Train travel tips for the deaf and hearing impaired
Did you know that, according to government figures, 11 million people in the UK are deaf or hearing impaired? That’s roughly 16% of the country’s population or 1 in every 6.
Many steps have been taken to create more inclusive and accessible rail services. If you are deaf or hearing impaired, then you and a travelling companion are entitled to discounted travel with a disabled person railcard; National Rail has pledged to install more hearing or audio induction loops in every train station (in addition to those already installed at ticket offices), and certain train companies are enrolling their staff in disability and deaf awareness training to facilitate a more comfortable experience.
That being said, we understand that there still remain some challenges such as announcement delays and a lack of British Sign Language interpreters, that can make train travel daunting if you are deaf or live with hearing loss or impairment. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 3 easy tips to follow if you’re deaf or hard of hearing, to ensure you have a safe and pleasant journey.
Plan your journey ahead
An example which may ease any anxieties you may have towards train travel is booking ahead. This can save you a lot of time and energy as it means you don’t have to worry about any potential communication issues, and you can collect or download your ticket and be on your way.
What’s more, the Passenger Assistance app is designed to simplify assisted travel, making it quick and easy to prebook any extra assistance you might need on your journey.
Another tip that may make the journey easier for you is to carry things you know you’ve found handy in the past such as a pen and notebook which would be handy if you need to communicate with train staff or fellow travellers who aren’t familiar with British Sign Language. You could even set a vibrating alarm to go off a few minutes before your scheduled arrival time to add some ease.
Check which accessibility services your rail provider offers
Last year, Network Rail introduced SignLive, an app that allows you to connect to an interpreter via a video call so that they can update you on the latest announcements, or enable a three-way conversation with train staff. They also have Signly, an app that provides deaf travellers with information to help them safely use level crossings.
TransPennine Express ensured their staff completed a Get Deaf Aware workshop as part of their training. They also allow hearing dogs on board their trains. These are 2 examples of train operating companies striving to make journeys more comfortable for deaf people and people with hearing impairments.
It is a legal requirement for train operating companies in the UK to make trains accessible to all passengers, and while provisions vary, all companies should be able to offer flexible travel arrangements and pre-arranged assistance requests.
Look for visual aids
It’s quite likely you’re already familiar with this, but if you wear a hearing aid, then keep an eye out for the hearing loop symbol at the train station. Setting your hearing aid to the ‘T’ or telecoil setting will enable it to catch the magnetic, wireless signal and help you to better hear spoken words.
Trains are also now being fitted with display screens in most compartments. These screens relay important information like the name of the next destination, the arrival times for each stop, etc.
We hope these simple yet effective tips will go a long way towards making your journey that much more pleasant and stress-free. You might also like to read our separate post on travelling alone as a disabled person, which includes insight around bus and coach journeys too.
Please do share your own tips with us, or comment on what services you’d like train companies to provide.
The Best Wheelchair Accessible Pubs in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales
There are plenty of wheelchair-friendly pubs that are easy to visit in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. We’ve put together a list of our favourites. Whether you’re looking to watch live sports and enjoy a few pints or join your friends for a night of cocktails and revelry, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for here. For wheelchair, accessible pubs in England, visit our other posts: accessible London pubs, accessible pubs throughout the rest of England.
Located in Sandport Place, Roseleaf is a traditional pub that’s a great choice for food and drink lovers alike. Unassuming on the outside, its interiors are decorated with a number of leafy plants and charming ornaments – including a typewriter and a collection of hats (not to mention the menus found inside of old National Geographic magazines). Brunch is served till 5, there are seasonal dinners, and their extensive drinks menu, or ‘Beverage Bible’ as they call it, includes a fun glossary of Leith slang.
It has level access and an accessible toilet. Though not the largest of venues, it can comfortably accommodate two to three wheelchairs. Buses from Edinburgh Waverley station can get you to Parliament Street, which is roughly a three minute walk away from Roseleaf.
Less than a third of a kilometre from Edinburgh Waverley railway station, OX184 is a modern, industrial-chic bar and restaurant. They’re known for their craft beers (they serve a daily special) and their delicious grilled food. There’s also a lovely log fire that’s perfect for keeping you warm on a rainy day.
There are plenty of Blue Badge parking spaces around OX184, which has level access, a wide entryway, plenty of space for wheelchairs or mobility scooters, as well as an accessible toilet. This bar is just a five-minute stroll from Edinburgh Waverley station, but do note that some routes through Edinburgh city centre involve steep inclines so it’s worth checking your route on a street view map before setting off.
Drygate Brewing Company is a must for craft beer lovers – it’s a self-proclaimed ‘brasserie, bar and brewery’ that has an enormous selection for you to choose from. Their core range includes IPAs, lager, mango pale ale and a multiple-award-winning mocha milk stout, though they also serve beers they occasionally brew, or one-off beers brewed by hand in small batches.
Drygate Brewing Company has accessible on-site parking that’s close to the entrance, ramped access and an accessible toilet. It’s half a kilometre away from High Street Glasgow train station.
A striking name for a striking venue, The Dirty Onion is one of the biggest beer gardens in Belfast which hosts entertainment acts every night, including contemporary live bands and acoustic acts. Entry is free, and there’s a great selection of beer available.
The Dirty Onion is just over a kilometre away from Lanyon Place Station. It has level access with wheelchair-accessible toilets.
Established first in 1901, rebuilt in 1955 (after suffering damage during the Belfast Blitz of World War II), and restored in 2019, Fountain Lane is a traditional pub with a rich history. It serves local beers and delicious traditional Irish food, and it’s also host to live traditional music.
Fountain Lane has wide doors and level access, and there’s plenty of room for wheelchair users to manoeuvre. There’s also an accessible toilet. You can reach this pub in around a 10-15 minute walk from Station Street.
The Hillside is the oldest pub in the Georgian village of Hillsborough. There’s an open fire to stay warm during winter, and a cobblestoned beer garden to enjoy the sun in summer. Their restaurant makes use of local produce, and their bar has a wide selection of local craft drinks and fine whiskeys.
