longleat safari park disabled access

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A good wheelchair accessible day out - Longleat

• Europe    
• United Kingdom (UK)    
• England    
• Wiltshire    
• Warminster    
• Warminster - Things to Do    

Longleat is amazing. I have been many times as it is fairly close to where I live in Wiltshire so I... read more

Great day out, animals are very well looked after and the park is clean. Very informative keepers... read more

A good wheelchair accessible day out

We had a fantastic day out at Longleat this week. I’m a relatively new wheelchair user so was apprehensive about accessibility before we went. We did the drive through safari first of all, which was brilliant. Then we parked easily (although the signage was tiny and could be much clearer to make it more obvious where disabled spaces are) and entered the rest of the park. All the pathways were level and easy to navigate. My only complaint was that the maze wasn’t accessible so my husband and son had to do it without me unfortunately. Also signage around the whole park was small and could be much clearer especially to indicate wheelchair accessible routes. It took me a while to find a step free route into the formal garden in front of the orangery; and when I went to guest services to ask for accessible directions they weren’t sure either!! It would be really helpful for an accessible map to be created? Or for accessible routes to be marked on the map boards around the park? At the end of the day we did the house tour; note you have to email customer services in advance to book a wheelchair space on the tours (but this isn’t made clear on the website when booking tickets). The entrance for wheelchair users is at the rear of the house, but again the signage is really poor and not visible until you’re right close to it. The staff in the house were very kind and helpful and made sure I could access everything via the lift. Overall we had a great day out.

We had a lovely day at Longleat even though the weather was damp and overcast. As soon as we arrived at the gate we were greeted with a cheerful welcome.The Alice in wonderland characters (there for Easter) were brilliant with the children and the staff were helpful, we thoroughly enjoyed the boat ride with Dean and Izzy where we saw sea lions, gorillas and hippos! The safari bus with Dave was fantastic , it was so nice to hear so much about the animals as we went round. Then as our last activity we visited the long house for crazy golf with the tweedles , Mel and all the staff were really warm and friendly, we talked and laughed with them for a while. The whole place was clean , tidy and brilliantly organised. Not a cheap day out but still definitely recommend

I love Longleat but this is just another example of 2 years out with no investment. It’s so tired and dated, with lots of things that look like they are half done. We tried to book safari bus as soon as we got there at 10, for bus at 2.30, we were told it was full but come back at 1.30 for reserves…what does that even mean? Why have reserves? Why not just fill it up! So we went back at 1.15, stood in a queue….lots in front of us and the woman in front took 10 seats! Those before took 4 and 3…we were told no more seats! So that was 17 free seats that we could have had at 10am! Where is the fairness in that? So we decided to go for a walk around the house, it used to be free but ohhh no, not anymore! Now of course you have to pay and additional £4 each for a guided tour! On top of the entry ticket of £40!!! Honestly what had happened to the world! Positives are the jungle cruise was fun and the commentator was excellent. But overall a disappointment in comparison to all the other times I have been….

Enjoyed another great VIP experience at Longleat - this time with the Aardvarks. Our keeper (Alex) was superb - friendly, knowledgeable and allowed us to get up-close and personal with these amazing creatures. The boat ride was the best yet - kudos to Dean who did the commentary - so funny and engaging. Safari was fun (not for those who lost parts of their cars to the monkeys) and the food a step up from previous. Overall a great day out

This was amazing day. In the safari saw lots of animals & had ostriches, emus, zebras & lions walk in front of the car! Paid £1 for pot of food to feed the deer which was fun. Avoided the monkey section so took just over an hour to drive round. Then went to the main park & queued for 10mins to go on the jungle cruise. The hippos were hiding but enjoyed seeing the gorillas. The highlight was the seal lions who flanked the boat & for £1 a pot you could feed them. In jungle kingdom, enjoyed seeing the Binturongs, otter, funny meerkats & anteater. Also enjoyed watching the animal encounter & stroked a pancake turtle & royal python. Great fun for adults and kids alike & can use Tesco vouchers. Safari tip- Got to the site at 0920 to be one of the first cars round the safari at 10. No info was given but learnt later you can pull over at the start at African village car park to walk and see giraffes, zebras etc

I’ve just returned from a weekend visit to Frome. We booked a Bronze VIP visit on Saturday and a day ticket for Sunday. We have had a fabulous time. We had Mike as our Safari tour guide and he was fantastic, he was very knowledgeable and great fun. I could not fault our safari tour. We then came back on Sunday and loved the boat trip, again with fantastic staff who were informative and light hearted. Then we enjoyed the tour of the beautiful house, learning a great deal from the tour guide. In all we have had a great weekend and I would like to congratulate your staff on always being well informed, fun and friendly. For the best from your visit go early on a Wednesday or Saturday because that is when the lions etc are fed.

• Attractions access reviews

Attractions

Access information for Longleat.

VENUE: Longleat

ADDRESS: Warminster BA12 7NW

CONTACT: 01985 844400

ACCESS INFO

Providing you can produce evidence, such as a Blue Badge, visitors with a disability are entitled to a complimentary ticket for their PA/ carer.

You can either purchase tickets online at https://www.longleat.co.uk/concession-tickets or when you arrive.

If you require additional PA/ carer tickets for other people in your party who have a disability please contact [email protected]

Accessible car parking spaces are available in the main car park.

