6 Accessible Summer Days Out in Yorkshire

Malham Tarn

Set in the rolling hills and rugged moorland of the Yorkshire Dales, Malham Tarn in North Yorkshire is the highest freshwater glacier in England, and the ideal destination for a peaceful summer stroll.

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Hire an electric all-terrain wheelchair from the National Trust in the Malham Tarn estate office and make your way around one of the tranquil waterside routes. Taking in spectacular views and catching a glimpse of some of England’s rarest plants and animals as you go.

For toilet access, park in the National Trust car park or travel two miles to Malham Tarn village where you’ll find plenty of tea-rooms and pubs to relax in.

Be aware, limited hire times.

The Royal Armouries

Not exactly an outdoor retreat but given the unpredictable weather up north and fine location of the Royal Armouries, it would be a shame not to include it in this list.

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Located in the heart of Leeds, The Royal Armouries Museum cares for one of the most significant national collections of arms and armour in the world. Each of the six themed galleries taking you on a trip through time, with events, talks, and interactive games happening all summer long.

Entry is free, and wheelchair access is excellent, with folding seats on the walls of every floor should you need to rest.

Then, once you’ve finished wandering around each of the five floors, spend some time soaking up the vibrant and modern Leeds Dock area. Stopping at one of the many waterside bars and restaurants for a well-deserved refreshment.

For more information visit The Royal Armouries website.

Yorkshire Sculpture Park

Situated on the grounds of Bretton Hall in Wakefield, Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a wonderful mix of art and nature that you won’t find anywhere else.

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The open-air Yorkshire Sculpture Park has been described as a truly outstanding museum, hosting work from artists and sculptures the world over.

Tuck into delicious regionally sourced food and drink from the café, before exploring 500 acres of stunning landscape and contemporary art.

Not every path on the estate is wheelchair friendly, but you do get access to free use of mobility scooters and wheelchairs. There’s also priority parking for Blue Badge holders and accessible toilets in the main gallery building.

For more information visit the Yorkshire Sculpture Park website.

Bolton Abbey

Described as the “jewel in the crown” of Yorkshire’s many landscapes, the 30,000 acres of idyllic countryside boasts over eighty miles of footpaths to explore. Many of which suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

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You’ll find history around every corner as you meander through the Priory ruins, stroll through ancient woodland, or simply relax beside the river with a picnic.

Don’t worry if you forgot the sandwiches, Bolton Abbey is home to an array of award-winning restaurants, cafes, and tea rooms for you to enjoy.

If you don’t already own an all-terrain wheelchair, electric wheelchairs are available to hire between 10am and 1pm.

There are also designated disabled parking spaces and accessible toilets at each of the car parks.

For more information visit the Bolton Abbey website.

Dalby Forest

Nestled on the southern slopes of the North York Moors National Park is Dalby Forest, a haven for outdoor adventure covering some 8,000 acres of pristine woodland. 

 

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Pick up a map from the wheelchair friendly visitors centre to plan your adventure, with specific trails suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The three-and-a-half-mile trail is a pleasant walk, taking you into the heart of the forest.

Stop off for refreshments at any number of the cafés, BBQ, and picnic sites Dalby Forest has to offer. Taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of some of Yorkshire’s most picturesque landscapes.

Wheelchairs are provided free of charge, and you can also hire a mobility scooter should you prefer. General access is excellent. There are no steps from the entrance to reception/ticket area or gift shop, and you’ll also find disabled parking spots and accessible toilets.

For more information visit the Dalby Forest website. 

National Railway Museum

What better place to marvel at massive feats of engineering than at the National Railway Museum in York?

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Just half a mile from York train station, hop off the train and into the world’s largest railway collection in one of Europe’s most impressive museums. Located right here in Yorkshire. 

Home to the iconic Flying Scotsman and Mallard, and an array of steam engines and other famous locomotives from throughout history. You’ll discover intriguing objects and stories from all over the world. And with a packed summer events schedule, there’s always something going on.

Accessibility is excellent. Accessible parking is available free of charge outside the main entrance, and entry is also free. Borrow a wheelchair free of charge at both entrances, hire a mobility scooter ahead of your visit, or take your own folding wheelchair.

There’s also plenty of seating available in the Great Hall and other main areas, and museum staff are on hand to assist should you need it. With two cafes, free entry, and plenty to see, why not make a day of it this summer?

For more information visit the National Railway Museum website.