It can be challenging navigating the world with mobile, sensory and non-sensory impairments. Thankfully, there are plenty of tablet and phone apps for disabled people that are designed to make things just a little bit easier, more convenient, and more inclusive. We’ve put together a list of 9 such apps.
But before we get to the list, it’s worth mentioning that iOS and Android devices have a suite of accessibility features pre-installed and designed to make using phones or tablets easy for people with disabilities. On both operating systems, you can access this suite by clicking on ‘Settings’ and ‘Accessibility’. Some of the features include Assistive Touch, captioning and audio descriptions, guided access, text-to-speech output and a TalkBack screen reader. If you haven’t already, do give them a try.
As the name suggests, AccessAble is an app designed to provide users with detailed information on whether a place is accessible or not. It can show whether a place is wheelchair friendly, has Blue Badge parking spaces, accessible toilets, and more. Trained surveyors inspect places and provide reviews, which are further backed up by the user community. The app has over 75,000 detailed access guides and is constantly working to grow its coverage.
AccessAble has a rating of 3.9 on Apple’s App Store, and 3.7 on Google’s Play Store.
Passenger Assistance is a travel app for disabled people that allows users to easily request and book assistance for rail journeys. This assistance can be for mobility impairments, sensory impairments, non-visible impairments and more. The app alerts station staff about the user’s requirements so that they can arrange the assistance required.
Passenger Assistance simplifies assisted travel. It has a rating of 4.3 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.1 on Google’s Play Store.
Be My Eyes is an app that connects blind or visually impaired people with sighted volunteers across the world. The way it works is that whenever a user needs visual assistance, they can open the app and make a live video call. A volunteer answers the call and is able to speak with the user and provide visual assistance.
Be My Eyes has a rating of 4.8 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.4 on Google’s Play Store.
Another free app for the visually impaired, Google’s Lookout uses computer vision to assist users and is developed based on the guidance of the blind and visually impaired community. It comes with 5 different modes, each designed to help users quickly find or get what they need.
‘Explore’ mode provides information on a user’s surroundings. ‘Food Labels’ identifies packaged food. ‘Documents’ allows users to scan and read aloud photographed documents, while ‘Text’ does the same but for smaller passages of text such as email. Lastly, ‘Currency’ identifies US dollars, Indian rupees and Euros.
Lookout has a rating of 4.1 on Google’s Play Store.
Rogervoice is a call-transcription app that assists the deaf and hearing impaired. It transcribes speech in real-time so that users can read what someone is saying on the other end of the line and respond instantly. Users also have the choice of typing in what they would like to say during a call, and the app will then use a voice synthesiser to read the message to the person on the other end of the line.
Rogervoice has a rating of 4.6 on Apple’s App Store, and 3.4 on Google’s Play Store.
Petralex is an app designed to act as a hearing amplifier. You can use the app at home, at the cinema, during social occasions or elsewhere to amplify or fine tune volume and hear with greater clarity. Some of its many free features include speech recognition, hearing correction, acoustic amplification to 30dB and dynamic compression (the amplification of quiet sounds without altering the overall volume).
Petralex has a rating of 4.1 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.6 on Google’s Play Store.
Spoken is a natural language assistant app designed to help people with speech and language disorders, as well as their families and caregivers. It draws upon machine learning and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to predict what users want to say next – users therefore simply need to tap to talk. (If you’re unfamiliar with AAC, it refers to a range of strategies and methods which help people who struggle with ordinary speech). Spoken also makes use of machine learning to provide a personalised experience – the more it’s used, the better it gets at predicting what a user wants to say.
Spoken has a rating of 4.7 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.3 on Google’s Play Store.
Avaz AAC
Price: Free (with a lifetime edition available at $175)
Like Spoken, Avaz (which is Hindi for ‘Sound’) is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication or AAC app designed to help people with speech-related disabilities. It also happens to be very child-friendly and ideal for families. There is a picture mode which makes use of over 15,000 pictures or Symbolstix to help learners build their vocabulary. There is also a keyboard mode with a powerful prediction system that allows users to create sentences with a few taps, and to quickly load commonly used sentences.
Avaz has a rating of 4.4 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.1 on Google’s Play Store.
The Miracle Modus is an app which emits soothing patterns of light and sound to help people with autism when they experience a sensory overload. The creator of the app is autistic and found such mathematically patterned rainbow lights very soothing. The patterns respond to touch and so can be manipulated or played with to help users relax and refocus.
Miracle Modus has a rating of 4.2 on Apple’s App Store, and 4.4 on Google’s Play Store.
And that’s our list of useful apps for disabled people. Fortunately, app developers continue to work on such apps, and we’re certain in the coming years there will be more apps to be added to this list. In the meantime, please do let us know if there are any apps for people with disabilities which you have found to be invaluable to you.
77% of UK adults don’t know what the International Symbol of Access is
The International Symbol of Access (ISA) – a blue square with a white outline of a person in a wheelchair – is most commonly used on toilet doors, in car parks and on public transport. Designed in 1968, the ISA has been adopted internationally.
However, our nationally representative poll of 3,000 UK adults has found that more than three-quarters of people (77%) do not understand what the ISA means. Passenger Assistance commissioned this research via our parent company Transreport, to explore perceptions and understandings of accessibility and accessible facilities.
30% believe this sign means ‘disabled people only’.
Just 23% identified the correct meaning, which is that the sign indicates that ‘building features are suitable for disabled people (wording provided by The Office for Disability Issues, part of the Department for Work and Pensions).
Unwanted policing of accessible facilities
Our survey revealed that 1 in 4 (24%) people would challenge someone for using accessible facilities if they suspected they weren’t eligible.
