For too long, accessible tourism has been treated as a niche market. It isn’t. It’s an underserved and overlooked sector, with untapped potential for both social good and sustainable profit. At Tourism for All, we work every day with travellers who face barriers that many in the industry never even consider—and we work with businesses ready to break those barriers down.
The opportunity? Transformative.
1 in 4 People Have a Disability — But Where Can They Stay?
Roughly 1 in 4 adults in the UK identify themselves as disabled. Add in the growing number of older travellers, those recovering from surgery or illness, and families with access needs—and the market expands dramatically.
Yet the availability of truly accessible holiday accommodation remains inadequate. Too many properties fail to meet even basic accessibility standards, and when features are in place, they are often poorly communicated—or hidden entirely.
We frequently hear from frustrated travellers who have the means and the desire to explore but simply can’t find a place that works for them.
Accessibility: A Business Opportunity, Not a Burden
Making a property accessible isn’t just the right thing to do. It’s good business.
Accessible travellers tend to:
- Plan and book earlier
- Stay longer
- Travel with companions, increasing party size
- Remain loyal to providers who meet their needs
Many also travel outside peak seasons, helping to smooth demand curves. And when they find a welcoming, well-designed property? They tell others.
This is the very definition of high-value travel.
Travellers with Access Needs Are Just Like Everyone Else
Let’s be clear: travellers with accessibility requirements want to enjoy the same destinations, experiences, and amenities as anyone else – and, like anyone else, they want the freedom to choose. They want to stay in charming coastal cottages, explore vibrant city breaks, book countryside retreats, visit historic sites, enjoy great food, and relax in beautiful surroundings. The only difference is that they need to know—before they book—that they’ll be able to get in the door, use the bathroom, and navigate the space safely and comfortably.
Accessibility doesn’t mean different. It means possible.
Beyond Ramps and Rails: Design with Dignity
There’s a lingering myth in hospitality that accessible means institutional. But good accessible design is elegant, thoughtful, and beneficial to everyone. Level entrances, wide doorways, walk-in showers, clear signage—these aren’t just “special features.” They’re markers of quality.
Accessibility should not mean limitation or compromise. New builds and conversions should aim to be inclusive by design: not overly specialised or clinical, nor overly simplified, but rather fit for purpose, aesthetically pleasant, and usable by everyone.
And the beauty is: designing environments that are welcoming to all doesn’t just benefit those with specific needs—it enriches the experience for every guest.
Let’s Lead the Way
At Tourism for All, we’re calling on property owners, developers, and travel brands to reframe how they think about accessibility—not as compliance, but as innovation.
Whether you’re renovating a boutique B&B or scaling a property portfolio, now is the time to:
- Audit what you already offer
- Make strategic upgrades
- Promote your accessible features transparently and proudly
- Train and empower your staff to understand diverse needs and to have the confidence to offer great service to guests with accessibility requirements
The return on investment? Loyal guests. Positive reviews. And a reputation for doing the right thing, well.
Join the Movement
We’re here to help. Tourism for All provides training, tools, and advisory support to help properties become truly inclusive. Because travel should be for everyone—and the future belongs to those who open their doors wider.
Let’s not miss this moment.