Guests with a disability can take advantage of the Queue Assist Scheme if their condition makes queuing difficult or they don’t understand the concept of waiting in line. The scheme operates for the Rockin Rhino, Longleat Railway and the Jungle Cruise. You will be issued a pass indicating the time you need to return to the attraction to save queuing. To qualify for the scheme you must provide documented proof of your disability in the form of either a GP letter, Council run membership details, Association membership details or an alternative form of official documentation which you need to provide on each visit to the arrivals team or at Guest Services located in the Main Square along with photo ID.

After you have been issued your pass you need to take it to the relevant attraction where you will be allocated a specific time to go on the ride.

The Queue Assist Scheme entitles up to four people to ride the attraction.

Accessible toilets are situated at the Safari Drive-Through entrance, The Watering Hole in African Village, near the Jungle Cruise, Cellars Café and the Tropical Storm Café.

Service dogs are not permitted in the Safari Drive-Through, Bat Cave, Jungle Kingdom, Animal Adventure and the Monkey Temple…For obvious reasons. They can be left in the complimentary kennels but please note they will not be supervised.

The accessible entrance for Longleat House is situated at the back of the building. If you require to use the lift to access the upper floors tell a member of staff but please note only two wheelchairs at a time are permitted in the house because of fire safety regulations.

The Jungle Cruise is accessible for wheelchairs and there is a ramp available to board the ride.

Longleat Railway has restricted availability for wheelchair users in the adapted carriage.

The Longleat Hedge Maze is accessible for wheelchairs although you won’t be able to reach the centre point as this is located on a bridge.

Some attractions in the Adventure Castle are not suitable for wheelchairs.

King Arthur’s Mirror Maze can accommodate up to six wheelchairs at a time.

The Watering Hole, Tropical Storm Café and Cellar Café are fully accessible.

The Orangery is not accessible for wheelchairs because there are steps leading up to the entrances.

If you wish to hire a wheelchair these must be booked prior to you visit by calling 01985 844400 – you will be asked to provide a non-cash deposit such as car keys or a driving licence.

DID YOU KNOW?

There are over 500 animals at Longleat.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

longleat.co.uk  

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Accessibility at Longleat Safari Park and Cheddar Gorge

December 18, 2018 | Disabled Living | General

This post has been written by Chris Cammiss, Disability Awareness Trainer at Disabled Living . He talks about how accessible Longleat Safari Park and Cheddar Gorge are as a wheelchair user.

So, who’s up for some extreme tourism? My latest escapade was to spend a couple of days looking at Longleat and sister attraction Cheddar Gorge .  Some simple cave exploration in the Gorge and dancing with lions at Longleat – no problem at all for a wheelchair user!

I have to admit I was intrigued. How romantic, how interesting, but how much would I see? How would I manage in the caves and how would I get around the Safari Park?

Well, I found the whole experience fascinating and much more accessible than you might have thought. With the help of some very well-motivated staff I had a great time. Both sites were an absolute pleasure to visit. Yes, I saw plenty of features that could be improved but the sites are well worth a visit now.

First day was Cheddar Gorge – an attraction consisting of several caves developed in Victorian times as a tourist venue. With introductory film shows, a modern museum, caves, walks, viewpoints and shops, there’s a full family day out here.

After purchasing tickets see the introductory film. This sets the scene beautifully with colourful history, wildlife, flora, what to visit and what can be managed. Then try the caves!

The main cave – Gough’s Cave – after the man who made a public attraction out of it, is unfortunately inaccessible to many wheelchair users and mobility impaired visitors because of four large, sloping steps, but is very rewarding indeed. If you can be carried or otherwise helped down it is well worth the effort.

(Personally, as I was on my own at a very quiet time so a staff member bumped me down but this is definitely not company policy!)

A long winding tunnel then takes you into the rock – Cheddar Man, unique rock formations, dramatic twists and turns, audio description points – very special indeed.

The ground surface is excellent – the slightly ridged concrete path carries you along with no trips, bumps or slips.

Try the Museum of Prehistory. It’s small enough not to be daunting but large enough to house a huge array of exhibits all displayed with imagination. This is a very accessible venue. I was lucky enough to be accompanied by an enthusiastic school party who were greatly entertained by the Stone Age re-enactor who dressed them in animal skins, told them about skinning a rabbit and finally showed them how to start a fire with a few sticks – hugely impressive!

My favourite destination was Cox’s Cave. This is a network of several inter-connected chambers. Complex and challenging for many with mobility or visual impairments, it rewards those who can manage handsomely. A brilliant multi media film show depicting the development of Early Man is displayed on the raw walls of each chamber, carrying you through his history, changing environment and the animals he hunted. Sound and lights enhance this extremely entertaining production. Different episodes lead you through the cave complex. In my wheelchair I was able to see the first parts and the last parts with the help and advice of the brilliant staff. Nothing was too much trouble.

The next day I visited nearby Longleat

Photo by Mark Woodbury – https://www.flickr.com/photos/markwoodbury/38962211774

Driving through the grounds for the first time my first impression was how fabulous the actual house appears. After parking I planned my day to include all the major attractions. There’s so much here for everyone to enjoy and again the staff were incredible. It’s also obvious thought has already gone into improving access.

The House itself was a delight. As often happens, the dedicated disabled entrance takes you through several rooms the public may never see before joining the beginning of the public flow along the official tourist route through the House. Volunteer guides in every room – all dressed as 20’s flappers on my visit – will inform as much as you want or transport you into their world if you prefer!

Outside there are formal grounds, endless playgrounds, many animal enclosures, all generally accessible. There’s a fully accessible miniature train to carry you around the grounds while you catch your breath, even a fully accessible cruise around the huge lake.

