According to the National Autistic Society, more than 1 in every 100 people are autistic, but despite this huge number, many of the people who are on the autism spectrum report that they still struggle with finding accessible things to do and places to stay. This is in part due to a lack of awareness of the condition but also because of how vastly it differentiates between each individual – however, there are an increasing number of organisations and companies across the UK who are working hard on making sure that they are as autism friendly as possible and you’ll find them here. Click here for autism friendly accommodation and here for autism friendly things to do.

Because the spectrum is so vast, there isn’t a one size fits all approach to autism and its associated conditions, but by being autism friendly, it means that these specific businesses are aware of the social engagement and environmental factors that can affect people on the autism spectrum and that they have made modifications to their businesses to better suit individual’s unique needs.

For businesses, being autism friendly doesn’t mean that you have to make expensive alterations or take part in training courses, though if you are interested in that, you can contact the team at Tourism For All here. For those visitors who are on the autism spectrum, making small changes can and does make a massive difference to their experiences.

What is autism?

Autism is a spectrum condition, all people diagnosed with autism have certain difficulties with how they perceive the world around them but being autistic will affect them and their behaviour in different ways. In particular, many people with autism struggle with understanding and relating to other people, which can make taking part in everyday life challenging, particularly when visiting somewhere new, like a hotel or a museum.

Some autistic people struggle with communication and prefer to use sign language or visual cues, while others engage in repetitive behaviour and need clear routines to get through the day. Because people on the autism spectrum don’t always appear to be ‘disabled’ their behaviour and anxiety can be misinterpreted, which is why these businesses have staff who are experienced with the autism spectrum and can relate to visitors in an engaging and understanding way.

Visitors with autism can experience sensory sensitivity, so the organisations that are listed here as being autism-friendly have taken that into account, from having dedicated autism friendly sessions where the lights are dimmed and the music lowered to hotel rooms with minimal furniture and no loud colours, you’ll find everything you need to have a fun and relaxing holiday or day trip here.

You’ll find a wide range of things to do, from relaxed theatre performances to dedicated movie screenings, sensory displays and more at our autism friendly attractions and accommodation providers with plenty of quiet spaces and understanding staff who know how overwhelming and daunting being away from home can be.

Being autism friendly works for everyone

Not everyone displaying the common symptoms of autism are autistic, there are a number of conditions that can make people have sensitivity to lights, colours, sounds and smells as well as difficulty with communicating. Many of the facilities in place for those that are autism friendly can be hugely beneficial to those with Asperger’s syndrome or PDA and those suffering from general anxiety disorders, learning disabilities and more. Much like with autism, those with Asperger’s see, hear and feel the world differently to those who are neuro-typical. While people suffering from an anxiety disorder will also become easily overwhelmed by loud noises, crowds and vibrant lights.

Don’t miss out on having amazing holiday experiences at these attractions and accommodation providers.

You are here: Hidden Disabilities

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Hidden Disabilities

Not all disabilities are visible, hidden disabilities account for the majority of disabilities and include conditions including autism, dementia, MS, Chron's and a plethoria of other conditions.

When it comes to going on holiday or staying over night somewhere new, we know it can be incredible stressful and overwhelming for those with hidden disabilities, especially if they have to take medication at certain times or have a stoma for example. New places, new smells and of course, a break in the routine can cause anxiety for everyone and can really affect how they experience their break. Luckily, there are accommodation providers who have had effective training so they are ready to offer a helping hand. Many accommodation providers have ground floor rooms, quiet areas, sensory rooms and rooms that have minimal decoration, so take a look at what is available to you below.

Autism, dementia, anxiety and other sensory conditions

Autism is a hidden disability that affects how people perceive the world and interact with others. Because autism is a spectrum, those that have it can react to the world in different ways and no two cases is the same. This means that there isn’t a one fits all approach when it comes to being autism friendly, but you can take steps to make sure that you make your environment as welcoming and friendly as possible.

Autistic people can have difficulty communicating, so having visual symbols or sign language can help while others can easily become overwhelmed by bright lights, loud noises and crowds. With the rise in awareness regarding hidden disabilities and conditons such as autism, you’ll find that there are loads of attractions and accommodation providers who are working hard to make sure that they are as autism friendly as possible.

Sunflower Lanyards

One way you can show that you are inclusive is by joining schemes like the Sunflower one, this scheme allows people with hidden disabilities to wear a lanyard which will discreetly indicate that they may need additional time or assistance. Lots of companies all over the UK are part of the scheme, including airports and train companies. You'll find it isn’t just travel companies, attractions and shops are getting involved too.

