Five of the best theatres: Matilda Walton reports on accessible theatrical venues around the UK

Adelphi Theatre, London

The Adelphi Theatre is a West End theatre in central London that has been home to some of London’s largest musicals for over 200 years. Although there is one step up to the foyer from the street, a ramp can be put in place if this is an issue for visitors. Floors are level from the foyer to the stalls, where two wheelchair spaces are found and space to allow a companion to be seated alongside.

Provision can also be made for four wheelchair/scooter transfers to any aisle seat within the stalls (book these spaces in advance). The Adelphi Theatre has an accessible toilet close to the entrance to the stalls. A review of the theatre’s accessibility arrangements mentions “so nice not to have any hassles and just be able to relax and enjoy a good show.”

Visit www.lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/adelphi or tel 020 7557 7300.

Festival Theatre, Edinburgh

Located in central Edinburgh, the Festival Theatre has been one of Edinburgh’s proudest features since its renovation in 1994. Today it is accoladed as Scotland’s premier dance and opera house… and its access services ensure that everyone can be entertained.

For example, lifts can be taken to all levels (including accessible toilets), eight available seating places for wheelchair users and even a wheelchair to borrow if necessary. Parking spaces in the courtyard are available for patrons with accessibility requirements and the theatre also offers a pick-up and drop-off service. What’s not to like?

Visit www.capitaltheatres.com or tel 0131 5296000.

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Venue Cymru, Llandudno

Venue Cymru is a theatre, conference centre and arena set beneath the breathtaking foothills of Snowdonia and enjoying spectacular views out to sea. The theatre’s well-considered accessibility services begin with 18 disabled car parking spaces, free for Blue Badge holders. There are wheelchair spaces at the stalls level, and if these are fully booked, staff are happy to help with a wheelchair transfer to other seats. Wheelchairs can be booked beforehand and accessible toilets are available on all levels.

If you have mobility requirements do make contact beforehand to guarantee the best experience, but staff are reported to be extremely approachable too.

Visit www.venuecymru.co.uk tel 01482 872000.

Northcott Theatre, Exeter

The Northcott is a university theatre hosting local, national and student productions, family shows, music and comedy. A visit begins well with Blue Badge parking nearby and ramped entrances to the theatre. To the left of the main entrance you’ll find a lift. Accessible toilets are located on both the ground floor opposite the stairs and level three (which can be reached by the lift).

The auditorium has six wheelchair spaces too. A limited number of level access seats and wheelchair spaces are bookable through the box office. Keen and helpful staff are reported to ensure the theatre reflects the voice of inclusivity.

Visit www.exeternorthcott.co.uk or tel 01392 726363.

Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool

The Royal Court Theatre combines modern service standards in a traditional setting… and these state-of-the-art standards extend to its offering for people with accessibility needs. For drivers, St Johns’ Shopping Centre multistorey car park is nearby with a host of Blue Badge parking.

A lift makes for easy visits to all levels. Recently refurbished, the front four rows and the back row of the stalls are available for wheelchair users, the best seats in the house! It’s important to let the theatre know in advance of your requirements to allow the specially trained staff to maximise your experience, which they are keen to do.

Visit www.liverpoolsroyalcourt.com tel 0151 709 4321.