Accessible breaks in Scotland

Scotland is a friendly, passionate and innovative country making up the northern part of the United Kingdom. It is a widely diverse country with cities, countryside, coastlines and more all with their own distinct Scottish charm. Here you'll find a host of accessible breaks in Scotland. 

Proud to be inclusive

If you’re looking for a music festival, outdoor adventure, road trip, exciting attractions or a relaxing break away from it all, Scotland is a good choice. The rich, Celtic history that surrounds everything that goes on in Scotland makes it a fascinating and exciting place to be. It’s a huge place, with lots of interesting areas to visit, the most famous of which, we’ve highlighted for you below. If that isn’t enough, Scotland is one of the most accessible places in the UK. Several accessibility trials took place in the major cities and areas including Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen retained the facilities that were put in place making it a great place for those looking for a disabled friendly holiday, whether you’re on the hunt for somewhere that is wheelchair accessible, autism friendly or something else entirely.

Accessible Edinburgh

Not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is also the world’s leading festival city with a whole calendar of phenomenal festivals taking place all year around. It is a city of two halves, with narrow, cobbled streets of the Old Town and the Royal Mile and the elegant new town with its Georgian buildings and modern parliament area.

Sightseeing in Edinburgh is easy with so many world-class accessible attractions at every corner, from an extinct volcano (Arthur’s Seat) to the castle and the palace of Holyrood House, there is a monument everywhere you turn. If that wasn’t enough, Edinburgh is a vibrant cosmopolitan city full of fantastic shopping opportunities, world class eateries, a buzzing arts scene and a packed events calendar with everything from festivals to gigs to bars and nightclubs ready to entertain you.

Accessible Glasgow

Glasgow is another of Scotland’s famous cities, it is a lively, bustling place full of a distinctive character and striking architecture. The city centre is one of the best shopping destinations in the UK outside of London’ West End and with its commitment to being accessible, you’ll find that there are plenty of accessible things to do here.

There is an abundance of pubs, bars, restaurants and some of the UK’s best rated music venues in this part of Scotland, so if you’re looking for a party atmosphere on your break, Glasgow is a good choice, it has everything you could need from a city break with a great mix of top attractions, a rich heritage and more.

Accessible Dundee

Dundee is the city to visit for the learners, it is full of science, historic ships and museums alongside the culture of theatres, art centres and interesting architecture, much of which is autism friendly. It is a UNESCO city of Design and home to V&A Dundee, the world’s only V&A museum outside of London. Plus being a dynamic and compact city, it is easy to navigate around and with the accessible public transport and disabled friendly attractions, it’s a great place to be. We’re also told it is Scotland’s sunniest city if you want to go north but still enjoy a spot of sunshine! 

Accessible Inverness

Inverness is a city for anyone who wants the best of both worlds, it is a compact, cosmopolitan city with the Highlands right on the doorstep. Full of interesting buildings, culture and opportunities for a bit of retail therapy, you’ll find peace and quiet on the Ness Islands and you can explore the seaside resort of Nairn or the mysterious Loch Ness.

The Scottish Highlands bring to life what many people think of when they hear Scotland’s name. it is an amazing combination of culture, history and gorgeous scenery. Full of mountains and lochs, the views are some of the best the UK has to offer. Britain’s largest National Park can be found there, as well as the opportunity to go dolphin spotting or mountain climbing if that’s your bag, Ben Nevis can also be found here.

The Highlands are a magnet for anyone who loves the great outdoors and Fort William has been affectionately named the Outdoor Capital of the UK. It is an area you can enjoy the view or get involved with a whole host of sporting activities including snowsports, kayaking and fishing, many of the activity organisations based here are keen to be as inclusive as possible, so you’ll find options for a wide range of ages and abilities.
For those of you who like your architecture, you’re well catered for in the Highlands too as Dunvegan Castle and Brodie Castle are some of the most beautiful and can be found here. Learn about the history of the Glennfinnan Monument, or the massacre of Glencoe. The Highlands Archive Centre is the place to be for anyone curious about the region and of course, the famous Loch Ness is in the Scottish Highlands, get your binoculars at the ready in case Nessie herself makes an appearance!