Sculptures set in a sublime backdrop
5
5
Date of visit: August 2024
I am a carer or friend of a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: accessing toilets, moving around and understanding.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet
Overall Rating
Excellent
What a gem. Loads of different styles of sculpture hiding in the most glorious grounds. There is also a motor museum (only open on certain days) and a miniature railway runs round the grounds (additional cost). Opening days are on their website. All open for charity.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
We couldn't go on the miniature railway so we missed a few sculptures. The paths are mainly short mown grass or occasionally bark. You have to cross over the train tracks quite often but there are boards by the rails at these points which make it easy to cross. You do get to do a lot of walking but I did see a buggy taking people round. This is not accessible in a wheelchair. You regularly cross a river as well but there are wide bridges.
Parking & Transport
Good
Not sure of any public transport nearby. We came by car and it easy to find with plenty of parking.
Accessible Toilets
Good
There is a smallish disabled toilet near the main house which has hand rails and an alarm cord. There are also unusual, but larger toilets by the main train station. These have no rail or support but provide more space for a carer.
Staff
Excellent
Staffed by volunteers who love their jobs. You feel there is a real community of volunteers here who love what they do and do whatever they can to make your visit special. They all enjoyed a chat with us and we look forward to going back in the different seasons.
Additional Information
There is a lot of ground to cover if you were pushing a manual wheelchair. I think you would need a buggy or power chair to do the place justice though there are beautifully designed benches round every corner so plenty of places to rest. You are also welcome to bring your own picnic. There are very limited catering facilities.