There is a car park nearby that has 3 accessible spaces, though bear in mind The Hillside is, as the name suggests, by the side of a hill and there is a slope. It’s wheelchair accessible via the side entrance, along with an accessible toilet. To get here, you can walk or take a bus from Stanfields station just one mile away.
Located on Whitchurch Road, Society Standard is an independent bar and grill known for its food that’s ‘anything but standard’, from vegan burgers to Sunday roasts. Their kid’s menu includes hilariously named dishes like ‘I don’t know’ (grilled chicken strips and fries) and ‘Yes Please!’ (ice cream or sorbet). And, of course, they carry a wide selection of beers, including plenty by Welsh brewers.
It’s wheelchair accessible with level access, plenty of space to move about, and an accessible toilet. There’s, unfortunately, no on-site parking, though there is a bus stop nearby, and it is just a mile away from Cathays Station.
A traditional pub with a beer garden, the Pen & Wig offers a changing selection of real ale sourced from local breweries. They’ve been included in Camra’s Good Beer Guide for several years. Perfect for catching a game, they have large HD screens to watch live sports, and they also host live music events.
They have disabled access via the garden entrance and are half a kilometre away from Cathays Station.
Located in scenic Colwyn Bay, Pen-Y-Bryn is a gastropub off the beaten track with stunning panoramic views of the sea and Great Orme. There’s a garden and terrace, and inside you’ll find oak floors, open fires and a fine choice of drinks including speciality beers.
Wheelchair accessible, Pen-Y-Bryn has a private parking lot with a dedicated disabled parking space. There’s step-free access, with doors that are wide enough for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Access to the terrace is via the left of the property, not through the main entrance. There’s also an accessible toilet.
We know there are plenty of other wheelchair-accessible pubs in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, and while this list is by no means exhaustive, we hope you find it useful. Do let us know some of your own favourites.
Accessible Days Out in the UK
There are plenty of world-famous attractions across the UK. That being said, not all of them are easily accessible. Whether you want to go see some animals or visit a historical museum, we’ve done some research and put together a list of some of our favourite accessible and wheelchair friendly attractions for days out in the UK, and what you can expect when you visit them.
Close to the town of St Austell in Cornwall, the Eden Project is a breathtaking ‘global’ garden that showcases the relationship between plants and people. Its most dramatic features are the Mediterranean and rainforest biomes – the latter being the largest rainforest in captivity. There are also outdoor gardens and exhibitions.
The Eden Project is an award-winning accessible attraction. Some of the features mentioned in its accessibility guide include:
accessible walkways
accessible car parks for those in possession of a Blue Badge as well as those who have mobility issues
free entry for carers or personal assistants
assistance dogs welcome
accessible toilets
free-to-use powered wheelchairs
a single all-terrain mobility scooter available for booking
braille guidebook and text reader available
Euan’s Guide, which provides reviews by disabled people for disabled people, gives the Eden Project an aggregate score of 4.5 out of 5.
Spread across 80 acres, Paignton Zoo is a natural environmental park with over 2000 animals and a number of attractions, ‘wild’ events and play areas – making it perfect for a fun family day out. The zoo is part of a worldwide network of zoos committed to caring for and breeding rare species.
The zoo’s accessibility page mentions it aims to offer the best experiences to guests, regardless of any physical or non-physical disability, with features like:
Wheelchair access to the majority of their exhibits, shops, and the restaurant. Path slopes are quite gentle, with gradients less than one in twelve.
free entry for carers or personal assistants, provided they are above the age of 12 and the person with a disability has a Blue Badge, disability living allowance letter or P.I.P. award documentation
fully trained assistance dogs welcome
disabled toilet facilities, with the zoo registered with Changing Places, the accessible toilet campaign
dedicated parking spaces for visitors with a Blue Badge or disabled parking permit
wheelchair and scooter hire
Paignton Zoo has an aggregate score of 4.5 out of 5 on Euan’s Guide.
A fabulous destination for art lovers, the Turner Contemporary is located by the Margate seafront and is less than a mile away from Margate railway station. The elegant and light-filled exhibition space is the largest in the South East outside of London, hosting plenty of fascinating programmes, events and learning opportunities. Admission to the art gallery is free.
Located on Blackpool’s famous promenade, less than a mile away from Blackpool South train station, Sandcastle Waterpark is the largest indoor waterpark in the UK. It’s open throughout the year and has water roller coasters, slides, chutes, wave pools, and more – it’s a guaranteed great day for swimming enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. What’s more, it happens to be an award-winning accessible venue with a range of features for guests with physical and non-physical disabilities.
A great choice for wheelchair accessible days out, Blickling Estate is located in Aylsham and is in the care of the National Trust. There’s a charming 4-mile, multi-use trail adapted for wheelchair users which winds its way through woodlands and farmland. Discover wildlife and historical monuments along the way. There are also plenty of other sights and things to do, including exploring the stately Jacobean mansion, visiting the formal garden that extends across 55 acres, or enjoying a bite at the cafe.
The Washington Wetland Centre is a wetland nature reserve in Washington, Tyne and Wear. It’s managed by the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, whose goal is to protect wildlife and wetlands while connecting people with nature. There are plenty of scenic paths, woodlands and open spaces to explore, with accessible shelters built for visitors to discover an impressive array of wildlife – from Asian short-clawed otters to flocks of Chilean flamingos. It’s a great destination for those looking to get away from the city, destress and reconnect with nature.
The reserve is built on the principle of making it accessible to all. Some of their accessibility features include:
drop-off space outside of the visitor centre, with 6 designated spaces for free accessible car parking
walkers and 1 manual wheelchair available for use
4 mobility scooters available for hire
mostly level access, with step-free entry to all hides (the Hawthorn Wood hide has a window designed for use by wheelchair users)
disabled toilet and accessible compost toilet
reserved position for wheelchair users at the pond dipping area
fully trained assistance dogs welcome
All WWT wetland sites have aggregate scores that are consistently above 4 out of 5 on Euan’s Guide.
