Overview

Without any access info on the website, we were slightly concerned that I'd end up not being able to get in, but the entrance was level access. Inside was level access too, unless I wanted to go to the bar, which was up a step and blocked by bar stools. Staff were generally attentive (except at the bar!), almost to the point of it being overwhelming. Toilet not accessible, and no thought given to accommodating wheelchairs. A large wheelchair or mobility scooter would certainly not manage. My friend who uses a hearing aid found it hard to concentrate on our games due to the levels of noise in the café.

Transport & Parking

I can't comment on this because we came by public transport.

Access

While those in our party using wheelchairs could get in, the space inside was not set up with us in mind. Chairs from each table seemed to back onto each other so that waiting for one of the few tables we could use took a long time, and this table was right by the games library so that people were constantly moving past us - and because the two of us with wheelchairs were on the outside of the table this meant that we were bumped into frequently, including by staff members. The bar was inaccessible to anyone using a wheelchair as it was on a slightly raised platform and people had to lean over the bar stools in front. My friend who uses a hearing aid found it difficult to concentrate on the games due to the high levels of background noise.

Toilets

I gave it 1.5 points for being large enough to theoretically get a wheelchair into. Theoretically, because I couldn't actually get my wheelchair into the loo because of the stack of large containers making the narrow passage totally impassable for wheelchairs. Also no support handles, frame, or emergency pull cord.

Staff

Mostly friendly and trying to be accommodating to our various needs, but the table service included interruptions every 15m or so asking if anyone wanted another drink etc. This was to the point of being intrusive from the POV of the half of our table with ASDs. There should have been an opt-out option so we could order drinks at the bar when needed, and not be interrupted constantly. One staff member was clearing plates etc from the shelf under our table. I asked her not to reach over me to do this (she was very near both my stomach and my chair's control panel) and she ignored me and did so anyway which we found very rude. On the way out I was following my partner through the crowds in my powerchair, and accidentally bumped into another staff member who walked in front of me. Instead of both apologising to each other because the crowds made it hard to see (which is my general experience of when these things happen), I was given an angry diatribe and accused of doing it on purpose!

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I am slightly hesitant to recommend Draughts to people with hearing/sensory impairments due to the noise levels, and non-mobile wheelchair users will have problems accessing the loo. It might be easier on a weekday if possible, as you can book tables in advance - however there are still a limited number of spaces where a wheelchair user can be placed. I suggest asking staff if it is possible to opt out of table service if you want a less stressful experience.