I'm Steaming for the off
4
4
Date of visit: April 2017
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Good
The East Somerset Railway, a heritage line run by volunteers in deepest Somerset. The line itself is now only 2.5 miles and was originally axed in Mr Beeching's 60's cuts to all non-profit making lines. When shut to passengers it did continue for a while as a freight line. This ESR and the west somerset (although not connected at all except names) were both closed despite nowadays their worth being needed. The visit began with a quick look at the Website that is fully comprehensive in information including some very specific disability related information that could be seen as over-the-top "making an effort", whereas I see it as "vitally important". An example was the measurement for the door widths and such like. There were a couple of let-downs (you can watch my vlog about the day out - to be published during May 2017) and in my opinion very important issues that organisers can solve, but could be deal breakers if you're a solo visitor. First the ramp (angle) up to the platform - far too steep, my scooter stopped half way up, and a battery reset was the only solution. Second, the mobile ramp to the cafe and toilet was too mobile, it kept moving every time I tried to mount it. I have passed these issues on to management. Boarding the train was fun, in a sarcastic sense, purely because of some poor logistics, such as the carriage stopping position being opposite a lamp post, and the boarding ramp being too steep. Once onboard you are in the dining car bar area and guards brake wagon, with plenty of space for turning. At the half way stage when changing the engine position, able people can get off temporarily but I was informed by the guard there would not be time for wheelchair users to do so. Plus they did not bring the ramp. There is ample space for partners to sit or move through to the regular seating area. There is a small "museum" on the platform that I found inaccessible due to a door jam and old fashioned mat, plus there is an engine shed I did not visit but is allegedly accessible. Please check the website for opening days and times because it is not open all the time being run by volunteers.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
I gave 3.5 but if the ramps were sorted i would increase to 4.5.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
6 bays available, although "gravel" surface
Accessible Toilets
Good
Quite a small toilet, my scooter barely fitted. It doubles as baby change and suffers with lack of space.
Staff
Good
the guards/train staff very helpful, chatty and "non-discriminating" - e.g. they talked to me... This is run by volunteers who live the job, dressing up and learning the history to keep it alive.
Additional Information
It's a great day out. The concession ticket is £8 and you can ride the "steam" train all day if you wish.