There are many shops and eating places – all very accessible, and most of the rides are accessible as well.

The only downside in my opinion was the Adventure Castle play area. This was a stunning looking space, castle, drawbridge, aerial rope walks but all completely inaccessible to anyone with a major mobility issue.

If you have your own transport it all works brilliantly – you just drive around at your own pace, stopping at the fully accessible African Village as you go. If not, you can catch the fully accessible Safari Bus and sit back in comfort. It’s all there around you – elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, rhinos and flamingos.

Throw in the firework display and light show after dark – what’s not to like? It was a challenging trip but well worth the effort.

Tags: Accessibility , Travel

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Author: Disabled Living

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Contact details

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Longleat house and gardens and safari park, warminster, wilshire, ba12 7nw.

Accessibility:

Please check the venue website for more in-depth accessibility details.

There are designated parking facilities in the car parks.

Queue Assist Scheme is available.

Toilet facilities : Accessible toilets are located at/or near the following areas

Entrance to Safari Drive-Through, Bat Cave(A changing bench and hoist is located here), Jungle Cruise, Cellars Cafe; Chameleon Tree and Coffee House.

Baby changing facilities are available as above.  A Baby Centre is located near the Nature's Kingdom which has baby warming facilities and high chairs.

Wheelchair hire must be booked prior to your visit.

Please note: Assistance dogs/dogs are NOT allowed in a number of areas, please check the venue website.

Longleat House

Access to the house for limited mobility/wheelchair users is located at the rear.  A lift is available which allows access to all floors.

Due to conservation reasons - Low levels of light are in in operation.

Only TWO wheelchairs are permitted in the house at any one time, due to fire restrictions.

Pushchairs are NOT permitted into Longleat House. There is a pushchair park at the rear of the house.

Jungle Cruise

Pushchairs are not permitted.

Limited mobility and wheelchair users can access the area, a ramp to and from the boat is available. A restriction of 4 wheelchair users per boat is in operation.

Longleat Railway(Santa Train)

It is advisable to pre-book tickets for the railway as it is a popular experience.

A specially adapted carriage is available for wheelchair users. Limited to one place.

Pushchairs can be left at the pushchair park.

Longleat Hedge Maze

This area is unsuitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs.

Adventure Castle

Wheelchair and pushchair friendly.

Other attractions and areas.

Narrow pathways, cobbled pathways, steps and steep ramps exist in a number of areas.

Chameleon Tree Restaurant and Coffee House

Pushchair and wheelchair - fully accessible by ramp access

Cellar Cafe

Accessible via the rear of Longleat House for pushchair and wheelchair users.

Brief description:

Longleat House is a fine example of an Elizabethan Stately House completed in 1586, with gardens and grounds landscaped by Capability Brown. The estate has been owned by the Thynne Family for 15 generations and is now occupied by the 7th Marquess of Bath.  There are guided tours of the house interior available every day.

The Drive-Through-Safari Park opened in 1966 was the first of its kind in Britain.  There are a number of wild animals to be observed on the tour and within other areas of the park.

Longleat House, Warminster, Wilshire, BA12 7NW

[email protected]

01985 844400

https://www.longleat.co.uk/

Directions:

Longleat House and Safari Park is located between Bath and Salisbury off the A36.

The M3 (Junction 8); the M4 (Junction 17); the A303; A36; all serve and are easily accessible routes for reaching Longleat House and Safari Park.

Opening Times:

Open daily 10.00 - 5.00 

Please check the venue website for up-to-date and extra opening hours and additional events.

Adult : £34.95; Concession : £31.45; Child : £26.20; Carer's : Free admission

15% Discounted tickets available if purchased online.

Tickets allow entrance to: Safari Park, Cheetah Kingdom, Monkey  Drive Through, Lions of Longleat, Jungle Kingdom, Monkey Temple, Hedge Maze, Longleat House and Gardens.

There is a regular bus service around Wiltshire.

For more travel information go to- http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/parkingtransportandstreets/publictransport/transporttimetableinformation.htm .

Longleat House and grounds have a number of restaurants and cafes on site, there is also a gift/souvenier shop located in the Stables Courtyard.

The town of Bath is approximately 18 miles away

The City of Salisbury is approximately 25 miles away

Both places have supermarkets, shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants.  There are railway/bus stations available in both areas.

Nearest Venues

The Bath Arms, Horningsham, Wiltshire

1.14 miles*

Horningsham, Wiltshire

1.24 miles*

St John's Church, Horningsham, Wiltshire

1.30 miles*

Congregational Chapel, Horningsham, Wiltshire

1.43 miles*

Centre Parcs (holiday resort), Longleat Forest, Wiltshire BA12 7PU

1.71 miles*

West Woodlands, Somerset

2.27 miles*

*Distances are calculated in a straight line from the current venue, please allow extra time/distance based on available paths or roads.

Site Search

Longleat house.

One of the great houses of England.

Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7NN

Experience this house

• Accessible loos
• Accessible parking
• Cafe / restaurant
• Facilities for children
• Free parking
• Mostly wheelchair accessible
• Picnic area
• Access statement available
• Accessible toilets
• Wheelchair ramps/routes
• Guide dogs welcome

Access to Longleat House for visitors with limited mobility and for wheelchair users is via the rear of Longleat House. Please ask a member of staff if you would like to use the lift, which provides access to all floors.

On the advice of the fire service, only two wheelchair users are allowed on any floor; so we can accommodate four wheelchairs in the House at a time.

