FAQ - Blackpool Zoo

Before Requesting Tickets

​What is the eligibility criteria to request tickets?

As a non-profit organisation supporting the autistic community within the North of England and the Midlands, those wishing to request tickets MUST currently reside within the North of England or the Midlands, and at least one member of your group MUST have either an autism diagnosis or be on the autism pathway. 

​

Does the person with the autism diagnosis have to attend the event with us?

Yes, when requesting tickets, the person whose diagnosis that you have uploaded must be attending the event also. 

​

What will I need to request tickets?

When requesting tickets you MUST upload either a autism diagnosis letter OR a referral letter stating that the recipient is on the pathway. 

​

Proof of address, this must be dated within the last 6 months, we will accept the following: council tax bill, bank statement, universal credit, working tax credit, DWP, water, electricity or gas bill.

​

What proof do you accept?

• Diagnosis documents either NHS or private.

• A dated referral letter stating that the recipient is on the pathway.

• Appointment letter that states recipient has an autism diagnosis. 

• A letter from your doctor stating that the recipient has an autism diagnosis. 

• EHCP's where it states that the recipient has an autism diagnosis. 

 

What we do NOT accept as proof?

• DWP letters.

• Screenshots from the NHS app.

• Blue Badges.

• Cinema/Access cards.

​

Are the tickets available on a first come, first serve basis?

Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and have uploaded the correct proof.​

​

We have multiple children with an autism diagnosis/on the pathway. Can we request tickets using each child’s evidence?

No, we ask that you only request tickets for immediate family i.e. parents/carers and siblings. To ensure more families can benefit from the event. No, we kindly ask that you only request tickets using evidence for one individual (one request per household.)

​​

We understand the importance of accessibility and inclusion for individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum. Our events are designed to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals and their families. However, due to the hight demand for tickets and limited availability, we must implement certain restrictions to ensure fairness and accommodate as many individuals and families as possible. 

​

By requesting tickets using evidence for one individual per household, we can better distribute our resources and offer the opportunity for a wider range of families to attend our events. This approach allows us to maintain the quality of our support and uphold our commitment to supporting the autistic community. 

​

Can we request tickets for siblings as well?

Yes. We ask that you only request tickets for immediate family i.e. parents/carers and siblings. To ensure more families can benefit from the event. 

​

Do I need to buy a ticket for my baby who is less than 1 year old?

Yes. Every person that will be attending the event requires to purchase a ticket regardless of age.

​

Do carers need to buy a ticket?

Yes. Every person that will be attending the event requires to purchase a ticket.

​

Information Regarding Our Event

​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. 

​

What time does the event start?

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

​

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!

​

Can I bring my dog?

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

​

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.

​

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.

​

Where can I find a map of Blackpool Zoo?

Please click here to view a sensory map.

​

Do we have to pay for parking?

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

​

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. 

​

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.

​

Will you be offering transport to and from the event?

As with all of our events, we do not offer transport, everyone attending is expected to make their own way to and from the event.

​

I’ve booked tickets to your upcoming event, but I haven’t heard anything back?

Don’t worry, once you have made payment our bookings team will send you a confirmation email, then closer to the event our bookings team will be back in touch via email to send you all of the relevant information you will need for the event. Be sure to check your junk folder as sometimes our emails get lost in there.

​

Am I able to get a refund or transfer my tickets?

Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you are unable to attend but would like to gift your tickets to another family, please get in touch with our bookings team who will be able to allocate your tickets to another family on our waiting list.