Emma Muldoon of simplyemma.co.uk is one of the UKs leading disability bloggers – providing readers with advice on accessible travel through travel guides, tips and reviews. She also shares personal stories, live event reviews and more. In this article, Emma has picked 6 of the most picturesque and accessible towns to visit in the UK.
Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire, England
There are many reasons to visit the beautiful town of Stratford Upon Avon. Not only is this old medieval market town the birthplace of William Shakespeare, it is also incredibly wheelchair friendly. Take a stroll along the River Avon and admire the stunning surroundings before enjoying a performance at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre. The theatre is wheelchair accessible with a range of accessibility features including captioned and audio described performances, touch tours, BSL performances, hearing loops and relaxed performances. For the best panoramic views over Stratford, take a tour of the Theatre and head to the tower. Take a step back in time as you wander through this magical town soaking up its history and beautiful Tudor buildings. Then why not stop off and relax at The Canal Basin while watching the canal boats and people come and go. If you are feeling more adventurous then hop onboard with Canal and River Tours and enjoy the scenery.
Callander, Stirling , Scotland
Callander is a lovely little town in Stirlingshire and as such has become a popular spot for day trips and a base for many tourists. Known as the “Gateway to the Highlands”, Callander is ideal for exploring the Highlands and the Lowlands, as well as the beautiful Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. There is no better way to explore the countryside of Callander than doing so with an all-terrain wheelchair from Trossachs Mobility. The all-terrain wheelchair opens up the outdoors to everyone regardless of ability and makes for a fantastic experience. The breathtaking views, the rolling hills and mountains are some of the things that make Callander special. Not to mention the pretty little shops selling local goods, gifts, all-year-around Christmas shop and some of the best fish and chip shops.
Llandudno, North Wales
Do you want to go to the seaside? Then look no further than the stunning seaside town of Llandudno. A walk along the promenade and pier, especially on a beautiful sunny day, would make for an enjoyable day out. Both the promenade and pier are wheelchair accessible and offer views across the beach and Irish Sea. This traditional seaside pier lined with Victorian hotels, food stalls, shops, arcades and funfair rides is a favourite for many people visiting Llandudno. Being the hometown of Alice in Wonderland, why not try something fun and a little different and set out on the Alice in Wonderland Town Trails. Along the way, you will discover the famous characters sculptures and bronze rabbit footprints while seeing the beauty of Llandudno.
Bakewell, Derbyshire, England
Sitting on the River Wye is the small market town of Bakewell in the heart of the Peak District. This picturesque town attracts many people not only for its famous bakewell pudding but also for its quaint streets and beautiful scenery. Be sure to stop, admire and take a photograph of the medieval five-arched Bakewell Bridge, which looks stunning surrounded by the lush green trees and glistening river Wye. Don’t miss the outdoor market selling all sorts of incredible bargains before stopping off at a cafe for a bakewell tart or two. Another must-visit is Chatsworth House where accessibility for all is a top priority. With the house, gardens, farmyard and playgrounds all accessible as well as induction loops, BSL interpreter and a sensory garden.
Oban, West Scotland
The resort and port town of Oban is another tourist favourite and it’s clear to see why. This picturesque town has stunning views of Oban Bay and provides a connection to the Hebridean islands such as the Isle of Kerrera, Lismore, Coll and more. A trip to Oban would not be complete without visiting McCaig’s Tower. This Roman style colosseum overlooks the town of Oban offering magnificent views of Oban Bay and across to the Isle of Mull, which cannot be missed. Be sure to take your camera for plenty of photo opportunities. The tower can be reached by car and parking is available. The tower also has beautiful gardens inside which make for the perfect picnic spot on a sunny day with paved access throughout.
Bewdley, Worcestershire, England
Situated upon the River Severn is the beautiful Georgian town of Bewdley. A riverside town known for the Bewdley Bridge, but also the gateway to the Wyre Forest. Enjoy a day out at the Severn Valley Country Park with an easy access trail, accessible bird hide, accessible toilets, visitor centre and cafe. You will be able to admire the lovely scenery, a range of kid’s activities, self-led walks and more. During the summer months, you may be lucky to catch one or more of the many festivals that take place in the town of Bewdley including music festivals and the carnival. If you visit a little later in the year you may catch The Bewdley Festival which takes place with performances of the arts every October. If you are looking to learn about the history of the town then be sure to visit The Bewdley Museum with displays of local crafts including basket making, coopering and agriculture.
Get out and about with your Motability Scheme vehicle
The Motability Scheme aims to make getting around worry-free, by enabling disabled people to exchange their mobility allowance to lease a new vehicle. If you’d like to know more about the Scheme, request a free information pack and we’ll send you all the information that you need.
For more inspiration on days out around the UK, read more Days Out blogs or find out how to download the brand-new edition of the Rough Guide to Accessible Britain
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Image Credits:
Trossachs Mobility, All terrain wheelchair © Emma Muldoon (simplyemma.co.uk)
Chatsworth House © Debu55y/Depositphotos.com
