West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park Accessibility Statement - January 2018 - West Midland Safari Park
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West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park
Accessibility Statement
January 2018
Page 1Contents: Park Description 3 Booking and Prices 4 Getting to the Park 5 Arrival 7 Car Park and Toilets 8 Pathways 9 Drive-Through Safari and Minibus Tour 10 Catering 11 Souvenir Shops 14 Discovery Trail 16 African Village 20 Daily Shows 22 Adventure Theme Park Rides 25 Games 30 Boj: Giggly Park 31 Land of the Living Dinosaurs 32 Safari Academy 33 Venues & Events 34 Special Events 37 VIP Experiences 38 Page 2
Park Description
West Midlands Safari and Leisure Park is a 200-acre site that combines a self-drive safari and a
leisure area with live shows and attractions.
The four-mile drive-through safari represents species from all around the world including
Rhinoceroses, Giraffes, White Lions, Tigers and Elephants - and is generally conducted in the
visitors’ own vehicle; or in a coach as part of an organised group excursion.
After experiencing the four-mile Safari, guests follow the roadway to the main car park, which
consists of hard-standing grass, designated disabled spaces and coach/minibus parking.
The Discovery Trail is accessed via a paved pedestrianised roadway and comprises of the Sea Lion
Theatre, Penguin Cove, Twilight Cave, Creepy Crawlies, SeaQuarium, Lorikeet Landing, Reptile
House and the Hippo Lakes.
The natural contours of the land means that some areas have differing gradients. These have been
minimised wherever possible.
African Village and Lemur Woods housing Meerkats, Lemurs and Goats are also accessible by hard
surface pedestrian walkways with wheelchair access.
The Amusement Area has a variety of family rides and games. Guests can either purchase a multi-
ride wristband or ride tokens.
“Our aim is to provide a safe, entertaining and memorable day out for all our guests.”
Page 3Booking and Prices Full details of our opening hours are available on our website as they vary depending on the season, as do our prices. For an up-to-date price list please visit our website at this address: https:// www.wmsp.co.uk/tickets/ and select the date you wish to arrive. Certain dates may offer an online discount if booked one day in advance. Concessionary prices are available to students (valid Student ID required) and over 65s. Disabled guests are required to purchase the standard adult or child ticket; with that ticket they can include a free carer upon presenting one of the following documents: a DLA letter, PIP letter or Blue Badge. This entitles the carer to the same ticket as the guest: if the guest has bought a ticket for Admission and Rides, the carer will be able to use the Rides for free also. If the guest requires more than one carer, they can simply be added to the booking but we will ask them to bring a headed letter with the number of required carers. Guests can book as normal by selecting the Adult or Child Ticket on our Buy Tickets webpage. The booking will indicate the ticket comes with zero carers; guests can use the drop down button to indicate how many carers will be with them. Visually impaired guests are admitted free of charge together with a seeing guide to accompany them. Evidence of disability may be requested. Guide dogs are permitted to enter the pedestrianised areas of the Park, however, they are not allowed to enter the Safari drive-through or any of the animal enclosure due to health and safety regulations. We do have kennels on site, which do not need to be pre-booked. Guests only need to enter the park, stop by Reception (the building on the right) park in the five-minute waiting bay and speak to a member of staff. The person on Reception will ask for a returnable safety deposit and, in exchange, will give the guest a lock and key for the kennel. Group prices are also obtainable to any coaches or minibuses. Group prices are available for groups of 10 or more, all arriving in the same vehicle. If carers are required, we will need a headed letter indicating the number of carers needed per guest and they will be able to visit the park for free. For group prices, please call Reception on 01299 400700 and to see more details, please visit our website at this address: https://www.wmsp.co.uk/social-groups/. Page 4
Getting to the Park By Car You can plan your journey by visiting sites such as https://maps.google.co.uk or http:// www.theaa.com/route-planner/index.jsp. Simply enter your postcode and ours - DY12 1LF. Signage towards the park is frequent and is clear on all major roads leading towards the park. The Entrance to the Park is recognised by its two distinctive large rock entrance signs. By Bus The bus service that runs past the Safari Park is as follows: 125 - Stourbridge to Bridgnorth via Kidderminster and Bewdley 291 - Kidderminster to Tenbury Wells via Bewdley 302 - Worcester to Bewdley via Droitwich Spa and Kidderminster To plan your journey, please visit http://www.traveline.info or call our office on 01299402114. Please contact Central Buses on 0121 356 3487 to find out whether the specific bus you will take is accessible. By Train Kidderminster Train Station is the nearest to the Safari Park, but it still an 11 minute drive from the Park. For train times and prices, please visit http://www.nationalrail.co.uk or call 03457 48 49 50. Kidderminster Station is not staffed all the time; if you require assistance, it is recommended to book with a member of staff in advance via the London Midland Assisted Travel line on 0800 092 4260. All trains are equipped with ramps which all conductors are trained to use. No wheelchairs are available at Kidderminster train station. From the train station, it is an 11 minute drive to the Safari Park. Taxis are available at the train station and can be pre-booked. By Taxi Taxis do have disabled access, but this needs to be requested when booking. It costs approximately £10 from Kidderminster Train Station to the Safari Park. Taxi companies in the area include: Regency Taxis, in Kidderminster on 01562 66666 Holland Taxis, in Kidderminster on 01562 824777 Bewdley Taxis, in Bewdley on 01299 405050 Taxi companies are usually willing to drive round the drive-through Safari and would cost the price on the meter. Alternatively, the taxi driver will stop at the drop-off point, at the top of the drive, before the kiosks. Staff in Main Reception will happily assist any guests from the Drop-Off point to Main Reception. Page 5
On Foot
From the centre of Bewdley, it is a 40 minute walk to the Safari Park. Signposts are frequent and
clear from Bewdley. Walk down Kidderminster Road (B4190). Arriving at a roundabout, continue
along the Kidderminster Road (1st Exit). This journey can be quite steep in a wheelchair as guests
would need to go up and down a hill and cross a busy main road. From the main road, keep walking
down the hill until you see the entrance of the park, characterised by two lions on rocks with Safari
Park written across them.
