Suggestions of accessible things to do this summer

If you’re looking for things to do this summer for the whole family, here are our suggestions of things to do for an accessible day out.

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, Lancashire

At Martin Mere, there are loads of activities taking place over the summer holidays, as well as the usual chances to enjoy the centre.

For instance, they are hosting a Summer Code Breakers event, like some of the other wetland centres across the UK. Running every day throughout the summer holidays, the whole centre will be turned into a puzzle adventure where you can find 18 clues to crack the code!

Elsewhere there is a viking village to explore, as well as pond dipping, moth trapping and hand feeding some of the creatures that call Martin Mere home. Just be aware that some activities have additional charges.

The site is generally level throughout and has hides and spaces that are wheelchair accessible, as well as sensory aids, including bags for a refundable deposit. Front of house staff are trained in BSL and there are mobility aids available to hire, but you will need to book these in advance of your visit. The site’s accessible toilet facilities also have a hoist and adjustable height changing table.

Find more about their accessibility here and prices for visiting here.

National Trust Stourhead, Wiltshire

Like many National Trust properties, Stourhead is holding the annual Summer of Play.

Summer of Play has distinct activity zones full of games, crafts, music and workshops, with volunteers on hand to lead you through each activity. There is also a picnic hub where you can enjoy a rest and play some lawn games before taking on the maze! Summer of Play has been designed to be fully accessible and it is advised to wear weather appropriate clothing.

At Stourhead, there are some parts of the grounds that are stony and with steep descents, so on arrival, ask for the accessible route map. You can also take advantage of the shuttle bus service which offers transfers around the grounds and there are wheelchairs available to hire.

Find more details about accessibility and the Summer of Play here.

Winchester Science Centre, Hampshire

At the Winchester Science Centre, there are several activities taking place over the summer, including Fiesta, a mini outdoor children’s festival that celebrates curiosity and Our Body and Exercise.
Our Body and Exercise is an energetic show that teaches you about how the body works. The theatre is accessible, but be aware that there will be loud noises during the show – there will be warnings beforehand and you can borrow ear defenders on arrival. There are quieter shows on the schedule, as well as shows with a BSL interpreter, so check online before visiting to choose the show that is right for you.

Throughout the centre, there are fun displays to interact with and there are sensory backpacks available from the welcome area for your visit, as well as a Recombobulation Room if you need somewhere to chill out.  The site also has its own Changing Places facility, as well as accessible toilets on both floors.

Find out more about their accessibility and book your visit here.

WWT Arundel Wetland Centre, West Sussex

At the Arundel Wetland Centre you can join in the Summer Postcard Trail – featuring nine postcards dotted around the centre, you can find each one, see who wrote them and where the animals at that destination is enjoying their summer! Pick up a free trail map on arrival and have fun!

WWT Arundel has a Changing Places toilet, as well as a further accessible toilet facility on site. Sensory bags and wheelchairs are available to borrow on a first come, first serve basis and you’ll find portable hearing loops and large print information throughout the site.

Available activities are suitable for visitors with additional needs and there are quiet times and sessions available too – check their website for details.

Find out more about their accessibility and the Postcard trail here.

Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, Wrexham

There are a host of activities, both free and paid taking place throughout the summer at Xplore! in Wrexham. In August, you can join in with one of their Inclusion Days where you can spend the day at your own pace – throughout the day, the music and lights are low and you can expect a calmer environment where you can enjoy the day at your own pace.

The site has heading loops as well as a Changing Places facility and trained staff who can assist visitors with autism and dementia.

Find out more about their accessibility and book your space here.

Find more things to do across the UK for an accessible day out this summer here.