Frequently asked questions
Below you’ll find some helpful FAQs. If there is anything else you need to know about or are just curious about that isn’t covered here, please let us know by emailing us or phoning us on 01372 668 942
Children – how many is too many?
500 is the biggest school group we have booked to date, so numbers are not an issue! However, we will always insist that there is a minimum of 1 adult for every 5 children.
What is the minimum number of children needed to qualify for the school/group rate?
If you have a very small school or only want to treat a very select number of pupils, then 15 is the minimum. All bookings need to be made in advance.
What happens if one member of our group can’t come?
Hobblers are not unreasonable people, so if there is a genuine issue we will do our very best to accommodate any changes.
When can we come?
School visits are offered Monday - Friday during term time, subject to availability.
How long can we stay?
As long as you like, essentially! On off-peak days, we open at 9.30am and close at 5.30pm (teachers – if you manage that long we will give you a special medal!)
Coaches – can we park them?
Yes! We love coaches, but only 5 at any one time. Therefore, please make sure you pre-book your coach so that we can allocate it a space in our car park.
Coach drivers – what’s there for me?
We don’t think it's fair that the coach driver has to sit in his coach while everyone else gets to have fun - so each school group booking gets a free ‘coach driver admission ticket’, which includes a hot drink on us!
Can we bring our own picnics and Hobblenosh?
Of course. We have numerous picnic areas, and specific covered areas for school groups just in case it rains. We do provide picnic lunches and/or room hire for groups, so please remember to request these at the time of booking.
Can you help with our risk assessment?
Of course - our risk assessment can be found here.
Is there a shop where children can buy souvenirs and gifts?
We have the very exciting MERRYMAKERS shop within Hobbledown where there are lots of fabulous souvenirs that can be purchased. Our shop is not big, so we ask that you visit in small groups, and that all children are supervised.
What happens if we lose a Hobbler?
We recommend prior to your visit that you inform all children of the procedure if they get lost. We suggest that the Courtyard by the indoor playbarn be designated as your meeting point, and that all children be directed there if they become separated from the group. Also, children can approach any member of staff (clearly identified by their badge or those in costume) for help. Upon arrival, we require schools to leave their completed school information form with the ticket office so we are able to get in contact with the visiting teachers in case of an emergency.
