Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Travellers with Disabilities
Travellers with disabilities will find Scotland a strange mix of accessibility and inaccess-
ibility. Most new buildings are accessible to wheelchair users, so modern hotels and tour-
ist attractions are fine. However, most B&Bs and guesthouses are in hard-to-adapt older
buildings, which means that travellers with mobility problems may pay more for accom-
modation. Things are constantly improving, though.
It's a similar story with public transport. Newer buses have steps that lower for easier
access, as do trains, but it's wise to check before setting out. Tourist attractions usually re-
serve parking spaces near the entrance for drivers with disabilities.
Many places such as ticket offices and banks are fitted with hearing loops to assist the
hearing-impaired; look for a posted symbol of a large ear.
A few tourist attractions, such as Glasgow Cathedral, have Braille guides or scented
gardens for the visually impaired.
VisitScotland produces the guide
Accessible Scotland
for wheelchair-bound travellers,
and many tourist offices have leaflets with accessibility details for their area. Regional ac-
commodation guides have a wheelchair-accessible criterion.
Many regions have organisations that hire wheelchairs; contact the local tourist office
for details. Many nature trails have been adapted for wheelchair use.
For more information:
Disabled Persons Railcard
(
www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk
)
Discounted train
travel.
Tourism for All
(
0845-124 9971;
www.tourismforall.org.uk
)
Publishes regional in-
formation guides for travellers with disabilities and can offer general advice.
Royal Association for Disability & Rehabilitation
(Radar; 020-7250 3222;
www.radar.org.uk
; 12 City Forum, 250 City Rd, London)
This is an umbrella organisation
for voluntary groups for people with disabilities.
Visas
»If you're a citizen of the EEA (European Economic Area) nations or Switzerland, you
don't need a visa to enter or work in Britain - you can enter using your national identity
card.
»Visa regulations are always subject to change, so it's essential to check with your local
British embassy, high commission or consulate before leaving home.
