Accessibility at Chessington: A Step-by-Step Guide For Families

If you’re planning a visit to Chessington World of Adventures and someone in your family has additional needs, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make your day smoother, calmer, and more magical.

Whether you’re visiting with a child who is neurodivergent, has a physical disability, or simply needs a little extra support, there are systems in place to help. Here’s exactly what we did—and what I’d recommend to anyone planning a similar trip.

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Check If You’re Eligible For a Ride Access Pass

The Ride Access Pass (RAP) is designed for guests who find it difficult to wait in queues due to a disability or condition. You’ll need to apply online before your trip.

How to apply:

1. Visit the Merlin Ride Access Pass registration page
2. Create an account and upload evidence of eligibility (such as a letter from a medical professional or DLA/PIP documentation).
3. Wait for approval (this can take up to 14 working days).
4. Once approved, you’ll receive confirmation and access to the RAP booking portal.

📝 Important: You must complete this before your visit—they no longer accept documentation on the day.

Prebook Your Ride Access Pass for Your Visit

Once approved, you need to prebook your RAP for each day you plan to use it.

To prebook:

1. Go to chessington.reserveandride.co.uk
2. Log in using the same email address from your RAP account.
3. Select your visit date and redeem your voucher.
4. You’ll receive a digital Ride Access Pass for each guest approved under your account.

🧠 Tip: You’ll need to repeat this process for every day you’re visiting. It’s free to book but subject to availability, so do it as early as possible.

Understand How The Ride Access System Works

Once you’re in the park, here’s how to use your Ride Access Pass:

1. Open the Reserve and Ride site on your phone and log in.
2. Select the ride you’d like to go on.
3. You’ll be given a return time based on the current queue length.
4. You’re free to explore the park, get food, or take a break while you wait.
5. When your time arrives, go to the Reserve and Ride entrance for that ride.
6. Show your QR code and enjoy the ride!

🎢 Each RAP holder can bring up to 3 people with them—so for a family of 5, just rotate who rides with who.

Carer Tickets & Concessions

If someone in your party needs support, Chessington offers a free carer ticket alongside a paid ticket for the disabled guest.

To book a carer ticket:

1. Select “carer ticket” when booking your general admission online.
2. You’ll need to bring your eligibility evidence with you to the entrance.
3. This ticket is scanned separately from the main guest’s ticket.

Accessible Parking, Toilets & Changing Places

• Blue Badge parking is available close to the main entrance—just follow the signage.
• Accessible toilets are located throughout the park and clearly marked on the map.
• There’s a fully equipped Changing Places facility, ideal if your child needs more space, a hoist, or adult-sized changing bench.

🧻 You’ll find the Changing Places location near the Lodge Gate entrance.

Quiet Areas & Sensory Needs

If your child is neurodivergent or experiences sensory overwhelm, Chessington has quieter areas to decompress:

• The Zoo and SEA LIFE are great calmer zones with fewer crowds.
• Grassy areas near the Adventure Tree Carousel can be peaceful for picnics or a breather.
• Indoor queue areas and shows can be overwhelming—noise-cancelling headphones or visual timers might help.

🎧 We also bring fidget toys, our own visual schedule, and snacks to keep routines in place.

On-Site Hotel Accessibility

If you’re staying at the Azteca or Safari Hotel:

• Ask for an accessible room if you need it—these include wider doors, accessible bathrooms, and low-level features.
• Let the hotel know if you have any dietary needs or sensory concerns—they’re usually happy to help.

Final Tips For A Calmer Visit

• Arrive early to avoid the main entrance rush.
• Bring your own comforts like ear defenders, sunglasses, or a favourite toy.
• Use the Merlin Annual Pass portal to book your visit early if you’re a passholder.
• Prepare your child ahead of time—watch ride videos, talk through the plan, and use social stories if helpful.
• Take breaks often—don’t feel like you have to do everything.

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