It also showed that people who misunderstand the meaning of the sign are more likely to challenge others for using accessible facilities if they believed they were not entitled to use them. People who believe the sign means ‘disabled people only’ are significantly more likely to challenge others. 20% said they have challenged someone in the past and 17% said they would if they believed they weren’t entitled to use the facilities.
The research also revealed that older people are more likely to challenge users of accessible facilities and men are twice as likely as women to challenge someone. 21% of over-65s said they’d challenge someone for using accessible facilities, compared to just 8% of 25-34-year-olds.
27% of Londoners say they have challenged someone using accessible facilities, compared to 13% nationally.
A statement from Jay Shen, Passenger Assistance founder
“We suspected there was a level of confusion about the actual meaning of the sign, but we were surprised by the number of people who incorrectly identified its meaning. This tells us there is work to be done to raise awareness about what accessible spaces are really for and who is entitled to use them.
“We also need to continue to demystify some of the myths around impairment and disabled people’s experiences. For example, fewer than 8% of disabled people use a wheelchair, yet more than almost four in ten people believe the ISA refers exclusively to wheelchair users.
“I’d like to see more done to add context to this sign, according to where it is displayed. For example, the sign has different meanings depending on whether it’s in a car park, on a bathroom door or next to a ramp. As a company, we believe that improving experiences for disabled people necessarily improves things for everyone. Everybody benefits when accessibility is improved.”
Stop policing accessible facilities, urges campaigner Dr Amy Kavanagh
Dr Amy Kavanagh is an award-winning disability right activist and campaigner. Here’s what she has to say about our findings.
“We need society to understand that disability isn’t always visible and access needs aren’t always obvious. As a blind person, I’ve been challenged using accessible toilet facilities, there’s an assumption that they are only for wheelchair users. It’s humiliating when you’re waiting to use the toilet to be told off like a naughty child because someone doesn’t understand or listen to your needs.”
“For example, I need an accessible toilet as it’s safer and easier to navigate, the layout is consistent and there is space for my guide dog, it gives me dignity and privacy. There is an assumption that the public are doing disabled people a service by challenging ‘fakers’, but usually they’re actually making life more difficult for people with invisible disabilities, like autism, Crohn’s, mental health conditions or chronic illnesses.
“What I really want people to challenge are access barriers, broken lifts, restaurants not having a braille menu or sign language interpreters not being provided for medical appointments.If you want to support disabled people, call out the failures to include us in society instead of policing the limited accessible services we have.“
OnePoll surveyed a nationally representative sample of 3,000 UK adults, on behalf of Transreport and Passenger Assistance, between the dates of 22/03/2022 and 30/03/2022. OnePoll are members of ESOMAR and employs members of the Marketing Research Society.
Train travel tips for blind and visually impaired people
While many train stations in the UK carry great historical value, not all of them have been modernised to the extent that they are fully accessible. For example, more than 2 million people in the UK live with sight loss, and studies have found that they face a higher risk at train stations than the general public.
Source: SilviaJansen
A recent survey of 2000 blind and partially sighted people found that 19% missed important meetings, 13% were late to see friends and family, and 10% had been left stranded on a platform after missing their train – due to accessibility issues they faced.
Rail travel can be challenging for people who are blind or visually impaired. That’s why we’ve put together the list below in which we share tips and highlight important accessibility features and services which can help make your train trip easier, more affordable, and more enjoyable.
Use a disabled person railcard
With a disabled person’s railcard, you get 30% off on train travel. Furthermore, there are alternate discounts available for those living with a disability who do not have a disabled person’s railcard.
If you’re visually impaired or blind, you and an assistant or adult travel companion are eligible for discounted fares on first-class and standard tickets. There are also season tickets that enable you to travel with an adult travel companion at no extra cost on National Rail services, provided you can show evidence of your visual impairment (via a CVI, BP1 or BD8 certificate, or documentation from a recognised institution).
Plan ahead
One of the key issues that blind or visually impaired people face is approaching a ticket office or machine to buy tickets. Not all members of staff have disability awareness training, and it can be complicated using ticket machines.
That’s why you may want to buy your tickets online to ease any anxieties you may have. This can be done from the convenience of your home via a number of portals including National Rail Enquiries. After purchasing your ticket, you can download it to your phone. This simplifies matters when travelling as ticket barriers are now fitted with scanners that read the barcodes of digital tickets.
Use Passenger Assistance for assisted travel
With the Passenger Assistance app, it’s easy to book assistance to ensure your journey is as stress-free as possible. All you have to do is download the app, set up your profile, and share your trip details. The app will then submit your request directly to the train operating company, which will arrange assistance for you. When you turn up at the station, someone will be there to greet and assist you. Here’s a video by West Midlands Railway which describes what services passenger assistance provides to blind and partially sighted travellers.
Train companies also support flexible travel plans, and provide last-minute assistance requests without pre-booking, in the form of Turn Up and Go, you simply need to arrive at the station and request travel assistance, either from railway staff or at a help point.
Train and train station accessibility features
Some train stations have maps in braille and audio to help you track your journey. Platforms should have visual markings and a tactile edge of dotted bumps to indicate where it is safe to stand. And audio announcements should keep you up to date on delays or service changes.
On the train, there are braille features on all buttons. Furthermore, there should be large print text and a contrasting colour scheme to indicate handrails and external doors for the visually impaired. Priority seating is reserved for disabled passengers, and there should be signage that confirms this. Most trains also provide audio notifications of the next stop. Furthermore, you should be allowed to travel with an assistant or guide dog for free, but do call the train operator in advance to confirm this.
Of course, if you still have reservations, you could sign up for Try a Train Day. This is an initiative by train operating companies to introduce or reintroduce their trains to passengers to help them experience a train journey.
We hope you find this information useful. Do let us know if we’ve missed anything or if there’s something you do to make your trip that much more convenient.
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.
