Inspired by the graceful movements of flying birds, the Snowdon Aviary was truly unique for its time; conceived by Lord Snowdon and realised by architect Cedric Price and structural engineer Frank Newby, the exhibit opened in 1965 and it was Britain’s first walk-through aviary.

ZSL has partnered with renowned architects Foster + Partners to rejuvenate the pioneering model of British architecture. One of the Zoo’s most famous structures, the Snowdon Aviary, celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2015 and stands proud and visible on the London skyline from Primrose Hill.

The project will enable ZSL London Zoo to transform the exhibit into a walk-through primate enclosure, allowing visitors and schoolchildren to get closer than ever before to amazing colobus monkeys.

[quote=Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London]"The gleaming brutalist Aviary will become a unique opportunity to walk-through an enclosure of excited monkeys..."[/quote]

ZSL Fundraising Director James Wren said: “Nearing our 200th anniversary, ZSL London Zoo is an iconic venue in our capital city, steeped in cultural history and brimming with wonderful architecture.

“The Snowdon Aviary was Britain’s first-ever walk though aviary, and has stood tall along the bank of the Regents Canal for more than 50 years, allowing our visitors to explore the habitat of the birds and admire them in a free-flying space.

“We’re delighted that HLF has granted us these funds to restore this iconic enclosure, and we’re launching our own campaign to raise the remaining £2.3million needed to complete this exciting renovation.”

Stuart Hobley, Head of HLF London, said: “You always expect to see something extraordinary on a trip to the zoo and some of the most remarkable inhabitants at London Zoo are the historic buildings! And now, thanks to Lottery players, the Snowdon Aviary will be saved and completely restored!

"The gleaming brutalist Aviary will become a unique opportunity to walk-through an enclosure of excited monkeys and in addition, it will be the centrepiece of an engaging new public programme that celebrates the history of the world’s oldest scientific zoo.”