Buxton delivered the Land of the Lions project within the live operational environment of London Zoo, transforming a key area of the site into an immersive visitor attraction inspired by the Gir Forest in Gujarat, India – the last remaining stronghold of the Asiatic lion. The project involved the construction of a new lion exhibit, including alterations to existing buildings and the creation of extensive external animal enclosures. Works also included associated mechanical and electrical installations, alongside themed hard and soft landscaping. A key feature of the development is the detailed Indian street scene theming, designed to transport visitors from the heart of London to a vibrant village setting in western India, reinforcing the immersive experience throughout the attraction. Integrated within the development are the Gir Lion Lodges, a unique overnight stay experience comprising nine purpose-built chalets arranged as a village within roaring distance of the lions. These lodges allow guests to stay overnight at the zoo, with exclusive out-of-hours access, guided tours, and hosted dining experiences, adding a distinctive accommodation element to the attraction. All works were delivered while the zoo remained open to the public, demanding disciplined site management and strict segregation between visitors and construction zones. Logistics were tightly controlled due to restricted access routes and constant visitor footfall. Deliveries were scheduled around opening hours using just-in-time planning, with strict controls on noise, dust, and vibration to protect animal welfare and maintain visitor comfort. The development received an official Royal Opening by the late Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and His Royal Highness Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. It was an absolute honour for the Buxton site team to meet the Royal couple and be part of such a significant occasion. This project demonstrates Buxton’s ability to deliver complex themed construction works within a live public environment, underpinned by strong stakeholder collaboration, disciplined logistics planning, and a consistent focus on quality.