Fun day out
5
5
Date of visit: June 2016
I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
If you want to enjoy an amazing mix of fantasy Victorian Gothic architecture mixed up with astronomy and humour, all completely wheelchair accessible, this is the place to go.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
You leave your mobility scooter in a safe place and use provided wheelchairs which "fit" into the small but effective lift. Staff operate the lift for you and help was always available. All areas for visitors were accessible to wheelchair users.
Parking & Transport
Excellent
Accessible parking is near to the Visitor Centre entrance. Once tickets are purchased the staff ring through the house staff and warn them you are coming. You can then drive to the house, as opposed to using the normal shuttle bus service, where the staff let you in at a separate entrance.
Accessible Toilets
Excellent
Superb accessible loo in the courtyard, by the tearoom. Modern. Loads of grab rails. A choice of paper towels or air dyer (dryers are a bugbear of mine as they are often useless at actually drying hands). The best bit was that there was plenty of space to turn my scooter so I could drive out of the loo, instead of having to reverse as is often the case.
Staff
Excellent
From the lady at the Visitor Centre who clearly explained how to find the house accessible parking to the lovely security man who operated the lift for us, all the staff we encountered were friendly and helpful.
Additional Information
The carer for a wheelchair user gets in free of charge. There can be a few issues with guide wheels and carpets in some of the bedrooms, but this really is an excellent place to visit. We had a great day out and special mention must be made of the brilliant service of the CalMac ferry service from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay. Using the hazard lights on your car as you drive onto the ferry indicates you need to be parked by the lift up to the passenger lounge. Excellent and easy idea.