Walk up the drive, along the right hand side of the road. Upon reaching the top of the hill, you will
see the kiosks and the Main Reception building. Make your way down the gradient, and into
Reception where a member of staff will be able to process your tickets for you. Road surface is
tarmac from the Entrance onwards and throughout the park.
Please note: we do not recommend guests walk up the drive as there is no pedestrianised
area.
Drop-Off point Entrance of the park
Page 6Arrival
Staff are positioned on the main drive to direct traffic and offer advice to guests on arrival.
By Car
Guests arriving in their own vehicle can pay at one of the 12 individual pay kiosks without having to
leave their car. These have glass windows that can be opened to aid lip reading. We also have a
hearing loop system installed which can be used in Reception.
By Coach or Minibus
Guests arriving by coach or minibus will be directed towards the yellow barrier on the left-hand side
of the drive. The driver will be directed towards the coach parking. From there the driver will need to
visit Main Reception to process the tickets.
The coach and minibus parking is located past Reception, following the road round to the right, past
the entrance to the Leisure Area. The bus will have to keep going ahead, past and then around the
toilet block on the right; the parking will then be on the left. From there, it only a short walk to Main
Reception, down a mild gradient.
On Foot
Once guests have walked in, they will have to visit Reception. The Reception Office is a single-story
building with full access for wheelchairs. The reception desk has an accessible counter for
wheelchair users. Seating is available in this area with staff on hand at all times to offer assistance to
guests.
Reception
Entrance Kiosks Coach Entrance
Coach Parking Reception Internal
Page 7Car Park and Toilets
Free on site parking for all vehicles with 41 dedicated disabled spaces located adjacent to the
entrance to the Lost City Plaza. It is a tarmac area on a decline towards the pedestrianised area.
Parking bays are clearly marked and spaces are on a first-come first served basis. The nearest
toilets are 100 to 200 metres up a slight incline and over the zebra crossing.
A valid Blue Badge must be displayed in this area although special arrangements can be made for
guests who do not have a Blue Badge but still need priority parking. Staff will need to be notified of
this on arrival if required.
The toilets in the car park are situated to the right when driving towards the Car Park. Alongside
them are two food stalls and a large picnic area with benches.
The disabled toilets, like the mens’ and womens’, is accessible via a small pathway down the side of
the building. The Disabled Toilets and Baby Changing Facilities are located around the back of the
building, the opposite side to the mens’ and womens’. A manual door will have to be opened where
assistance may be required.
There is sufficient turning space at the entrance of the facility. The floor is tiled and has a non-slip
mat. Once inside the toilet, there is a forward and angled transfer to the WC, and a horizontal rail on
the rear of the door. Additionally, there are rails (horizontal and vertical) by the sides of the toilet. The
basin and lever taps have been lowered for easier access. All our disabled toilets throughout the
park have the same features.
Accessible Parking
Access to Disabled Toilets Disabled Toilets
Page 8Pathways
Paths around the Leisure area are mainly smooth tarmac. Entering the Lost City Plaza, the path is
made of printed concrete, causing no problem to wheelchair users. This type of pathway is reused
in certain areas such as the Twilight Cave and in front of Dino Diner. There are green areas around
the park, next to the Hippo Lakes and around the picnic tables.
The Hippo Lakes can be seen from a viewing deck, accessible through a shop. This is a non slip
viewing deck, however, assistance up and down the deck may be needed. During difficult weather
conditions, the deck will be shut for health and safety reasons.
Around the play area, the paths are made of rubberised bark and artificial grass. Therefore the
ground is softer, but shouldn’t cause issues with wheelchair or mobility scooter users.