Speaking of shops, there are a number of shops, malls and other retail outlets offering quiet shopping times where they turn off the music and dim the lights, creating a better environment for visitors with sensory conditions and with incentives such as JAM cards and the Sunflower lanyards becoming more widely used, shopping with hidden disabilities has become so much easier.

Hidden disabilities

By working to make sure that exits are well lit and signposted, that the lighting and sound levels are accessible to all and adding in interactive displays and areas where possible, you’re actually making your business accessible to a whole bunch of people. Those on the autism spectrum or with sensory conditions aren’t the only ones that will benefit, so will those with anxiety disorders, as well as conditions such as dementia.

Want to look at accommodation, suitable for those with hidden disabilities, click here. For attractions that are suitable for people with hidden disabilities, click here.

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WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is run by WWT, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust – the UK’s leading…

Revitalise Jubilee Lodge

Revitalise Jubilee Lodge is located in leafy Chigwell on the edge of Epping Forest.

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Number of results: 52

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Crealy Theme Park & Resort

Address

Sidmouth Road, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, Devon, EX5 1DR

fun@crealy.co.uk

Exeter

Crealy Theme Park & Resort is the South West’s number one family value day out, home to the most rides in Devon and an exciting calendar of seasonal events throughout the year during the Devon School Holidays.

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WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre

Address

Fish Lane, Burscough, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L40 0TA

Telephone
01704 895181

Info.martinmere@wwt.org.uk

Ormskirk

WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre is run by WWT, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust – the UK’s leading wetland conservation charity, which was founded by Sir Peter Scott.

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Revitalise Jubilee Lodge

Address

Grange Farm, High Road, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6DP

Telephone
020 8501 2331

JubileeLodge@revitalise.org.uk

Chigwell
Awards
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Older and less mobile guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Part-time wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Access Exceptional 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Visual Impairment - Visually impaired guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Hearing Impairment - Exceptional service for guests with hearing loss 2019
Revitalise Jubilee Lodge is located in leafy Chigwell on the edge of Epping Forest.
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Calvert Exmoor

Address

Wistlandpound Reservoir, Kentisbury, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 4SJ

Telephone
01598763221

receptionexmoor@calvert-trust.org.uk

Barnstaple

We are Calvert Exmoor, home of accessible activity breaks in Devon; a residential activity centre and charity that provides inclusive breaks for people with disabilities alongside their families, friends and carers.

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Visit Jersey

Address

Commercial Street, St. Helier, Jersey, Channel Isles, JE2 3RU

Telephone
+44 (0) 1534 859000

info@jersey.com

Jersey

Whether you want a unique self-catering property or coastal campsite, a beachside guest house or luxury boutique hotel, choose the accommodation to suit your requirements and enjoy an island break your way in Jersey.

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Revitalise Sandpipers

Address

Fairway, Southport, Merseyside, PR9 0LA

Telephone
01704 538 388

Sandpipers@revitalise.org.uk

Southport
Awards
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Older and less mobile guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Part-time wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Access Exceptional 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Visual Impairment - Visually impaired guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Hearing Impairment - Exceptional service for guests with hearing loss 2019
Southport is a quintessentially English seaside resort, boasting beautifully preserved Victorian promenades and arcades as well as one of the oldest piers in the UK.
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The National Gallery Trafalgar Square

Address

Trafalgar Square, London, London, WC2N 5DN

Telephone
+44 (0)20 7747 2885

information@nationalgallery.org.uk

London

The National Gallery, in the centre of London, houses one of the world’s greatest collections of paintings. It tells the story of European art, masterpiece by masterpiece. These pictures belong to the public and entrance to see them is free.

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WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre

Address

WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre, Slimbridge, Gloucester, Gloucestershire, GL2 7BT

Telephone
01453 891900

info.slimbridge@wwt.org.uk

Gloucester

Slimbridge Wetland Centre is run by WWT, the Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust – the UK’s leading wetland conservation charity, which was founded by Sir Peter Scott. All of WWT’s Wetland Centres – including Slimbridge, exist to fulfil founder Peter Scott’s…

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Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre

Address

Water Street, Buxton, Derbyshire, SK17 6XN

Telephone
01298 72050

customerservice@boh.org.uk

Buxton

Buxton Opera House and Buxton Cinema offer a variety of performances and cinema for everyone.

