20/05/2024 09:34
Combine accessibility and the National Trust and you have the perfect summer day out. Here’s our round-up of the best options out there.
Our country is full of so much amazing history. Without almost 135 years of protection from the National Trust we wouldn’t have half the sites, buildings, parks, and history that we do.
The hard-working staff and volunteers manage:
Here’s our top five picks for you.
The Anson family home since 1964, the Shugborough Estate is a veritable treasure trove of history through the centuries. Follow the lives of the two Anson brothers, Thomas and George, as they kicked off the incredible history woven into this estate. Experience the upstairs/downstairs lifestyle that Shugborough would have run for centuries.
Enjoy the fresh air in glorious parklands, ancient woodlands and historical features. These are all encompassed by the Shugborough Estate. There are even many animals to visit, at Park Farm on site.
There is level access in most areas, including step free access where there are inclines. Designated parking is available, as are accessible toilets and a Changing Places facility. Wheelchairs and powered mobility vehicles are available for hire. As usual with these, pre-booking would be wise.
There is a stair climber on-site so that wheelchair users can have access to the interior. Booking for this too would be advised. Induction loops are available.
Opening times are available here.
Learn more about the Shugborough Estate
A privately owned home for 400 years, until gifted to the National Trust in 1958. Thanks to this it is one of the most complete estates that is open for visitors. Explore the 18th century mansion and Victorian gardens. The glasshouses and formal gardens include Japanese and Italian themes.
The estate hosts over 100 events every year, making it a perfect day trip destination.
In terms of accessibility, the park offers designated parking and level access to shops and the food outlet. There’s ramp access with wheelchairs and powered mobility vehicles for hire. Also, accessible toilets are provided.
You will be given an accessible route or map upon your arrival.
Opening times are available here.
Despite exterior appearances, the Old English style manor was built in the 1880s. The architect Edward Ould was commissioned to build this beautiful house and the result is incredible. The interior is heavily influenced by famous writer Oscar Wilde’s lecture ‘The House Beautiful’. It hosts collections of stunning Japanese and Chinese objects, along with the designs of William Morris.
The house is home to an extensive display of notable paintings and art pieces. The likes of Pre-Raphaelite Dante Gabrielle Rossetti to Elizabeth Siddal are on display. Come to Wightwick and visit one of the largest public collections from female artists in the whole of Britain.
Wightwick offers designated parking followed by level access to the shop and the food outlet. Accessible toilets are available and regular seating available throughout the manor and grounds. Ramp access with wheelchairs and hired powered mobility vehicles can be made use of.
You will be given an accessible route or map upon your arrival, along with braille guides or an induction loop if needed. There is a virtual tour inside the manor, covering any areas that aren’t accessible.
The grounds are open from Wed-Sun from 10 am – 4 pm (last entry at 3pm). Tickets are available here.
Learn more about Wightwick Manor and Gardens
Explore over 13,500 acres of informal lawns, lakes, woodlands, parklands and farmland. Set your Secret Garden dreams free and discover the beautiful hidden walled garden. A new garden, the storytelling garden, has recently been added to the collection too.
Owner Socialist MP Sir Charles Philip Trevelyan has ensured there’s something for everyone. The house offers a look at the history of Northumberland, through collections, furniture and quirky objects. Pre-Raphaelite paintings decorate the Central Hall.
Some of the gardens are on one level but there is an accessible route around the site provided. Powered mobility vehicles can be hired, and wheelchairs are available.
Accessible toilets, designated parking, a drop-off point, and seating are all available. Ramped access and level terrain can be found to access the shops and food areas too.
Fixed induction loops are available for those who are hard of hearing. Large print guides and menus can be used also.
Opening times are available here .
Whether you wish to enjoy the ancient deer park for a picnic or the 17th century sash windows in the house, Belton has something for everyone to enjoy.
Visit a world-renowned library along with incredible art, silver and porcelain collections. While the National Trust’s largest adventure playground sits in the grounds. The house and gardens make for a perfectly balanced day out and offer an extensive range of accessibility options.
Designated parking is available, and a shuttle service which you can ask for at the Visitor reception. You will find level access terrain to the food outlet and shops. Accessible toilets are available at the parkland toilets, Stables Cafe and indoor play area. Wheelchairs and powered motability vehicles are available for hire. There is seating around the ground at accessible picnic benches.
Induction loops and braille guides are available upon request.
There is a stair climber on-site so that wheelchair users can have access to the upstairs interior. Booking for this would be advised.
Opening times are available here.
Learn more about Belton Estate
It is worth saying, if you want to hire any form of wheelchair, be sure to ring ahead and book in advance.
So, wherever you visit this summer, fresh air and sunshine await. Banish the darkness and cobwebs of winter. Visit the sprawling acres of National Trust properties to absorb the culture, the history and vitamin D.
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