Thrill seekers rejoice! Five of the most accessible UK theme parks reviewed
Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire
More than “just” a theme park, Alton Towers offers a water park, spa, mini golf and hotel complex. And its accessibility has grown over the years too.
“We care deeply about creating magical and inclusive experiences for everyone, which is why we have created our new online Accessibility Guide.”
The guide is extremely useful, with concise information on every aspect of the resort experience to enable guests with access issues to plan ahead.
Alton Towers also partners with Nimbus Disability, which operates the Access Card scheme, to assess and manage applications for guests with access requirements. It offers an Easy Access Pass for those who need extra assistance. Ride Access Pass applications must be completed online, at least seven days before your visit.
Accessible toilets and Changing Places facilities are located around the resort, and the Disabled Car Park is located near to the main entrance of the theme park.
Visit www.altontowers.com or tel 01538 704096.
Thorpe Park Resort, Surrey
Home to thrilling rides, attractions, live events and even a themed hotel, Thorpe Park claims to be the ultimate destination for thrill seekers. But how does it fare when it comes to thoughtful provision for people with accessibility issues?
Disabled Parking is available and conveniently located near the admissions area. A Changing Places facility includes hoist, adult changing bed, height adjustable sink, shower and toilet.
Plan your trip in advance to ensure you have the best time possible. Information is given to guests before they visit, including an Accessibility Day Planner tailored to each guest’s specific needs. This means that buying tickets and entering Thorpe Park is smooth, and ride accessibility information is clear. There’s even an Accessibility Kiosk for further information or assistance throughout your visit. A Ride Access Pass reduces waiting times for those who need extra assistance.
The team comments that “we recognise that every guest is individual, therefore we want to ensure each experience is unique”.
Visit www.thorpepark.com or tel 01932 577131.
Oakwood Theme Park, Pembrokeshire
The biggest theme park in Wales, Oakwood Theme Park is big on inclusion too.
A Ride Access Pass (issued on presentation of relevant documents) is available to guests who may find it difficult, or cannot stand for long periods of time, either because of physical disability or learning/emotional impairment.
Clear information shows what rides are suitable for each person; check beforehand to make the most of the day. Toilets across the park have access for guests with wheelchairs, disabilities or additional needs.
“We have many disabled-friendly facilities and have plenty of practices in place to ensure that your disability won’t stop you enjoying your day at our theme park,” a spokesperson says. “We will do everything we can so that you can have both a safe and pleasurable time here.”
Visit www.oakwoodthemepark.co.uk or tel 01834 815170.
Drayton Manor, Staffordshire
Home to thrilling rides, a zoo and woodlands, Drayton Manor even has an on-site four-star hotel.
Drayton Manor partners with Nimbus Disability, operators of the Access Card scheme, to assess and manage applications for guests with access requirements. This means it offers an Easy Access Pass for people who need additional assistance. Forward planning is essential when it comes to using this pass and reading up on the ride and attraction information that outlines details about which rides are suitable for particular physical needs.
“If you have any questions at any point during your visit, please visit our Guest Services team for further information,” Drayton Manor organisers suggest.
On the day, rides have boards to provide guests with information when deciding if the ride is suitable. A new hoist room includes toilet, basin, shower, hydraulic bed and a hoist.
Visit www.draytonmanor.co.uk or tel 01827 287979.
M&D Theme Park, Lanarkshire
M&D’s Scotland’s Theme Park includes rollercoasters, water rides, fairground rides, arcade, theatre, ten-pin bowling and indoor tropical house.
In terms of its inclusion of visitors with accessibility issues, M&D Theme Park does not appear to be as well set up as some other theme parks; there is more onus on the individual to highlight their specific needs on the day as opposed to forward planning.
Almost all buildings, paths and walkways are wheelchair accessible and an area at the front of the building is devoted to disabled parking with direct ramp access. Restaurants and shops are wheelchair accessible and ample accessible toilet facilities can be found throughout the complex.
Some older attractions and others that are mobile, have historical designs that can’t be reasonably modified to allow full wheelchair access. But organisers highlight, that “where resources are available assistance will be available to help customers access attractions”.
Visit www.scotlandsthemepark.com or tel 01698 333777.
Like what you see? Check our our reviews of accessible aquariums.
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