The National Football Museum is a great option for football fans. It’s located in the striking Urbis building in the city centre of Manchester and is under a mile away from Manchester Piccadilly train station. Recognised by Arts Council England as having a Distinguished Outstanding Collection, the museum is spread across 4 floors with areas dedicated to exhibitions, activities, and displays of football artefacts and archives. Free museum tours are included in the price of admission.
In terms of venue access for wheelchair users and people with other access needs, the museum has the following:
automatic doors at the main entrance
lift to all floors, ramps to all raised areas
accessible toilets
wheelchairs available upon request
disabled parking spaces in nearby National Car Parks
It also has an induction loop and large print guides available upon request.
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is only a mile away from the city centre and spans 70 acres of beautiful landscape. Formed in 1670, it is the second oldest botanic garden in the UK and has a rich history and vast plant collection for visitors to explore. Garden highlights include the Rock Garden, Alpine Houses, an Arboretum, Rhododendron collection and the Scottish Native Plants collection. In addition to the collection and its various exhibitions, there are also plenty of activities including on-site health and wellbeing projects.
A fun trip for the whole family, Drusillas Park is a zoo in Alfriston, East Sussex, that’s spread across 10 acres and is specially designed to create memorable experiences for young children. In addition to the zoo, events, play areas and rides, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy including being a zookeeper for the day, having close encounters with some of the animals, and feeding the penguins.
disabled parking on level ground close to the entrance
accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility
completely wheelchair accessible with level surfaces and ramps
wheelchairs available for hire
accessible seating at the cafe
1 carer or personal assistant may enter free of charge (as long as evidence of a DLA, PIP or an Attendance Allowance is provided)
ride access to give wheelchair users or people with mobility issues priority access
For visitors with other access needs, hearing induction loops are fitted across the site and signage is available in large print and contrasting colours.
Drusillas Park also gives priority access to their SPARK sensory play area, to SEND visitors and their families. The first play session of each day is reserved for those with special educational needs and disabilities.
Cadbury World is another great option for the family. It’s located in Birmingham, under a mile away from Bournville train station, and offers a self-guided exhibition tour that tells the history of chocolate and the Cadbury business. Entertainment events are included in the cost of entry, and you have access to a variety of activities including the chocolatier experience and a chance to get hands-on by piping and tempering chocolate. It also has the world’s largest Cadbury shop.
Under a mile away from Leeds train station, the Royal Armouries Museum contains the UK’s national collection of arms and armour. There are 5 galleries with more than 4500 objects on display – offering an immersive experience through which you can learn how arms and armour have influenced the country’s culture down the ages.
There are live combat demonstrations that take place every day to showcase how historic arms and armour were used. Some of the highlights from the collection include a full-size all-metal elephant armour, the ‘Hornet Helmet’ presented to Henry VIII in 1514, and the Tula Garniture – weapons which belonged to the Empress of Russia, Elizabeth Petrovna, from 1752.
all galleries are accessible via lifts, with operation buttons at a height suitable for wheelchair users
accessible toilets (that being said, the toilets do not fully meet current disabled access standards and are 200mm shorter than recommended)
assistance dogs welcome
On Euan’s Guide, the Royal Armouries Museum has an aggregate review score of 4.7 out of 5.
These are just a few of the great options available throughout the UK for wheelchair-friendly and accessible days out, and accessible attractions suited to visually impaired and hearing-impaired visitors, among other needs. If you know of other destinations that deserve a mention, let us know! For more travel information and inspiration, take a look at our tips for transporting mobility scooters by train, and our guide to great wheelchair accessible pubs across England.
The Best Wheelchair Accessible Pubs in London
Whether you’re looking to catch the game or share a few cocktails with friends, there are plenty of wheelchair-friendly pubs in London. Here are a few of our favourites!
Whether you want a quiet pint or a good Sunday roast we’ve rounded up information on London’s best wheelchair-accessible pubs to make it easier than ever to find a great place to go. We know that for people with accessibility needs, finding places to go can feel quite daunting, however, there are plenty of venues that are disability-friendly, offering easy access for wheelchair users alongside a warm and inclusive atmosphere.
We’ve handpicked our favourite watering holes across the capital, ranging from traditional British pubs to more upmarket cocktail bars. Cheers!
North London
Smokehouse, Highbury & Islington
63–69 Canonbury Rd, Islington, London, N1 2DG
As the name suggests, Smokehouse specialises in smoked food, using a charcoal grill to produce innovative barbecued dishes. It works with ethical farmers and growers across the country to source the best ingredients. The beer list is extensive – consisting of more than 80 options – and it only serves wine from independent, family-run vineyards. It’s the ideal spot for a celebratory meal!
Although there’s a step up to the building, the venue has a portable ramp to enable access for wheelchair users. It also has accessible toilets and is able to arrange tables to accommodate wheelchairs. Smokehouse is located 300 yards away from Highbury & Islington Station (which has step-free access) down Canonbury Road.
South London
The Old Brewery, Greenwich
The Pepys Building, The Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10 9LW
This quirky, spacious gastropub is located within The Old Naval College, in the heart of Greenwich’s UNESCO-designated maritime district. It boasts an extensive drinks menu of craft spirits and cask ales and serves British dishes using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. The roasts in particular get rave reviews!
The Old Brewery also scores highly in terms of accessibility, with ramp access and ample room for wheelchair users to manoeuvre. There are accessible toilets both in the dining room and on the picturesque outside terrace. The pub is located a five-minute walk from Cutty Sark DLR Station, which offers step-free access. You can also arrive via public riverboat service, docking at nearby Greenwich Pier.
The Founders Arms, South Bank
52 Hopton Street, London, SE1 9JH
The Founders Arms is the perfect pit stop after you’ve been to visit the Tate Modern or explored the South Bank, with views across the River Thames. It dishes up traditional pub grub and is renowned for its brunches and Sunday roasts.
