Dover Castle

janeb269

28 Jan 2019

Trains and tunnels

4

4

Date of visit: January 2019

I have experience of challenges around: moving around

Overall Rating

Good

Despite a very windy day and the site being very sloping, well worth visiting, Some areas not very accessible you can see that British Heritage are working hard on this. WW2 tunnels very interesting.

Disabled Access In and Around

Good

The site is very sloping and windy. A free road train that runs around the site every 10 - 15 minutes so you can hop on and off at the stops as many times as you like, however I found the train step high to get on and had to get a hoik up. There are hand rails on this. I only visited the ground floor of the castle tower as there were too many steps. There is a wheel chair ramp to this floor. The medieval tunnels were being renovated and was staff advised they would not be safe. The WW2 tunnels were well worth visiting. There a small step near to the sloping entrance but the rest of the tour was fairly even. I am normally good at tripping up but found this fine. There are a few sit down stops with films or broadcasts being shown. Beware the long outside tunnel at the exit which is a fair upward gradient. There is a handrail here. Also visited the hospital tunnel next to this which is a tour of about 20 minutes. I felt a little rushed through as you have to keep up with the group to hear what the guide was saying. She told the group that there were a flight of circular steps to get to the surface however also said there was a lift for anyone who couldn't manage these which we were directed to. The NAAFI restaurant has wheelchair access.

Parking & Transport

Excellent

The ticket office at the main entrance will give concessions for disabled and carer and there is a flat disabled car park near the top of the castle site.

Accessible Toilets

Average

The disabled toilets in the tunnel area were good. The one by the medieval tower was not so good due to the main door being stiff to open.

Staff

Good

Most staff very helpful and advised about trip hazards and areas which would not be safe.