Mappin Pavilion

Amidst the roar of lions and the chatter of monkeys, a hidden gem awaits at London Zoo. The Mappin Pavilion stands as a testament to a bygone era. It whispers tales of elegant tea parties and panoramic views. The Mappin Pavilion, originally envisioned as a tea house, overlooks the Mappin Terraces. These man-made “mountains” were a revolutionary concept in 1913. They provided a more naturalistic habitat for the zoo’s inhabitants. Businessman John Newton Mappin funded this ambitious project. Sadly, he didn’t live to see its completion. World War I further delayed the pavilion’s construction. It finally opened its doors between 1920 and 1927. Architect John James Joass designed both the terraces and the pavilion. He embraced an Italianate style for the pavilion, creating an elegant space for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments. The pavilion offered a unique vantage point. Visitors could admire the innovative terraces with their various animal enclosures. Over the years, the Mappin Terraces housed a diverse range of animals. These included deer, bears, goats, pigs, penguins, ibex, and even snow leopards. In a more recent and unusual event, the terraces briefly hosted humans as part of a “Human Zoo” exhibit in 2005. Today, the Mappin Pavilion no longer serves as a café. It has been superseded by the Terrace Restaurant. However, the pavilion continues to serve a purpose. It offers a unique venue for events, conferences, and celebrations. Both the Mappin Terraces and the Mappin Pavilion are now Grade II-listed buildings. They stand as a reminder of London Zoo’s rich history and architectural evolution. The Mappin Pavilion remains a quiet haven. It offers a glimpse into a more elegant past amidst the bustling energy of the modern zoo.