There are several entrances into the pub, one of which has ramp access. While there’s a step down to the restaurant, the bar area is accessible by wheelchair – there’s also an accessible toilet. To reach The Founder’s Arms travel to step-free Blackfriars Station and cross over Blackfriars Bridge.
East London
The Alchemist Bevis Marks, Aldgate
6 Bevis Marks, Aldgate, London, EC3A 7BA
If you like to enjoy extravagant cocktails in opulent surroundings, then you’ll love The Alchemist Bevis Marks! Sip on drinks that smoke and even change colour (there’s an excellent wine list for those less inclined towards the theatrical). There’s also a very reasonably priced world cuisine menu, which includes everything from hot skillet boards to bao buns.
There is step-free access both at the entrance and to reach the bar. There is also a lift to reach the second floor, with a large accessible toilet located next to it. While the pub is spacious, making an advance booking will ensure that your table is fully wheelchair accessible.
The pub is located about five minutes from Liverpool Street tube and rail stations, both of which have step-free access.
Central London
The Moon Under Water, Leicester Square
28 Leicester Square, West End, London, WC2H 7LE
George Orwell once described his ideal pub in writing, naming it The Moon Under Water. And this Wetherspoons comes pretty close, with its central location and affordable menu. It has a varied drinks list too, with everything from British craft gin to German wheat beers.
At the main entrance, you’ll find a permanent ramp with a slight gradient. There’s a portable ramp at the Leicester Square entrance, and you’ll find a member of staff to assist you. There’s step-free access to the accessible toilet, which you’ll find at the rear of the venue. The pub also has tables that are suitable for wheelchair users – book in advance to be sure of getting one.
It’ll take you around fifteen minutes to get from the nearest accessible station, Green Park, but the route itself is wheelchair friendly – it’s straight down Piccadilly.
The Jack Horner, Tottenham Court Road
234-236 Tottenham Court Road, London, W1T 7QN
The Jack Horner is a traditional London boozer with a warm and friendly atmosphere. Being a Fuller’s pub, you’ll be assured of decent cask ale, but it also has an extensive wine list. It serves up good old fashioned pub grub – the handmade pies are particularly popular.
The pub has a step-free entrance and an accessible toilet. It’s also just a stone’s throw away from Tottenham Court Road, one of the few step-free stations in Central London.
West London
Greenwood, Victoria
170 Victoria St, London SW1E 5LB
The Greenwood is the ultimate pub for watching a sports game, with giant HD screens and plenty of space for groups. It has an affordable (for London) menu of pizza, burgers and other comfort food, and drinks include everything from craft beer to themed sports cocktails.
The pub is renowned for its friendly atmosphere and welcomes people with accessibility needs. The main entrance has level access and automatic doors, making it very easy to get inside, while the accessible toilet also has step-free access. You’ll find it directly opposite Victoria Station – it’s the perfect spot to grab a pint before you catch a train.
Railway Tavern, Richmond
28, 29 The Quadrant, Richmond TW9 1DN
The Railway Tavern prides itself on its selection of regional ales, craft gins and whiskies. You can indulge in British classics such as pies, burgers and fish and chips – make sure you leave room for dessert! The tavern shows rugby, cricket and football features, and is a great place to watch that important game.
Wheelchair users will enjoy level access to the venue, and there’s ample room to navigate inside. There is also level access to the accessible toilet, which is located near the main entrance.
The pub is located right next to Richmond, a tube and train station with step-free access options.
These are our favourite wheelchair-friendly pubs in London, but we’re sure there must be plenty more we haven’t yet visited! If you have any favourites, we’d love to hear about them! And if you’re travelling further afield, do check out our guide to the best wheelchair accessible pubs in England.
Tips for Transporting a Mobility Scooter by Train
Train travel is one of the best ways to see the country, and by legal requirement, it’s accessible to all passengers. However, each train operator has a slightly different policy for transporting mobility scooters. We’re here to help you stay well informed about mobility scooters on trains, and feel empowered to travel.
In this guide, we’ll be taking you through the mobility scooter policies of different train operators in the UK. We’ll be covering everything from weight restrictions to pre-departure permits, as well as providing you with some handy travel tips.
Source: @modernafflatus
Are mobility scooters allowed on trains?
Mobility scooters come in all shapes and sizes, and each train operator has a different policy concerning the weight, measurements and class of scooters that can be accommodated.
Weight and measurement restrictions for mobility scooters
Most train companies will allow a scooter that measures within 1200mm x 700mm, which matches government requirements for wheelchair users. Scooters that are larger than this can sometimes be folded and stored as luggage.
The maximum permitted weight for transporting a mobility scooter (when carrying the occupant) is often 300kg, a figure based on the maximum operating load of the ramp. However, there are some operators which have a lower maximum weight limit.
Island Trains – a line operating on the Isle of Wight – allows a maximum weight of 230kg for both scooter and occupant. For up-to-date information on mobility scooter weight restrictions for your chosen train line, visit the National Rail page on Wheelchairs and Powered Scooters.
Further restrictions for mobility scooters
Some operators have further restrictions for the type of scooters that can travel on trains. For example, Transport for Wales requires mobility scooters to have freewheel/brake release, an anti-tipping device and a turning radius not exceeding 900mm.
Many operators – including Great Western Railways, TransPenine Express and Northern Railways – only allow class 2 mobility scooters onboard their trains.
We recommend checking with your train provider in advance of travel to make sure that your scooter fits the requirements. The National Rail list of mobility scooter requirements for each operator includes relevant contact details.
Source: Ann H
Permits and pre-booking for mobility scooters
It’s important to check in advance whether you need a permit to travel with a mobility scooter. Some train operators require that you apply for a permit in advance of travel, so they can assess whether your scooter meets their travel requirements.
Northern Railways, Southwestern Railways and EMR are three operators who all require a permit for scooter travel. TransPenine Express suggests applying for a scooter card – you can travel without one, but then you’ll need to fold and store your scooter as luggage.