Walkways through the Lemur Woods may cause complications as it is made of compacted
crushed stone. Assistance may be required, particularly during bad weather.
Throughout the park, there will be gradients. The slope
leading towards the Theme Park Rides may cause issues,
particularly for mobility scooter users. Wheelchair users may
need assistance due to its steepness.
Zebra Crossings are raised to aid any visually impaired
guests and are located throughout the park in any areas
where guests need to be vigilant of vehicles.
Zebra Crossing
Printed
Concrete
Compacted
Crushed
Stone
Hippo
Viewing Deck
Natural
Gradients
Page 9Drive-through Safari and MiniBus Tour
Whilst guests are in the drive-through, there are no places to stop. Guests are not allowed to exit
their vehicles. The reserves are fully accessible in guests’ own vehicles via a tarmac road surface.
There are no maximum height restrictions on vehicles. Guests will be required to remove protruding
objects such as ladders and roof racks as they may injure the animals.
There are hills around the drive-through area and so guests need to be careful with their clutch and
hill-starts.
The reserves also have individual large print species information boards.
A guided Safari MiniBus tour is also available, however, these buses do not have wheelchair
access as of yet. Guests with mobility difficulties are advised they can use the Minibus Tour but they
would need to be able to access the Minibus themselves. If a guest needs assistance, at least one
member of staff will be present to help.
Entrance of Drive-Through Minibus
Page 10Catering
• Lost City Food Court
As you enter the pedestrianised area of the Park, you will have to walk through the Lost City Plaza,
where we have multiple food venues, including The Sweet Shop, Pizza and Chicken, and Pancake
and Waffle. The Sweet Shop is the only one of the three which is accessible through a door. The
other two are fully accessible due to there being no doors and floor surface being flat.
The Sweet Shop Pizza and Chicken
• Dino Diner
Opposite the Reptile House, guests will find our Dino Diner, one of our bigger restaurants. This diner
is table service, once the food has been ordered at the till. The soft drinks, however, are self-service.
Members of staff are always on hand if any assistance is needed.
The Diner is accessible through a set of double doors as well as an uphill gradient. Assistance may
be required to enter the building. Once inside, the gradient continues as you are met by a member
of staff who will place you at a table. Some tables and benches cannot be moved. We would
suggest for any guests in a wheelchair or a mobility scooter to use the chairs and tables to the
sides, where they can be moved, simply for ease of access. Dino Diner also has toilets, including a
disabled toilet.
Dino Diner Entrance Outside Dino Diner
Page 11Internal Entrance Dino Diner Dino Diner
Disabled Toilet in
Dino Diner
• Adventure Food Court
Much like the Lost City Food Court, the Adventure Food Court has a range of food venues,
accessible by wheelchair. This food court is located outside, in the Theme Park area, behind the
wristband office. The floor surface is smooth and has a cover to keep guests dry while they order
their food. Outdoor seating is located near by.
Adventure Food Court (Closed during Winter)
• Burger Co.
This venue has recently been refurbished and redecorated to look like an African shanty town and is
located in the Theme Park area, not too far from the Adventure Food Court. This sit-down restaurant
offers table service once food has been ordered.
Page 12Similar to Dino Diner, soft drinks need to be picked up once food has been ordered. Sta$ are able to
assist if they have been made aware. This food venue has smooth flooring and has ample turning
space.
Burger Co. has indoor and outdoor seating. To access the indoor seating, there is one large door.
Wheelchair users may require assistance in opening this door due to its weight. It is left open in
good weather.
Burger Co. Entrance Burger Co. Entrance Door
Burger Co. Internal
Page 13Souvenir Shops
• Lost City Plaza
This shop is the closest to the disabled parking bays. To enter, guests will have to pull open one of
the two large double doors. Once inside, there is a yellow barrier to help ease congestion. It is a
spacious shop with sufficient turning space. Help will be willingly given by staff to help reach goods
on higher shelves. There are no lowered counter tops at the tills.
Lost City Plaza Entrance Lost City Plaza Entrance
• African Queen Shop
African Queen is located within the Theme Park area and provides access to the Hippo Lake
Viewing Platform. Guests can access the shop via two large double doors, which are often left open
other than in extreme weather conditions. The shop is spacious and can be accessed fully by
wheelchair users. Staff are always on site to help with items out of reach. The tills and counter tops
are accessible for wheelchair use.
African Queen Entrance African Queen Internal
• African Village Shop
The African Village Shop is located at the entrance of the African Village, where guests can find
Meerkats, Lemurs and Goats. It is fully accessible and has sufficient turning space for wheelchair
users. Help will be willingly given to reach goods and handle heavier items.
Page 14African Village
African Village Tills
African Village Shop
Entrance
• Dino Shop
The Dino Shop is within the grounds of the Land of the Living Dinosaurs. It can be accessed through
two large double doors which are permanently left open during the shop’s normal opening hours.
