Overview

Over the years I have visited many visitor and leisure attractions and been challenged by the accessibility for me as powerchair user. Never before have I and my friends been made as welcome as we were on this visit. Excitedly, I met other disabled people who were visiting who felt the same ...

Transport & Parking

Some of our group arrived by car and were able to park adjacent to the building in the accessible parking bays. I and my companion arrived by Tram which was super accessible for me as a powerchair user.

Access

Access in and around the water park was both extremely accessible but also very inclusive. I had barely entered the door when I was warmly greeted and told if I needed anything to 'just ask'. I was able to take a tour of the whole site in the company of the Access Ambassador and made to feel welcome. It was great to see a Changing Places facility poolside, signs telling me what access features were in place, chairs that could wheel into the water, and excitingly my visually impaired colleague went swimming / exploring with a water ambassador. I loved it and that comes from someone who doesn't have a natural affinity with water!

Toilets

With a Changing Places Toilet on site and numerous other accessible loos and changing rooms it was fabulous. The accessible changing rooms were poolside and had ample room for changing. Staff were on hand should you need anything.

Staff

When a member of staff was describing the water park they said something that stuck in my mind - they simply said "it's for everyone" - and that is so true. The people working in the water park, the cafe the shop and the information point were all incredibly helpful and welcoming.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

If I could award a Euan's Guide Venue of the Year Award I wouldn't have to think twice about awarding it to Sandcastle Water Park and all the amazing people that work there to make it such a fantastically enjoyable and inclusive experience for all!

Photos