Hamerton Zoo Park

Hamerton Zoo Park is a family-friendly wildlife attraction offering a unique and engaging experience, particularly for younger visitors. Home to over 100 animal species, the park features a wide variety of fascinating wildlife including big cats, meerkats and one of the largest collections of Australian animals in the UK. Visitors can encounter rare species such as dingoes, alongside cheetahs from one of the UK’s largest specialised breeding programmes.

The zoo provides a relaxed and interactive environment, with opportunities to attend keeper talks and enjoy closer animal encounters throughout the day. Families can also make the most of the adventure playground, giving children space to climb, run and explore in a fun and safe setting.

Hamerton Zoo Park offers a generally mobility friendly layout, with level access from the car park to the main entrance and mostly concrete pathways across the site. Some areas include gravel surfaces, which may be slightly more challenging for wheelchair users, but the majority of enclosures are viewable from a seated position. There is a drop-off point near the entrance and a limited number of disabled parking spaces available close by.

Facilities include an accessible toilet located in the main toilet block, featuring handrails, a lever tap wash basin and disposal facilities. There is a slight ramp into the café, and picnic areas throughout the park are level and easy to access.

Please note that the Tiger Express train is currently not accessible, although improvements are planned with a future replacement train.

Visitors who require a carer to attend with them can receive a free Essential Companion ticket when visiting Hamerton Zoo Park. The attraction now operates this through the Nimbus Disability Access Card scheme, meaning guests must apply in advance for a free Hamerton Zoo Park Digital Access Pass (DAP) or hold a valid Access Card with the +1 symbol.

This system removes the need to bring sensitive documents on the day, as evidence is submitted securely during the application process. Once approved, the pass is valid for 3 years. Visitors should apply through Nimbus Disability at least 7 working days before their visit. If you already have a valid Access Card or Digital Access Pass, simply present it on arrival to receive your Essential Companion ticket.

With its mix of rare animals, open layout and family-focused attractions, Hamerton Zoo Park offers an enjoyable and accessible day out for visitors looking to explore wildlife in a relaxed and inclusive environment.