Whipsnade Zoo, a renowned wildlife haven in the heart of Bedfordshire, UK, offers a range of accessibility features to ensure that all visitors can fully immerse themselves in the wonders of the animal kingdom. One of the most notable offerings is the availability of mobility scooter hire, catering to those who require additional support during their zoo adventure.
Mobility Scooter Hire at Whipsnade Zoo
Whipsnade Zoo’s mobility scooter hire service provides a convenient and comfortable way for visitors to navigate the expansive grounds. The cost of hiring a mobility scooter is £20, with a refundable deposit of £30. To ensure availability, it is recommended to book your mobility scooter in advance by calling the Retail Shop at 01582 871517.
Booking and Availability
The number of mobility scooters available at Whipsnade Zoo is limited, so it’s essential to plan ahead. Pre-booked mobility scooters and wheelchairs are held for collection until 1 pm, after which they are released to others who may be in need on the day.
Wheelchair Hire
For visitors who prefer to use a wheelchair, Whipsnade Zoo offers a limited number of non-motorized, non-self-propelling wheelchairs available for hire on a first-come, first-served basis. A deposit of £25 is required, which will be refunded upon the return of the wheelchair at the end of the visit.
Accessibility Features at Whipsnade Zoo
In addition to the mobility scooter and wheelchair hire services, Whipsnade Zoo has implemented a range of accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all visitors.
Accessible Toilets and Changing Place Facility
Accessible toilets can be found at various locations throughout the zoo, including the main entrance, lawn area before the Butterfly House/Aquarium, Tigers/Base Camp, Reindeer/Viewpoint Kitchen and Deli, and Hippos/Africa Outpost. Additionally, the zoo features a Changing Place Facility (CPF) located near the main entrance, equipped with a RADAR key for access.
Penguin Pass Queue Hopper
Whipsnade Zoo offers a Penguin Pass queue hopper for visitors who find queuing difficult. The Penguin Pass can be downloaded and printed or displayed on a phone, allowing visitors to bypass queues at admissions, retail, or catering outlets, as well as walk-through exhibits.
Disabled Visitor Accommodations
Visitors with additional needs can take advantage of free carer and blue badge car entry into the zoo. Adult and child guests who are registered disabled are entitled to disabled adult or child ticket rates, with an essential carer entering free with each ticket. To collect the essential carer ticket, visitors must bring supporting documents that show they require a carer, as well as a copy of their pre-booked ticket.
Assistance Dogs and Accessibility
While Whipsnade Zoo is not a safari park, it is home to free-roaming animals such as mara, wallabies, Chinese water deer, and muntjac. Due to the presence of these animals, assistance dogs are not currently permitted inside the zoo. However, the zoo offers two kennels located in a quiet area at the entrance for assistance dogs to stay during a visit. Visitors are advised to contact the support centre in advance of their visit to make alternative arrangements for their assistance dog.
In conclusion, Whipsnade Zoo’s commitment to accessibility is evident through its range of mobility scooter and wheelchair hire services, as well as its other inclusive features. By catering to the needs of visitors with additional requirements, the zoo ensures that everyone can enjoy the wonders of the animal kingdom and create lasting memories.