This shop has ample space for wheelchair users. The floor in the shop is dry and level throughout.
Dino Shop Entrance Dino Shop Internal
Page 15Discovery Trail
Our Discovery Trail is located inside our Leisure Area, once guests have walked through the Lost
City Plaza. It includes all the animals within the vicinity as follows:
• Penguins
The penguins can be seen to the left after walking underneath the Discovery Trail archway. From
there, guests are able to see the penguins on the rocks and in the water. The ground level is flat,
although the surface changes from tarmac to printed concrete. To view the penguins, guests stand
in an open space with no restrictions which is wheelchair friendly.
Around the corner, still to the left, is another viewing area which shows a different angle of the
Penguin Cove. This is usually where the penguins are fed. This viewing area is down a slight slope.
The pathway is made of concrete and isn’t very steep.
Penguin Viewing Area 1 Penguin Viewing Area 2
• Sea Lions
The Sea Lions can only be seen during the Sea Lion Show. Please see Sea Lion Show for more
details.
• Lorikeet Landing
To access Lorikeet Landing, guests will need to follow the path to the left. Going down a slight
decline which may not cause any problems to wheelchair users. Additionally, to access the building,
guests need to pull a heavy door open and push through some heat retention flaps.
Guests will then have to walk through another two sets of heat retention flaps to see the lorikeets.
The floor in this building is concrete and may be wet and slightly uneven in places. To exit Lorikeet
Landing, visitors need pass through the two heat retention flaps and then use the main door once
again. We recommend assistance when visiting this building.
Page 16Lorikeet Landing Entrance Heat Retention Flaps
Lorikeet Landing Surface
• The Reptile House
To enter the Reptile House, guests need to descend a slope and push through a set of heat retention
flaps. Once inside, the ground is level and dry and provides ample space for wheelchair users. All
the reptiles can be viewed from a low height to provide easy viewing for wheelchair users as well as
young children. Information panels and interactive screens are also at a lowered height. When
exiting the building, one more set of flaps will need to be
pushed through. Once outside, guests will have to go past
the toilet block on the left and up another slope. Assistance
may be required as it is a little steep.
Reptile House Entrance
Reptile House Surface Reptile House Exit
Page 17• The Twilight Cave
The Bat Cave can be seen from the outside first. When entering the Discovery Trail, opposite the
penguins, to the right, guests will see a short path in and out of the building, entitled The Preview
Area. There is a slight incline on tarmac to access it. Once there, visitors can see fish and above the
water is the bat cave. Night vision cameras are placed in the Bat cave to allow visitors to see it
without entering.
Preview Area Entrance Preview Area
To visit the inside of the bat cave, visitors need to go up the steep slope to the right, past the
Research Centre. The Twilight Cave will be on the right and is accessed through three sets of heat
retention flaps. We do recommend assistance in this area, for both the heat retention flaps and the
inside of the room.
Inside the Twilight Cave, bats will be flying around in the same room as our visitors. The room is kept
warm and very dark. Visitors will follow the path down a slight gradient and walk along a timber
bridge. From the bridge, guests can see the outside viewing area, and will then begin a slight
upwards slope towards the back of the room. Another three heat retention flaps are there when
exiting.
The Twilight Cave Entrance The Twilight Cave Exit
• Creepy Crawlies
To enter the Creepy Crawlies section, guests need to go up an incline. Assistance may be required.
At the top is a set of heat retention flaps. In the Creepy Crawlies section, the ground is level to begin
with. The glass enclosures are at a low height to give children and wheelchair users a good view of
the Creepy Crawlies.
Page 18Creepy Crawlies Entrance Creepy Crawlies Surface
• SeaQuarium
Guests are able to walk straight through to the SeaQuarium. In this section, the ground is a little
bumpier, but still accessible to wheelchairs. The glass enclosures are also at a low height. Interactive
screens can also be found in this section. A heat retention flap is located at the exit of the room.
Outside, guests are led onto a non-slip viewing deck where they can observe koi fish in the pond
below. They will then have to descend the deck via a slope. This may be closed in extreme weather
conditions when the deck may become slippery.
SeaQuarium Surface & Heat
Retention Flaps SeaQuarium Exit & Viewing Deck
Page 19African Village
The African Village is located at the back of the park, past the Theme Park Rides, close to Boj:
Giggly Park. The entrance is recognised by the large archway titled ‘African Village’ as well as the
many mud huts.
African Village Entrance
• Meerkat Mayhem
The meerkat enclosures are located to the left when guests enter the African Village. The path here
is compacted crushed stone and is easily accessible to all. This area may get a little muddy in bad
weather conditions, but should not cause any issues for guests using wheelchairs or mobility
scooters. The glass enclosures start at approximately 60cm from the ground so young children are
able to see them.
