Overview

Pret A Manger is one of those places I tend to visit when I need something quick and decent while out and about. They usually have a decent selection of sandwiches, wraps and drinks. They do a decent coffee too! The Pret and Brindley Place is typical of most stores, though there are a few frustrating access issues.

Transport & Parking

The easiest way to get here is by tram or bus, with both stopping at the nearby Brindley Place tram stop on Broad Street. New Street railway station is just under a mile away, offering a fairly direct route for those coming by train. There may be some local on-street parking, but the Brindley Place Q-Park is nearby, which has 13 accessible parking spaces.

Access

There is ramp access to the café on the far right of the entrance, with steps just outside. The steps themselves have tactile markings and handrails on either side. I entered behind someone else, so the left door was already open. On leaving, I tried to exit through the right-hand door, as the left one was blocked by a sandwich board - an unnecessary obstacle. The door was locked, but two staff members came out and kindly opened both doors for me. However, once I left, they closed the right door behind me and locked it again. It felt a bit silly. They had recognised the access issue, then immediately put the barrier back in place. There’s also a doorbell to alert staff, but unfortunately, the sandwich board is in the way. Inside, space is quite tight, though the staff were happy to move a few chairs to make room. That flexibility made a difference. Some of the items in the fridge were difficult to reach from my wheelchair due to their placement. There’s no lowered counter at the till, and I didn’t spot any signage indicating a hearing loop. There are a few outdoor seats, which make it a pleasant spot to pause, enjoy a coffee, and soak up a bit of sunshine.

Toilets

The door to the accessible toilet opens outwards and doesn’t require a RADAR key. Inside, there are silver grab rails on both sides of the toilet and around the small sink, which has a lever-style tap and soap dispenser. The central space is mostly clear, and there is room for a left-side transfer, although a bin has been placed in this area, which could get in the way. A powerchair user can fit inside, and perhaps one or two people at most, but it would be a tight squeeze. The toilet also has a baby change table and a wall-mounted hand dryer. Please not this is an all-use toilet, and is the only one in the venue.

Staff

The staff were very accomodating, but locking that door behind me didn't feel very sensible.

Photos