In Things to do

With Valentine’s Day approaching, you might be starting to think about accessible places to go on a date with your loved one. While most people might opt for a candle lit restaurant or a nice hotel stay, it can be a bit more difficult for those with mobility aids, such as wheelchairs. We’ve put together five ideas for accessible dates that you can enjoy this Valentine’s day.

Go for a picnic

Many of the nation’s parks and open spaces are accessible with benches placed at intervals throughout the space and tarmacked paths allowing access for those using wheelchairs or scooters. See if the local parks near you have picnic benches or tables and put together a picnic of all you and your partner’s favourites and head out to enjoy the great outdoors. All you need to really do is pray for a dry day!

Watch a football match

If you have a shared love of football, grab tickets for the two of you to cheer on your favourite team. Many of the nation’s football stadiums are accessible with wheelchair friendly entrances and specially designed seating areas so everyone can enjoy the match. Not a fan but your partner is? Why not go for a stadium tour instead? These are also accessible and you won’t actually have to watch any football take place!

Visit a zoo or aquarium

Aquariums are well known for their accessibility, especially for those with sensory conditions as they are calming, have low lighting and you’re able to explore at your own pace. Both aquariums and zoos have plenty of space making them great for those with mobility aids and many of them include sensory displays for those who have visual impairments. You can even grab audio guides for those with hearing aids at many of them too. Take a look at some of options here.

Go see a show

While many theatres aren’t the most accessible for those with mobility aids due to the age of the buildings, the teams running them work to be as accessible as possible, installing ramps, having extra room in the stalls and putting in lifts and additional entrances and exits where possible. Theatres and cinemas alike offer relaxed showings and screenings which are perfect for those with additional needs so you can head out and enjoy a date with some popcorn and your loved one.
Have you taken a look at our Accessible Performance Guides? They’re updated every month.

Head to a museum

Museums are some of the most accessible attractions the UK has to offer. The majority of them are wheelchair accessible, plus they are able to cater for people of all ages making them incredibly inclusive. Many museums offer audio guides and hearing loops as well as braille, so head out together to learn something new.

Do you have any ideas for accessible places to go out for a date during the Valentine’s season? You can let us know on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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