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Sheffield Park and Garden

Address

Sheffield Park, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 3QX

Telephone
01825790231

sheffieldpark@nationaltrust.org.uk

Uckfield

Sheffield Park and Gardens has acres of Grade I listed landscaped garden and lakes, surrounded by historic parkland and woodlands.

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Experience Freedom Glamping at Coniston Park Coppice

Address

Park Gate, Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8LA

Telephone
01342 777533

enquiries@experiencefreedom.co.uk

Coniston

Accessible glamping at Coniston Park Coppice. Experience Freedom offers accessible glamping pods and cabins suitable for guests with a range of accessibility needs for the perfect break away in the heart of the Lake District National Park.

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Sparham Hall Farm Holidays

Address

Lyng Road, Sparham, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 5QY

Telephone
07764493593

lottie@sparhamhallfarm.co.uk

Norwich

Sparham Hall Farm nestled in the beautiful Wensum Valley, in the heart of Norfolk, is the perfect place to get away and reconnect with family and friends. Stay in stunningly converted barns designed to cater for every need, with The Buttery being…

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The Vyne, National Trust

Address

Vyne Road, Sherborne St. John, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9HL

Telephone
01256 883858

thevyne@nationaltrust.org.uk

Basingstoke

The Vyne, National Trust is a Grade I listed 16th-century country house in Hampshire, set in 13 acres of beautiful, relaxing gardens.

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Sara’s Cottage

Address

Carrine Farm, Sparnock, Truro, Cornwall, TR3 6EB

Telephone
01872 279608

enquiries@sarascottage.co.uk

Truro
Awards
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Older and less mobile guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Part-time wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Visual Impairment - Visually impaired guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Hearing Impairment - Guests with hearing loss 2019
Sara’s Cottage is a 5* award-winning dog-friendly cottage with level access/interior, wide doorways, large luxury wet-room, and a wide range of mobility equipment available to guests.
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Calvert Kielder

Address

Kielder Water & Forest Park, Falstone, Hexham, Northumberland, NE48 1BS

Telephone
01434 250232

enquiries@calvert-kielder.com

Falstone, Hexham
Awards
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Older and less mobile guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Part-time wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Independent wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Mobility Impairment - Assisted wheelchair users 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Visual Impairment - Exceptional service for visually impaired guests 2019
- National Accessible Scheme NAS Hearing Impairment - Exceptional service for guests with hearing loss 2019
Calvert Kielder has been providing amazing and memorable holidays, days and experiences for people of all abilities for 35 years creating a deep understanding of the relationship between fun challenges, learning and living – for anyone and everyone.
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North Hayne Farm Cottages

Address

North Hayne, Bishops Nympton, South Molton, Devon, EX36 3QR

Telephone
01769550807

info@northhaynefarmcottages.co.uk

South Molton

For an award winning accessible farm holiday, take a look at North Hayne Farm in the north of Devon. Voted best self-catering farm stay in the South West (2020) and winner of both Gold and Silver for Accessible Tourism (2019 & 2020), plus receiving…

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The Grand Pier

Address

Marine Parade, Weston-Super-Mare, Avon, BS23 1AL

Telephone
01934 620 238

info@grandpier.co.uk

Weston-Super-Mare

The Grand Pier, is an extraordinary English landmark that has stood proudly along the stunning coastline of Weston-super-Mare since 1904. For generations, The Grand Pier has been offering entertainment and unforgettable experiences to visitors of…

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Stubcroft Farm Campsite

Address

Stubcroft Lane, East Wittering, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 8PJ

Telephone
01243 671469

mail@stubcroft.com

Chichester

Stubcroft Farm Campsite is an award winning, traditional, family run site close to some of the South Coast’s best sandy beaches, Chichester Harbour and the South Downs National Park. The campsite is in level paddocks surrounded by arable fields and…

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Fairytale Farm

Address

Southcombe, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5QH

Telephone
01608 238014

info@fairytalefarm.co.uk

Chipping Norton

Mixing classic fairy tales, animals and adventure play, children will love Fairytale Farm. With our exciting adventure playground, an enchanted walk with a surprise around every corner and a chance to meet our amazing animals, there is so much to…

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Tower Bridge

Address

Tower Bridge Road, London, London, SE1 2UP

Telephone
020 7403 3761

enquiries@towerbridge.org.uk

London

Tower Bridge has two parts to the visit - the Bridge itself and the Victorian Engine Rooms - both are step-free.

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