Penguin Beach
Sightseeing attraction | London | England | United Kingdom
Largest penguin pool in England
"Penguin Beach" in London, England, is one of the most well-known and popular attractions at London Zoo, located in Regent's Park. This penguin enclosure was opened in 2011 and is considered to be the largest penguin pool in England, with a water surface of 1,200 square meters and a capacity of 450,000 liters. Designed to replicate the natural environment of South American coasts, Penguin Beach provides a home for a colony of Humboldt penguins, as well as occasionally other penguin species such as Macaroni penguins. It is not only a highlight for visitors, but also an example of the shift in modern zoo-keeping, placing more emphasis on species-appropriate habitats than previous architecturally driven designs like the famous, but no longer used Penguin Pool from 1934.
Interactive experiences at the zoo
The history of Penguin Beach began with the realization that the original Penguin Pool, designed by Berthold Lubetkin, was unsuitable for the penguins. The shallow, concrete pool did not provide enough space for swimming and diving, which caused health problems for the animals such as Bumblefoot – a bacterial foot infection. After the penguins were removed from the old pool in 2004 and temporarily housed in other locations, including the sister zoo Whipsnade, Penguin Beach was developed as a modern alternative. The new facility was designed by experts from the Zoological Society of London in collaboration with engineers and designers to meet the needs of the penguins while creating an engaging experience for visitors.
Feeding of Humboldt penguins
Architecturally and ecologically, Penguin Beach is designed to simulate a South American coastal landscape. The pool is four times larger and three times deeper than its predecessor, with a maximum depth of about three meters, providing the Humboldt penguins – a species that lives along the coasts of Peru and Chile – ample space for diving and swimming. The facility includes three large underwater windows that allow visitors to have spectacular views of the agile movements of the penguins underwater, as well as elevated viewpoints for a panoramic view of the "beach landscape". The area is designed with sand, rocks, and nesting areas that mimic the penguins' natural habitat, including a separate nursery with an incubation area and a shallow pool where young animals can learn to swim. This design reflects the London Zoo's commitment to promoting both the well-being of the animals and the education of visitors.
Animal-friendly habitats for wildlife
A special feature of Penguin Beach is the daily feeding, known as "Penguin Beach Live." During this event, the penguins gather along the pool to be fed fish by the keepers, often providing a lively spectacle as the animals compete for the food and are occasionally disturbed by seagulls or herons trying to snatch a snack. The Humboldt penguins, recognizable by the pink skin patch between their beak and eye, are known for their playful nature and attract many spectators with their acrobatic swimming maneuvers. The zoo also uses this opportunity to raise awareness about the threats facing this species in the wild – such as overfishing and climate change – and emphasize its commitment to their protection.
Visiting zoo in Regent's Park
The setting of Penguin Beach blends harmoniously with the London Zoo, known for its historical significance and role in conservation. The facility is located in an easily accessible area, leading visitors past other attractions such as the Gorilla Kingdom or the Reptile House on their tour of the zoo. The design with natural elements and the proximity to the sounds and smells of the pool create an immersive experience that gives the feeling of being transported to a South American coast – a contrast to the urban environment of London. Occasionally, temporary installations, such as artworks by Dale Chihuly, are integrated into the facility, enhancing the visual impact even more.
For visitors, Penguin Beach offers a mix of entertainment and education. In addition to the feedings, there are interactive experiences such as "Meet the Penguins," where participants have the opportunity to see the penguins up close and learn more about their care. These programs are particularly popular with families as they allow a direct connection to the animals and promote conservation awareness. The facility is designed to be accessible to all, with pathways and viewpoints that are accessible to everyone, and seating areas that invite visitors to linger.
Penguin Beach is more than just a penguin enclosure – it is a symbol of the evolution in modern zoo-keeping and the effort to create species-appropriate environments that cater to both the animals and the visitors. It tells the story of the London Zoo adapting to new standards and rescuing the Humboldt penguins from the limitations of an outdated design. For those who visit the zoo, it is an unforgettable stop that combines the playful nature of these animals with an educational message about their protection.
