Accessible stays for October half term

Thumbnail: John Fowler Holidays

The summer holidays might feel like yesterday, but before you know it October half term and all the fun and games of Halloween will be here. If you’re looking for an autumnal get away with the family for October half term, check out our suggestions for accessible places to stay.

If you’re travelling with kids or large groups, holiday parks are a great option. Not only do you have facilities to keep everyone entertained during your stay, but you also have your own space, somewhere to keep the car and you can easily get properties next to each other if you’re travelling in a group. Many holiday parks are also happy for you to bring along your dogs, so the whole family can join in the fun and with self-catering options, you aren’t restricted to set dining times and can easily cater for special diets or allergies.

You’ll find holiday parks, offering a variety of holiday homes, from lodges to caravans and chalets that are adapted to allow easy navigation with mobility aids and lowered facilities in bathrooms and kitchens, so you can find something that best suits your needs. They are also good options for anyone on a budget – as you often have a host of facilities and comfortable accommodation at lower rates.

For a traditional holiday park vibe which puts you near the beach and has a host of fun activities taking place during the day, take a look at Beverley Holidays. 
Located in Paignton, Devon, this family run park has over 60 years of experience and the staff are on hand to make sure your holiday is as memorable as possible. Staying here means you have the choice between static caravans, lodges or bringing your own tent. There is a selection of adapted caravans which are accessible, with a ramp leading up to the door and your own private parking space. Other communal places around the park have wheelchair access and changing areas and some parking, to make it easier for you to make your way around the park. You can find out more here.

Beverley Holidays is close to the beach at Goodrington Sands, which is one of the region’s best loved accessible beaches. There is a beach wheelchair available free of charge to use while visiting the beach and there are accessible toilet facilities close by. You’ll also be able to easily access a variety of other beaches in the English Riviera region of Devon from here, including Torre Abbey Sands, Preston Sands, Paignton Sands and Breakwater Beach.

If you like the idea of being in Devon John Fowler Holiday Parks 

have accessible accommodation at their South Bay resort in Brixham. Alternatively, they also have sites in Somerset and Cornwall. Across their South Bay, Widermouth Bay, St Ives, Trelawne, Killigarth and Sandy Glade resorts, there are two types of holiday home for guests with disabilities. These feature low level worktops, wide doorways and full wet rooms, as well as ramped access.

You can see their full accessibility information and book here.

Another option in this area of the UK is Landal Gwel an Mor  in Cornwall. Their modern, accessible lodges have stunning sea views, log burners and hot tubs, and are well equipped for guests with additional needs. The site is placed in beautiful countryside and has easy access to the sea, as well as having a Wildlife Centre onsite, where you can get up close and personal to some of Britain’s best loved animals.

Find autumn offers and see what’s available here or check out their full accessibility guide here.

Image: Landal Gwel an Mor

If you’d rather visit somewhere further north, Hoe Grange Holidays is in the Peak District and allows you to easily visit places like Bakewell and Buxton. There are four purpose-built log cabins, all with accessibility in mind. The site also has two off road wheelchairs available to help you make your way around. With holiday homes available for those with limited mobility to those with dementia and sensory conditions, there is something here for everyone. You can find more details on their accessibility here. 

For an activity break, check out Calvert Kielder. With a range of land and water based activities, all adapted for guests with additional needs and a choice of accessible accommodation, this is a great place for anyone who wants a touch of adventure this half term. Meals are prepared inhouse by their team of chefs who cater for dietary requirements and you’ll find trained staff and instructors on hand at all times to help you make the most of your holiday.

Image: Calvert Kielder

Or how about something more traditional, like camping? Stubcroft Farm 

 is an award winning campsite that is regularly praised for its accessibility. The whole site has been designed with accessibility in mind, with wheelchair accessible shower rooms and a disabled toilet. Door signs have raised letter and Braille and there are pull chords in each accessible room with visual and audible alarms.

You can find more details of their accessibility here. 

Looking for more suggestions for places to stay over half term? You can find more details here.