Although all these rules and regulations may seem daunting, each train operator offers clear guidelines as part of their accessible travel policy. As long as you check these in advance of your journey, you can be assured of a stress-free journey.
Tips for Travelling with a Mobility Scooter
Ensure a comfortable and relaxed journey by following these easy tips:
Check with your train provider regarding their policies for travelling with a mobility scooter. If your journey is provided by two different carriers, make sure you’ve researched both legs of the journey.
If possible, try booking your trip outside peak hours. You’ll find it easier and more relaxing to board a train when it’s less crowded.
Consider requesting assistance ahead of your journey if you are able to. The Passenger Assistance app means you can let operators know your exact accessibility needs in just a few clicks. Turn-up-and-go options are always available too.
Ensure your scooter is ready for travel. Check that the tyres are pumped up, the batteries charged, and that you have any accessories you might need (such as a rain cover or charger).
Make sure you’re aware of all the different support services on offer that can help make your journey smoother. Our handy guide to assisted train travel in the UK contains a list of helpful resources.
With Passenger Assistance, increasing numbers of travellers with accessibility needs are enjoying train travel, as these real-life journeys show. We’d love to hear all about your experience travelling with a mobility scooter too! Please get in touch if you’d like to share.
Real-life journeys using the Passenger Assistance app
Ever since the Passenger Assistance app was released, we’ve loved seeing all of the real-life journeys that have been taken using the app and how it has helped many disabled people find comfort in both travelling alone and travelling by rail. From football matches to travelling to work, check out how you’ve been using the app!
Meet Alice Ella, also known as ‘@itsaliceella‘ on Instagram. Before the Passenger Assistance app, as a wheelchair user, Alice found it really difficult to travel alone making her feel like her sense of independence was taken away. She felt like she always had to have her boyfriend travel with her to carry her bags and push her wheelchair. However, the app has now changed the game for her as she can ensure beforehand that she’ll be met at the station and helped with her luggage, have her chair pushed and get her onto the train for a safe and stress-free journey.
Alice shows us how she uses the app
This is Georgina Awasdell, ‘@georginaawasdell‘, she recently went to visit her long-distance best friend all with the help of the Passenger Assistance app.
Georgina travelling to see her best friend
Here’s Clara Holmes, also known as ‘@rollinfunky‘ on Instagram, using the Passenger Assistance app to help her travel around by rail. Clara was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) a form of Hypermobility Syndrome (HMS) meaning she has been a full-time wheelchair user for about 14 years. The Passenger Assistance app has taken away some stress from her travels and given her more independence.
Clara taking a day trip
Meet Emma, ‘@Simplyemmablog‘ on Instagram. With the help of the Passenger Assistance app, Emma took her first train journey in two years! With just a few clicks, she entered all her requirements into the app meaning that once she arrived at the station, staff already knew what she needed. The app has allowed Emma to feel spontaneous as she doesn’t have to plan her journeys too far in advance. If you need some inspiration on where to take your next trip, check out our ‘Wheelchair-friendly walks in Derbyshire‘ blog post.
Emma taking a spontaneous trip
Here we have Charlie, also known as ‘@n_q_p_c‘ on Instagram, a young wheelchair user with Cerebral Palsy. Charlie is a huge advocate of the Passenger Assistance app, sharing that he believes it makes getting the train for disabled people so much easier. He’s shared so many of his journeys to social media showing how much it helps him travel, whether its for work or pleasure.
Charlie is on his daily commute
We loved seeing Judith Smale, ‘@judith_wheel_travel‘, using the Passenger Assistance app to travel to Newcastle to watch a football game! Judith is a wheelchair user who enjoys getting out and about, so has used the app many times since its launch to request her assistance.
Judith travelling to watch a football game in Nottingham
Amy, ‘@chronically_good_life‘, is another huge lover of our app as she is someone who regularly posts her journeys and specifies how the app allows her to commute more by train. She often uses the app for her journeys into college and days out with her friends.
Amy commuting to her college in Birmingham
Positive feedback on Twitter
Check out our 2021 wrap up!
The Best Wheelchair Accessible Pubs in England
Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint or a night at the pub with live music and karaoke, there is a great range of wheelchair-friendly pubs across England that everyone can enjoy. From gastro pubs with gourmet, Sunday roasts to historic venues that have been updated to meet varied access needs, we’ve rounded up information on England’s best wheelchair-accessible pubs and beer gardens to make it easier than ever to find a great place to go. We’ve also noted the nearest train stations where possible so that you can get a feel for those which are easiest to reach without a car or a taxi ride.
Let’s take a look at the top pubs and beer gardens to visit in the North East, North West, South East and South West of England.
Situated in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, The Abel Haywood is part pub, part boutique hotel. The venue offers a lift and disabled toilet to tick off the basics for visitors using wheelchairs and gets rave reviews for its array of locally-brewed and world beers, gins, cocktails and sumptuous breakfast brunches.
The Abel Haywood is conveniently located just a 10-minute stroll from Manchester Piccadilly station. Two of the venue’s three entrances provide level access from the pavement, with one also featuring an extra-wide door.
The Coach House Inn, Chester
39 Northgate Street, Chester, CH1 2HQ
This historic venue has been revamped for the modern world with level access via the main doors, an accessible toilet and plenty of space for motorised mobility scooters to move around the venue as well as wheelchairs.
Previously awarded such accolades as Best Pub/Bar in Chester and Best Restaurant in Chester, The Coach House Inn serves seasonal, locally-sourced produce alongside a plentiful array of cask ales, wines and soft drinks. You can reach this pub around 15 minutes’ walk from Chester railway station.
The Wheatsheaf, Wetheral
The Wheatsheaf Inn, Steele’s Bank, Wetheral, Carlisle, CA4 8HD
Handily located a five-minute walk from Wetheral station, just outside Carlisle, The Wheatsheaf is a friendly local pub that boasts affordable food and drinks, a spacious accessible beer garden and plenty of opportunities to catch sporting events on the pub’s TVs.
