A day isn't long enough!
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: May 2018
I am a carer or friend of a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
Good disabled access to most of the ruins and grounds, although some of the high level paths are not scooter or wheelchair accessible. Accessible toilets at the West Gate (steep path to get to them though), Visitor Centre and the Lakeside. Great restaurant at visitor centre.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
Good access to lots of the ruin and most of the grounds although the high paths are not accessible. Free maps available to show where you can go. Good surface paths if using a wheelchair so pushing isn't too difficult although there are a couple of slopes which seem to last longer than you think they will! Scooters and wheelchairs available for hire. Courtesy vehicle available to got to St Mary's Church and to and from the visitor centre to West Gate.
Parking & Transport
Good
plenty of disabled parking at the visitor centre, although some is a considerable distance from the buildings but it is good surface for wheelchairs or scooters. You cannot get to the Abbey or gardens from the visitor centre if you need disable access. Blue badge car park and flat entrance to abbey and gardens from West Gate car park - follow the signs from the main entrance. Sadly, not everyone respects that the West gate car park is priority blue badge parking, so again can be a real hike to get from the car park to the entrance, but it really is worth it!
Accessible Toilets
Average
There are accessible toilets at West Gate, Lakeside and the Visitor Centre. West Gate is hard to access due to the very steep slope to get to the building. Lakeside toilet access good, but you may have to queue as there is only one and it's used by visitors to the deer park too. Visitor Centre toilet good access but can be in need of a clean - again there is only one which for the number of visitors they have seems a bit sparse.
Staff
Excellent
Excellent - can't fault them. Very friendly and very helpful.
Additional Information
Very dog friendly. Even though there is no disabled access to the abbey from the visitor centre it is worth stopping there at some point if only to sample some of their fab food (gluten free available too). The deer park is lovely but unfortunately if you hire a scooter or wheelchair they aren't allowed out of the garden grounds so if relying on their machines you won't be able to explore out there. Loads of chairs to sit and take in the lovely surroundings around the water gardens. Guided tours available but also lots of volunteers/staff who are happy to answer any questions. You can easily spend the day here and we see something different every time we go. Café at the Lakeside and at the Mill by West Gate. Restaurant at the visitor centre.
