Visiting new places can feel daunting when you have limited mobility, but the ability to travel and visit new places should never feel restricted. London is an incredible city that has a lot to offer to all visitors regardless of their mobility levels. It’s a good idea to do some homework before you set off and learn about the various accessible activities, events and attractions you could see and explore.
London has a lot to offer to solo travellers and groups alike so it is best to find out as much as you can before you leave, to ensure your itinerary is filled with enriching experiences. You will also be able to find plenty of resources on accessibility that can help ensure you have all the information and mobility aids you need to get around well.
Use Public Transport
London is a city connected by some of the best public transport infrastructure around. The Tube is famous worldwide, and everyone recognises the sight of the black cabs and red buses of London. All of these methods for getting around are perfect for those with limited mobility, as accessibility for all is one of the key tenets of the London transport experience. If you’re nervous or unsure, there are station staff that can help – assistance is never more than a question away.
Take The London River Bus
The River Bus is an incredible experience that any visitor to London should enjoy – it is entirely accessible for those with mobility concerns. It is worth double-checking the accessibility of the Pier you’re alighting at, since several do not include step-free access. There will be help available for anyone who wants to access these Piers, so you should discuss this with the station master or staff on the boat itself.
Enjoy The View From The London Eye
The London Eye is one of the most iconic attractions in London – it is also entirely accessible for anyone with limited mobility, with each pod being fully wheelchair and rollator accessible. It is best to book your wheelchair accessible tickets in advance to ensure you can visit at a time that suits you best. The entire London Eye experience takes around 30 minutes and offers truly breathtaking views of the city. You can also get a carer’s ticket for free, perfect if you need a companion to help with your mobility.
Eat Some Delicious Fish And Chips
No trip to London is complete without sampling some of the world-famous fish and chips on offer. You’ll find everything from street food to fine dining offerings, so do some research before you go and find the perfect option for you. Make sure to find an authentic fish and chips experience by looking for London specialities including:
- Jellied eels
- Liquor – a sauce made from chopped parsley
- Mushy peas
Invest In The Right Mobility Aids
Mobility aids are invaluable for anyone travelling to London, and can help make the whole experience easier and simpler. You should think carefully about your mobility needs and be realistic when considering the kind of aid to take along. If your mobility tends to change throughout the day or depending on what you’re doing, then a combination rollator and wheelchair could be the perfect thing for you. Choose a quality business for your mobility aids that will ensure you have the right tools at your disposal during your trip. Rollz Mobility are an excellent example of the quality and standards you should be looking for.
Choose A Quality Hotel
Your hotel will make a big difference to your comfort and enjoyment of your time in London. Any reputable hotel worth its salt will make accessibility for all its guests their number one priority. It is a good idea to start your research by Googling accessible hotels in London. There should be a wide range available, and you can then check their reviews to find out about the accessibility experience others have had there. You should take some time to research the options available and ensure that you choose the one that will best cater to your accessibility needs.
Be Open About Your Needs
It is a good idea to discuss your mobility needs when necessary. You could consider getting in touch with hotel staff ahead of your arrival, to let them know what kind of mobility help you might need. They will be more than willing to help accommodate your specific accessibility needs and will also be able to advise on ways to make your trip more enjoyable and accessible.
Visit The Famous Camden Markets
Camden Markets are famous for their alternative culture and bright market stalls. You’ll find the best in hippy, punk and rock clothing, along with some incredible eateries. Accessibility will vary pending on where you want to go in Camden, and it is worth keeping in mind that during peak seasons and times, the streets can get very busy with crowds. It is best to visit Camden market on a weekday, if possible, as you will find the streets quieter and easier to manage with mobility aids.
Absorb The Incredible History Of The Tower Of London
The Tower of London is one of the most famous sites of historical importance in the UK. It dates back centuries and has housed many famous names throughout history, from Kings and Queens to the UK’s Crown Jewels. The Tower and its grounds are well worth a few hours spent exploring, with all areas of the site being accessible to anyone in a wheelchair or using a mobility aid.
Final Thoughts
London is an incredibly accessible city that is perfect for travellers with limited mobility. You should always do your homework before setting out on any trip, to ensure that you have the tools and resources at your disposal for a safe and fun trip. Getting around London is often the trickiest part for people with mobility issues, but rest assured that all methods of public transport are fully accessible to those with limited mobility – if, at any point, you’re unsure, the station or bus staff will be more than happy to help.
