FAQ - Blackpool Zoo

Before Requesting Tickets

Who is eligible to request tickets?
Tickets are available to families living in the North of England or the Midlands. At least one member of your group must have an autism diagnosis or be on the autism pathway.

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Does the person with the autism diagnosis need to attend?
Yes, the person whose diagnosis you provide must attend the event with your group.

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What documents do I need to request tickets?
You must upload one of the following:

• Autism diagnosis letter (NHS or private)

• Referral letter confirming the recipient is on the autism pathway

• Appointment letter confirming autism diagnosis

• Doctor’s letter confirming autism diagnosis

• EHCP stating autism diagnosis

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What documents are not accepted as proof?
We cannot accept:

• DWP letters

• NHS app screenshots

• Blue Badges

• Cinema/Access cards

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Are tickets first-come, first-serve?
Yes, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and upload the correct proof.

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Can I request tickets using multiple children’s evidence?
No. We ask you to request tickets for immediate family members (parents/carers and siblings) using evidence for one individual only. This helps us support more families.

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Can siblings attend the event?
Yes, you can request tickets for siblings, but only for your immediate family.

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Do I need a ticket for my baby under 1 year old?
Yes, all attendees require a ticket, regardless of age.

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Do carers need a ticket?
Yes, everyone attending the event needs a ticket.

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Information Regarding Our Event

We have never been to your event before do we all stay together?

No, we exclusively hire the whole venue for our community to enjoy, you will be able to enjoy the day as you would if you were to visit on a standard day.

 

​Will all areas be operating as normal?

Yes, at the moment all areas of Blackpool Zoo should be operating as normal, if this changes we will try our best to let you know in advance of the changes. 

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What time does the event start?

You will be able to enter Blackpool Zoo from 9.30am and will finish at 3.45pm.

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Do we have to arrive at 9.30am?

No! Our event will be running from 9.30am, you can arrive at whatever time suits you, just remember to have your tickets and that the event will finish at 3.45pm!

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Can I bring my dog?

Unfortunately, Blackpool Zoo do not allow assistance dogs on site due to animal health restrictions. 

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Does Blackpool Zoo hire out wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs?

Wheelchairs are provided for free. If you require one, you should pre-book by emailing info@blackpoolzoo.org.uk with your name, date of visit and approximate time of arrival, or by calling 01253 830801. Please note: you will be asked for a £20.00 refundable deposit when borrowing a wheelchair and the maximum weight for these wheelchairs is 115kg (18 stone) and the seat width is approximately 45cm.

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Pushchairs can be hired from the Visitor Services Hub at a cost of £5.00 for the day with a £20.00 refundable deposit. They don't provide mobility scooters themselves, but you can arrange to hire one from a local company. Please call 01253 405457 for more details.

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Where can I find a map of Blackpool Zoo?

Please click here to view a sensory map.

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Do we have to pay for parking?

No, you will not be required to pay for parking on the day of our event.

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Can Blackpool Members attend the event?

We have agreed with Blackpool Zoo for Blackpool Zoo members to have access from 2pm.

Blackpool Zoo anticipates a handful of members arriving from 2pm onwards due to the later hour. This arrangement was established from the outset as a mutually beneficial solution, allowing us to hire the Zoo while respecting the fact that members have access 364 days a year.

Members who do attend will be informed about our event, ensuring they are considerate upon entry.

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What food outlets will be available?

Blackpool Zoo have a variety of food outlets available including their Lake View Café, which also has a Subway inside, we will be able to confirm closer to the event what outlets will be open, however you are more than welcome to bring your own picnic, as Blackpool Zoo have a large quantity of picnic tables available and an indoor picnic area. 

 

I haven’t received a confirmation email after booking—what should I do?
After payment, our bookings team will send a confirmation email. Closer to the event, you’ll receive an email with all the details. Check your junk/spam folder if you haven’t received anything.

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Will there be a photographer at the event, and how can I access the photos?

Yes, we will have a photographer at our event. The photographs taken will be free of charge and will be available on our Facebook page approximately a week after the event. If you prefer not to have your photo taken, please let Harley know, and we will ensure your wishes are respected.

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Do you provide transport?
No, attendees must arrange their own transport to and from the event.

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Can I get a refund or transfer my tickets?
Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you can’t attend, contact our bookings team to gift your tickets to another family on our waiting list.