Disabled traveller explores Thornbury castle
5
5
Date of visit: October 2021
I am a disabled person and a carer or friend of a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: moving around
Overall Rating
Excellent
This is our 30th hotel review for Euans guide, and what a delightful chance to continue with a second part of our visit to Thornbury Castle hotel, so we encourage you to read both parts as we found this was a place that a disabled person could manage and enjoy a day out such as my disabled husband and I did. Part two involves a visit to the beautiful Privy gardens, and to see areas we did not manage to review in part 1. (photo 1) welcomes you to the Cotswold stone Ashlar Thornbury castle. We parked on the grass area for parking (photo 2) and pushed wheelchair along the hard surfaced path which led into the courtyard (photo 3). and it’s under this arch that they are now building the one and only disabled quarters, (photo 4) which will be well into 2022 before it can be put into use. The arch is part of the ivy leaved extension of the hotel (photo 5). The high lovely metal casements window overlooks a view of the gardens (photo 6). The south facing terrace is a delightful place to sit on a warm sunny day (photo 7). The large lawn (photo 8) is an ideal spot to let your dog have a good run around, and the privy garden was in full October colour (photo 9) and an entry way led you into the walled garden which had a lot of late October colour as well (photo 10). The attractive courtyard (photo 11) led us back into the reception (photo 12) and along a small corridor we entered the hall. (photo 13). This took us into an intimate room now laid for afternoon tea. (photo 14). The opposite doorway (photo 15) took us into the dining room with its Oak panelled walls, (photo 16) so tastefully furnished where you can enjoy your evening meal. (photo 17 shows a doorway which will lead us back into the Great hall with its dark Oak panels and carved and painted heraldic frieze of the arms of previous owners of the castle. Back in the Great hall gave us a chance to admire its beautiful ornate Urns and ornaments. (Photo 18) and a beautiful intricately carved side board (photo 19) , created by Stephen Edgar, stood close to a selection of hand carved historical board games (photo 20). Our final thoughts My husband in particular enjoyed the walled gardens, while I enjoyed the historical artefacts, and we both recommend you to now read (PART ONE) about this castle. If you enjoy reading our reviews, why not check out some of the other 30 hotel reviews we have provided for you, and tick the “I like box” as this will encourage us to continue offering our reviews to Euans guide, as we all strive to help you get out and about when you are able to.
Disabled Access In and Around
Good
We found it easy enough to move around in the hotel and see everything we needed to, but upstairs will of course be out of bounds for you, as being a grade 1 building there will be no lift provided, but the important areas are on the ground floor. Bedroom use will not be practical, even if you can cope with steps, so we recommend just a days visit here, which we feel you will really enjoy.
Parking & Transport
Good
On a dry day it is easy enough to push across the grass to reach the level hard path that leads you to the gateway of the castle.
Accessible Toilets
Good
It’s on the level, close to reception and the Great hall, but it’s small so maybe you will like I had to, leave the wheelchair outside in a spot you can find. It had grab rails, and was spotlessly clean.
Staff
Excellent
The staff are very good, friendly, willing and supportive.
