Hanwell Zoo has officially re-opened after its renaming, with new animal additions planned - but an entry fee has also been introduced.
The former Brent Park Lodge had its ribbon cutting ceremony on March 30 and said many improvements have been made, with more to come.
However, the previously free attraction is now £2.50 for adults and £1 for children over three, with year long passes available.
The 42-year-old conservation's decision was down to rising costs in maintaining the facility, according to the zoo.
In a statement, they wrote: "Since the Animal Centre’s conception, 42 years ago, we have been a free to enter facility.
"However, rising costs and reductions in council subsidies mandate our zoo to introduce a small fee to facilitate our viability and ensuring it thrives into the future."
A capital grant was awarded to the zoo in 2016 to improve facilities, including a new visitor's centre.
Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, cabinet member for environment, transport and leisure at Ealing Council, said: "I’m delighted to see the new Hanwell Zoo opening its doors to visitors this spring.
"It’s a much loved facility and a real gem to have in the heart of our borough.
"Over the past few years, the zoo has been transformed with the renovated, larger and more modern habitats for the fantastic animals that live there.
"I know that local people recognise that the introduction of a small entry fee to the new, improved Hanwell Zoo represents phenomenal value for money.
"There’s now even more for families to enjoy and learn about, and it means the zoo is going to continue to be a family favourite for generations to come."
What's new and what can you see at Hanwell Zoo?
Visitors can see a huge range of different creatures, from familiar favourites like meerkats and lemurs, to brilliant new additions including unmistakable capybaras, beautiful Javan peafowl and flamingos.
They join dozens of other species including red-crowned cranes, tropical frogs, pygmy goats, kune kune pigs and the zoo’s resident porcupine.
The zoo’s butterfly and reptile house has been renovated as part of the improvements, with visitors able to walk amongst free-flying butterflies.
Visitors can also enjoy beautiful parkland surrounding the zoo, including an arboretum, maze and renovated café in the surrounding park, which will remain free to visit.
What renovations are in the works?
Tamarin monkeys, frilled-neck lizards and alpacas are due to arrive in the near future.
A brand new playground featuring a sandpit and slide is also set to open within the zoo area in the coming weeks.
Visitors can also expect new entrance and gift shop which has been developed, along with new bathroom facilities, a website upgrade and more interactive learning opportunities.
Why was the name changed?
Ealing Council said the site has been renamed to better reflect its array of wildlife, which stands at 42 species.
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