London Zoo is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. For those with mobility issues, the zoo offers a range of accessibility options, including wheelchair and mobility scooter hire. In this blog post, we’ll explore the details of London Zoo’s wheelchair hire service, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom.
Wheelchair and Mobility Scooter Hire at London Zoo
London Zoo offers both manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters for hire, catering to the diverse needs of its visitors. Here’s a breakdown of the options available:
Manual Wheelchairs
- Visitors can hire a manual wheelchair by leaving a refundable £25 deposit.
- Advance booking is recommended to ensure availability.
- The wheelchairs are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use within the zoo grounds.
Mobility Scooters
- London Zoo also provides mobility scooters for hire, with a £50 refundable deposit and a £10 hire fee.
- These scooters are ideal for visitors who require additional mobility assistance.
- Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure a scooter.
Accessibility Features at London Zoo
In addition to the wheelchair and mobility scooter hire, London Zoo has implemented various accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.
Lifts and Disabled Toilets
- The zoo has lifts to access the upper viewing platforms and the Terrace Restaurant, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to explore the different areas.
- Disabled toilets are strategically located near the Aquarium, B.U.G.S, Animal Adventure, and in the Terrace Restaurant, providing convenient facilities for those who need them.
Disabled Parking and Entrance
- The main car park at London Zoo is free for blue badge holders, and these visitors can use the fast track entrance to avoid queues.
- For on-the-day tickets, there is a small car park with five disabled spaces and one bay next to the entrance.
- Blue badge holders can also get four hours of free parking in the surrounding streets.
Free Carer Admission
- Visitors with disabilities can bring an able-bodied carer into the zoo with them for free, ensuring they have the necessary support during their visit.
Visiting London Zoo: Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
London Zoo is open every day, except Christmas Day, with varying opening hours throughout the year:
- 31st March to 1st September: 10 am to 6 pm
- 2nd September to 26th October: 10 am to 5 pm
- 27th October to 14th February: 10 am to 4 pm
Last admission is one hour before closing time, and advance tickets can be booked online at a cost of £22.09 for a disabled adult and £15.95 for a disabled child.
It’s important to note that dogs are not permitted in the zoo, except for ADUK accredited assistance dogs under specific conditions.
Planning Your Visit to London Zoo
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, it’s recommended to plan ahead and consider the following:
- Book your tickets and any wheelchair or mobility scooter hire in advance to guarantee availability.
- Check the zoo’s website or call the support team for the latest information on accessibility and any specific mobility requirements.
- Familiarize yourself with the zoo’s layout and plan your route to make the most of your visit.
- Allow ample time to explore the various exhibits and take breaks as needed.
Conclusion
London Zoo’s commitment to accessibility ensures that visitors with mobility challenges can fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom. With the availability of wheelchair and mobility scooter hire, along with the various accessibility features, the zoo provides an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all. By planning your visit and taking advantage of the available resources, you can make the most of your time at this iconic London attraction.