The Bonnie Botanics
4
4
Date of visit: March 2025
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
I visited the Botanic Gardens on my way to the Ulster Museum, which is located within the park. Long winding tarmac trails lead to all areas of this pretty public space, which was lovely to witness in winter but would be stunning in the sun. It's an odd feeling wandering through a rose garden where roses have yet to grow, but there are clear hints of how pleasant it would be to spend an afternoon here. You can shelter from the rain inside the museum during a summer shower or spend the whole afternoon with a picnic on days when the city is blessed with sun. I spied the Palm House conservatory on my wander. I couldn't spare the time to visit, but I'm told it's quite the sight to see.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
As a public park, it has wide pathways throughout, with plenty of space for people to pass, though there might be the odd bike rolling through. The tarmac walkways were easy to traverse, though it should be noted that there are inclines at several parts of the park, which may make things a little more challenging for those who use manual wheelchairs or walking aids. The park is strewn with benches, most of which line the main walkways, offering plenty of seating. You'll also find a coffee kiosk with benches nearby outside the Ulster Museum. A car park is available near the Stranmills Embankment entrance, with 13 accessible parking space and plenty of standard parking spaces.
Parking & Transport
Good
I arrived at the park via the Stranmills Embankment, on which you'll find a bus stop where the 6F, 7G, 7H and EB7 services operate. If you'd prefer to enter next to the Ulster Museum, a bus stop directly across from the museum serves the 8A and 8D routes. The nearest rail service is half a mile away at Botanic Train Station, though it's best to enter through the Ulster Museum entrance, rather than take the much longer route to the Stranmills Embankment entrance.
Accessible Toilets
0I didn't spot any accessible toilets in the park, so I won't assign a rating, but I know there is a Changing Places toilet in the Ulster Museum. It's poorly signposted, so ask the museum staff if you need assistance. The building also has accessible toilets.
