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As the long summer days unfold in Hampshire, opportunities for fun days out with friends and family arise. Don't let your mobility hold you back, Hampshire is packed with great accessible options so that everyone can enjoy themselves.
Our blog will give you our top insights into the five most accessible destinations in the county! Whether you're a long-time local or just a seasonal visitor, Hampshiore offers a vast variety of experiences for all.
1) Fort Nelson
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 of accessible features to make your trip 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 mobility scooter, the site has many features in place to ensure the best accessibility it can offer. Ramps provide access to most of the site, and there are lifts within the galleries for wheelchair accessibility. For those with visual impairments, the site also features large print guides and tactile experiences.
The friendly staff at Fort Nelson will also be happy to assist with any queries you may have on your visit.
2) New Forest Wildlife Park
Deerleap Lane, Nr Ashurst, Southampton, SO40 4UH
More of an animal lover? Check out the 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.
Wheelchair and mobility scooter users are welcome, 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 before your visit!
3) Beaulieu
Beaulieu, New Forest, Hampshire, SO42 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 always plenty to discover during your visit!
If you're a car fanatic, you'll find over 285 vehicles showcasing the history of motor engineering. Or, if you enjoy the Victorian era, you can explore the fascinating Montague 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 wheelchairs available to hire, in case you need a last-minute temporary solution on the day. Large prints are also available for those with visual impairments.
4) Royal Victoria Country Park
The Park Office, Netley, SO31 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 the open spaces, there's so much to do at this wonderful park.
It's also packed with rich history and features an array of habitats covering 200 acres. You'll find plenty of hidden gems at Royal Victoria Country Park.
The park is largely accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs or mobility scooters; all buildings at the park are just as accessible. Even their play areas can be used by children who use a wheelchair or other mobility aid, ensuring no one misses out on the fun!
5) Winchester Cathedral
9 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 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! There are plenty of events taking place all year round, there are loads you can experience. The Cathedral welcomes 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, Winchester Cathedral has installed many accessible features to help. Did you know... we actually installed some of these features?
You can find our story of how we installed the cathedral with a wheelchair lift on our social media pages. Overall, Winchester Cathedral has plenty of ramps, lifts, and extra provisions in place to help all visitors regardless of their disabilities.
We hope our blog gave you some inspiration for your plans this summer. These are just a handful of accessible locations in Hampshire; our region is filled with amazing sites and activities all year round.
Be sure to check them out!