There cannot be many fun runs where you start your morning beside lemurs, red river hogs and some of the world’s most remarkable wildlife.

This September, London Zoo is launching Run Wild, a brand-new family-friendly fun run in support of global conservation charity ZSL. Taking place on Sunday 20 September 2026, the event invites families, children and runners of all abilities to enjoy exclusive early access to the Zoo before spending the rest of the day exploring one of London’s most loved attractions.

Even better, every step helps support ZSL’s work protecting endangered species, including the critically endangered Sumatran tiger.

1. Start the day inside London Zoo before it opens

Run Wild gives families the rare chance to experience London Zoo in the quiet of the morning, before the gates open to the public.

Participants will make their way through the Zoo, passing some of its incredible animals along the route. It is not about being the fastest or the fittest. It is about getting outdoors, doing something active together and enjoying London Zoo in a completely different way.

For children, this could be a wonderful first running event. For adults, it is a chance to do something a little different in London while supporting a very worthwhile cause.

2. Pick the route that suits your family

There are two routes to choose from, so the event works for younger children, older children and adults.

The one-mile fun run is open to children aged 4 to 15, alongside parents and guardians. This route takes place entirely within London Zoo and starts at 8.30am.

For those who want a longer challenge, the 5K route is open to participants aged 11 and over. It begins inside the Zoo, heads out through Regent’s Park, and then returns to finish back inside London Zoo. This route starts at 9.00am.

Both options are designed to be friendly and inclusive, so you do not need to be an experienced runner to take part.

3. Run for tigers and endangered wildlife

Run Wild is about much more than medals and trainers. The event will raise money for ZSL’s vital conservation work in the UK and around the world.

London Zoo plays an important role in helping to protect critically endangered species, including the Sumatran tiger. Fewer than 400 Sumatran tigers are estimated to remain in the wild, making conservation work more important than ever.

Through conservation breeding programmes, veterinary research, training and field work, ZSL helps protect threatened wildlife and restore habitats. Taking part in Run Wild is a simple, positive way for families to support that work.

4. Stay for the whole day at London Zoo

Once the running is done, the day does not have to end.

Every participant who crosses the finish line will receive an exclusive Run Wild medal and full-day entry to London Zoo. That means families can celebrate their achievement, refuel, and then spend the rest of the day exploring the Zoo together.

It turns the event into a full family day out rather than just a morning activity. From big cats and reptiles to birds, insects and conservation stories, there will be plenty to discover long after the race is over.

There are also extra rewards for fundraisers. Anyone who raises more than £80 will receive a free tiger plush toy, while those raising over £200 will be entered into a prize draw to win a family membership to London and Whipsnade Zoos.

5. Book soon as places are limited

Run Wild at London Zoo takes place on Sunday 20 September 2026, with only 1,000 places available.

Entry costs £35 per participant and includes the run, an exclusive medal and full-day admission to London Zoo. Discounts are available for members, patrons and fellows of the Zoological Society of London.

It is a lovely idea for families who want an active London day out with a purpose. You can run, walk, jog, cheer each other on, see the animals and help protect wildlife at the same time.

Find out more and sign up here: https://www.londonzoo.org/runwild