Join in the biggest paint-by-numbers ever, this May half term!

Our May half term event is now over for 2026. 

Thank you for joining in with the biggest ever paint-by-numbers: A GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® title attempt. 

We're delighted to say that we did it! Over 14,000 people have helped us make history, as ZSL's conservation zoos, Whipsnade and London, have broken the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for most contributions to a painting-by-numbers. 

More about the record
 

23–31 May 2026 | Included with General Admission

This May half term, Whipsnade Zoo will become a lively creative space, inviting families, friends and curious minds of all ages to help build a huge collaborative artwork – aiming for the highest number of contributions to a paint-by-numbers – and a fabulously colourful way to join the celebrations throughout 2026 marking ZSL’s 200th anniversary.

Inspired by wildlife and the beauty of nature, this is your opportunity to help break an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title!

Included with your standard admission, this experience is more than a day out with the family – it’s a celebration of creativity, community and wildlife.

BEST PRICES ONLINE - BOOK MAY HALF TERM NOW
 

Every visitor making their mark

Guests of all ages can get involved with painting a piece of the artwork and registering as an official contributor to the bold, large-scale art installation. Whether you’re an experienced artist or trying painting for the first time, every contribution counts. By the end of the week, thousands of small creative efforts will unite into one remarkable shared accomplishment.

Book zoo tickets now to take part in this incredible GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS challenge.

Inspired by Nature and 200 Years of ZSL

This one-of-a-kind artwork is inspired by the natural world — its colours, patterns and animals — and will feature 200 species to celebrate ZSL’s two centuries of pioneering science, global conservation, and building connections between people and wildlife. Alongside taking part in the record attempt, you’ll be able to explore stories of the people who helped shape ZSL into what it is today, and their role in conservation.

Family Entertainment All Week

Alongside the main artwork, enjoy a range of smaller drop-in and self-guided activities, perfect for younger children, anyone who wants to indulge a passion for art, or simply explore the wonders of colour and pattern in nature. There’s no booking required — just turn up, get hands-on and have a whole day of wildly creative fun together.

• Transformation station: Become your favourite wild animal with stunning face painting*! Our skilled artists can turn you into speedy cheetahs, cheeky penguins and more.
• Animal drawing classes: Take part in pop-up sessions to learn how to draw incredible animals such as lions, giraffes, penguins and elephants – ideal for aspiring artists of all ages.
• Guess Zoo?: Can you recognise an animal from its pattern alone? Try the Guess Zoo challenge and explore the fascinating colours, markings and textures found in nature.
• Thermal imaging: See animals like never before. Explore thermal imagery to see how various species regulate heat in different habitats.
• Wild dress-up challenge: Spots or stripes? Big ears or horns? Pick a wild outfit, and challenge an opponent. Can they work out which animal you are just by asking the right questions?

You’ll be guided throughout by your own activity sheet, with space for animal sketches and an extra spotting challenge to help you explore the zoo. Perfect for curious and creative adventurers!

Best prices online - book now