Walker Art Gallery

Walker Art Gallery is a large gallery that has lots of incredible items to look at spanning from the 13th century! There was also a lovely café in the centre of the building which was set in a part of the building that really highlighted the tremendous, ornate structure. I really enjoyed looking through some of the galleries and saw some iconic portraits. Because it was so close to the station, it was a perfect stop when I had some spare time before my train home. I got talking to a member of staff as I was waiting for the lift to arrive and he spent time asking me about my visit and what I liked and showed me to the galleries that he felt I would enjoy the most. He made such an impact on my visit! I did struggle with the heavy glass doors that separated each gallery. I wouldn’t visit again on my own, as the doors were just too heavy to open on my own as a wheelchair user. But I would happily go back if I was going with someone else.

Newly disabled wheelchair user,My first day trip out in a wheelchair. What an experience! They have a handful of disabled spaces available behind the gallery. To book one you need to ring the World museum, although the Walker staff can put you through. The exit from the car park and the pavement outside the gallery is quite steep but their is public vehicle access right outside for dropping of (not specifically for this purpose but there is space). There is a long, sensible gradient ramp to the entrance and from there it only gets easier! It has 3 floors (from memory) of sculptures, art and it is all set out with sensible distances between pieces meaning everything is accessible and spacious. To move between floors there is a lift that is only for disabled and possibly prams. Nothing special about the lift but served it's purpose. There was one door which was closed that was awkward but there were enough helpful people around who offered to help, but my first trip and still in the "I'm independent I'll do it myself mode" I did it myself. Next time I accepted kindness from strangers...hey I'm still learning. Finished with a tea n cake in the café. This was crowded and tight for wheelchair access but staff and customers were helpful. I cannot recommend the carrot cake enough. It was amazing! All in all if everywhere is as good as this then I'll be lucky.

A real depth of paintings from recent to medieval. Some famous ones like When Did You Last See Your Father. A few Lowerys and Epsteins. Venue easily accessed via a ramp. Cafe in foyer, and accessible toilet and a lift to first floor.