Access Statement

Wicksteed Park welcomes visits from guests with disabilities and we will do everything we can to ensure everyone has a safe and pleasurable visit and can participate in as many activities as possible. All guests require a wristband or ticket to use the rides and attractions at Wicksteed Park and this includes those guests in a wheelchair or using a mobility scooter.

Please note that while we do try our best to be as accessible as possible, due to the nature of the park, its undulating green space, and rides for younger children, the park may not be accessible for everyone.

This access statement does not contain personal opinions as to our suitability for those with access needs but aims to accurately describe the facilities and services that we offer all our guests/visitors.

At Wicksteed Park, we collaborate with Nimbus Disability to continually enhance the accessibility of our park, attractions, and facilities for all visitors.

As a BALPPA member, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and safe experience for everyone, including visitors with disabilities. However, please note that some rides and attractions are physically demanding. For your safety, we may need to restrict access to certain rides if we believe there is a potential risk. The Health & Safety Executive advises that such decisions, made in the interest of health and safety, are not discriminatory.

We ask for your understanding and cooperation in respecting these decisions. Safety is our top priority, and we must adhere to strict operating requirements on all rides. Please do not request staff to make exceptions, as these rules are in place to protect you and others.

Before your visit, please familiarise yourself with our ticket options and other essential information below.

Wicksteed Park is proud to partner with Nimbus Disability, operators of the Access Card scheme, to manage all requests for ‘Essential Companion’ tickets (formerly ‘Carer’ tickets). Nimbus Disability will assess your needs through their secure application process to determine if you qualify for a complimentary Essential Companion Ticket. Wicksteed Park will not have access to your personal details.

If you don’t have an Access Card, you can apply for a free Wicksteed Access Registration here. This will enable you to have the correct documentation to visit Wicksteed Park. You can also upgrade to an Access Card for £15, which is valid for 3 years and can be used at thousands of attractions across the UK.

Please apply online through Nimbus Disability at least 7 days before your visit.

Guests with an Access Card or Wicksteed Park Registration showing the +1 Essential Companion symbol are entitled to one complimentary ticket. This service is for those who genuinely need assistance to enjoy Wicksteed Park’s attractions. Nimbus Disability is a trusted provider of disability-related advice and support in the UK.

Please present your Access Card or Wicksteed Access Registration ID +1 / Essential Companion allocations when you collect your tickets from reception which is in the main precinct under the clock tower.

We provide a limited number of parking spaces for Blue Badge holders, available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Blue Badge holder must be in the vehicle, and the badge must be displayed.

Disabled parking is available in our Oaktree and Parkview car parks, and parking fees apply per car.

We currently do not offer wheelchair hire. While we’ve made efforts to ensure our grounds and pathways are accessible, our rural location means some areas have uneven paths and rough terrain, including the car park. Please take care when navigating around the site, as some wheelchair users may find certain areas challenging.

Several accessible toilets are located around the park:

  • Heritage Zone – opposite reception
  • Thrill Zone
  • Splash Zone
  • Reception
  • As a paying guest, there are also accessible toilets inside Wicky’s Play Factory.

 

All assistance dogs are welcome at Wicksteed Park. However, due to our unique environment, the following requirements apply:

Owners must always be in control of their animal.

The animal must remain on a lead whilst inside the park.

The animal cannot be left unattended at any time.

Animals are not permitted to enter a ride carriage (Excluding the Railway).

Whilst we do not have a designated area for animals to expel waste, we require all animal owners to dispose of any waste immediately.

Please refer to the park’s Dog Policy for general park rules when bringing other dogs onto site.

For most rides, mobility scooters and wheelchairs should be left outside the building or ride access area. If you need to bring a scooter or wheelchair to the boarding point, please speak with a staff member.

Not all rides are suitable for everyone, so it’s important to plan based on your abilities. We recommend discussing your access needs with our team and checking ride suitability before your visit.

Before enjoying any ride, please read the safety instructions at the entrance, on the Ride Restriction boards, or in the Accessibility Guide.

We look forward to welcoming you.

If you have any queries or require any assistance please phone 01536 512475 or email hello@wicksteedpark.org