Accessibility at Monkey World

Located in the heart of Dorset, the renowned Monkey World is a must-see for animal lovers and families alike, and it’s a place where everyone, including people with disabilities, can enjoy a fantastic day out. The park, which spans 65 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, is home to over 260 monkeys and apes. From playful chimpanzees to the elegant orangutans, there’s always something fascinating to see. But what makes Monkey World even more special is its commitment to accessibility, ensuring that visitors with mobility needs can fully experience all the park has to offer. We have visited Monkey World on multiple occasions and have always found it one of the most accessible places for a family day out. We need to give praise where it is due and Monkey World is deserving of a special mention!

Getting to Monkey World: Location and Accessibility

Monkey World is conveniently located in the village of Wool, near Wareham in Dorset, easily accessible by road from many parts of the UK. It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from Poole and Bournemouth and is situated off the A351, making it relatively simple to find. For those relying on public transport, the nearest train station is in Wool, and there are regular bus services that connect the station to the park. Visitors with disabilities who require transport assistance can contact the park in advance to ensure their needs are met when travelling.

For drivers, there are ample parking spaces available, with designated accessible parking bays located close to the entrance. This makes it convenient for visitors with limited mobility to park and make their way into the park with ease.

Accessibility and Mobility Aids at Monkey World

One of the key features of Monkey World is its commitment to providing a fully accessible experience for visitors with disabilities. To ensure that everyone can enjoy the park’s many attractions, they offer a variety of mobility aids for hire.

For those who need assistance getting around, Monkey World offers mobility scooters for hire. These scooters are available at the park entrance, and they can be reserved in advance to guarantee availability, particularly during peak seasons. Mobility Scooters are hired through a third party, RAPID and are delivered to the park. You will need to book your mobility scooter ahead of your visit, so you can ensure you have one waiting for you upon arrival. The staff at Monkey World are always very friendly and helpful, so they can assist with any additional questions you might have about scooter hire. Never be shy to ask them for help, they are always more than willing to assist.

In addition to mobility scooters, wheelchair users are welcome to bring their own or hire one of the park’s manual wheelchairs. These are also available from the entrance area, with staff on hand to offer assistance if needed. The park’s layout is designed to be accessible, with wide paths, gentle slopes, and minimal steps, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can navigate the site with ease.

Carers and Accessibility

If you’re visiting Monkey World with a carer or personal assistant, you’ll be pleased to know that carers can enter the park for free, making it more affordable for those who require assistance. This policy is designed to make visits to the park accessible and inclusive, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the experience without the added financial burden of paying for an additional ticket. The park recognizes the important role that carers play in providing support, and this gesture reflects their commitment to making the experience enjoyable for all.

Things to Do at Monkey World

Monkey World is more than just a zoo; it’s a rescue and rehabilitation centre for primates, and it offers a unique opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts and rehabilitation work taking place. The park is home to a variety of species, including chimpanzees, orangutans, gibbons, and lemurs, each of which has its own fascinating story. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for an enjoyable day out, there’s plenty to see and do.

Animal Encounters and Learning Opportunities: Visitors can enjoy watching feeding times and interactive demonstrations, where the keepers explain the behaviours and habits of the animals. The park’s educational talks provide fascinating insights into the lives of the monkeys and apes and the ongoing efforts to protect them from extinction.

Themed Areas: The park is divided into themed areas that mimic the animals’ natural habitats, such as the chimpanzee enclosure, the orangutan house, and the lemur forest. These immersive areas make it easier to observe the animals in environments that resemble the wild. The paths throughout these areas are wide and accessible, allowing wheelchair and mobility scooter users to get up close to the animals without difficulty.

Children’s Play Areas: Families with children will appreciate the dedicated play areas where kids can have fun, while adults relax and enjoy the surroundings. These areas are easily accessible for those with limited mobility, and there are plenty of benches for resting.

Toilets at Monkey World: Accessible Facilities

For visitors with disabilities, having access to appropriate toilet facilities is an essential part of the experience. Monkey World is equipped with accessible toilets designed to meet the needs of all visitors. These toilets are spacious, well-maintained, and located at various points around the park, ensuring that you’ll have easy access no matter where you are in the park.

There are also baby-changing facilities available for families with young children. These facilities are clearly marked on the park’s map, which is available at the entrance and on the Monkey World website. The park is very mindful of the needs of its visitors, and the toilets are fully equipped to provide a comfortable experience for all.

Tips for Visiting Monkey World with a Disability

1. Plan Your Visit Ahead of Time: As with any visit to a popular attraction, it’s advisable to plan ahead. Call ahead to book a mobility scooter or wheelchair and ask any questions you might have about accessibility. This will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
2. Take Your Time: Monkey World is a large park with lots to see, so take your time to explore at your own pace. If you’re using a mobility scooter or wheelchair, the park’s accessible paths will allow you to move around comfortably.
3. Be Prepared for the Weather: While the park is mostly outdoors, there are sheltered areas where you can take a break from the weather. Be sure to check the forecast before you visit so you can dress accordingly. In case of rain, bring along an umbrella or raincoat for added comfort.
4. Stay Hydrated: There are various cafes and snack bars around the park where you can grab a bite to eat or drink, so make sure to stay hydrated during your visit. The staff at the cafes are happy to assist with any specific dietary requirements you might have.
5. Enjoy the Exhibits: Don’t forget to take advantage of the educational displays and talks available at Monkey World. These will enhance your visit and offer a deeper understanding of the important work being done at the park.

A Fun and Accessible Day Out at Monkey World

A trip to Monkey World is a fantastic experience for visitors of all ages and abilities. With its commitment to accessibility, including mobility scooter hire, free entry for carers, and well-maintained facilities, Monkey World ensures that everyone can enjoy the magic of the animal kingdom. Whether you’re there to learn about the primates’ rehabilitation efforts or simply enjoy a day out in the stunning surroundings, Monkey World provides an inclusive, enjoyable experience for everyone. With its blend of natural beauty, fascinating animals, and excellent accessibility, it’s a day out not to be missed!