An oasis in the city
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: August 2014
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
The Botanic Garden is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of the city of Cambridge, 3/4 of a mile from the city centre. Set in 40 acres of grounds, with wide paths and good access throughout, it's a lovely place for a day out all year round. It's almost entirely wheelchair-accessible, including the excellent cafe. Free entry is available for a companion/carer/PA if required.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
Most of the paths throughout the garden are wide. Surfaces are a mixture of tarmac and (mainly light) gravel. Drop kerbs are available to enable access to the grassed areas. Some of the rock gardens would be more difficult to access. The cafe is fully accessible, with automatic doors. The glasshouses also have automatic doors, though some of the paths inside are narrow.
Parking & Transport
Poor
On-street parking is available near the entrance in Bateman Street and in adjacent Trumpington Street, with some pay-and-display bays but no dedicated Blue Badge parking. Bus routes pass along Hills Road and Trumpington Street nearby, and most of the bus services have wheelchair access. From the Station Road Gate entrance it is a short walk (or push!) to the railway station.
Accessible Toilets
Good
There are three accessible toilets: one at the entrance, one at the cafe and one behind the glasshouses. The latter two also include baby-changing facilities, which can cause queues. The three vary in design.
Staff
Good
Staff are generally friendly and helpful and will offer assistance when needed.
Additional Information
A good day out at any time of year, as the garden changes so much with the seasons.