As well as a disabled toilet and level access to the bar area and outside seating from the rear, The Wheatsheaf also has its own car park to make visiting easier if you aren’t coming by train. Hosting quizzes and darts nights, this pub in England’s scenic North West is both child and dog-friendly, so that the whole family can enjoy the trip.
Crows Nest, Newcastle
137 Percy Street, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, NE1 7RY
Situated less than 20 minutes’ walk from Newcastle Central station, Crows Nest is a Greene King pub with ramped access available via the front doors, sloped access to the disabled toilet and staff who are regularly trained in disability and equality awareness.
This family-friendly pub serves food as well as drinks and does have outside seating for sunny days. It also offers both BT sports and Sky sports if you’re hoping to catch a match.
The Yard, Newcastle
2 Scotswood Rd, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7JB
Newcastle’s longest-running LGBT+ revenue, The Yard is less than 10 minutes’ walk from Newcastle Central station and offers warm welcomes and plenty of entertainment. Though the upstairs club area, Oscars, is not accessible, you can catch drag acts and DJs at ground level in The Yard itself if you time your visit well. Not just a great place to visit in the North East, The Yard has previously been shortlisted for Best LGBTQ+ Venue in the UK at the Great British Pub Awards. Not bad!
The Yard’s main entrance is step-free and the venue provides an accessible toilet for the sole use of disabled patrons.
The best wheelchair-friendly pubs in the South
The Royal Oak, Swallowcliffe
The Royal Oak, Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire, SP3 5PA
Swallowcliffe’s Royal Oak is a completely wheelchair-friendly pub with a spacious disabled toilet and step-free interior, which blends 18th century architecture with modern interior design. Offering seasonal, locally-grown produce on an ever-changing menu, this countryside pub is an idyllic spot for lunch and dinner, with Sunday roasts a popular pick.
Samuel Jones Smoke & Ale House
37 Commercial Road, Exeter, EX2 4AE
A leisurely 20-minute stroll from Exeter Station, the Samuel Jones Smoke & Ale House is a large pub and restaurant that comes highly rated for its friendly and welcoming staff, and it’s high culinary standards.
There’s street-level access to the pub via the main entrance and wide ramped access from the riverside entrance. While parts of the interior are stepped, you can reach the bar and disabled toilet step-free and the facilities leave enough space for a carer alongside wheelchair turning if needed. Table service is available, as the bar does not feature a lowered section.
The White Horse, Brancaster
The White Horse, Main Road, Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk, PE31 8BY
If you’re looking for a meal with a view, Brancaster’s The White Horse will not disappoint. Situated on the picturesque Norfolk coastline in the East of England, The White Horse looks out over sandy beaches and marshy coastline and offers some of the freshest seafood going.
As well as accommodating guide dogs, The White Horse is fully accessible from the bar and restaurant area right through to the paved outdoor dining terrace. Enter via the front doors for step-free access, as the rear entrance/exit does have steps.
The Wharf, Dartford
Cotton Lake, Galleon Boulevard, Dartford, Kent DA2 6QE
Ticking plenty of boxes with disabled parking spaces, wide doors, step-free access and roomy accessible toilet facilities, The Wharf in Dartford is also a local favourite, famed for its fresh and sustainable ingredients and an extensive range of beers and ciders. Drink and dine along the scenic waterside at this gourmet venue, which can be accessed in around a 15-minute stroll from Stone Crossing station.
Some areas of the interior are stepped, however, there is plenty of seating inside and out that can be enjoyed by visitors in wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The North Laine Brewhouse, Brighton
27 Gloucester Place, Brighton, BN1 4AA
The journey from Brighton station to North Laine Brewhouse is around a 7-minute amble, and on arrival, you’ll find priority seating spaces for visitors with disabilities as well as the usual accessible toilet facilities and step-free navigation around the venue.
As well as an extensive menu of wings, burgers and other haute junk food, North Laine Brewhouse serves substantial Sunday roast dinners – including vegan and vegetarian options, and 50% off child-size portions.
While this list brings you a decent array of the best wheelchair-accessible pubs in England, we know there will be many more that are worth a mention! If you know of a great accessible venue that you think deserves a mention, feel free to let us know.
Travelling Alone as a Disabled Person
Travelling alone can be one of the most exciting things we ever do – an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and grow in confidence and independence.
But for people with additional accessibility requirements, the idea of solo travel can be daunting. This was the case before the pandemic and the addition of new obstacles and complexities added to the travel experience. Since the pandemic, we have heard how worried people are about travelling, and how this can undermine people’s confidence in attempting to tackle it alone. If you are someone with particular access needs who likes to travel but has been putting it off, you may now be making future plans to make up for lost time.
This article is here to offer practical advice and resources for disabled people travelling alone, mainly for longer overland trips and short adventures, but also for the kinds of trips we have to do often and aren’t just for fun.
Solo rail journeys
Travelling by train, when things work as they should, is its own specific pleasure, a way of slowing things down and seeing more of the place you’re travelling in than you would be able to via other means.
Accessible rail travel for solo UK passengers
The UK’s rail network connects every corner, serving over 2,500 stations and offering fantastic opportunities for the solo traveller.
There are a number of provisions in place that solo rail passengers with accessibility requirements should be aware of when travelling in the UK:
It is a legal requirement in the UK for all train operating companies (ToCs) to make trains accessible to all passengers.
There are detailed design standards in place to make stations and trains accessible.
Holders of a Disabled Persons Railcard get ⅓ off adult rail fares on the National Rail network.
ToCs should be able to offer flexible travel arrangements, as well as pre-arranged assistance requests. Turn Up and Go is a service running alongside assistance planned in advance, so it is possible to make spontaneous trips and expect to receive the assistance that you need. (That said, if possible we still recommend that assisted journeys are planned in advance.)
