It seems Longleat is continuing to think about the little details that make a big difference. The Wiltshire estate has introduced sensory bags for visitors, aimed at supporting those with sensory sensitivities and helping families enjoy their day without unnecessary stress.
The bags, which can be borrowed from guest services for a refundable deposit, contain ear defenders, an emotions fan, and a selection of fidget and squishy toys. It’s a thoughtful touch for families who may already carry similar items but, in the rush of preparing for a big day out, might not always remember them.
Scott Ashman, Head of Operations at Longleat, said: “We want all our guests to have the best possible experience and recognise that each visit is different. We already highlight areas that are noisy, crowded, hot or quiet, as well as spaces with free-flying animals. The sensory bags are another way of making sure families feel supported during their visit. They’re already proving very popular.”
The move follows a series of accessibility improvements at the park, including a new map introduced last year marking disabled parking, wheelchair-friendly routes and clearer signage.
Kim Ovens, Education and Engagement Lead, added: “We’ve worked with SEN specialists to create social stories on our website, giving people a flavour of what to expect before they arrive. Accessibility is something we take very seriously, and we’re already looking at further improvements in the months ahead.”
Each bag and its contents are cleaned between uses, ensuring they are ready for the next family to collect. Alongside queue assist schemes and detailed accessibility information for all events, the initiative shows Longleat is determined to make a day out at the safari park as inclusive as possible.
