The Dockyard Social

Catch up with friend

It's a converted warehouse with concrete floor. The main entrance is stepped so use the Exit to enter as it's on the level. There is an accessible toilet but I had to wait as staff were using it. The door is hard to pull closed and could do with a bar or swing close hinge. The food and drink bars are all accessible but I found I could only go the long way round the edges, periphery of the building. There's not enough spaces between tables for wheelchair access. I only had one or two routes of access. The majority of tables are benches so you need to pre book or go early for a regular table. I would not be able to get to many tables as there was not enough space. The staff asked for the table back even though other tables were empty and this stressed me out as it was only one of a few tables wheelchair accessible. I would not recommend for hard if hearing. It's a very noisy venue as the sound reverberates and echos. I could hardly hear my friends. You can't order food to the table, you have to go up. I was glad I was in a wheelchair and that I didn't have to keep getting up and down. No coffee or hot drinks avaikable, despite being advertised as a family friendly venue. Not everyone wants alcohol. Plenty of dogs there which cheered me up talking to them. It was fine but the cons outweighed the pros. I would not choose again for myself.

Went for dinner with my PA Beca. This place is easy access, spacious, disability aware and just the best food! Reasonably priced delicious and freshly made food. Chilled atmosphere and good music played. They make you feel like family when you visit. Bartenders very knowledgeable on drinks. Dog friendly. I feel very at ease here despite scooting about in my power chair. If you need help, they are more than happy to help. Scott the manager is a 6’5 covered in tattoos GEM of a guy!! When you go, tell them Kim sent you!! What makes it special to me is that I am treated like family and NOTHING about my disability is an issue. They see me, not the chair. There is usually parking just across the road but can get busy on a Sunday. It’s open Fri to Sun 12pm TIL late.