Overview

In my research for this station, Google made it pretty clear that the station is not wheelchair accessible. Well, sometimes I like to see things for myself, and you know what? Google was wrong. Sure, the stairs at the front aren't helpful if you have reduced mobility or use a mobility aid, but if you go up the hill past the stairs, which is a bit of a push for wheelchair users, and take a right, you'll find an accessible route into the station. It just goes to show that even a service like Google, which forms the basis of many of our plans, can be wrong from time to time, and there's real value in exploring. In all, it's a modern station and a well-equipped station at that.

Transport & Parking

On Cab Road, just outside the accessible entrance, you’ll find taxi bays, public buses, and a drop-off point, which includes three accessible parking spaces for short-term use. The closest car park, highlighted by National Rail, is the APCOA car park on Station Approach Road, just 160 metres away. The listing on the APCOA website returns an error, but general guidance from National Rail suggests there are 27 spaces in total, with 2 accessible parking spaces. However, I’d recommend using public transport or being dropped off as the best way to get here. It’s also worth noting that Waterloo Station has a subway, served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines, providing an alternative route into the station.

Access

As mentioned, the entrance to the station is uphill, which can be a bit of a challenge if you're self-propelling a wheelchair or using a mobility aid. That said, once you're through the entrance, it's easy to find your way around. Coming in through the archway, there's no shortage of ticket machines, and they're generally within reach for most wheelchair users. The ticket desk doesn’t have a lowered counter, but there is a section for assisted travel information that does, and it also serves as the Passenger Assistance meeting point. There's no signage for a hearing loop or any stickers in the window to suggest one. I’d expect there is a loop, but nothing made it obvious. The lifts are a good size, with braille markings and enough space to turn a powerchair. All stairways have tactile paving at the top and bottom, with handrails on both sides. Each platform has accessible ticket gates and tactile markings along the edge. There are plenty of seats dotted around the station, including in the bars and cafés. There’s a decent mix of shops and food spots, with places like Boots, M&S and Foyles. For food and coffee, you’ve got Pret, Greggs, Starbucks, Costa, McDonald’s, Wasabi, Burger King and more, plus a few sit-down options upstairs if you’ve got time. The stairway at the alternative entrance has grabrails on either side. Despite the size of the station, signage is clear, and it’s easy to navigate.

Toilets

The accessible toilet was on the concourse level and took a bit of finding. The door opens outwards and needs a RADAR key. It was surprisingly spacious, with loads of room to turn and a clear area for a right-side transfer – it’s rare these days not to find a bin in the way. There are grab rails on either side of the toilet and a colostomy shelf. The sink is small, with a sensor tap, a mirror above, and silver grab rails on both sides that contrast nicely against the wall. Overall, it felt clean, practical, and well thought out. There are baby changing facilites in the toilet, should you need them.

Staff

Photos