Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre

Date of visit: February 2017

I have experience of challenges around: moving around

Overall Rating

Parking is limited outside but there's level access to the box office and cafe via automatic doors. The accessible entrance to the auditorium is reached by going back outside (luckily it's covered should it be raining). There's an accessible loo just inside the second entrance. This is only unlocked for performances so I'm not sure how visitors to the cafe or restaurant would access the loo. It's a bit chaotic in the foyer area when there's a performance - difficult for a wheelchair user or someone with walking difficulties - there's limited seating in the foyer/cafe when it's crowded and everyone's concentrated in a small area.

Disabled Access In and Around

The automatic doors lead into the box office/foyer area and it's level. It's a bit crowded when there's a performance and few seats or quiet corners to escape the crowd. There's a cafe doing drinks, snacks and light meals however the counter is very high and inaccessible. The main bar is upstairs so not accessible. The auditorium has a row of accessible seats in the stalls - the block of seats in row F that include F23 and F24 - these include two wheelchair spaces. These are on the level. Beyond these there are steps. To get to these seats you go outside to the Access door which opens automatically and lead so a gentle ramp. The disabled loo is here too.

Parking & Transport

There are just 2 blue badge bays outside and these are often abused. There's a small access road to the theatre which has double yellow lines. Arrive in plenty of time to park. If you're unlucky there's a public car park about five minutes away.

Accessible Toilets

The loo itself is good - well equipped etc. - though a little spartan in the decor department. It has a sliding door. It's handy for the accessible seats in the auditorium. However, not sure if this loo is available during the day or when there isn't a performance eg for visitors to the cafe or restaurant. There's no signage from the foyer.

Staff

0

Didn't engage with any staff.

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