Being in a wheelchair doesn’t mean you have to stick to visiting your usual places – you can be a jet-setter (or train-setter) from the comfort of your chair. Many cities in the UK are implementing more and more accessibility measures so that more and more people can explore new destinations with their mobility aids.
Here are five of Complete Care Shop’s favourite wheelchair-friendly places to visit across the UK, all promising unforgettable experiences for you and your loved ones.
England
Manchester
Manchester is an incredible and dynamic city with a strong commitment to accessibility. It’s filled with wheelchair-friendly attractions like the Etihad Stadium, the Science and Industry Museum, and the iconic Lowry Theatre, all of which feature wheelchair access, accessible toilets, disabled parking, and lifts or stair-free access. The city’s public transport system, including its tram network, is designed to accommodate wheelchair users, making navigation hassle-free.
Bath
Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its gorgeous Georgian architecture and Roman baths. The city has made great strides in accessibility, and its picturesque streets and shops are also easy to navigate, making it a perfect place to visit in a wheelchair. The Roman Baths have ramps, lifts, and video guides, and The Thermae Bath Spa, a modern addition to the city, offers accessible lifts and changing facilities. There are sloping corridors and ramp access to all locations (except Thermae Bath Spa Shop). They’ve also taken precautions to make their pool areas more accessible; all pools have an assisted pool access chair or hoist, and although electric wheelchairs aren’t permitted, they offer poolside wheelchairs. Thermae Bath Spa also has a £20 discount on spa sessions for all disabled guests and their carers.
Northern Ireland
Belfast
Belfast has quickly transformed into one of the UK’s most inclusive cities and a lovely wheelchair-accessible place to visit. Here, you’ll be able to see the fully accessible Titanic Belfast Museum, with its ramps, lifts and audio-visual aids. If the weather allows, visit the Belfast Waterfront or Botanic Gardens, which offer wide and smooth accessible paths to navigate and seating areas.
Scotland
Edinburgh
Edinburgh, with its cobblestones, medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town, might seem challenging, but it offers plenty of wheelchair-accessible places to visit. Head to Edinburgh Castle, one of Scotland's most famous landmarks, with accessible routes and shuttle services for those in wheelchairs. The National Museum of Scotland is another must-see, with lifts and wide spaces that make exploring its fascinating exhibits a joy. Don’t forget Princes Street Gardens, located in the heart of the city, where you can soak in breathtaking views and enjoy a gentle roll through nature.
Wales
Cardiff
Cardiff is another charming city with several wheelchair-friendly attractions for you to visit. Cardiff Castle offers accessible tours with dedicated routes and mobility-friendly facilities, and at The Millennium Centre, you can catch a show or simply admire the building itself. It is fully accessible with lifts, disabled toilets and seating. For a breath of fresh air, visit Bute Park, which boasts wide, level paths that allow everyone to enjoy its beauty.
Plan your next trip worry-free with Complete Care Shop
Complete Care Shop is dedicated to enabling your independence and safety, so whether you’re planning your next adventure or simply looking to make daily life more comfortable, we have a range of living aids to support you. Take a look at our extensive selection of travel wheelchairs, which are lightweight, foldable, portable and easy to use on the go. We also have wheelchair accessories, from wheelchair bags to cosies and seat wedges, to make sure you’re comfortable during your trips. For more information about travelling in a wheelchair, browse our help and advice blog or contact us.