Hertfordshire Zoo

Hertfordshire Zoo offers a fun and engaging wildlife experience, bringing visitors closer to a wide range of animals in a well-designed and accessible environment. With a variety of species to discover, including big cats, reptiles, primates, and more, the zoo provides an exciting day out for families and animal lovers.

Visitors can enjoy interactive animal experiences such as big cat feeds, meerkat encounters, and lemur feeding sessions, many of which are suitable for guests with additional needs. The zoo also features accessible viewing areas with glass panels, ensuring that visitors of all heights and mobility levels can enjoy clear views of the animals.

Families will find plenty to keep children entertained, including the Learn & Play area, which includes equipment adapted for wheelchair users. Indoor facilities such as Tumble Jungle and Restaurant Pangea offer spaces to relax, dine, and make use of family-friendly amenities.

Accessibility is a strong focus at Hertfordshire Zoo, with level pathways throughout most of the site making it suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. Ramped access is available at key exhibits including the Reptile House, Rainforest Exhibition, and Land of the Tigers, ensuring more areas are accessible to all visitors.

The zoo offers a range of mobility support options, including wheelchair hire and mobility scooter hire, both available to pre-book. Due to high demand, advance booking is recommended. Additional items such as single and double strollers are also available to hire.

Accessible toilet facilities are located across the site, including a specialist access toilet with a hoist and changing bed located near the main car park. Baby changing facilities and private feeding rooms are also available, making the zoo suitable for families with young children.

Hertfordshire Zoo provides free carer tickets for visitors who require assistance, with clear eligibility criteria and accepted documentation such as PIP, DLA, Access Cards with a +1 symbol, or medical confirmation of support needs.

The zoo also supports visitors with sensory needs through trained staff and the availability of sensory bags, which include items such as noise-cancelling headphones and fidget tools. Areas across the zoo are signposted to indicate changes in noise levels, lighting, and other sensory factors, helping visitors plan their route more comfortably.

Quiet spaces, including a prayer room near Boulders Beach, are available for visitors who need a calm environment during their visit.

Visitors should note that, due to biosecurity measures and animal welfare considerations, assistance dogs and all other animals are not permitted on-site. However, staff are trained in sighted guide techniques and can provide support for visually impaired visitors where needed.

With its combination of accessible pathways, inclusive facilities, sensory support, and engaging animal experiences, Hertfordshire Zoo is a strong option for families looking for a mobility friendly and inclusive day out in Hertfordshire.