What other ways has accessible travel improved in recent years?
Changes in the way bookings are managed - as well as many technological advancements - have helped to pave the way for better accessibility. Here are some examples:
Contactless check-in
There’s often no need to wait in long queues to get into your hotel room or self-catering property after a long journey.
Virtual tours
Guests can now familiarise themselves with their surroundings using virtual tours. This can be particularly useful for finding accessible entry points and exits before arrival.
New requirements for railway companies
In line with new guidelines, rail companies have reduced the notice period for boarding and booking assistance. It’s now a minimum of six hours before travel and will reduce down to two in April 2022. For more information on how to request passenger assistance, you can find many resources on
this page
from the National Rail Enquiries.
Holiday accommodation filters on booking websites
Holiday accommodation sites are starting to include accessibility filters, which instantly display homes with accessible features.
Looking towards the future of accessible travel
While accessible travel is becoming easier for those with additional needs, there’s still some way to go in order to cut down the number of extra steps needed while planning and booking transport and accommodation. Here are three areas we think could do with some further improvements when it comes to disability and travel:
Self-catering holiday accommodation descriptions including more information on the accessibility of their properties
How many steps? How far is the driveway or nearest parking spot to the front door? Having descriptive, dedicated sections for each property could cut down the number of enquiries required to make a booking.
Hotels being more transparent about their accessibility options
This type of information isn’t always clear when booking online, and could save guests a lot of time on phone calls or emails.
Making signage clearer
Hotels and holiday homes leaving instructions or menus in larger print, and in an easy to read font for those with reading or visual impairments.
Accessible hotels directory
Planning a hotel getaway? Here are some of the most accessible hotels in the UK, with detailed information on their available facilities - as provided by 'AccessAble', a leading online accessibility guide that assesses accessible hotel rooms and has been helping make holidays easier for over 20 years.
Ramada by Wyndham Cambridge
Address: Extra Services A14 M11, Boxworth, Cambridgeshire, CB23 4WU
Telephone: 01954 267 176
Dumfries House Lodge
Address: Dumfries House, Cumnock, East Ayrshire, KA18 2NJ
Telephone: 01290 429 920
Abertay Guest House
Address: 65 Monifieth Road, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, DD5 2RW
Telephone: 01382 730 381
Oxley Residence (Oxley House)
Address: Oxley Residences, Weetwood Road, Leeds, LS16 8HL
Telephone: 0113 343 7777
Abode Chester
Address: Grosvenor Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2DJ
Telephone: 01244 347 000
Holiday Inn Express Chester
Address: The Racecourse, New Crane Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2LY
Telephone: 0870 990 4065
Angel Hotel
Address: 3 Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LT
Telephone: 01284 714 007
Angels Hotel
Address: 114 Main Street, Uddingston, South Lanarkshire, G71 7HZ
Telephone: 01698 812 106
Travelodge Roborough
Address: 399 Tavistock Road, Plymouth, PL6 7HB
Telephone: 08715 591 840
Arbor City Hotel
Address: 12 Osborne Street, Aldgate East, London, E1 6TE
Telephone: 020 7247 3313
Accessible holiday cottage and bungalow directory
Prefer the independence of a self-catering cottage or bungalow? From luxury cabins with hot tubs to cosy retreats that feel just like home, you’ll find plenty of holiday cottages with good accessibility. Here are some accessible homes and holiday bungalows for the disabled in the UK, available to book on Snaptrip:
A delightful ground floor cottage in Thorndon, Suffolk. Sleeping up to two guests with a lovely private patio, it also allows up to three pets - ideal for those planning on bringing their pooch along.
A charming one-bedroom cottage in the Arun District of West Sussex, set entirely on the ground floor with a spacious open-plan layout.
A lovely one-bedroom thatched cottage set within the New Forest National Park, with all rooms set on the ground floor.
A single-storey one-bedroom barn conversion in Bromyard, Herefordshire. This cosy retreat offers a large open-plan living and kitchen space, as well as a full wet room with handrails.
A gorgeous two-bedroom cottage in Honiton, East Devon. Thoughtfully designed with wheelchair users in mind, it features a Stannah stairlift, an open-plan living and dining room, and an accessible bathroom suite.
Accessible city breaks
Love the hustle and bustle of a city centre? Here are some of our most popular destinations for wheelchair accessible holidays in the city. Amid their busy streets, you’ll find a whole host of accessible attractions, events and places to eat.
London
Best for:
Enjoying a spot of sightseeing in the British Museum or the London Eye
The city of London is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions - Big Ben, the London Eye and St. Paul’s Cathedral - all of which are accessible. The bustling capital offers endless opportunities for sightseeing, shopping and dining out - from the upmarket district of Knightsbridge to the lively streets of Soho.
