Northumberland Zoo provides free parking for all visitors, including coaches. The zoo has a large car park, and during busy periods, an overflow car park is also available. However, due to the zoo’s remote location, public transport is not recommended, and there are no footpaths on the sides of the A1 for pedestrians to use.

Free Parking for All Visitors

Northumberland Zoo offers free parking for all visitors, whether they arrive by car, coach, or any other mode of transportation. The zoo has a spacious car park that can accommodate a large number of vehicles, and during peak seasons or busy periods, an overflow car park is also made available to ensure that everyone can find a spot to park their vehicle.

Accessibility Considerations

While the zoo’s car park is generally accessible, there are a few factors to consider for visitors with mobility issues. The car park has some loose stones that may make it challenging to navigate with children’s buggies or wheelchairs. However, guests can park in front of the entrance while unloading and loading, and then move their cars to the designated car park area.

Inside the zoo, most of the pathways are surfaced and wide, making them suitable for visitors with mobility challenges. However, the ‘River Walk’ area is currently not wheelchair-friendly due to steep inclines. The zoo management is working on improving the accessibility of this area in the future.

Facilities for Visitors with Young Children

Northumberland Zoo has several facilities catered to visitors with young children. The zoo’s Bear Falls Cafe offers the option to warm baby food, and picnics are allowed in designated outdoor areas, including outside the cafe, next to the Adventure Land play area, opposite the Wallaby Walkabout entrance, and in the Domestic Farm Animal Area. However, picnics are not permitted inside the cafe to ensure sufficient seating for customers who have purchased food on-site.

Restroom Facilities

Northumberland Zoo has several restroom facilities located throughout the park. Visitors can find toilets at the entrance, opposite the cafe, near the Wallaby Walkabout, and next to the Adventure Land outdoor play area. All of these restrooms include disabled toilets and baby-changing facilities. Additionally, hand washing stations are available near the entrance and in the domestic farm animal area, encouraging visitors to maintain good hygiene practices.

Remote Location and Public Transport

One important factor to consider when visiting Northumberland Zoo is its remote location. The zoo is situated one mile off the A1, five miles north of Morpeth and 12 miles south of Alnwick, at Eshottheugh. Due to this remote location, public transport is not recommended as a viable option for reaching the zoo. Visitors are encouraged to use their own vehicles or arrange for private transportation to ensure a smooth and convenient visit.

Postcode and Directions

The postcode for Northumberland Zoo is NE65 9QH. Visitors can easily navigate to the zoo using this postcode and following the signs along the A1 highway.

Conclusion

Northumberland Zoo provides a comprehensive parking experience for all its visitors, with free parking, accessibility considerations, and facilities for families with young children. While the zoo’s remote location may pose some challenges for those relying on public transport, the ample parking options and well-equipped facilities make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for zoo enthusiasts.

References:
– Northumberland Zoo Visitor Information
– Northumberland Zoo FAQs
– Northumberland Zoo Getting Here