For conservation reasons it is not possible to allow pushchairs into Longleat House. A pushchair park is available at the rear of the House. Longleat accepts no liability for loss or damage to pushchairs left unattended.

A limited number of hip rests (for babies 6 months to 3 years) are available at the front desk. Please ask on the day of your visit if you would like to borrow one for the duration of your visit to Longleat House. A returnable deposit will be required.

Longleat House is set within 900 acres of ‘Capability’ Brown landscaped gardens and is widely regarded as one of the best examples of Elizabethan architecture in Britain and one of the most beautiful stately homes open to the public.

This former 16th-century Augustinian priory contains many treasures and heirlooms acquired by generations of the Thynn(e) family, some of whom were great collectors of their day. The collection comprises early books and manuscripts, magnificent paintings, exquisite Flemish tapestries, and fine French furniture all housed within 19th-century opulent interiors created by John Dibblee Crace.

We offer specialist tours alongside 2 VIP House Tours taking in a variety of rooms not on show to the general public. These involve being taking around Longleat House by our curator or Head Archivist who have a wealth of knowledge. These tours are private, small numbers and are an additional cost

Please note:  The information on the Historic Houses website is advisory, but please always check the website of the house or garden you intend to visit before travelling.

Guided tours of Longleat House may only be purchased as an optional add-on to a day pass or annual season ticket for the safari park.

See more information about how to tour Longleat House here

Longleat offers a wide range of educational opportunities to groups and has been awarded the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge and in doing so, meets the high quality criteria required by schools for visits.

Curriculum based educational talks for primary and secondary schools and colleges are available on a range of different subjects (pre-booking is essential), and we are pleased to work with you for additional requirements such as pocket money goody bags, packed lunches and ice creams.

For further information please check our website:  www.longleat.co.uk/education

Getting here

The main visitor entrance is at  ///nights.invest.engineers .  What does this mean?

Longleat is just off the A36 between Bath and Salisbury (A362 Warminster – Frome road).

When driving please use the post code BA12 7JS. Please ignore as you approach and follow the brown tourist signs.

Public Transport:

Frome Station is the closest station to Longleat and has a good service from Bath and London.

Warminster station, is about 5 miles from Longleat and is on the Cardiff to Portsmouth line. Westbury station is about 12 miles from Longleat and is on the London Paddington to Penzance line.

Photographer: Chris Lacey Copyright: Longleat Enterprises Ltd

Lord Bath’s ‘famous & fabulous’ Murals

The murals form an extensive sequence of Lord Bath’s personal work which he describes as ‘glimpses of his psyche’. Their subject matter varies between cocoons, therapies and fantasies and they amount to the expression of one man’s individualism within a building which itself is a work of art. A small additional charge applies.

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Access to everything outdoors

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Guests with Disabilities

Download San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide (PDF)

Website Accessibility Statement

Jambo! The San Diego Zoo Safari Park welcomes all guests. We have several services to help all our guests enjoy their visit.

We have a map that marks the stops for our ADA (American with Disabilities Act) shuttle. These maps are also available at our ticket booths and at Park Base. Restrooms and services—including many of our Safaris—are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and motorized scooters are available for rent on a first-come, first-served basis near the entrance at Safari Outfitters.  Please refer to our Accessibility Guide for more information. The minimum age requirement to operate an Electric Conveyance Vehicle (ECV) is 16 years old.

Click here to download our Accessibility Map (PDF)

Guests who have difficulty standing in line at the Africa Tram may request an “Easy Access Pass” at the Tram Host podium, across from the Africa Tram ticket booth. The attendant on duty will provide a return time for the group based on the length of the line. Guests may continue exploring and return at their assigned boarding time. Up to four additional members of the guest’s party may accompany a guest with a disability.

We welcome guests with disabilities who choose to bring their trained service animal into the Safari Park. Emotional support animals as well as companion, comfort, or service animals in training are not allowed entry into the Safari Park. Our guidelines for service animals can be found by accessing the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide.

Please see our Accessibility Guide (click the link at the top of this page) for Frequently Asked Questions and more detailed Safari Park information for guests with disabilities.

Mobility Assistive Device Policy

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is dedicated to providing all of its guests with equal enjoyment of the wonderful experience offered by its parks: the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park.

The safety of our visitors is extremely important to us. The parks are primarily pedestrian environments. By “pedestrian,” we mean any individual who moves within walking areas with or without the use of walking-assistive devices such as crutches, leg braces, wheelchairs, etc. Park attendance is often at high capacity, resulting in busy pedestrian pathways. Our goal is to maintain a safe pedestrian traffic flow for all visitors while allowing for use of mobility-assistive devices that do not fundamentally alter the nature of the experience the parks provide.

In order to maintain a safe pedestrian environment and the desired pace and flow of visitor traffic, the parks do not allow guests to bring or use most wheeled vehicles within the grounds. Bicycles, tricycles, scooters, skateboards, roller skates, and similar modes of transportation are not allowed within the grounds. The parks allow strollers as well as the following mobility-assistive devices for use by guests with disabilities: wheelchairs, electric scooters, and Segways®. All Segways entering the parks must be operated in “turtle” mode so as not to disrupt the desired pace of the visitor traffic at the parks and disturb other guests.

The Safari Park provides accommodations to people who need mobility assistance while on our grounds. Shuttle service is available for guests with limited mobility and guests who use wheelchairs, running on a continuous loop stopping at Park Base and Okavango Outpost. The Park also offers a limited number of wheelchairs and electric scooters for rent. In addition, the Park provides free admission for a personal attendant/caregiver to accompany a guest who requires such help to access the Park's public programs, activities, and facilities.