Meerkat Enclosure
• Lemur Woods
The Lemur Woods can be seen after the meerkats, to the
right and can be recognised by the house, the large sign and
the gate. To access the Lemurs, visitors need to open two
large metal gates. We recommend assistance in this area due
to opening the gates, but also because the path can be
muddy. Guests can use a short and a long path. The shorter
path is steep and can be quite bumpy because of the natural
environment. To exit the Lemurs, guests will have to go
through another two metal gates.
Lemur Woods
Entrance
Page 20Lemur Woods Exit Gates
• Goat Park
Just behind the Meerkats guests are able to see a few of our goats behind a wooden fence. These
can be seen using the same crushed stone track as the other animals in the African Village.
The rest of the goats can be visited once guests exit the Lemur Woods. For visitors who did not see
the lemurs, there is a uphill path at the end of the meerkat enclosure.
The goats can be visited by entering two wooden gates which have a little lever to lift. Once inside
the area, the path is still the same, which can get muddy when it rains a lot. This section is downhill
and like the first few goats, they are behind a wooden fence. These fences have been made with
gaps so our younger visitors are able to see them.
Goat Walk Entrance Goat Walk Surface
• Hippo Lakes
The Hippo Lakes can be viewed from the ground level but
guests would have to look through a fence. For a better
view, visitors can use our viewing deck, accessible through
the African Queen Shop via a ramp. The deck itself is made
of non-slip timber.
This viewing deck may be closed in bad weather.
Hippo Viewing Deck
Page 21Daily Shows
The times and frequency of the shows do vary depending on the season. Guests are encouraged to
check the times either on the website or on the back of the map to avoid any disappointment. Some
shows are not presented during the Winter season.
• Penguin Feed
The Penguin Feed takes place in the Penguin Cove. The viewing area for the Penguin Feed is on a
flat and accessible surface. For more information, please see Penguin Cove under the Discovery
Trail section.
• Meerkat Feed
The Meerkat Talk and Feed takes place around the Meerkat Enclosure. The viewing area is made of
crushed compacted stone and can be a little muddy in bad weather. For more information, please
see Meerkat Mayhem under the African Village section.
• Friendly Animal Encounter
This talk can be varied depending on the day of the visit. The animals can change however the
location stays the same: as guests head towards the Bat Cave and Creepy Crawlies sections, there
is a statue of an elephant next to a small deck made of timber. This is where the Animal Encounters
take place. The area is not sheltered and is at the top of an incline; however, it is fully accessible as
it is situated outside.
Animal Encounter Area
• Discover Dinosaurs
The Discover Dinosaurs talk takes place in the Land of the
Living Dinosaurs, between the Sand Pit and the T-Rex.
Guests are expected to stand in the area, made of
compacted crushed stone. Depending on the weather,
assistance may be required.
Discover Dinosaurs Talk
Location
Page 22• Hippo Feed
The Hippo Feed is located on the Hippo Viewing Deck, accessible through the African Queen Shop.
During bad weather, the viewing deck will be shut and the show will be cancelled, as the deck can
become very slippery. Our Health and Safety Manager or First Aid Team assess the deck before the
park is opened every morning. In good weather, guests are still encouraged to be careful,
particularly visitors using prams, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Hippo Viewing Platform
• Sea Lion Show
The Sea Lion Theatre is located next to the Penguin Cove. It can be recognised with the big wooden
gates and the sign above it. Guests are expected to queue outside the Theatre 15 minutes prior to
the start of the show. The gates open 5 minutes before the beginning and the gates are shut as soon
as the last person has entered so the show can begin on time. Whilst in the queue, there are
benches available along the side of the wall.
Once inside the gates, guests are able to sit where they
want. The Star of the Sea Lion Show is the only group that
has allocated seating for the show. For more information on
the Star of the Sea Lion Show, please see our VIP
Experiences section.
There are allocated wheelchair and mobility scooters spaces
down the side of the theatre seating. The ground is level; the
spaces are fully accessible and offer sufficient turning
space.
Sea Lion Theatre Gates
Descent to Seating Area Seating Area
Page 23• Discover Reptiles Talk
The Reptiles Talk is situated in front of the Reptile House. There is seating available to guests and
along the side and the back of the seating area is space for guests using wheelchairs, mobility
scooters and prams. The ground surface is printed concrete and is on a slight decline, towards the
stage area.
Discover Reptiles Talk Area Side of Seating Area
• Lemur Talk
The Lemur Talks take place at the entrance of the Lemur Enclosure. As stated in the Discovery Trail
section, this area can be quite difficult to access using wheelchairs and mobility scooters due to the
gates at the entrance and exit, as well as the ground surface. The surface is compacted crushed
stone. Therefore, it can be bumpy and muddy if the weather is bad. We do recommend assistance in
this section.
