Very worthwhile visit to the gardens
4.5
4.5
Date of visit: May 2017
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
Just minutes from the motorway and you find yourself in 12 acres of beautiful gardens with tea rooms and a decent toilet. We didn't view the house but spent around 2.5 hours ambling around the gardens. The Italian garden was particularly beautiful with a central fountain and water piece home to many newts and water critters that are easily seen in the crystal clear water. Terrain is variable from compact to loose shingle or flat lawn/meadow. I found access easy in my power chair. The site is pretty flat and parking on solid surface.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
We didn't go into the house or tea rooms so this review is the gardens only. Access routes are clearly marked on the map and pointed out on arrival by staff. Although marked as not accessible, there is flat easy access to the Italian Garden and duck/wildlife pond (via a good path through the meadow) . There is step only access to the greenhouses- of which one entrance was big enough for a ramp but not provided. Terrain is variable from loose shingle to lawn or solid surfaces. I had no problem with my power chair. The site is flat.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
At least six accessible parking spaces, not lined, on solid level surface with just a few loose stones. Parking is easy to find and in view of the entrance.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
On site the accessible toilet is accessed via a shared entrance hall to the Ladies. The space is good and well lit with all support rails present. No key needed. The nearest changing places toilet is in Ashford Gateway, several miles away.
Staff
Excellent
Very friendly and pointed out the accessible route on the free map.
Additional Information
Careers get in free and the gardens open at 1pm to 6pm.
