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.

 

What are the terms and conditions for payment?

All invoices need to be paid in full 14 days before your visit. Bookings will be cancelled 14 days before where payment has not been received. 

The cancellation of bookings can be honoured up to 4 weeks before the booking date with no charge.

Please note the below charges if cancellations are required closer to the booked date:

Bookings cancelled within 28 days of their booking date - 50% of the invoice amount will be payable.

Bookings cancelled between 14 & 28 days of the booking - 75% of the invoice amount will be payable.

 

What are the terms and conditions for my two free raffle tickets? 

  • The two free raffle tickets will be issued automatically with every confirmed school booking made from 05.10.2024. 
  • Raffle tickets are for general admission entry only. 
  • Tickets will be included as part of the same transaction at the point of booking, ensuring all records are maintained in one place without the need for separate documentation.
  • Schools do not need to submit a separate request for tickets; they will receive them at the time of booking.
  • The free raffle tickets are non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or any other items.
  • This offer is valid for school bookings made during the promotion period.
  • The Escapade group reserves the right to modify or cancel this promotion at any time without prior notice. 
  • We reserve the right to withdraw the promotion without refund for misuse of the voucher or breach of terms and conditions.
  • By participating in this promotion, schools agree to abide by these terms and conditions.