The talk may start at the entrance so guests can gather round, but the speaker may decide it is best
to move if the lemurs are located somewhere else in the woods. Members of staff are always on
hand to offer assistance when requested. The speaker will not start the Lemur Talk until all guests
have re-grouped next to the lemurs. Assistance may be needed when using this path.
Lemur Talk Location
Page 24Adventure Theme Park Rides
African Big Apple Coaster
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Or Guests would need to
1m if accompanied climb 6 steps to access
the ride
Black Fly
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.4m Guests would need to
climb 6 steps to access
the ride
Congo Carousel
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Access is flat. Guests
Or
would need to hold
0.8m if accompanied
themselves up and grab
onto handles.
Desert Convoy
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 0.8m
Guests can use exit ramp
instead of steps.
Dr Umboto’s Catacombs
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 0.8m Warning: May frighten.
Guests can use exit to
avoid step at entrance.
Page 25Flying Lion Kings
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 0.8m Access is flat. Guests
would need to hold onto
handrails.
Hurtling Hippos
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Minimum 1.2m Wheelchair Transfer
Or
1m if accompanied Access is flat.
Jungle Cat Dodgems
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m Caution: Intense Ride!
Or Access is flat. Guests would
1m if accompanied need to hold themselves up
and grab onto handles.
Jumbo Parade
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Minimum 1.2m Wheelchair Transfer
Or
1m if accompanied Access is flat.
Jungle Swings
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Guest are required to
Minimum 1.2m
climb steps, hold
themselves up and grab
onto handles.
Page 26Kong
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Accessed via ramps & 1
step onto the ride.
Pirate Ship
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Wheelchair Transfer
Minimum 1.2m Access is flat with 1 step
Or onto ride. Guests would
1m if accompanied need to hold themselves
up and grab onto
handles.
Rescue Fire Rangers
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Wheelchair Transfer
Minimum 0.8m
Access is flat.
Rhino Rollercoaster
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Or Accessed via ramp.
1m if accompanied Guests would need to
grab onto handrails.
Serengeti Gallopers
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Guests would need climb
Minimum 0.8m
steps, to hold themselves
up and grab onto
handles.
Page 27Shark Island
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Access is flat. Guests
Or
would need to hold
1m if accompanied
themselves up and grab
onto handles.
Slippery Snake Slide
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Or Access is flat, however
0.8m if accompanied there are many steps to
reach the top of the ride.
Twister Coaster
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.4m
5 steps up to ride platform.
Or Guests would need to hold
1.2m if accompanied themselves up and grab
onto handles.
Venom Tower Drop
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Wheelchair Transfer
Minimum 1.4m Access is flat. Guests
would need to grab onto
handles.
Wild River Rafting
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Wheelchair Transfer
Minimum 1.2m
Or Guests would need to
1m if accompanied hold themselves up and
grab onto handles.
Page 28Zambezi Water Splash
Height Restrictions Accessibility In Gate Out Gate
Ambulatory
Minimum 1.2m
Or
Guests are required to
1m if accompanied
climb steps
‘Members of the British Association of Leisure Parks, Piers and Attractions (BALPPA) welcome visits
by disabled people and will do all that is possible to ensure a safe and pleasurable stay. However,
certain rides and attractions in our Parks can be physically demanding and vigorous. We therefore
reserve the right to refuse admission to certain rides should we feel there is a danger to a particular
individual or individuals for whatever reason.
West Midlands Safari Park has been advised by the Health and Safety Executive, that refusal on the
grounds of health and safety does not constitute discrimination. Decisions are purely made in the
interest of safety.’
BALPPA Statement on Public Safety for Disabled People
The amusement rides are generally quieter between 11am and 2pm and therefore, we suggest
anyone wanting to use the rides at a quieter time do so before visiting the Reserves. Guests who
have difficulties standing in queues may use ride exits.
Carers are only allowed preferential access when accompanying a guest with a disability.
On very rare occasions, rides will need to be evacuated. This can sometimes mean that guests will
have to negotiate steps and walkways. In some cases the carer will have to aid the staff in the
evacuation of disabled guests.
Height Restrictions will always apply. In some circumstances it is possible for the management to
measure a guest once to save time and still comply with the various height restrictions set at each
ride. Please consult a Supervisor at point of sale. All guests using our rides should have the ability to
sit upright, hold on and brace themselves.
Some rides are unsuitable for those with heart, neck or back conditions and expectant mothers. We
advise guests to view the rides and make a sensible decision whether or not it is safe to use them.
Height restrictions are there in the interests of safety. Each ride has its own operating requirements
that all guests using them must meet. The attendants’ role should not be compromised.
In some cases it may be that a guest requires two carers. Whilst only one free wristband is generally
offered, each individual case will be addressed to ensure safety guidelines are met. The carer will be
responsible for communicating all safety information and are required to sit in the same gondola,
boat, carriage seat or row as the disabled guest.
Page 29Games
Our Games department includes multiple sections throughout the Park: the SEGA Prize zone is the
main arcade area but many other game units are located throughout the Park.