Requesting assisted rail journeys can be done by phone (calls for free can be made to National Rail on 0800 0223720), and also now by app – if you haven’t already, download the Passenger Assistance app to arrange your assisted rail journey. Click here for the iOS download, or here for Android.
Travelling by railway is a good place to start for solo travellers, due to the relative ease of planning journeys confidently in advance. Trains in the UK also typically have audio announcements about upcoming and current stops as standard, which can make rail travel much easier for blind and partially-sighted travellers than travelling by bus.
Accessible rail travel into Europe
Getting to Europe by train isn’t always the first-choice travel method, but train travel has advantages over air travel – especially in light of how airports and travel arrangements have to be navigated during the pandemic.
Rail travel into Europe via Eurostar works in a similar way to booked UK rail travel. Unfortunately, assisted journeys can not be booked in their own right, but they can be arranged via direct contact with Eurostar. All Eurostar trains have a space for people travelling with wheelchairs, with all spaces next to wheelchair accessible toilets with push-button access.
If you have accessibility requirements that are not wheelchair-related then tickets can be booked through the normal Eurostar booking platform. You’ll then have to contact Eurostar Assist to reserve additional support for when you arrive at the station. Eurostar has a good reputation for accessibility, and journeys into Europe from St Pancras are likely to be some of the most comfortable rail experiences for solo passengers you can find.
Once you’re in Europe, accessible travel arrangements will vary, depending on which countries you’re travelling in:
France’s train operator, SNCF, have a comprehensive support system call Accès Plus. Where needed, solo travellers can expect to be met at the station and also helped to the right seat.
Germany’s accessibility levels for solo travellers are probably some of the best in Europe, with a lot of investment put into accessible travel technology and design. Train operator Deutsche Bahn offer assistance to solo travellers – more information on this can be found here.
Spain’s map of accessible stations can be found here, and accessibility requests are managed by the Spanish rail company Renfe. The Renfo Atendo app can be used to request assisted journeys.
Travelling by coach may not exactly sound glamorous, but like rail travel, it can be planned in advance with some confidence, and for solo travellers, it has the additional benefit of being cost-effective. One thing that is worth keeping in mind is that not all bus services provide audio announcements about the stops along their routes. For blind and partially-sighted travellers, you may need to let the bus or coach driver know which stop you intend to alight at when you first board the vehicle so that they can assist you in getting off at the right time.
Much of the UK can be reached by coach, via services like National Express and Megabus, and by local bus services run by companies like First.
While it is a good idea to contact coach company customer services before travelling, it isn’t always necessary to request assistance in the same way as rail travel. Bigger coach stations are typically very accessible for wheelchair users and travellers with guide dogs, with staff members also trained in offering assistance for all accessibility needs. The Sunflower Lanyard Scheme is also supported by National Express and other coach service providers.
Bus journeys can also often be booked in advance, but it can be easier to purchase your ticket from the driver on the day. For wheelchair users, most bus companies use standard wheelchair measurements of 1200mm long and 700mm wide. All single and double-decker buses should now be wheelchair accessible, although some older buses may not have the ability to be lowered, which can be an issue for many wheelchair users. If you’re planning to travel at a busy time or via a busy region where there is a risk that limited wheelchair spaces may already be booked, it is advisable to plan ahead.
Planning ahead for Megabus and National Express
Megabus advise that travellers contact them ahead of buying tickets if they require a wheelchair space on the coach or space to store a wheelchair in the hold, but don’t offer specific guidance for other assistance: https://uk.megabus.com/conditions/passengers-requiring-assistance
For rural locations, it is advisable to contact the local bus companies to check how accessible their buses are. In some cases travelling alone might be difficult, even with some accessibility provisions in place.
That being said, First – who provide bus services across most of the UK – do offer a guarantee of “Extra Help to Travel” for those who need it. You can download an Extra Help to Travel card from their website which shows the driver that you may need assistance. That could be extra time to get to your seat before they pull away, having the driver face you when speaking so that you can lip read, or something else entirely. Find out more at https://www.firstbus.co.uk/help-and-support/extra-help-travel
Planning tips and resources
Travelling alone is mostly a question of planning and being confident in what to expect from your journey. A concern shared by many Passenger Assistance users, perhaps especially those with visual impairments, is to do with the accessibility of travel planning platforms and websites, which are not always built to be accessible by all users.
Dale Reardon, CEO of Australian business Travel for All, gave us this perspective: “The worst problem I face when trying to plan and book a trip, be that something as simple as a café or restaurant booking up to a hotel reservation, is in relation to using a website that is inaccessible. As a blind person I use a screenreader software program to let me access my computer, surf the internet, read the computer screen to me, navigate websites etc. However so many websites, I reckon 90%, have inaccessible booking forms, enquiry forms, reservation forms, enquiry forms, pricing and availability pages… sometimes I can’t even use the contact form as you need to select dates to submit the form and I can’t use those controls either”.
Unfortunately, there is a lot to be done to improve the accessibility of web-based services, as well as mobile apps. That said, if you have selected a website to book travel and it has been built to comply with W3C Web Accessibility Guidelines to at least Conformance Level “AA”, then it should be accessible to most users. Many larger websites, for example, the National Express website, are built to Conformance Level “AAA”, which meets high accessibility standards.
The usability of apps and websites you use to plan solo will go a long way towards making the overall experience a positive one. Some more general tips we have heard from solo travellers include:
Carry a portable charger around – for many rail travellers with additional access requirements a working phone can be beneficial.
Accessible facilities in well-known places for food and coffee – for example Mcdonald’s and Starbucks, are typically reliable as well as relatively easy to find.
Prepare service dogs for new situations. Service dogs are very highly trained, but it still can be a good idea to go for test runs.
There are support networks out there that can be incredibly helpful for solo travellers – these can range to local Facebook groups, to aid organisations like Germany’s Bahnhofsmission offering independent help at more than 100 German railway stations.