San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance reserves the right to modify this policy at any time as it deems appropriate.

Additional Information

Wheelchair and ECV rental prices

San Diego Zoo Safari Park Accessibility Guide

For general questions not answered here, please email [email protected], or call 619-231-1515 after 8:30 a.m. PDT.

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“Planning for an age-friendly Santa Clara County is a wonderful way to provide tangible benefits for all of us, not just the aging.”

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“We must be Age Friendly in our policies, priorities and resources to ensure we are well prepared and trail blazers in creating a livable Santa Clara County for the 8 to 80 year olds.”

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“Active aging is a life-long process, whereby an age-friendly community is not just 'elder-friendly' but also intended to be friendly for all ages.”

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“I'm proud that Santa Clara County is setting a national example in promoting programs to keep people healthy longer.”

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Age-friendly silicon valley (afsv).

The World Health Organization (WHO) created a template to help communities meet the challenge of transforming our streets, services, parks and playgrounds— and our attitudes and feelings— to accommodate the growing population of elderly people. For the first time ever, older people outnumber the young in the U.S.; by 2030, one in four Santa Clara County residents will be over the age of 60.

This county-wide effort was led by the Seniors’ Agenda of Santa Clara County, Department of Aging and Adult Services, and assisted each of the 15 cities in Santa Clara County in achieving designation by the World Health Organization as an age-friendly city.

Santa Clara County Livability Survey 2016

The Santa Clara County Department of Public Health has conducted an evidence-based county-wide survey of seniors’ needs to inform each of our cities of the opinions, needs and challenges of older adults.

• Age-Friendly Survey – Part 1
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The Action Plan calls for assessing the domains of community life which impact older residents in our community and developing a plan to improve the well-being of those residents.

Seniors’ Agenda Annual Report

The annual reports showcase the Age-friendly and Dementia Friendly initiatives in Santa Clara County. Highlights from each of the fifteen cities are included as is the progress on the Age-friendly Three Year Action Plan.

• Seniors’ Agenda 2023 Annual Report
• Seniors’ Agenda 2022 Annual Report
• Seniors’ Agenda 2021 Annual Report
• Seniors’ Agenda 2020 Annual Report
• Seniors’ Agenda 2019 Annual Report
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Percentage of Seniors Ages 60 and over in Santa Clara County by zip code

Please view this easy to use map to see the percentage of seniors over the age of 60 in Santa Clara County by zip code. These figures were calculated between the years of 2012-2016.

• Percentage of Seniors 60 and up by zip code- Santa Clara County

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• Los Altos Hills
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Application Submitted

