Why Accessible Days Out Matter
Exploring the UK can be an exciting experience; there are plenty of popular venues built with accessibility in mind that can foster independence, wellbeing and social connection. Whether you are planning a day out for yourself or a loved one, there are plenty of wheelchair-friendly activities across the UK.
At Wheelfreedom, we are committed to elevating lives by opening up opportunities and experiences. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of activities and venues with accessible facilities, ranging from nature walks to inclusive attractions and family theme parks.
1. Wheelchair-Accessible Nature Trails
Going out to nature trails can be a calming experience. Outdoor activities are often possible with some planning ahead and the appropriate equipment. It is recommended to find nature trails with flat trails, paved paths, accessible toilets and rest areas.
Popular wheelchair-friendly trails include:
Sherwood Pines Forest Park (Nottinghamshire) – The park is built with disabled parking and step-free, level access to its toilets and information centre. There is also a disabled toilet with an emergency alarm cord and offers a larger space for a carer or specific needs. They offer trails of different complexities, with their easiest trail surfaced.
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (London) – Kew has extensive wheelchair-accessible pathways, and a map indicating which pathways are accessible and which are steep. There is step-free access to most glasshouses, accessible toilets, and a mobility scooter hire available on site.
On outdoor terrains, we recommend using an all-terrain or off-road powerchair as it will have larger wheels and suspension to tackle rougher grounds. Speak to our specialists to explore different options for your health condition and needs.
2. Accessible Beaches in the UK
Especially during warmer periods in the year, going to the beach can be an enjoyable experience. Several beaches in the UK offer level access, smooth promenades, and inclusive amenities for wheelchair users.
Wheelchair-friendly beaches include:
Bournemouth Beach – Equipped with accessible toilets and beach huts. For your convenience, they can provide beach wheelchairs fitted with balloon tyres. There are also mobi-mats and wooden boardwalks available to get closer to the sea and reach the sand more easily.
Summerleaze Beach – The beach offers mobility scooters, transit wheelchairs and sand chairs for hire. It also comes with accessible beach huts, toilets and cafes.
3. Museums and Galleries with Step-Free Access
Many museums and educational attractions in the UK are fully wheelchair-accessible and free to enter. These attractions are indoors with step-free access, making them ideal for relaxed days out.
Wheelchair-accessible museums and attractions include:
The British Museum (London) – Permits you to use a mobility scooter inside the museum, given you set the speed to 4 mph and also offers transit wheelchairs during your visit. The museum has a step-free, easy-access route at its main entrance, lifts and accessible toilets.
Science Museum (London) – All lifts are accessible, and you can book to borrow a wheelchair in advance. Keep in mind there is a limited number of wheelchairs available. There are also accessible parking spaces and toilets.
National Railway Museum (York) – The museum is wheelchair accessible with accessible lifts and toilets.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium – Fully wheelchair-accessible with step-free routes, lifts, and accessible toilets, making it an ideal central London attraction.
4. Theme Parks
Theme parks may seem daunting, but many UK attractions have built their parks with accessible facilities. With step-free routes, accessible toilets, wheelchair hire, and ride access schemes, theme parks can be an enjoyable day out with the right planning.
Wheelchair-friendly theme parks include:
Alton Towers – This theme park offers disabled parking, free carer access, accessible toilets and hire options. Additionally, they offer a Ride Access Pass for those who have difficulty queueing for long periods due to a physical condition.
Chessington World of Adventures – They are equipped with disabled parking, free carer access, wheelchair hire, accessible toilets, and a Ride Access Pass for eligible guests.
5. Accessible Zoos & Wildlife Parks
If you or a loved one would like to spend a day with animals, we have gathered a few animal attractions with accessible paths and facilities designed for wheelchair users.
Some accessible zoos can include:
Chester Zoo – Chester is ranked as one of the most accessible zoos in the UK, with disabled parking, free caregiver access, accessible pathways and toilets. You can also hire scooters and wheelchairs for free, with a refundable deposit.
ZSL London Zoo – There are step-free routes, accessible toilet facilities and mobility aids available. The staff are trained to assist you during your experience.
Longleat Safari Park – Longleat has accessible toilets with a hoist and accessible attractions, such as an adventure castle or jungle cruise, with dedicated space for wheelchair users. There are disabled parking areas and mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs for hire at a fee.
The Right Wheelchair Makes All the Difference
A day out and about can be less stressful with inclusive venues, improved facilities, and the right mobility equipment. Whether you’re visiting the beach or a museum, accessibility shouldn’t hold you back.
We offer a range of wheelchairs, scooters and powerchairs built for various terrains for hire. Call 0800 025 8005 to speak to our team or hire equipment. Alternatively, browse our products online, ranging from lightweight foldable wheelchairs to powerful off-road electric wheelchairs for your next adventure.
