Carlisle Castle

Carlisle

3.5

1 review

Review this place

finnberrys

07 Jun 2022

Castle not accessible but lovely grounds and museum

3.5

Date of visit: June 2022

I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: dexterity or coordination and moving around.

Overall Rating

Good

We visited on the Platinum Jubilee weekend and expected it to be busy but it was quite quiet. I knew that the castle would be ground floor only and that the museum should be fine. The castle was disappointing - no access at all. Just a one room exhibition that I got into via a ramp. Interesting stuff but couldn't get into the castle at all. Plus the keep is being renovated so couldn't see that either. The museum was great though - good access and toilet.

Disabled Access In and Around

Average

Getting to the entrance was okay - cobbled but I had my mountain trike, so no problem... but then you are supposed to go in and pay/show your ticket. The reception area is up several steps so I couldn't get in. Eventually, a lady came out to see us. There's a barrier, like the sort car parks have. On the way out it raised but on the way in, I had to weave around it. The castle is a non-starter with a wheelchair. Every entrance we could find had steps. There was a small exhibition in a room with ramped access, which was interesting but otherwise, the castle was disappointing. The Museum of Military Life was much better for access. It's all level and on one floor. There was easily enough room to get around, even in my trike. Outside was a mixture of grass, gravel and cobbles. When we visited, there was a military visit and display, which was really good.

Parking & Transport

Excellent

We arrived by motorhome and parked in Castle Car Park. It's a big car park with blue badge spaces and plenty of motorhome spaces. It's free for all on weekends and bank holidays but blue badge holders are free all the time. It's a bit of a walk up hill to the castle entrance.

Accessible Toilets

Good

The accessible toilet in the museum was good. Big enough for me to get in with my trike... and clean. There was another toilet in the castle area but I didn't use that one.

Staff

Good

The lady that came out at reception was pleasant enough. The museum staff were friendly and helpful. Could have done with staff near the castle as I should've been able to get in but just couldn't find the right entrance. There was nobody to ask.

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