Accessible Christmas events in South West England and Wales

Image: Charlie Cruse and Kate Hegan, credit, Clarks Village

For those of you in the South West or travelling to visit family and friends, here is the low down on what is taking place this Christmas season throughout the region.

Find gifts and get into the spirit with local markets

Perhaps one of the best-loved Christmas markets in the South West is the Bath Christmas Market. Set in the heart of the Georgian city, over recent years, the market has worked to become more inclusive. This year, you’ll find several accessible toilets throughout the market area, as well as Changing Places facilities, which will be available during the market.

Blue Badge parking will also be located throughout the city around the market area, and all blue badge parking spaces will be unrestricted during the Christmas Market, except on Milsom Street and New Bond Street, but signage will be in effect. Mobility Aids are available to hire via Assured Mobility and Quiet Areas are in operation at Bath Library.

Exeter Cathedral’s Christmas Market is one of the biggest events in the South West. There are five entry points to the market and all but one have step free access, with ramps in place for those using mobility aids or push chairs. The paths between the stalls are wide with wheelchair mobility in mind. The majority of the chalets at the market are wheelchair accessible, but not all, those visiting the cathedral can take advantage of audio and braille guides, parking is limited, but there is dedicated Blue Badge space.

Over the bridge in Wales there is Cardiff Christmas Market. The market’s stalls are all on the same level as the pavement and you’ll find accessible toilets throughout the market area, including at the city’s visitor centre. Blue Badge parking can be found around the market and mobility aids and a free city centre mobility service are on hand to help you make your way around the market.

Enjoy some of the region’s top attractions

Throughout the South West and Wales, the region’s best-loved attractions are offering Christmas-themed activities and events, that are accessible for the whole family.

Clarks Village in Somerset is hosting their popular ice rink again this Christmas season. As last year, the ice rink is wheelchair accessible at all times and staff will be on hand to advise on the best times to visit for quiet sessions. The village’s guest services are trained in Dementia Awareness and the team have received Disability and Diversity training, so are well placed to help with a range of questions. The village itself has a quiet room, so please get in touch with them to book out the room and check opening times. The car park has designated Blue Badge spaces and you’ll find a range of eateries and disabled toilet facilities close to the ice rink.

Elsewhere in Exeter, Crealy Theme Park and Resort is getting into the festive spirit with their Christmas at Crealy event. As part of activities, there is a Meet and Greet with Santa, which is accessible, with a ramp and level access into the grotto. Their Christmas on Ice Show has priority seating for guests with additional needs, so please speak to a team member on arrival. The performance area also has level access, so is suitable for visitors using mobility aids.

Looking to travel by public transport this Christmas season

Public transport, like the roads can get busy at this time of year – if you are looking to use the trains this Christmas, book assistance with GWR. Each station has its own accessible information, but you can familiarise yourself with each one on GWR’s website, with a virtual tour. The Passenger Assist Scheme is also used throughout the GWR service and allows station staff to make all the arrangements needed for your journey.