The Viral Macaque Punch Sparks Interest in Primate Viewing Near London
Move over Moo Deng, because a new zoo animal has captured the internet's collective heart. If you have been living under a rock, people online are going absolutely bananas for a seven-month-old Japanese macaque named Punch, after videos showing him being rejected by his mother went viral last week.
Since the rejection, Punch has been given a stuffed orangutan toy by zookeepers at Ichikawa Zoo where he resides. Punch has won worldwide adoration primarily because people feel profound sympathy for the baby monkey. The zoo has been posting regular updates of the macaque, with videos depicting him playing alone, being hit by other monkeys, and dragging his plushie companion around everywhere he goes.
Where Can You See Similar Monkeys Near London?
So, what if you could experience the live version of all this captivating monkey drama for yourself? Obviously, in London you would not be able to see Punch himself, but you can observe the same kind of monkey at a location very close to the capital. London Zoo did house macaques until as recently as 2023, but according to the zoo's most up-to-date stocklist, taken in 2025, it no longer has these primates in residence.
If you genuinely want to see macaques near London, your best and most reliable option is to visit Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire. Just an hour from London by train, Woburn is home to a thriving troop of Barbary macaques. These remarkably hardy creatures can be spotted all year round as they can survive in both arid and freezing cold conditions with impressive resilience.
They can be found roaming freely in the 'African Forest' section during the safari drive-through experience, offering visitors an authentic and engaging wildlife encounter. This provides a fantastic opportunity for families, animal lovers, and curious tourists to witness these fascinating primates in a naturalistic setting.
Additional London Attractions and Updates
In other London news, the city is reportedly getting its 'first' floating park, adding to the innovative urban landscape. Additionally, a popular London canalside park has recently reopened after a dazzling £2.5 million makeover, enhancing recreational spaces for residents and visitors alike.
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