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It can be difficult to find things to do during half term that are accessible – especially if you want to avoid crowds. Here are some suggestions for days out that are suitable for the whole family – whatever your needs and budget.
Midlands
Wyre Forest
Callow Hill, Bewdley, Kidderminster, Worcestershire DY14 9XQ
Located just west of Birmingham, Wyre Forest is the largest woodland national nature reserve in the country. It is managed by Forestry England and provides plenty of fun for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to take a stroll, go for a cycle or ride horses, there is something for everyone here. For those that want to stray away from the more level paths, there are several trampers available for hire that are able to better tackle rougher terrain and there is an accessible toilet on site.
West Midland Safari Park
Spring Grove, Bewdley, Worcestershire DY12 1LF
Discover a range of exotic animals and even dinosaurs here! West Midland Safari is a great day out for the whole family and with daily feeds, talks and encounters, you’ll find a new animal friend with every visit. All enclosures are wheelchair accessible and there are some available for hire. You can also find accessible toilets on site and there are concessions for disabled visitors and their carers.
South West England
Longleat
Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 7NF
Longleat is a great day out for the whole family – over half term they are running their Winter Wildlife Week at the Longhouse and Main Square on site. There’s an ice skating rink with plenty of skating aids available, plus a chance to follow a wildlife trail where you can learn more about the resident animals and of course all the usual fun and games that can be found at Longleat.
There are a number of accessible features at Longleat, including accessible toilets dotted throughout the site, as well as changing facilities, hearing loops and a queue assist programme.
WWT Slimbridge
WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucester GL2 7BT
WWT is the UK’s leading wetland conservation charity and at WWT Slimbridge, there is 800 acres of wetland paradise to explore making it perfect for nature lovers. There are six species of flamingo, plus a collection of birds from across the world and a selection of mammals to befriend during your visit. Over February half term, there is a real focus on bird watching and a chance to discover new species at the site’s various hides. Grab a sheet and see how many you can spot.
Slimbridge is mostly level and there are wheelchairs and mobility scooters available for hire on arrival. There are hearing loops at key locations and six accessible toilets dotted around the site. Recently, they were awarded a Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards for accessibility.
Crealy Theme Park and Resort
Sidmouth Road, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, Devon EX5 1DR
Home to the most rides in Devon, Crealy is a firm favourite for the adventurous among you. This year, they are hosting a Feb-tastic half term where they are offering tickets for just £15 per person. The park has recently added two new wheelchair accessible attractions and there are new accessible attractions in the Sooty Land section of the park.
There are also several accessible toilets and wheelchair hire as well as members of staff on hand to help with any questions.
South East England
Winchester Science Centre and Planetariam
Telegraph Way, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1HZ
For those families that love science and learning, this is a great option for a day out. There are a host of fun exhibits as well as special Zero Degrees event which is running over half term full of hands-on exhibits. Guests with sensory conditions can borrow sensory backpacks and ear defenders, while those who have limited mobility have the option of borrowing a wheelchair if they need a little extra support. The centre also has their own recombobulation room if you need to take a break.
Find out more here.
Chichester Festival Theatre
Oaklands Park, Chichester, West Sussex PO16 6AP
There are loads of family friendly performances taking place at Chichester Festival Theatre over half term, including Mother Goose starring Sir Ian McKellen and Bugsy Malone. The theatre offer several accessible performances, with audio descriptions, BSL interpreters and touch tours for visitors to experience prior to a performance.
Book tickets and find out more here.
North East England
North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Multiple locations across North Yorkshire
Take a step back in time with a trip on a heritage train where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the North York Moors National Park. Each station is filled with character and has their own accessibility features, so no matter where you join the line, visitors of all ages and abilities will be supported.
Yorkshire Wildlife Park
Hurst Lane, Auckley, Doncaster South Yorkshire DN9 3HQ
Home to the only polar bears in England, Yorkshire Wildlife Park is fun for the whole family and has a Changing Places facility on site for guest’s use. Most of the pathways are level and viewing is also wheelchair accessible. Plus, they have a number of child’s pushchairs, as well as mobility aids available for hire.
North West England
Sandcastle Waterpark
South Beach, Blackpool, Lancashire FY4 1BB
With a host of inclusive facilities including relaxed evenings, floatation aids and accessible rides and autism friendly features this is a hugely accessible waterpark. The park is open over half term but is well worth a visit at any time of year. There are more than 18 slides and rides on site giving you plenty to do – whether you’re a strong swimmer or not!
Find out more here.
South Wales
The Royal Mint Experience
Heol- Y-Sarn, Llantrisant, Pontyclun, Glamorgan CF72 8YT
The Royal Mint is a fascinating day out and gives you an insight into coin making as well as the chance to explore an interactive exhibit. The Mint has level access and hearing loop systems installed throughout. Their exhibits feature audio/visual stations and large print information as well as being at a wheelchair friendly height. The site is wheelchair accessible and there are designated members of staff with training who can help where needed.
Feeling inspired for a fun half term? You can find more accessible things to do across the UK here. Want to go away? Here’s some suggestions for accessible accommodation. Want more accessible events? Don’t forget to check our blog, we add a list of accessible performances and other events every month! You can see the latest one here.