Study and planning phase, -->upcoming events   past events, april 10, 2024, public health benefits webinar | april 10, 10:00 |virtual, april 11, 2024, older adult digital inclusion workgroup| april 11, 2:00 pm | virtual, april 13, 2024, on lok pace & ucsf brain health workshop| april 13, 10:00 am, brian health workshop |april 13, 10:00 am, april 22, 2024, guided poetry hike at pinchetti ranch preserve |april 22, 10:00 am, april 23, 2024, senior housing accessibility design workshop| april 23, 1:00 pm | virtual, april 30, 2024, community wildfire preparedness workshop | april 30, 6:00 pm, may 8, 2024, 2024 virtual senior rally day may 8, 9:00 am, -->past events   upcoming events, march 7, 2024, caregiver support group | march 7, 4:00pm | (virtual), are you a caregiver of someone with alzheimer’s | march 7, 12:00 pm | ( virtual), march 30, 2024, animal encounters at the guadalupe park conservancy | march 30, 10:00 am, march 20, 2024, the many ways to be an encore entrepreneur | march 20, 9:00 am | (virtual), march 18, 2024, genconnect: an intergenerational mixer in cupertino| march 18, 10:00 am, march 5, 2024, spring cultural tour of hakone gardens | march 5, 1:30 pm, falls prevention and wellness resources event | march 5, 1:00pm, march 19, 2024, free monthly hikes for older adults 55+ | march 19, 10:00am | joseph d. grant park, march 12, 2024, have your voice heard comment on the area plan | march 12th & 13th | (virtual), april 8, 2024, 2024 santa clara showtime event and raffle, february 28, 2024, elder abuse and neglect webinar | february 28, 10:00 am | virtual/ce units, february 23, 2024, senior walk and resource fair at oakridge mall, february 15, 2024, avenidas chinese community center lunar new year celebration, february 13, 2024, myths & mysteries of sexuality and aging | february 13, 9:00 am | virtual, february 10, 2024, on-lok pace open house and voter registration workshop, february 7, 2024, maintain your brain: reducing the risk of dementia | february 7, 10:00 am | virtual/ ce units, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup| february 15, 2:00 pm | virtual, february 14, 2024, svilc emergency preparedness class | february 14, 12:00 pm | virtual, volunteer opportunities & commission vacancies, january 20, 2024, reinventing aging after 50: age your way” conference, january 18, 2024, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup (january 18 @ 2:00 pm | virtual ), january 26, 2024, let’s take it outside: explore the coyote creek trail at metcalf park (january 26 @ 10 a.m. – noon pt | san jose, ca), california caregiver resource centers events, december 14, 2023, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup | december 14, 3:00 pm (in-person), film & discussion – “sue’s story: a journey with lewy body dementia” | december 14, 2:00 pm, learn about pokémon go | december 14, 12:00 pm, december 13, 2023, ugly holiday sweater mix and mingle | december 13, 4:30 pm, december 9, 2023, drive-through shred & e-waste event | december 9, 9:00 am, december 1, 2023, senior health policy forum – december 1, 2023, november 16, 2023, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup november 16, 2:00 pm (online), october 26, 2023, new walk for older adults at the guadalupe river park conservancy | october 26, 10:00 am, final senior safari in 2023 at happy hollow park and zoo | october 26, 9:00 am, october 24, 2023, fall mix and mingle | october 24, 4:30 to 6:00 pm, october 19, 2023, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup | october 19, 3:00 pm (online), october 14, 2023, aging well: plan to thrive | october 14, 2:00 to 5:00 pm, october 7, 2023, ageism awareness day | october 7, september 30, 2023, caregivers count 13th annual conference online in september, september 23, 2023, september 13, 2023, september 28, 2023, docent training: chitactac field trip volunteer september 28, 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, celebrate the beginning of fall with mix and mingle september 28, 4:30 to 6:00 pm, new walk for older adults at the guadalupe river park conservancy september 28, 10:00 am, senior safari at happy hollow park and zoo september 28, 9:00 am, september 27, 2023, let’s take it outside: pickleball september 27, 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, september 19, 2023, the santa clara county parks morning nature stroll september 19, 9:30 am, become a dementia friend in-person session: september 28, 1:00 pm, become a dementia friend virtual session september 27, 12:00 pm, september 14, 2023, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup september 14, 2:00 pm (in-person), september 9, 2023, caregivers count 13th annual conference online in september, august 12, 2023, on lok pace open house – august 12, august 31, 2023, celebrate the end of summer with mix and mingle august 31, 4:30 to 6:00 pm, august 24, 2023, senior safari at happy hollow park and zoo august 24, 9:00 am, august 23, 2023, the santa clara county parks morning nature stroll august 23, september 8, 2023, brain health symposium webinar september 8, 10:00 to 11:30 am, august 22, 2023, train the trainer academy for vta travel: august 22, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (in-person), june 7, 2023, film screening: gen silent june 7, 12:00 to 1:30 pm, may 19, 2023, city of santa clara: be strong, live long wellness fair may 19 at 11:00 am, may 6, 2023, morgan hill health and wellness resource fair may 6, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, may 25, 2023, celebrate older americans month with mix and mingle may 25 at 4:00 pm, senior safari returns to happy hollow park and zoo may 25, 9:00 am, may 24, 2023, addressing loneliness and isolation in older adults (webinar) may 24, 10:00 am, may 20, 2023, silicon valley healthy smiles may 20 and 21, san jose town hall: meet mayor mahan and learn about the 2023 city budget may 20, may 11, 2023, improving older adult mental health virtual symposium may 11, may 10, 2023, become a dementia friend may 10, 12:00 pm, may 31, 2023, create your village: resources for older adults aging in place (webinar) may 31, 1:00 pm, may 22, 2023, basic home accessibility and low-tech solutions for aging in place (webinar) may 22, 11:00 am, creating housing options to age in our community (in-person) may 10, 2:00 pm, april 28, 2023, caring for caregivers: supporting the ca master plan for aging april 28 at 9:00 am, april 25, 2023, beat the rush: preregistration for senior safari april 25 through 28, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, april 11, 2023, cbo roundtable: vta services for seniors and persons with disabilities, april 11 at 3:00 pm, digital inclusion for older adults workgroup april 11 at 1:00 pm, how to make a data collection plan for grant writing webinar april 11 at 10:30 am, sourcewise area plan on aging update public hearing march 20 and 21, march 14, 2023, low income housing search fundamentals march 14 at 11:30 am, become a dementia friend two virtual sessions: march 15 and 22.

Senior/Disabled Transit Info

Table of Contents

Discount info for seniors and the disabled, how do i contact vta access paratransit, how do i apply for vta access paratransit service, how do i send a compliment or complaint about vta’s paratransit service, where are access paratransit issues at vta discussed.

Are you a senior and/or a disabled resident in Santa Clara County?  If so, you may qualify for a Regional Transit Connection (RTC) discount card. Eligibility and application information for the RTC discount card is available courtesy of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority ( VTA ).

Back to Top

In Santa Clara County, paratransit is managed by VTA under the “ ACCESS ” brand. As of this writing, the vehicles are maintained and driven by workers from MV Transportation .

Here’s the mailing address for VTA ACCESS paratransit:

Call VTA Customer Service at (408)321-2300 to obtain basic information on VTA ACCESS Paratransit service.

To apply for VTA ACCESS Paratransit Service, call their Eligibility Department at (408)321-2381. Their business hours are from 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday. They are closed on weekends and major holidays. The operator taking you call will give you all the information you need to apply. Read more information on VTA ACCESS Paratransit service .

Direct all compliments or complaints about VTA ACCESS Paratransit service to the above address. In your contact, include FULL details on the incident (like the date, time and full description of what happened), including the driver’s name and vehicle number.

Send a copy or separate letter to VTA’s Chief Operating Officer and to the Silicon Valley Transit Users as well.

Issues regarding paratransit in Santa Clara County are discussed at VTA’s Committee For Transportation Mobility and Accessibility (CTMA) . This committee meets at least six (6) times per year.

If warranted, issues are brought up to the VTA’s Board of Directors for final approval or rejection.

  12 comments for “ Senior/Disabled Transit Info ”

When I call 408-321-2380 voice ask for customer ID number, How to get ID number please.

