The Zoological Society of London (now known as ZSL) bought land and opened the first zoological garden, for fellows of the Society only, in 1828. It is the world’s oldest scientific zoo and was often referred to as Regent’s Zoo due to its location in the north-east corner of Regents Park in central London. The Society was awarded a Royal Charter the following year, but the general public had to wait until 1847 to be granted access.