In Travel Features

If you’re the kind of person that likes to get the adrenaline pumping, you’ll no doubt be looking for an adventure or two this spring. If that’s the case, we’ve pulled together a few suggestions of accessible adventure and theme parks perfect for the thrill seekers among you.

Visiting a theme park might not seem like the most obvious thing to do if you’re looking for an accessible day out, they’re usually loud, over stimulating, crowded and of course, not all rides are exactly wheelchair compatible. There are a number of theme parks and adventure parks that are working hard on making themselves as inclusive as possible so everyone can enjoy a fun day out. From autism friendly sessions to queue jumping schemes and rides suitable for those using mobility aids, there are plenty of things to enjoy about the nation’s theme and adventure parks.

Image: Paultons Park.

For those with younger children wanting a family friendly day out, Paultons Park in Romsey has over seventy rides and attractions and is the UK home of Peppa Pig World. The park hosts a variety of events and seasonal activities depending on the time of year and has a number of accessible rides.

In nearby Southampton, you’ll find Netley Waterside House, one of the Revitalise properties that are specifically designed for disabled visitors. All areas of the property are accessible and there are facilities for the hearing impaired and visually impaired, as well as accessible to wheelchair users.

Nearby in Poole, Farmer Palmer’s Farm Park  is designed specifically for children aged 8 and under. The staff have all received Autism Friendly and Welcome All training and the site itself features ramps and wide doors making it easily navigated by those using mobility aids and plenty of additional help available for anyone who needs it. During 2020 there are a range of SEN Friendly activities taking place at the park where several facilities will be in place including reduced noise and reduced admission.

Image: Sandcastle Waterpark.

If that seems a little gentle, take a look at the facilities offered by Sandcastle Waterpark  in Blackpool. The team at Sandcastle work hard to make sure that everyone is welcome and there are evening sessions designed for those with additional needs so you can enjoy the park without the usual crowds and noise.

Or there is iBounce Newton Abbot, an indoor leisure attraction that is accessible to all ages and abilities. The site has wall to wall trampolines, a soft play centre and a host of other fun things to do, all in a safe, fun environment. They hold a variety of quieter sessions too, check their website for the latest dates.

Image: Crealy Theme Park and Resort.

Also in Devon is Crealy Theme Park and Resort  one of the largest parks of its kind in the south west. Crealy is a great family friendly day out with activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, whatever their age or ability. There is an extensive calendar of events for the younger kids, including TV character appearances and the way the site is built makes it a great choice for all weathers. Many of the staff have had disability training and there is level access throughout making it easy to navigate using mobility aids.

For those of you travelling, Devon is full of places to stay and is popular with tourists. A number of establishments in the county have accessible facilities. Summerhill Hotel  is based in Paignton making it a good choice for those of you visiting iBounce in Newton Abbot and isn’t far from Exeter either. The hotel features level access to several of the rooms and to the outdoor facilities and communal areas. There are a couple of bedrooms that have been designed with limited mobility in mind located on the ground floor.

Want to see more accessible adventure attractions? Click here.

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