Sheffield Park and Garden

A seasonal visit to see Sheffield Park's legendary riot of autumnal colour was facilitated by the free loan of a mobility scooter. I followed the guidance on the NT website preparatory to my visit by booking the scooter ahead so no problems there. What didn't work so well was that I was told I could "only use the white route" on the map. Problem is there is no white route on the map! What's that about? Improved signage for disabled visitors would be helpful, for example on path signage indicating whether a route is scooter friendly or not. To get between the garden and the catering facilities/loos requires the visitor to transit the reception area which involves passing through two sets of large glazed doors. One is reliant on someone to open the doors in order to pass.

Mobile scooters and paths fabulous Staff friendly kind and helpful Rhododendrons quite beautiful It was so colourful ...red yellow orange pinks white... I will recall this when in “vacant or in pensive mood” Small kiosk for tea etc at half way point Small walk to toilets from car park

This National Trust venue is accessessed by country lanes that were not too bumpy to make the journey more pleasant. On arrival the drive into the parking area is smooth and there are several accessible places to park near the entrance. We went for the autumn leaf colour as did thousands of others!! At peak ‘leaf’ time you may not be able to get in and signs will tell you to come another day. We did find parking next to the entrance and enjoyed a few hours admiring the lakes and tree colours. I had no difficulty in my powerchair - there are no barriers between the lake side and the grass so you do need to be experienced at controlling your chair or risk taking a lethal swim!! Hard paths with little shingle made for a worthwhile afternoon.