The blaze erupted in the cafe and shop of London Zoo and half of the roof of the adventure cafe was alight.

According to the London Fire Brigade, ten fire engines, 72 firefighters and officers were called to a fire at a cafe and shop at London Zoo.

An animal petting area close by the shop was also affected.

According to Twitter user, Paul Wood, fire crews tackled a large fire in the camel enclosure of the famous zoo.

London Fire Brigade said: “The Brigade was called at 0608.

"Fire crews from Kentish Town, Paddington, Euston, West Hampstead and other surrounding fire stations are at the scene.

"The cause of the fire is not known at this stage.”

Twitter user @mumcoffee said that the adventure cafe and shop are close to the meerkats and camels in the world famous zoo.   

It is unclear how the fire started or whether there was anyone inside.

The zoo is home to endangered Sumatran tigers, of which there are only 400 left in the world.

As part of its conservation work, the zoo built a £3million ‘Tiger Territory’ to both study and breed the majestic creatures. 

Worried animal lovers have taken to Twitter to voice their concern about the welfare of the zoo’s animals.

Carmen Ghia said: “Oh no, poor creatures will be affected whatever happens.”

SimmyTheGiant said: “I pray that all the animals in London zoo are okay, I hope everyone gets out of the fire healthy and safely.”

Around 1.25 million visitors go to the zoo each year and it is one of the main tourist attractions in the capital. 

It was opened in 1828 and is the world’s oldest scientific zoo. 

The zoo which is home to polar bears, giant pandas and Gorillas should be open from 10am until 4pm today.