Bolam lake access review
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: October 2018
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
We parked in the main car park by the cafe - there is a fee for parking. The main path around the lake is well maintained and useable by wheelchair and mobility scooters. There is a lovely large lake with Swans, Herons and many other birds, lots of woodlands and a field area with picnic benches. There is a board walk through part of the woodlands - which is easily used - no steps. There are a few short piers and some are accessible, but not all. The cafe and visitor centre were not open on my visit, and I did not visit the toilet facilities so cannot verify if these are disabled accessible. The visitor centre and cafe are open from 10.30am to 4.30pm at weekends, Bank Holidays and school holidays from Easter to November. From December to Easter it is open from 10.30am but closes earlier at weekends and during school holidays. It is fully accessible. The toilets are located in the Boathouse Wood car park next to the Visitor Centre and are open daily.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
For a countryside, woodland path I found it very good. The paths are well maintained and only one area was steep but there is an option of a zig zagging less steep path instead. There are a few benches dotted around the lake and it is about a one mile walk in total.
Parking & Transport
Good
Parking is good, there are 3 good car parks, although car park ground is rough. Public transport to Bolam lake is only available on a weekend and about 3 buses a day, so travelling by car is recommended - especially as phone/internet services appear intermittent there.
Accessible Toilets
0Sorry I did not visit
Staff
0No staff as it was a week day out of season
Additional Information
Its a beautiful woodland area but lack of public transport reduces accessibility. I have been several times and definately would visit again.
