Wookey Hole Caves and Mill Accessibility Statement

At Wookey Hole, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the magic and wonder of our attraction. Our accessibility policy reflects our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy their visit to the fullest.

This access statement does not contain personal opinions as to our suitability for those with access needs but aims to accurately describe the facilities and services that we offer all our visitors.

Pre Arrival

  • To make your visit as smooth as possible, we have provided detailed information and maps on how to reach us. Go to the plan your visit section of our website.
  • If you are arriving by bus, the nearest bus stop is conveniently located in the car park. You can check the local timetables for this service here: https://www.travelinesw.com/  
  • Throughout your time with us, our friendly staff will be available to assist you.  

If you have any questions or require assistance before you arrive, please call us at 01749 672243 or email witch@wookey.co.uk

Arrival and parking
Our entrance and parking areas are designed to support individuals with mobility challenges. There are nine accessible blue badge parking spaces located conveniently close to the entrance, making it easier for those with mobility aids or limited mobility to access our park.  There are accessible toilets in the car park with a ramp for easy access.  

Pricing

  • We understand the importance of accessibility and offer a concessionary rate for registered disabled individuals. This rate offers a 50% reduction on standard admission rates for the disabled person and their registered carer.
  • The rest of the party will pay the standard admission rates.
  • Please note that this concessionary rate cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. 
  • We recognize that some situations may require more than one carer. Additional carers may be eligible for the discounted rate at Wookey Hole’s discretion. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to assist you. 

Access to attractions and safety procedures

  • Your safety is our priority. We have well-established evacuation procedures in place. If needed, our staff members will be there to assist you with a safe evacuation from the building to a designated area. 
  • We want everyone in the family to enjoy our attractions, so we’ve made sure that all areas, except for the caves, are accessible via flat hard surfaces and ramps. 
  • To make navigation easier, we have clear signage throughout the attraction with large fonts, ensuring that everyone can find their way around. 
  • When it’s time to rest and enjoy a meal, you’ll find spacious seating and picnic areas located throughout the site on the ground floor. 
  • Our catering team are happy to assist you with any questions about specific dietary requirements. 
  • In our theatre, we have reserved four spaces for wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone can comfortably enjoy the show. If you need additional wheelchair spaces, please let us know in advance, and we will gladly make arrangements for you. 

The Caves
Here’s some important information to help you plan your experience. 

  • Getting to the cave entrance is a scenic 5-10 minute walk from the main ticket desk. While there is a gentle incline along the way, you’ll be rewarded with a great view of the park! 
  • The caves are kept in as natural a state as possible, which means they are not wheelchair accessible and visitors with mobility issues may find the spaces challenging at times. Our team can support you by taking your wheelchair/mobility scooter from the entrance to the exit.
  • Sturdy footwear is advised.
  • Our team will do their best to offer extra time and support throughout the tour if you need it.  
  • Please be aware there are approximately 200 steps along the journey through the caves and a few spots where you need to briefly duck down to about 1.3 meters.  
  • Safety is our top priority, so we kindly ask that you pay close attention to the safety briefing given by our guide before entering the cave. It’s important to be well-informed and prepared for a safe and enjoyable experience. 
  • Exploring the caves with prams and pushchairs is not advised.  Lightweight buggies can be carried through the caves.
  • For heavier buggies there is a buggy store at our Ice Cream Parlour. You can pick them up afterward to continue your adventure. 
  • If you’re feeling a bit uneasy in the caves, don’t worry! Just have a chat with one of our friendly guides, who will be more than happy to help you find the quickest way out. Your comfort and safety is our top priority! 

For our visitors who prefer not to venture into the caves, we’ve got plenty of other exciting options for you to enjoy. Take some time to explore our charming mill and picturesque valley while you wait for your party to join you. Once you’re all together, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure through the rest of Wookey Hole! 

Assistance and service dogs
At Wookey Hole, we are committed to ensuring that everyone can enjoy their visit, including guests who require the assistance of trained dogs. Our policy is in line with guidance from Assistance Dogs UK and other relevant legal frameworks.

  1. Assistance Dogs Welcome
    We welcome all registered assistance dogs on-site. This includes, but is not limited to, dogs trained to support individuals with:
  • Visual or hearing impairments
  • Physical disabilities
  • Autism
  • Mental Health Conditions
  • Seizure or diabetes alerts

    Please ensure your assistance dog is clearly identifiable, such as by wearing an official jacket or harness. We may ask to see evidence of your dog’s assistance dog certification. Please note that we only admit dogs under this policy, other animal types are not permitted or accepted as assistance or emotional support pets. Please note that management’s decision in all cases will be final. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

2. Access to All Areas
Assistance support dogs are permitted in all public areas of Wookey Hole. Please be aware that some areas, such as the caves, have uneven terrain and narrow spaces. We recommend considering your dog’s comfort in these environments. If you have any questions or concerns regarding access, our team is on hand to assist.

3. Water and Rest Areas
We provide water bowls around the site for assistance dogs, and our staff can direct you to nearby quieter areas where your dog can rest if needed.

4. Health and Safety
We welcome assistance dogs in our establishment and are committed to providing an inclusive environment for all our guests. However, to ensure the comfort and safety of everyone, assistance dogs must remain calm, under control and on a lead at all times. In the event that an assistance dog displays disruptive behaviour (e.g., excessive barking, aggression, or lack of control), we may need to ask the handler and their dog to leave the premises.

5. Documentation
To ensure we comply with health and safety regulations, we may request to see documentation proving the assistance dog’s official status. We recognise the following accrediting bodies:

  • Assistance Dogs UK
  • Guide Dogs for the Blind
  • Hearing Dogs for Deaf People
  • Dogs for Good
  • Medical Detection Dogs
  • Support Dogs
  • Canine Partners

6. Emotional Support Dogs
We understand that some individuals may require the presence of an emotional support dog during their visit. However, we only accept emotional support dogs when accompanied by a doctors letter, clearly stating the need for the dog. This policy applies exclusively to dogs; we do not allow other emotional support pets.

Please note that emotional support dogs must also adhere to all other sections of our policy, including being well-behaved, controlled, and on a lead at all times. The management’s decision regarding admission remains final, and we appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all our guests.

7. Pets in Cars
At Wookey Hole, the safety and well-being of all animals is a priority. For this reason, we kindly ask all visitors to refrain from leaving dogs or any pets inside vehicles while parked on our premises. Even with windows left open, cars can quickly become dangerously hot for animals, causing distress or worse.

We recommend making alternative arrangements for pets during your visit to ensure their safety and comfort. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding.

8. Feedback and Further Support
We value feedback from all visitors, including those visiting with assistance dogs. If you have any recommendations or experience difficulties during your visit, please speak to a member of staff or contact us at witch@wookey.co.uk. For further information on assistance dogs in the UK, please visit Assistance Dogs UK.

Lighting

  • The cave paths are well-lit in all areas, making it easier for everyone to navigate and admire the breathtaking sights. 
  • While we strive to provide ample lighting throughout, it’s important to note that you’re entering an underground domain, and there may be sections with low lighting levels. But don’t worry, we’ve taken every precaution to ensure your safety and enjoyment. 
  • During special events, we might use strobing light effects in some areas! But we’ll always let you know in advance if any strobing effects will be used before you enter.  

At Wookey Hole, we’re committed to creating unforgettable experiences for all families, especially those with disabilities. We can’t wait to welcome you and embark on an extraordinary journey together! 

If you have any questions about accessibility not covered here, please reach out to our customer care team at witch@wookey.co.uk.