Most of our Games Units are accessible, however some are more demanding than others.
Games that may cause problems are listed below:
• Kiddy Rides: children using these rides have to the ability to hold themselves up. Adult
supervisors and help may be required.
• Video Machine Games: guests using these units need to be able to transfer to the unit’s seating.
• Lion Derby: This game involves guests being seated. One seat at the end of the row of seats has
been removed for any guests using wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Further arrangements can
be made by asking the member of staff operating this unit.
Many of our Games Units are lowered for ease of access for our younger players and our guests
using wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Sometimes, there are steps to reach the units.
Examples of Arcade Units
Page 30Boj: Giggly Park
‘Boj’s Giggly Park’ is a multi-sensory play area, all themed around CBeebies and S4C favourite,
‘Boj’. It is located at the back of the Leisure Area, opposite the African Village. The Boj Area is
accessible to guests in wheelchairs and mobility scooters. It can be accessed under a colourful
archway with the sign ‘Boj: Giggly Park’.
The ground surface is made of rubberised bark and artificial grass and is mostly level. The only area
not accessible is the underground mound.
Boj can be split into multiple areas:
• Boj’s Burrow: this area includes a burrow where children
can explore winding tunnels, as well as the top of the
mound. Assistance will be required for children with
walking difficulties.
• Denzil’s Music Mayhem: this area includes many musical
instruments which are fully accessible by wheelchairs.
Boj Entrance
• Mia’s Ladybird Spot: this sensory trail may cause
difficulties due to the dens children can hide in. The area
also has objects and bridges to climb across. The
interactive puzzles can be used by wheelchair users.
• Rupa’s Superfit Challenge: In this area, guests may
require assistance due to it’s sporty nature. It includes a
running track, a trampoline and a winner’s podium.
• Gavin’s Giggly Playground: our disabled guest may
require assistance in this area too, simply due to the
swings, slides, seesaws and springy bikes. Boj Ground Surface
• Boj: Giggly Park also includes a picnic area and a food
outlet which both have ample turning space for
wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
Picnic Area in Boj
Page 31Land of the Living Dinosaurs
The Land of the Living Dinosaurs is located between Lorikeet Landing and the Reptile House. To
access it, guests need to walk across a decked area and then onto another compacted crushed
stone pathway. This surface is located throughout the area and may become muddy in bad weather.
Throughout the Land of the Living Dinosaurs, there are gradients. These gradients can be difficult for
wheelchair and mobility scooter users, particularly when the ground is soft. The ground may also be
affected by sticks and leaves that fall from the trees around the area. These may cause minor
obstructions to wheelchair users.
Benches are located in this area, offering guests a chance to rest and enjoy the view before moving
to the next.
In Land of the Living Dinosaurs is located the Dino Shop (described in more detail in the Retail
section). The ground surface around the shop is printed concrete. Opposite the shop is our
archaeological section when guests can climb into a sandpit and discover fossils. Guests may
require assistance.
To exit the Land of the Living Dinosaurs, guest will need to follow the path past the T-Rex, still using
the same crushed stone surface. Upon exiting guests will walk through a large dinosaur skeleton.
This area is wide and will not cause any issues for wheelchairs and mobility scooter users; the
surface in this area is printed concrete.
Dinosaurs Entrance Decking Dinosaurs Surface & Benches
Dinosaurs Sandpit Dinosaurs Exit
Page 32Safari Academy
Safari Academy is an outstanding, sustainably-built facility, designed specifically for visiting schools
& groups. This modern state-of-the-art building; featuring five classrooms; will provide interactive
education for groups of all ages, from pre-schools and nurseries to university groups and adult
learners.
It is located past the First Aid Hut and down the slope. At the bottom of the slope, there are a set of
wooden gates and an archway with ‘Safari Academy’ written across the top. Guest will have to walk
on a compacted crushed stone pathway. There are natural gradients but they are not steep.
Once guests arrive at the buildings, they will have to use the ramp to access the decking
surrounding the buildings. The decking is all on one level. Guests can enter the classrooms using a
flat non-slip surface.
The chairs and tables can be moved to suit the group attending the Academy.
Safari Academy also has it’s own toilets and disabled toilet and baby changing facilities.
For further information regarding our Safari Academy please see the website (http://
www.safariacademy.co.uk) or call the Academy on 01299 404888.
Safari Academy Entrance Ramp to Decked Area
Classroom Example Access to Classroom
Disabled
Toilet
Page 33Venues & Events
West Midlands Safari Park has three venues which all hold their own events, but also can be rented
to our guests.
• Spring Grove House
Spring Grove House is a beautiful Georgian Manor set in the heart of the Safari Park and boasts a
private parking area, a Reception and Bar area, landscaped gardens, a large patio area and a wide
variety of rooms to suit all event types.
