It can sometimes feel daunting to travel as a wheelchair user. This is the last thing that you want, as travel should be fun and exciting – not a stressful challenge. The good news is that the UK has become more wheelchair friendly in recent years. This helps to make travel less of a problem.
You simply need to find places where using a wheelchair is not an issue. Here are some ideas to provide you with the inspiration that you need:
Visit the theatres in London
Spending time in London’s theatreland can be a fantastic experience. You can take in a romantic play or buy a ticket to one of the famous musicals in London. The best thing about going to the theatre in London, as a wheelchair user, is that great strides have been taken to make theatres accessible to everyone.
Find some bargains at Cardiff Market
Cardiff is one of the most accessible cities in the UK, and it’s a great place to take a trip if you use a wheelchair. In the centre of the city is Cardiff Market. It’s a thriving marketplace where you can buy anything from fresh oranges to a coat for the winter. There are also plenty of stalls where you can get a hot drink and a bite to eat.
Learn about the Titanic story in Belfast
The story of the Titanic is one of the most famous in history. It’s a sad but interesting tale of a disaster that was never expected to happen. You can learn all about the history of the Titanic at the Titanic Experience in Belfast.
The experience is fully accessible and there are also integrated loop systems, to help visitors who are hearing impaired. You can learn about the construction of a ship that was meant to be indestructible, at the place where it was built. You can also see some original exhibits from the ship.
Enjoy the Edinburgh experience
Edinburgh is known as one of the most disabled-friendly cities in the UK. There are many places that you can easily visit as a wheelchair user. If you decide to take a trip to the city, you may want to consider these activities.
- A visit to Edinburgh castle.
- Taking in the shops on the Royal Mile.
- Exploring the Royal Botanic Garden.
- Touring the city on a recognised tour bus.
Experience the magic of the ‘The Beatles Story’ in Liverpool
You cannot fail to have heard the music of The Beatles, being arguably the biggest group in the history of music. In their home city of Liverpool, you can visit The Beatles Story. This is a place where you can find out all about the Fab Four. You can also benefit from a range of accessibility features including lifts and accessible toilets.
Support the National Trust at Beningbrough Hall
The National Trust has an Access to All scheme which means that their properties across the UK have been made wheelchair friendly.
One of these properties is Beningbrough Hall which is located between York, Harrogate and Leeds. The hall itself is impressive, as are the surrounding gardens. You can take a look at the impressive architecture inside and then enjoy the beauty of the outside space.
There are also galleries to admire and you can even try making your own works of art. The grounds of the hall are not just about gardens. There are woodland trails and play areas that are ideal if you take your kids with you.
Get some adventure in the New Forest
The New Forest is one of the most stunning areas of the country – and it’s wheelchair-friendly. There are many experiences that you can enjoy, as a wheelchair user. You can follow the trails or you may prefer to take to horseback.
You can also get a high level of adventure, at Avon Tyrrell. This is an outdoor adventure centre that is suitable for people of all ages. You do not need to worry about being restricted because you are a wheelchair user. There are hoists and pieces of special equipment that you can use. This means that you can experience the acceleration of a zip wire, conquer a climbing wall and try your hand at archery. You can even take to the water in a canoe.
Whatever access needs you have, there are plenty of places that you can visit in the UK. Hopefully, this selection of possibilities has helped to inspire you.
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Written by Ella Hendrix
Ella is a versatile freelance writer, currently covering topics on family wellbeing, ageing matters and activities for the elderly.