Iqbal: Call VTA ACCESS Paratransit’s Eligibility Department at (408)321-2381 and ask for an application for the paratransit service. After applying, they will give you the customer ID number you will need to contact their Customer Service directly. –eugene

My mum is 103 years old, she is on wheel chair, she wanna ride with wheel chair in the van. Where to call .

How to I apply for free bus pass disable

Thang: Apply for a discounted-only disabled (RTC) pass here: https://www.vta.org/fares/regional-transit-connection-card or call VTA Customer Service at (408)321-2300 and ask for an application. -Eugene

The link to the RTC discount card is broken. How does a disabled person get a pass for VTA?

Frank: I just updated the page with the correct info on how to get an RTC Discount Card. Here’s the web address where you can apply: https://www.vta.org/fares/regional-transit-connection-card –Eugene

IS THERE A LINK TO GET PICK UP AND DROP OFF TOM DOCTOR VISITS ?

What is a “Tom Doctor” visit that you speak of? Please clarify. –eugene

I have been trying to call transit service for transportation and the numbers that is provided on this website is disconnected . I’m a member and my ID# 201387

Hello! Thank you for commenting and informing us on what’s going on. This page will be revised, as paratransit is now known as VTA ACCESS. Call their Customer Service number at (408)321-2380.

Eugene Bradley Founder, Silicon Valley Transit Users

How to apply disable free pass for VTA

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Longleat Safari Park: Baby wallaby emerges from mother's pouch

• West Country
• Longleat Safari Park
• baby animals
• Thursday 4 April 2024 at 12:08pm

Zookeepers have described the "emotional" moment a baby wallaby emerged from its mother's pouch for the first time.

The joey weighed less than a gram when it was born at Longleat Safari Park.

The red-necked wallaby joey was growing inside the pouch for seven months before it finally poked its head out.

Gemma Short, Head Wallaby Keeper at Longleat Safari Park, said seeing a joey take its first glimpse at the world "makes you emotional every time."

"It's always exciting when you finally see the joey's head pop out," she said. "They have such large eyes!"

"It's something I will never get bored of seeing. I feel like a proud keeper every time," she added.

Ms Short said the joey is currently around 60cm tall, and zookeepers are keeping an eye out for when the joey leaves the pouch.

"It won't be long until the joey is hopping around causing havoc with the other animals," she said.

"When it comes out of the pouch, we will be able to sex it and then give it a name," she added.

Longleat Safari Park said they are "delighted" with the new arrival to the current nine-strong group of wallabies.

Keepers added the red-necked wallaby, also known as the Bennett's wallaby, is not rare and breeds "extremely well" in both captivity and the wild.

The marsupials are native to the east coast of Australia and are commonly found in eucalyptus forests.

We would like to hear about your experience using VTA, such as how and when you ride VTA, how you pay, and how you believe the service can be improved. Take the survey . Enter for a chance to win a $200 Visa Gift card. 

VTA ACCESS Paratransit service is provided to eligible individuals with disabilities who cannot use conventional accessible bus and light rail transit service due to their physical, visual or cognitive disabilities.

Paratransit is shared ride public transportation, complementary to fixed route transit service. This means paratransit operates within the same service area and service times as VTA bus and light rail service. Customers can expect multiple pickups and drop offs along their trips, just like a bus.

The fare for a regular one-way paratransit trip is established at twice the one-way adult cash fare of VTA's fixed-route bus and light rail services.

VTA operates a diverse paratransit fleet including cutaways, minivans, sedans, and taxis. Customers can expect any of these vehicles for their trip unless an accessible vehicle is required.

Applications, Fares & Trip Information

VTA ACCESS Paratransit is intended to serve as a "safety net" for individuals who, because of their disabilities, are unable to use fixed route bus or light rail.

Eligibility is based upon your functional ability to use the bus or light rail system, some, or all of the time. Eligibility is not based on your age, economic condition, or inability to drive an automobile.

Please note that having a medical condition or a disability does not automatically qualify you for ADA eligibility.

Any individual with a disability, interested in ADA paratransit services are required to go through our eligibility certification process, which includes a one-page Data Card following by a phone interview. If you are the applicant’s conservator, guardian, or legal representative please provide supporting documentation with the Data Card.

To request a Data Card by mail call eligibility at (408) 321-2381 .

• Eligibility Data Card
• Español (Spanish)
• Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)
• 中文 (Chinese - Simplified)

To Submit Data Cards 

• Mail or Drop Off to VTA: 3331 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95134 or 2 North Market Street, San Jose, CA 95113
• Fax: (408) 238-1015

Phone Interview

The phone interview takes approximately 30 minutes.

During the phone interview, you will be asked questions about your functional abilities and limitations that may keep you from independently using bus or light rail services for some or all your trips. This will assist in determining whether or not you are eligible for paratransit services.

If necessary, VTA ACCESS eligibility staff will follow up with the physician or licensed professional listed on your Data Card to validate disabilities and functional limitations.

Within 21 days following the phone interview, you will receive an eligibility determination letter by mail.

Eligibility Determination & Appeals

Your eligibility determination is based on the information you or your legal representative provided us on your Data Card and phone interview.

You can be granted unconditional  eligibility which means there are no conditions where you can take bus or light rail for your trips, so you can use ACCESS paratransit services anytime.

Conditional eligibility means there are sometimes where you can take bus or light rail, and there are other times where you cannot. When you are unable to make a trip on the bus or light rail you may book that trip on ACCESS paratransit. On your determination letter it will state under what conditions you can use ACCESS paratransit. Currently you decide when you can take the bus and when the need a paratransit trip. So, an ACCESS representative will not deny a trip because of your eligibility conditions, but we encourage you to take the bus when you can but are welcome to book with ACCESS paratransit when you need to.

