In many ways the UK is one of the best countries for disabled people when compared to a lot of other nations, despite the recent welfare reforms that have gathered a lot of negative press. In the last 20 or more years anti-discrimination laws have been enforced ensuring as many places as possible are easily accessible.
This is encouraging for anyone with a disability who is thinking of visiting the UK, but there are still a number of factors to consider for your trip to go smoothly. As with any holiday, the better you plan travel and your itinerary the more fun the experience should be.
Accommodation
Thankfully it’s hard to find many places of accommodation in the UK that don’t cater for those with disabilities. The majority of hotels, travel lodges and hostels should have easy access for wheelchair users along with all the facilities required to meet your needs, including a bathroom and suitable bed.
If you’re hoping to go on a countryside retreat then it can be more difficult finding a bed and breakfast that is as accommodating. Considering many B&Bs are in traditional cottages or buildings it can be harder to adapt aside from installing a ramp at the front steps. Check beforehand that they will be able to meet your needs.
Transport
All buses and the majority of trains in the UK have disabled seats at the front to make using public transport as stress-free as possible. When getting a taxi too you can find those which accommodate Motability users and those with other disabilities.
Driving around the British Isles is another good choice in reliable disabled cars and vehicles. These can be hired from various places. Many locations will have their own designated disabled parking spaces too, so driving to and parking should be no problem.
Activities
There are many accessible tourist attractions across the UK, whether you’re travelling solo, with a family around the north or south. London’s Science museum is incredibly popular and is great for deaf, blind and visitors with other disabilities. Cadbury World is a national treasure and its Cadabra ride has a specially adapted mobile car.
Caernarfon Castle, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Titanic Belfast are just three more highly accessible attractions in the UK. Red Kite spotting in Wales and iconic destinations like Giant’s Causeway can also be enjoyed whatever the situation. Always check ahead to be doubly sure, but these attractions are all a good place to start.