Other accessible attractions include the British Museum with lift access to its floors, Buckingham Palace, and the Tate Modern, which offers the hire of mobility scooters and wheelchairs.
Bristol
Best for:
Watching a live performance at the Trinity Centre, a fully accessible venue across both floors
The vibrant city of Bristol offers something for all. With more than 400 parks and gardens, a fabulous music scene, and an abundance of excellent restaurants and cafes - it’s no wonder it has been voted as one of the best places to live in the UK.
This creative city is also a UNESCO City of Film - the perfect destination for any movie buff! Some of the city’s accessible cinemas and theares include the Showcase Bristol Avonmeads which has wheelchair spaces, hearing assistance, and autism friendly screenings available, and Watershed - here, the first floor is accessible via lift, with level access to all other areas.
Liverpool
Best for:
Having a drink in the iconic Cavern Club, which has lift access into the club
Liverpool is another UK city ideal for a weekend break, whether you’re visiting as a couple or a family. Filled with venues, bars, restaurants and museums, some of its most famous landmarks and attractions include Tate Liverpool with level access to the gallery, The Beatles Story which is accessible for wheelchairs and those who require hearing loops, and the Royal Albert Doc - an outdoor space with accessible toilets available..
Bath
Best for:
Indulging in a relaxing spa day
The historic city of Bath is lined with elegant townhouses and remnants from its previous Roman inhabitants. After exploring the Roman Baths, you can experience a soothing spa day for yourself in the lovely Thermae Bath Spa - both of which are accessible. The baths are 90% accessible to wheelchair users, while the Thermae Bath Spa have lifts to each floor and offer assisted pool access chairs.
Brighton
Best for:
Spending a day beside the beach
Brighton is a bustling seaside city, boasting a lovely pier, many award-winning restaurants, and a whole host of interesting attractions. If you feel like spending a day on the beach, the city offers free use of all-terrain wheelchairs.
Accessible countryside getaways
Looking for peace and tranquillity? Escape the bustle of everyday life with these glorious country holiday destinations, renowned for their rolling hillsides and wild landscapes.
North Wales
Best for:
Spending some quality time in the Snowdonia National Park, along one of its many ‘Access for All’ walking routes
If you like your countryside with a little bit of drama, then North Wales is sure to please. With miles on end of rolling green valleys, backed by craggy, towering mountain peaks - it’s such a lovely setting for a weekend of exploration or perhaps just to unwind in the midst of its beauty! If you're visiting Snowdonia, make use of the
The Llwybrau Yr Wyddfa | Snowdon Walks App
. Can be used offline and guides walkers up the six main paths to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon). It's currently being updated to be more accessible too.
Yorkshire Dales
Best for:
Enjoying the many Miles without Stiles routes in the national park
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is another gorgeous destination renowned for its wild beauty. Did you know that it’s also a designated dark sky reserve? Home to some of the darkest skies in Britain, it’s not uncommon to catch a sight of planets, meteors, and at certain times of the year, the Northern Lights. Make use of
Access the Dales
- a platform that breaks down barriers by sharing information about accommodation, attractions, events, walks and facilities that cater to people with disabilities.
Somerset
Best for:
Making the most of all the amazing attractions in the region, including the lovely Hestercombe Gardens
You’ll find green spaces in abundance within the scenic county of Somerset. It’s also filled with unique attractions, many of which offer good accessibility. From discovering the grounds of palatial National Trust properties to scenic days out on the West Somerset Railway, you’re bound to find plenty to do here.
Devon
Best for:
Exploring the county’s many beauty spots
While many flock to Devon for its picturesque coastlines, there’s plenty to discover amid its gorgeous countryside. Boasting not one but five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the Blackdown Hills are well worth a visit - the flatter landscapes of Otterhead Lakes and Dunkeswell Airfield are two excellent accessible options.
If you’ve got the time, be sure to spend an afternoon in the Dartmoor National Park, too - the picturesque route to Shipley Bridge to the Avon Dam is completely stile-free and tarmacked.
Northumberland
Best for:
Checking out all the historic landmarks in the county
Head up North to enjoy the fresh country air in the Northumberland National Park. This gorgeous part of the county offers many accessible attractions and trails, including the Howick Hall Gardens with a level-access tea room and accessible pathways through the grounds.
Accessible seaside retreats
There’s something so lovely about escaping to the coast and taking it easy for a few days. If you’ve been dreaming about blue skies and golden sands, then these popular coastal destinations might be for you:
Cornwall
Best for:
Trying out an authentic Cornish pasty - it’s a must!
Famed for its aquamarine shores, golden beaches and for having its own subtropical microclimate - no list would be complete without mentioning the gorgeous county of Cornwall.
