Best Zoo in Staines-upon-Thames

"Opened in 1828, London Zoo is among the oldest in the world. The emphasis nowadays is firmly on conservation, breeding and education, with fewer animals and bigger enclosures. Highlights include Land of the Lions, Gorilla Kingdom, Tiger Territory, the walk-through In with the Lemurs and Penguin Beach. There are regular feeding sessions and talks, various experiences are available, such as Keeper for a Day, and you can even spend the night in the Gir Lion Lodge."

"Giants of the Galápagos was opened in 2009 to coincide with the 200th birthday of Charles Darwin,[34] and is home to three female Galápagos giant tortoises named Dolly, Polly and Priscilla. The exhibit features a large indoor area, with a heated pond and underfloor heating, while the outdoor paddock has been designed to mimic the tortoise's natural environment and features two heated pools, one of which is a naturalistic clay wallow."

"The famous London Zoo offers daily events including a free nature trail for children to tick off animals on their way around. There is daily feeding of birds, meercats, penguins at the beach, magnificent tigers, lemurs and even a giraffe high tea!. Animals show off their skills in live demonstrations; there are bug encounters and much more!"

"Nestled in Battersea Park, this Children’s Zoo may not exactly be big, but that’s part of its charm. They house a range of mammals, reptiles and birds, from farm to smaller exotics animals. With various feeding times, picnic and play areas and children’s rides, this zoo is especially good for the little ones."

"Battersea Park Children's Zoo is home to a host of farmyard animals, flamingos, otters and monkeys. Battersea Park, London, SW11 4NJ. Tube: Sloane Square Station"

"The recently opened Nyx hotel in Holborn has brought with it a stellar new option in London’s spa scene – and it’s offering no fewer then six spa days to cater to all your rest and relaxation needs. Go all out with the Glow with Rena experience, which includes full day use of the gym, pool, sauna, hot tub and steam room, as well as a glass of Prosecco, Caudalie facial and foot massage. Alternatively, gather your nearest and dearest for a much needed catch up with the Luxurious Group Pampering Day."

"You’ll find craft ale bar and microbrewery Tap East tucked away in Stratford Westfield. The cosy venue is worth seeking out after a few hours shopping for an impressive range of beers. The East End Mild is malty and full of flavour and the citrus hops used in the American make it perfect for summer."

"This Stratford taproom is a palace of all things beer-orientated with more than 150 varieties of beer in fridges and on tap. If you're not sure what you want to sip, the knowledgeable bar staff will be able to help you given they brew plenty of the stuff available to drink."

"Undoubtedly one of the most special spots to dine in the city is Hutong, another of The Shard’s sky-high eateries located on the 33rd floor. With dark red, moody interiors, sparkling lanterns and a traditional Chinese wishing tree where guests hang their wishes on branches, Hutong oozes the romance of fairy tales and is an absolute delight. This is our top pick for a splash-out supper, with its vast selection of fine northern Chinese cuisine and creative cocktails set against the backdrop of the sprawling London skyline, which twinkles at night."

"Take the romance to another level – or 33 – at the Shard’s sky-high northern Chinese restaurant, where the panoramic views of the city are simply astounding. Inside, the restaurant is low-lit, dotted with glowing red lanterns, and intricately decorated with antique wooden panels. Things really heat up when you get to the menu: Sichuan spice peppers most dishes, so it’s aphrodisiac-central."

"A post shared by Life FR (@life_fr_) on Dec 27, 2017 at 6:26am PST. Savour spectacular views of London from this plush northern Chinese restaurant on level 33 of The Shard. Choose from dim sum such as Shanghai-style xiaolongbao or mains such as monkfish in Yangtze hot and sour broth."

"Situated opposite the famous Green, Richmond Theatre is one the South East’s leading entertainment venues showcasing the best UK and West End productions throughout the year. Richmond Theatre welcomes a quarter of a million visitors to over 40 productions annually, performing for about 49 weeks per year. Built in 1899, by the famous theatre architect Frank Matcham, the theatre is a charming Grade 1 listed building which retains most of its original features."

"This Frank Matcham theatre was built in 1899 and refurbished in 1991. It is an incredibly successful theatre and offers a wide programme of events. Over a quarter of a million visitors attend every year to watch one of around 40 different productions."

"The one by Garden at 120 This healthy grab-and-go restaurant is famous for its Field Trays; flavour-packed proteins with your choice of grains, salads and sides all dished up in a compartmentalised tray for less than £8. A different day brings with it a different combination; pair your harissa chicken with brown rice, cavalo nero and bean salad and a tarragon dressing, or match grilled salmon fillets with pesto, sweet potato chips and wilted greens. The offerings are just that little bit different compared to most takeaway joints in the City, lending from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Asian cuisines."

"As pretty as a box of luxury chocolates, Matsuba is all dark wood and subtle light panels, with a discreet sushi bar, vintage Japanese parasols dotted around and quietly polite waiters. The menu trawls through the full Japanese repertoire from tempura to tonkatsu, but also expect a smattering of Korean dishes including bulgogi and bibimbap. Affluent Richmond locals appreciate Matsuba’s very decent wine list too."

"When you first walk into Mayfair’s Bocconcino, there are a few things that stand out. First up will be your own reflection, bounced back at you by the mirror panelling that lines the restaurant’s mezzanine-meets-lobby. Then there’s the spiral staircase that swoops down to the lower floor, glass handrails glistening in the soft golden light."

"Read the full review: Bocconcino19 Berkeley Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 8EDThis smart Mayfair joint backs up its stylish looks (think plush seating and glittering chandeliers) with some serious substance. Perfect for date night, dishes such as oozing buratta and pasta spun in a wheel of cheese are guaranteed to ignite romance."