Carrie-Ann Lightley lives in the Lake District with her husband, and little dog, Poppy. Before Carrie-Ann’s current role as the Marketing Manager of DisabledGo, she was the Information Service Manager atTourism for All UK, so researching new places to visit is what she loves to do. Carrie-Ann recently launched carrieannlightley.comto share her experiences and expertise, and to inspire others to travel too. As part of our Days Out blog, Carrie-Ann shares her expert advice, hints and tips on visiting the Lake District.
The Lake District is a popular holiday destination, and was recently the first UK National Park to be named a World Heritage Site. It’s not difficult to see why, with stunning countryside and outdoor activities to suit every level of ability.
Tarn Hows
My favourite is Tarn Hows, a stunning, accessible walk near Coniston. It’s really popular with locals and tourists, particularly in the summer, and a fantastic place to go for a picnic. The mountain views are stunning enough for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age or ability, and the circular track is suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. The National Trust has a Tramper – an all-terrain mobility scooter – available to use. It’s free of charge and visitors can book a time slot (giving 48 hours’ notice) by calling 01539 441 456. For those who just want to take in the views, there’s also an accessible parking spot/view point just for disabled visitors.
Miles without Stiles
If you want to explore the Lake District, the great news is that there are more than 40 miles of routes without stiles, suitable for wheelchair users, buggies or those who find walking a challenge. You can find out more on the Lake District National Park website.
Coniston Boating Centre
For more even more accessible adventures, Coniston Boating Centre has a specifically adapted wheelchair accessible boat with a moveable ramp. It can accommodate up to three wheelchair users. The top speed is six mph, and the boat is perfect for wheelchair anglers.
Theatre by the Lake
After a day of exploring, enjoy a relaxed evening at the Theatre by the Lake. Hailed as the most beautifully located and friendly theatre in Britain, it offers Captioned, Audio Described and Relaxed Performances, as well as full wheelchair access, lifts, accessible parking, induction loops and facilities for assistance dogs.
For more inspiration on days out around the UK, see other Days Out blogs
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About the Motability Scheme
The Motability Scheme exists to give customers, their families and carers greater freedom to get out and do the day-to-day things they need and want to do, by enabling them to exchange all or part of their mobility allowance for leasing a car, scooter or powered wheelchair.
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Wheelchair-friendly travel with WheelchairWorld.org