Temporary means you only require ACCESS paratransit services for a short period of time while you recover, stabilize your condition, or other short-term circumstances.

If you are found ineligible it is based on the information you provided, and it was determined that you have the mobility necessary to use bus and light rail.

If you do not agree with your eligibility determination you are welcomed to appeal your eligibility determination within 60 days from the date on your eligibility determination letter in writing to 3331 N. First Street, San Jose, CA 95134 or by email at [email protected] . ( See Rider’s Guide for additional information )

All customers are required to reapply at the end of their eligibility certification period.

Paratransit ID Cards

If your application is approved, you will receive a start-up kit in the mail which includes instructions on how to use the paratransit service.

You will also receive a paratransit ID card as proof of eligibility. If you are able to take some of your trips on fixed route, we will arrange to take your photo for your paratransit ID card, as this will allow you to ride free on VTA Bus and Light Rail service.

Mobility Devices

During the eligibility certification process you are certified to use specific mobility devices. If your mobility device changes you are required to call Eligibility to have your new device certified.

Thinking of getting a new mobility device?

Please remember our ramps and lifts are designed to accommodate standard wheelchairs. For more information you are welcome to call eligibility.

Your client account is set up during the eligibility certification process. All fares are deducted from your client account at the time of booking.

If you do not have sufficient funds to pay for your trips you will not be able to complete the booking. If you do not take your planned trip the fare will be returned to your client account.

Paratransit trips can be up to twice the amount of a bus ticket. Currently Standard trips are $4 and Premium trips are $16.

Before booking a premium trip, your reservationists will verify that you accept the premium fare. Premium trips include same day trip requests, second vehicles, extended service area, or open return trips.

Closing Client Account

For those individuals who no longer need the service are welcome to send an email to [email protected] or call us at 408-321-2300 to request an account closure. If the individual has passed away a death certificate will be required.

Please note your request to close your client account this will terminate your eligibility, and if you wish to use the service in the future you will have to reapply for eligibility.

Call us one to three days in advance at (408) 321-2380 between 8 am and before 5 pm.

All trips must be booked before 5 pm the day before otherwise it will be considered a Same Day Trip.

When calling in please have the following information ready:

• Date and time of pick up or drop off (appointment time)
• Exact addresses
• Mobility device you will be traveling with
• If you will need a PCA or Companion

If you are scheduling multiple trips please on having at least one hour in-between pick up windows.

Trip negotiations

ACCESS provides about 2,000 trips daily. To ensure on time performance and quality service, trips are scheduled pursuant to ADA guidelines with a 30-minute pick up window that is negotiated up to one hour before or after a requested pick-up time.

For example, if a customer requests a pick-up time of 9 am then the customer can be provided a 30-minute pick-up window any time between 8 am and 10 am.

Pick up & Drop off (Appointment time)

When scheduling your trip, you can either specify what time you would like to be picked up or what time you need to be at your destination by also known as an appointment time but not both.

If you are going to a doctor’s appointment and need to be there by 10 am then the ACCESS representative may offer you an 8:00 am to 8:30 am pick up window to ensure you arrive at your appointment on time. If you request to be picked up later and want a 9:00 am to 9:30 am pick up window for your 10 am doctors’ appointment, then we are not able to guarantee that you arrive at your appointment on time.

Ready Outside

Your paratransit vehicle may arrive any time during your 30-minute window. To avoid no shows or any delays please be waiting outside or inside where you can see when the vehicle arrives.

Driver Assistance

Drivers can provide assistance between the first exterior door of your pickup location to the vehicle as long as they do not lose sight of their vehicle for more than a few seconds, offer an arm for stability, deploy the vehicle ramp or lift, and ensure your mobility device is secured. If you need additional assistance, please plan on traveling with a Personal Care Attendant.

Cancellations and No Shows

To cancel a trip please call 2 hours before the start of your pickup window to avoid a No Show.

• No shows are when vehicles arrive at your pickup location and can’t not find you.
• Cancel at door is when the vehicle arrives at your pickup location, and you decline the trip.
• Late cancels are when you cancel a trip two hours before the start of your trip and may be considered the same as a cancel at door.

If you display a pattern of no shows or cancel at door you may be subjected to a suspension.

Seriously Disruptive Behavior

Violent, seriously disruptive, or illegal conduct; poses a significant risk to the health or safety of others. Actions that are intentional and within the individual’s control are subjected to a written notice about the events and details, an appeal period, and a suspension.

Suspension Appeals

You will be mailed a letter summarizing your No Shows or Seriously Disruptive Behavior including follow up actions, and your next steps. If you do not agree with your suspension, you are welcome to make your request in writing.

Reasonable Modifications

You may request a reasonable modification by calling 408-321-2300 .

Reasonable modifications are only considered if a policy or practice would be discriminatory to someone based on their disability, and as long as the request does not alter the nature of service, cause an undue financial burden, or is a direct threat to someone’s health or safety. For example, complementary paratransit service is unable to accommodate requests like designated vehicle type, exclusive or direct trips, or exclusion of service animals since these requests would alter the nature of our service.

All information about the process, materials necessary to apply for eligibility, and notices and determinations concerning eligibility are available in accessible formats upon request.  Formats include, but are not limited to: audio, large print, Braille, electronic files emailed or on computer diskette, and sign language. Paratransit provides language assistance to any individual in need of translation services.

Related Documents

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