One of its most popular accessible attractions is the Eden Project in Bodelva, a unique botanical garden set on the site of an old china clay pit. All types of mobility vehicles are welcomed, and there is even the option to hire one of six powered chairs or an all-terrain ‘Tramper’ mobility scooter. There is also a Braille guidebook available and a text reader to interpret signs.
North Yorkshire
Best for:
Enjoying a traditional seaside break
North Yorkshire’s coast is lined with lovely towns and villages. If you like the buzz of a traditional resort, then Whitby offers all you need. Prefer your breaks a little quieter? The pretty village of Robin Hood’s Bay might just be what you’re looking for. Whitby offers many accessible attractions, including the Captain Cook Museum, the Lifeboat Museum, and the Visitor Centre - all of which can be accessed by wheelchair users.
Dorset
Best for:
Spending a weekend beside the Jurassic Coast
With over 185 million years of history nestled within its fossil-laden cliffs, Dorset’s coastline offers so much to discover. Some of the best accessible landmarks and attractions in the county include Abbotsbury Subtropical Gardens and Swannery in Weymouth, the Swanage Railway, and the stunning Durlston Castle and Country Park - just south of Swanage.
Pembrokeshire
Best for:
Enjoying the many easy-access walking routes along the coast
The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park boasts over 240 square miles of stunning coastline. Along the way, you’ll discover over 600 miles of public footpaths - many of which are entirely level and accessible.
Isle of Wight
Best for:
Spending an afternoon beside the golden sands of Shanklin Beach
Set just off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight is a busy little island with lots to see and do. Spend your weekend enjoying the sunshine from the sands of Shanklin - a beach with numerous access points, including concrete slipways. Or, enjoy an afternoon at the award-winning Monkey Haven rescue centre with its flat, wide pathways and accessible tea room.
Accessible paths and trails in the UK
There are lots of scenic paths and trails with good accessibility in the UK. From gorgeous coastal paths to scenic trails amid Wales’ bucolic countryside, here are five accessible routes that are well worth a visit:
Burnsall
Best for:
Yorkshire Dales
Length:
Under two miles
Visiting the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park? This scenic
Burnsall
route follows the River Wharfe, leading you to the village of Loup Scar. This ‘Miles without Stiles’ walk is well-surfaced, with no steep inclines or declines along the way. The country views you’ll get to enjoy along the way are absolutely sublime.
Blickling Estate
Best for:
Norfolk
Length:
Four miles
“
Blickling Estate
in Aylsham offers an all-weather trail around the perimeter of its park, leading you through enchanting woodlands and open countryside. One of the best times to visit is during the spring while the bluebells are out in full force. For those wanting to explore the route on wheels, Blickling’s cycle hire offers pedal-assisted e-bikes.”
- Kezia, National Trust
Tucked beside the main car park at the start and end of the loop you’ll find the Muddy Boots Café, serving a range of drinks as well as a selection of light bites, sandwiches and cakes. Perfect to top up your picnic ahead of your adventure, or to relax and enjoy and a well-earned treat at the end of it.
Tarka Trail
Best for:
North Devon
Length:
180 miles
Well, we certainly don’t expect you to fit the entire
Tarka Trail
in your trip, but if you are stopping in North Devon then it’s definitely worth spending an afternoon along one of its shorter trails. Winding through both the coast and countryside, it offers the best of both worlds. There’s a 30-mile path between Braunton and Meeth, which is fully accessible to those in wheelchairs.
Llandudno Promenade
Best for:
North Wales
Length:
Less than a mile
Soak up the sights of North Wales’ stunning coastline with this flat and tarmacked trail along the
Llandudno Promenade
. The promenade is flat, tarmac and wide, with seating dotted pretty much the full length. Access away from the promenade has dropped kerbs for wheelchair users.
As for pitstops, the promenade leads to the pier which is also accessible. There are more places to eat on there than you can shake a stick at, amusement arcades and it offers great views over the promenade. You can find information about the disabled toilet facilities in the town
here
.
Millennium Coastal Park
Best for:
Carmarthenshire
Length:
13 miles
The
Millennium Coastal Path
is a mostly flat and traffic-free walkway spanning over 13 miles along the scenic Carmarthenshire coast, linking the market town of Llanelli with the Pembrey Country Park. You’ll find various restaurants and cafes along the way - perfect for a quick pitstop before heading back to your accommodation.
Lowri from Discover Carmarthenshire states that this “stretch of the Wales Coast Path offers you everything you need, from great attractions offering a break from your walk or cycle, to delicious food, as well as welcoming places to stay”.
The best accessible beaches in the UK
Relax and enjoy the soothing sounds of the seaside from these accessible beaches in the UK.
