A Day Trip on the Ladybird Barge
5
5
Date of visit: August 2015
I have experience of challenges around: dexterity or coordination, hearing and moving around.
Overall Rating
Excellent
The Ladybird Barge is a wheelchair accessible boat, operated by volunteers from the Ladybird Boat Trust and offering trips along the River Great Ouse between April and October each year. Our group takes the trip every year and it is something that we all very much look forward to. We have a picnic lunch on board or we can go ashore.The weather doesn't spoil the trip, as if we're not out on deck we can watch through the large windows.
Disabled Access In and Around
Excellent
The Ladybird is fully wheelchair accessible; the mooring is beside a gently sloping pathway, and there is a ramp that allows you to board very easily. When planning your trip the boat can accommodate up to 20 passengers, but each wheelchair (maximum of six) is equivalent to two passengers. The crew are happy to offer help wherever needed, and welcome assistance dogs on board.
Parking & Transport
Good
The Ladybird is moored at Hartford Marina so there is free parking available, although not many designated disabled spaces. The ground is a little uneven in places between the car park and the mooring, but it is possible to drop off passengers very close to the boat and then park. We have not used public transport to get to and from the Marina, but it is on a bus route.
Accessible Toilets
Good
The bathroom is wheelchair accessible and has plenty of space for a carer as well, but there is no hoist or changing bed.
Staff
Excellent
The crew are all volunteers, and they are very friendly and knowledgeable. They went out of their way to make sure we had a good time, and were quite happy for us to set the timing for the day and to tailor the trip to suit our needs.
Additional Information
Our group has taken this trip every year since 2010 and it is a much anticipated part of our calendar. We are more than happy to donate each time to ensure that this valuable service can continue to operate. http://www.ladybirdboat.org.uk/
