Scotland is full of places to go, accommodation to stay in and experiences to enjoy, many designed to be inclusive for those with mobility requirements.
Some of the attractions are free of charge to enter. These include museums, art galleries and castles, this latter one not the case for every castle, but some research prior to the visit will reveal that some are free to enter on certain days of the year.
In Glasgow there is The Burrell Collection, which is designed to be accessible, having a new step-free path to the second level, accessible toilets and British Sign Language- interpreted displays and captions. Parking is not an issue with available bays where you can transfer to your mobility scooter or wheelchair before entry.
Aberdeen Art Gallery has exemplary disabled facilities with step-free access, a lift to all areas and ramped zones to certain galleries. It also offers free wheelchairs to loan, accessible toilets and good parking. Additionally, there are free digital guides and plenty of staff assistance. Again, get your research done beforehand and a smooth transition from the journey to destination is easily within reach.
Also free to enter with step-free access at the entrance, ramps or slopes to every outdoor exhibit and easily accessible toilets is the Highland Folk Museum in Newtonmore, PH20 1AY, which offers a glimpse into life as far back as the 1700’s right up to the 1950’s. There are 35 buildings to engage with, and it will show life spent at work, rest and play during this period in history. There is a charge for parking, and this goes towards the upkeep of the site and development of the museum. You can stay for a maximum of 7 hours, and the fee is £2 per car and £9 for minibuses.
There are many options for accommodation if you are looking for accessible places to stay including disabled-friendly hotels and speciality cottages which can anchor your visit. The choice is there to stay in a bustling city centre where you will have access to the attractions in the locality or a country house or retreat where you will have a more contemplative experience walking or travelling through the sights that nature has to offer.
There are many walking days-out options, and they come as varied as the countryside they are part of. One is Trossachs Park located in Loch Lomond, where there is something different on offer for all types of abilities. Included here are wheelchair-friendly routes and also some smooth-surface trails.
Specifically designated for people with accessibility requirements are lochside paths (some ideal for wheelchairs and prams), the Waterfall Trail in Queen Elizabeth Forest Park and also the areas around Trossachs Pier (these have a surface made for mobility scooters and wheelchairs). Keep in mind that the authorities managing the park are updating and improving accessibility all the time.
Among others which are all available to be checked out online, there is the 1.5 mile walk along the old railway-line at Aberfoyle which is designed to be accessible.
There are contributors on the internet who have spent many hours putting together tips, guides and reviews all about Scotland so, once more, research is key and a communication beforehand will prove to be beneficial in nearly all cases.
Image: Unsplash, Adam Wilson
