ramsey's York and Albany restaurant are available to sate your appetite (you're bound to work one up) with a range of options to suit any dietary requirements, and there will be canapés to nibble as you flit amongst the amazing wildlife.
It's not just for adults, either: kids are welcomed, and they are sure to adore this chance to get close to the animals as they come alive in their nocturnal environment.
ZSL London Zoo Lates are taking place Friday Aug 6 (sold out) and Aug 13, 20 and 27. Tickets £16.30 Adult, £13.15 Child. Picnics can be ordered when you purchase tickets. For information and booking, visit www.zsl.org/zoolates