Bournemouth Beach
Location:
Dorset
Those staying in the coastal town of Bournemouth will have over seven miles of award-winning beaches to make the most of. Among accessible features along
Bournemouth Beach
are a number of accessible parking spaces, toilet facilities, cliff lifts, wheelchair-accessible beach huts and the option of renting two beach wheelchairs for the day.
In addition, BCP Tourism reveals that “two wheelchair-accessible electric beach BBQs at Fisherman's Walk beach, between Boscombe and Southbourne are available from Easter until 31 October, between 10 am to 10 pm, on a first-come, first-serve basis. The fixed BBQ benches are 860mm high for ease of access to the cooktop by seated adults."
Perranporth Beach
Location:
Cornwall
With miles and miles of golden sand,
Perranporth Beach
is a truly idyllic stretch of coastline. Cornwall Mobility provides all-terrain sand chairs, giving you more freedom to explore this lovely beach. After enjoying the fresh sea air, you can head into one of the many eateries set close to its shores.
Gelliswick Bay
Location:
Pembrokeshire
If you’re planning a stay in Pembrokeshire, then
Gelliswick Bay
is well worth the visit. A mixture of silt and shingle, this sheltered bay has a car park along the seafront and allows easy access via concrete ramps.
Whitby Beach
Location:
North Yorkshire
Whitby Beach
is the epitome of a traditional seaside resort - lined with brightly coloured beach huts, deckchairs and the sounds of donkeys clopping along the seafront. There are ramps down to the beach itself, but the pier is nice and flat - and you can still enjoy the lovely sea views from it.
Summerleaze Beach
Location:
Cornwall
Just five minutes from the town centre of Bude,
Summerleaze Beach
is a very popular beach among families and local surfers looking to catch a few waves. This golden stretch of coast has its own beachside cafe, as well as disabled-access toilets, and all-terrain wheelchairs - or sand chairs - are available from the Summerleaze Beach Office.
The best accessible attractions in the UK
There are many fantastic attractions offering good accessibility across the UK. Here are some of our favourites - from alpaca farms in the Lake District to wild woodlands down in Hampshire!
Alpacaly Ever After
Location:
Keswick, Lake District
“Who doesn’t want to spend their afternoon getting to know a pack of cute and cuddly alpacas and llamas?
Alpacaly Ever After
is a Social Enterprise that re-home alpacas and llamas from all over the country, located in the beautiful surroundings of the Lake District National Park.”
- John, Alpacaly Ever After
Their alpaca walking experience can be adapted for those in wheelchairs, as well as offering other unique activities that are suitable for those with mental and physical disabilities
Hestercombe Gardens
Location:
Taunton, Somerset
Just ten minutes outside the town of Taunton,
Hestercombe Gardens
are a delight to wander around in any season. These palatial gardens have been beautifully maintained over three centuries, with 50 acres of ponds, orangery lawns and rose gardens waiting to be discovered. There are many accessibility routes through the gardens, which can easily be found on the garden’s official website. You can also hire a four-wheel All-Terrain ‘Tramper’ mobility scooter if you’d like to get around with ease.
Moors Valley Country Park
Location:
Ringwood, Hampshire
Set within the pretty surroundings of South West Hampshire, the
Moors Valley Country Park
offers a number of accessible - and incredibly scenic - footpaths through the forest. The park offers 13 disabled parking spaces, close to the kiosk. The visitor centre has wide automatic doors and is 100 metres away from the car park along a tarmac footpath, which is mostly flat with some short sections at a gradient of 10%. Within the centre, you’ll also find wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, disabled toilets and the option for Braille maps.
The Roman Baths
Location:
Bath, Somerset
Discover more than 2,000 years of history at
The Roman Baths
, unsurprisingly set in the gorgeous city of Bath. These impeccably preserved thermae offer a glimpse of what things were like during the first few decades of Roman Britain. The baths are 90% accessible to wheelchair users, while those with visual or hearing impairments can benefit from guides using British Sign Language or a fully descriptive audio tour.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Location:
Bristol, Somerset
From musicians to artists, the city of Bristol seems to attract many creatives to its bustling streets.
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
boasts a unique variety of collections - celebrating everything from local art to world history. Inside, the museum has many accessible features including a large level entry, a platform lift, two wheelchairs for loan, and staff on all floors should you ever need further assistance.
Useful resources
Accessible travel companies
Enable Travel:
Award-winning accessible travel specialists.
Limitless Travel:
Accessible travel company, founded and run by people with disabilities.
Sage Traveling:
Accessible trip planners offering a wealth of travel advice.
Charities & helpful groups
National Accessible Scheme (NAS):
A national scheme that aims to make it easier for travellers to find accessible accommodation and experiences.
Travability:
A worldwide group providing accessible travel information and tools.
SATH:
Provides resources and tips on accessible travel.
WheelchairTravel.org:
Provides regular reviews and guides to the best accessible destinations.