Whipsnade Zoo, the UK’s largest zoo, offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore its expansive 600-acre grounds using scooters. This blog post will delve into the details of Whipsnade Zoo’s scooter policy, providing valuable information for zoo enthusiasts and families planning their visit.

Whipsnade Zoo Scooter Policy

Whipsnade Zoo allows children to bring their own scooters into the zoo, provided they are under the supervision of an adult. This is a particularly useful feature, as the zoo’s vast size can make it challenging for young visitors to cover the distance on foot. However, it’s important to note that adult scooters are not permitted on the zoo premises.

Booking Tickets and Planning Your Visit

During peak visiting times, it’s recommended to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, as tickets may sell out. Whipsnade Zoo is open from 10 am every day of the year, except for Christmas Day, with seasonal closing times. It’s essential to check the zoo’s website or contact them directly for up-to-date information on any scheduled closures for annual maintenance.

Mobility Assistance at Whipsnade Zoo

For visitors who require mobility assistance, Whipsnade Zoo offers wheelchair and mobility scooter hire. The cost to hire a mobility scooter is £20, plus a refundable deposit of £30. Pre-booked mobility scooters and wheelchairs are held for collection until 1 pm, after which they are re-released to others who may need them on the day. Pushchairs are also available for hire from the gift shop.

Accessibility Features

Whipsnade Zoo has made significant efforts to ensure accessibility for all visitors. The zoo features wheelchair-accessible toilets located at various points throughout the grounds, including the main entrance, lawn area before the Butterfly House/Aquarium, Tigers/Base Camp, Reindeer/Viewpoint Kitchen and Deli, and Hippos/Africa Outpost. Additionally, a Changing Place Facility (CPF) is available, thanks to funding from the Levelling Up fund.

Penguin Pass Queue Hopper

For families with additional needs, Whipsnade Zoo offers a Penguin Pass queue hopper. This pass allows families to skip the queues at the zoo, providing a more seamless and comfortable experience. The pass can be downloaded and printed or displayed on a phone for a more discreet option. It can be collected on arrival from the admissions team and should be returned to the main zoo shop at the end of the visit.

Free Carer and Blue Badge Car Entry

Whipsnade Zoo also provides free entry for carers and those with a blue badge. This ensures that visitors with additional needs can enjoy the zoo without any financial barriers.

Conclusion

Whipsnade Zoo’s scooter policy and accessibility features make it an excellent choice for families and visitors with mobility challenges. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the available resources, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the UK’s largest zoo.

References:
– Tripadvisor Review 1
– Whipsnade Zoo Website – Big Day Out with the Kids
– Tripadvisor Review 2
– Whipsnade Zoo Website – Accessibility
– Whipsnade Zoo Website – Opening Times