Overview

I was using a rollator to get around at the time, but I'd definitely go back again now with a mobility scooter. The staff were so well trained on accessibility needs, I've never seen anything like it before. I needed to go to the disabled toilet before we started (just in case!) and was shown there and told how the door worked. Instead of one that I'd have to pull open at some point to get either in or out, this door slid to the side at the press of a button and also locked that way! It was amazing. When going around, there are staff at many points to guide the visitors and to offer help, starting with the main reception area. They were very solicitous and gave me their audio player on a ribbon to go around my neck so I'd be hands free. There were clearly marked small lists (as in travelling up a short way) in several places so I didn't miss seeing anything. At one point, they asked if I'd like to go around on a flatter level rather than over a step, but I managed the step. There were stairs up to the shop, which was a shame, but there was also a longer way around to access it. Unfortunately, the shop would have been closed if I went that way, but I could manage the stairs and the staff kindly took my rollator up them for me. They also ensured the shop didn't close a minute early to give me a bit of time for a look around. Overall, I was amazed at such a level of service, awareness and adaptations throughout, especially considering the age of the location.

Transport & Parking

I drove there, and parked nearby on a side street, where I managed to get all day parking with my blue badge. However, I was in a lot of pain in my arthritic knees at the end of the day.

Access

The disabled access was second to none, especially given the ancient nature of the site. There was plenty of signage, a great disabled toilet, lots of random bits of seating everywhere, and they did their very best to offer alternatives to one small step and larger set of steps. The staff were on hand in every area and were very mindful of my safety and comfort, without making me feel uncomfortable. There are several lifts to take us up semi-levels, purely for people with disabilities and their carers, and I had a special access fob for these.

Toilets

So easy! The best I've ever come across as I didn't have to pull a door open and back myself up into a silly space. The door opened to the side, a huge button both locked and then opened it, and the staff member took me there and showed me how it worked.

Staff

They were all obviously highly trained in accessibility awareness and they couldn't have made more of an effort if they'd tried.