However, the city is not only home to iconic sites, it is also an excellent starting point to discover more accessible places of interest in England. In this week’s post we suggest you make a getaway from London and get to know them.
1. Stonehenge and Salisbury Cathedral
Located 15 kilometers away from the center of Salisbury, rests on a green plain one of the best known prehistoric monuments in the world. Stonehenge is a World Heritage Site, a heritage that allows us to understand the ceremonial practices and beliefs of the Neolithic and Bronze Age.
According to the official website of English Heritage, visitors in wheelchairs can access the main areas. It is true that, depending on the time of year, it can be more difficult to approach the Stone Circle due to the conditions of the grass.
The complex has buses adapted for visitors, paved roads, twenty-two parking spaces for people with reduced mobility, an accessible visitor center, rest points and two wheelchairs available on request and on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition, many tourists take advantage of the trip to see the beautiful Salisbury Cathedral. The oldest clock in the world is housed in this imposing Gothic building, as well as the tallest spire in the nation. You should know that the cathedral floor, the chapter house, the cloisters, the restaurant, the toilets and the shop are accessible by wheelchair.
2. Windsor Castle
Almost 1000 years of history make Windsor Castle an extremely interesting place. In fact, every year it receives more than a million people willing to know the secrets of this official residence of the British monarchy.
The castle is accessible and can be visited within an hour and twenty minutes by car from London. The Royal Collection Trust explains that, among its adaptations, it has toilets and changing rooms for visitors with reduced mobility. However, you should bear in mind that the fortification is on a hill and you may have to walk long distances in the outdoors.
Before the visit, we recommend you to see photographs of the accesses and read more information on the website of The Royal Collection Trust.
3. Warwick Castle
Another place worth visiting is Warwick Castle. This majestic medieval fortress hosts numerous shows and recreational activities. On its website you have the possibility to check which attractions or rooms are accessible.
The site facilitates the loan of wheelchairs. However, it is recommended to bring your own mobility equipment. There are also some accessible elevators to overcome the steps of the castle.
People accompanied by a registered caregiver are provided with a free ticket.
4. Lake District National Park
It may be a bit far from London, but the Lake District National Park is worth a long trip. Declared a World Heritage Site, this huge natural area has managed to inspire numerous English poets with its lakes and mountains.
Wheelchair users can find out where the most accessible routes are by visiting the official website. You have the option of knowing the conditions of the terrain and see which paths are steeper.
The park itself also recommends the following companies for off-road scooter rentals: Lake District Mobility and TGA Mobility.
There are many charming towns and villages you can visit within a two-hour drive from the heart of London. Oxford, Stratford, Cambridge, Cotswolds, Canterbury and Dover are some of them. If you want a second part of this post, let us know in the comments.
Tell us, what other places would you recommend us to escape to?
Sources: English Heritage, Salisbury Cathedral, The Royal Collection Trust, Warwich Castle and Lake District National Park