Disabled Parking for Spring Grove House is located out side the front of the building, usually either
side of the main entrance, although other arrangements can be made if requested. The parking
surface is gravel. The main entrance to the building does have steps and therefore we suggest any
guests using wheelchairs and mobility scooters use the side entrance, to the left side of the front
door. The side entrance is on a flat surface. Guests will have to use the push/pull double doors.
Once inside, they will be facing the elevator which can be used on all levels.
Ground surface throughout the building is tiled or carpeted.
All rooms can be accessed by wheelchair or mobility scooter, however, assistance may be required
when opening doors due to their weight.
There are disabled toilets on every floor of the building, which have all the same features, including
forward and angled transfer to the WC, a horizontal rail on the rear of the door rails to the side of the
toilet. The basin and lever taps are low.
Fire exits for the building are located in the back room, often used for wedding receptions. Only one
door, to the right, leads to a ramp, all others have steps for guests to access the back patio and
lawn.
Main Entrance Side Entrance
Width of Doors
& Carpet
Page 34& Cellarz
On the lowest floor of Spring Grove House is another Venue entitled Cellarz. To enter this venue,
guests need to park in the same spaces as for Spring Grove House and enter using the main and
side entrances. However, visitors would then need to head downstairs, using the lift or stairs to the
left of the building, and enter through the large double doors.
The area is spacious and the surface is smooth and level bricks.
Toilets are located opposite the elevator and include disabled and baby changing facilities.
Cellarz
Disabled Toilets
& Treetops Pavilion
Treetops is a very large Pavilion able to seat 500 guests. Visitors can park in the normal Safari car
park and can use the 41 Disabled parking spaces, as long as they can display their Blue Badge.
To access the pavilion, guests need to walk through the Lost City Plaza, past the shops and food
outlets. Treetops is located to the left just before entering the Discovery Trail, guests can enter by
using the wooden gates and walk down the compacted crushed stone path. They will be able to see
the entrance to the pavilion and to their right, a block of toilets including a disabled access toilet.
Two sets of large, heavy double doors need to be pulled. Once inside, the ground surface is
carpeted, however, this can vary depending on the event. Underneath the carpeted floor is printed
concrete which may cause the floor to be bumpy in areas. From the inside of the pavilion, guests
can use the back patio via the right hand side doors.
Gates to Treetops Entrance to Treetops
Page 35Disabled Toilets Treetops
Second set of doors to enter
Treetops
For more information regarding our Venues and Events, please visit the website (https://
safarivenues.co.uk/home) or call 01299 406460 to speak to a team member.
Page 36Special Events
This section regards any general events taking places at the Safari Park including but not limited to
our Easter Eggstravaganza, Spooky Spectacular and Santa Safari.
These events may a$ect the decor and atmosphere of guest visits to the park.
With these event, guests have the possibility to explore more areas and interact with special guests
like the Wicked Witch or Santa Claus.
Please note, however, that additional fees may apply. For prices and availability, please check out
website.
During Special Events, extra rooms may be opened. All rooms or buildings for Special Events are
accessible to wheelchair and mobility scooter users, but not necessarily for prams and pushchairs.
For details regarding a specific event we have on at the Safari Park, please contact our Main
Reception o%ce on 01299 402114 or email info@wmsp.co.uk.
Santa’s Elves Easter Bunny
Page 37VIP Experiences
Our VIP Experiences office is located at the entrance of the Leisure Park, to the left of the Lost City
Plaza. The office is accessible to wheelchairs; however, once inside, the desk is quite high. The
member of staff available will happily accommodate for all guests entering the office and requiring
assistance. Help may be required to open the heavy doors.
The VIP Experiences themselves often do not not cause any problems. Guests will enter our VIP
Jeeps for a quick drive to the location of the experience. In some cases, guests take their own
vehicle and follow the Jeep. Visitors are required to be able to enter and exit the Jeep if they do
decide to use it.
The Keeper of the Day Experience are more difficult to access due to there being no wheelchair
access to the animal buildings.
All experiences vary in location and access so we do suggest guests contact us to discuss this in
advance. One of the experiences which may be more difficult to execute is the Lion Cage Feed, as
guests are put in a cage and lions will jump up to eat the food. Our team are aware that, in case of a
medical emergency, it will take more time to evacuate the area and help the guest. Our staff in Jeeps
will need to clear the lions away from the area before driving to a safe place. This is only an extreme
case however and if any pre-emptive measures can be taken, they will.
Any questions, options and possible amendments can be discussed with our Experiences team by
phone 01299 406461 or by email experiences@wmsp.co.uk.
VIP Jeep
VIP Experiences Office
Lion Cage Feed Lemur Feed
Page 38For any further information, please contact our main office via phone on 01299 402114, via
email at info@wmsp.co.uk or by post:
West Midlands Safari Park
Spring Grove
Bewdley
DY12 1LF
West Midlands
We hope to see you soon!
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