Travellers with reduced mobility are entitled to support and to be treated in the right way. Learning about what you are entitled can make for a more confident travel experience, especially when going outside of the UK. Information on EU rights for travellers with reduced mobility can be found here.
It can be tremendously beneficial to travel alone, including for people with accessibility requirements. It’s understandable to have concerns but we hope that with the right resources the prospect of solo travel, either for a one-off adventure or as a regular part of daily life, can be made less daunting than it initially seems.
For more information and support around accessible travel in the UK and abroad, explore the Euan’s Guide website for first-hand disabled access travel and tourism reviews. AccessAble is another useful website, offering clear information on facilities and access at venues in the UK and Ireland.
The simple joy of the beautiful outdoors is a delight that should be appreciated by, and accessible to, all. That said, it can sometimes be difficult to discover great places to go as a wheelchair user heading out into nature, because of a lack of suitable access information.
Nicknamed “God’s Own Country” The historic County of York is the largest in the United Kingdom and is home to large stretches of unspoiled countryside such as the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and Peak District national parks. Halfway between London and Edinburgh, Yorkshire is home to the city of York, where contemporary independent shops are surrounded by ancient walls. The Roman city of York is home to 30 museums and a thriving cultural scene and Yorkshire itself has a rich pastoral and industrial history.
Yorkshire Dales, Yorkshire
Moorlands Nature Reserve, Moor Lane, York, YO32 2RE
Moorlands Nature Reserve, York, North Yorkshire.
Disabled Access ✓
Getting here…
Moorlands Nature reserve is accessible by bus from the A19 stop in Skelton. By car, the nature reserve lies roughly 5.5 miles north of York on the A19. Parking is permitted on the verge near the entrance gate, where there is room for about 8-10 cars on either side of the reserve entrance in a narrow layby beside Moor Lane. There are no disabled parking spaces.
Part of the ancient Forest of Galtres, this small Edwardian woodland garden was part of Moorlands House and estate, purchased in 1909 by Mr Edward Grosvenor Tew. Mr Tew planted many of the unusual rhododendrons and azaleas in the reserve before it was eventually bought in 1955 to become Yorkshire Wildlife Trust’s second nature reserve.
The rhododendrons and azaleas provide a succession of flowers from March to the end of June, accompanied by snowdrops, bluebell, primrose and wood sorrel. The blossoming flora and fauna attract many species of birds and mammals. There are a number of bat boxes, a treehouse, several ponds and wooden sculptures with a nature trail.
A single footpath from the reserve entrance goes into the reserve and splits to form a 1km round circuit. A pedestrian kissing gate at the entrance is accessible to wheelchairs and some small mobility scooters. There are no barriers or steps that might form obstacles. There are numerous benches on the reserve, and the park is largely compacted and flat earth. The nearest facilities are at Haxby Shopping Centre which is located 2 miles away, where pubs, cafes and shops can also be found.
River Ouse, Lendal Bridge, York, YO1 7DP ( Lendal Bridge to Water End Walk)
River Ouse, York, Yorkshire.
Assistance Dogs Welcome✓
Disabled Parking ✓
DIsabled Access ✓
Getting here…
The car park at Marygate is located near the Museum Gardens and St Mary’s Abbey in York. There are disabled spaces available and the car park itself is close to many attractions in the city.
This is one of the best wheelchair walks, adjacent to the River Ouse. There is a safe, wide and flat pathway that begins at Lendal Bridge and finishes at Water End, near the Youth Hostel. The ground is predominantly flat, however sometimes the river floods – which can make the ground slippery and muddy.
For wheelchair users, the best way to access the route is via The Museum Gardens or Marygate. Along the way, you will find picnic benches, seated benches, picturesque river banks and a wonderful array of boats to observe on the river. During the summer months, there are also often ice cream vans dotted along the walking route for a refreshing snack. The route does go on for miles further, but note that beyond Water End the way is not wheelchair accessible, with cattle grids, brooks, hills, and cycle routes.
3. Malham Tarn, Settle, North Yorkshire, BD24
Boardwalk at Malham Tarn National Nature Reserve, Settle, North Yorkshire
Assistance Dogs Welcome✓
DIsabled Access ✓
Getting here…
Malham Tarn upland farm circular walk begins at Watersink car park which is accessible via the A65 and Settle which is 4 miles north-west of Malham. There are also several buses that stop close by and the nearest train station is Settle (7 miles). For more information about getting here, see here on the National Trust website.
Parking is available at Watersink car park, however it is small and there are no blue badge spaces available. The surface of the car park is uneven, made up of gravel, therefore it is advisable to find a good spot to transition to the path from the car park. The grassy route from the car park requires some effort, and rugged wheels are recommended to negotiate this. Pushed wheelchairs and off road scooters are able to cope with the terrain.
This stunning walk stretches across fields and unmade tracks with a short stretch of road walking. Malham Tarn is a dramatic, open area of limestone and grassland that features rock outcrops and high peaks. The Tarn itself is a beautiful expanse of open water and is of international importance for the variety of flowers and other wildlife found there. The best route to take is the Pennine Way, which runs through the area from Malham village, past Malham Cove and the Tarn. For a full breakdown of the route, click here.
The scenery changes from sheltered valley fields to woodlands and to the wild and desolate moorlands, reminiscent of Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights landscapes. A boardwalk goes through the wetter parts of the reserve and the best time to experience the walk is in late spring and early summer where the wildlife is at its finest, with bogbean, globeflower and marsh valerian.
The nearest facilities are located in Malham Tarn village which is 2 miles away, including tea rooms, pubs and toilets.
Enjoy!
Planning a wheelchair-friendly walk can be frustrating, however, we hope we have given you a variety of viable options throughout the Midlands. Whether you’re looking for nature reserves, places of historical interest or just pleasant walks from A to B – this list covers all bases. Of course, dependent on your disability and the wheelchair you use, some walks might be more favourable than others. We recommend looking up your walk before you go and planning around any unforeseen circumstances, as well as coronavirus precautions and closures.
