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As the warm summer days unfold in Hampshire, we're excited to share our guide to county's most accessible day out destinations. Whether you're a long-time resident or a seasonal visitor, Hampshire offers a bounty of experiences for everyone, regardless of mobility challenges.
We've carefully chosen five locations that combine ease of access with the charm and beauty our region is known for, perfect for those sunny outings. From historic sites to natural winders, these spots ensure that everyone can enjoy a memorable day out in the sun.
So, whether you're planning for yourself, loved ones, or someone in your care, read on to discover how Hampshire is opening its doors to all this summer season.
Fort Nelson, Portsdown Hill Road, Portchester, PO17 6AN
Our first mention is Fort Nelson, home to the Royal Armouries national collection of artillery and historic cannon. It's a great place to visit for all the family and has plenty accessible features to make your day out run smoothly. Overlooking Portsmouth Harbour, this restored Victorian fortress will take you back in time with its high ramparts, original fortifications, massive parade ground and underground tunnels.
Although some areas may be harder to navigate in a wheelchair or scooter, the site has many features in place to ensure the best accessibility they can offer. Ramps provide access to most of the site and there are lifts within the galleries for wheelchair accessibility. For those who are visually impaired, the site has large print guides and tactile experiences available.
Their friendly staff will also be happy to assist with any queries you may have on your visit.
Deerleap Lane, Nr Ashurst, Southampton, S040 4UH
More of an animal lover? Check out New Forest Wildlife Park! Located in the New Forest, this place is an unmissable gem for the whole family. The park specialises in rescuing and rehabilitating native and past-native wildlife of Britain as well as otters and owls from across the globe. New Forest Wildlife Park also has many accessible features in place to ensure everybody can get the most out of their experience at the park. Wheelchair and mobility scooter users are welcomed but are warned that some woodland trails and natural forest environments may cause difficulties.
They also have sensory maps and social scripts available for visitors who prefer to know what to expect from their trip. If you have any other requirements, you can always speak to their staff prior to your visit for more advice.
Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire, S042 7ZN
Located in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu is an award winning family attraction with 800 years of heritage packed into its site. From their stunning estate and beautiful gardens to their interesting motor museum, there's plenty to discover during your visit. If you're a car fan, you'll find over 285 vehicles showing the history of motor engineering. Or if you enjoy the Victorian era more, you can explore the fascinating Montagu family home and gardens.
Beaulieu is committed to providing the best possible access for every visitor. The majority of the site is fully accessible to all mobility aid users. They also have free of charge wheelchair hires available, in case you need last minute temporary aids on the day. Large print guides are also available for those with visual impairments.
The Park Office, Netley, S031 5GA
For a beautiful nature escape, our next recommendation is Royal Victoria Country Park. From woodland and coastal walking routes to outdoor activities and events in their open spaces, there's so much to do at this wonderful park. The park is filled with a rich history and has an array of habitats covering 200 acres, you'll find plenty of hidden gems here.
Royal Victoria Country Park is largely accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters, all buildings at the park are also just as accessible. Even their play areas are accessible to children who use wheelchairs or other mobility aids, ensuring no one misses out on the fun.
9 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire, S023, 9LS
Finally, the last destination on our list is Winchester Cathedral. One of the finest medieval cathedrals in Europe, with a rich history and stunning architecture. Winchester Cathedral has been a living place of worship and welcome for over 900 years. For those who love history, this is the perfect place for you. With plenty of events taking place at the cathedral year round, there's so much to experience. Winchester Cathedral also welcome any and all to join in with their daily services including their morning and evening prayers.
To ensure everyone can get the best experience possible out of the magnificent cathedral, many accessible feature have been put in place to help. Did you know we helped install some of these features? You can find our story on this by checking out our social media pages. Winchester Cathedral has plenty of ramps. lifts and extra provisions in place to help all visitors regardless of their disabilities.
We hope this blog gave you some inspiration to plan out some beautiful sunny summer adventures in the local region. These are only just a handful of locations as Hampshire is filled with amazing sites and activities all year round. Be sure to check them out!