Motability: Five Accessible Festive Days Out in the UK
The dark nights are quickly drawing in and that means one thing. Christmas is almost here! The festive period is a time of creating new memories with friends and loved ones.
We’ve rounded up five accessible days out in the UK to help you do exactly that. From everybody’s favourite Christmas film, Home Alone, to a Sleeping Beauty themed afternoon tea.
There’s sure to be something for everyone.
Read on to find out our top five picks.
Blenheim Palace 17th November – 1st January 2024
Located in Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. With a whole host of festive events, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with the family.
The Christmas Market in The Great Court is the go-to place to pick up unique Christmas gifts and indulge in tasty treats.
Level access is available to the majority of the palace from the main entrance. Companion tickets for blue badge holders are free of charge and assistance or support dogs are welcome. There is also a lift into the Orangery for wheelchair and scooter users.
Find out more about Christmas at Blenheim Palace
Christmas Train of Lights 24th November – 30th December
Get ready to climb aboard the UK’s first ever steam train of lights! The Christmas Train of Lights is back for 2023 and is a festive highlight for South West residents.
Starting at Queens Park Station, Paignton, the vintage carriage decked out in thousands of lights will take you on a magical journey. Travel through the enchanted forest and finish your journey taking in the twinkling lights reflected on the river Dart.
The train offers a wheelchair specific carriage so the whole family can enjoy an unforgettable experience. Paignton and Kingswear stations offer level access to the platform and ramps are also provided to access the carriage.
Find out more about the Christmas Train of Lights
Dunham Massey 17th – 31st December
Dunham Massey is an English country house which is part of the National Trust. Each year thousands of visitors enjoy the beautiful twinkling lights and glowing deer.
The after-dark event offers a stunning light trail, complete with a glimpse of Father Christmas himself along the way. Immerse yourself in the colour-changing batons of light and discover the huge silver star, Nova.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to pre-book in advance and the trail is mostly flat.
Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are also welcome to come along. The event can get very busy and calmer sessions are available to book with reduced visitors and quieter audio.
Find out more about Christmas at Dunham Massey
Home Alone at The Glasshouse Gateshead 9th – 10th December
Experience the ultimate Christmas day out with Home Alone in Concert at The Glasshouse Gateshead (formerly known as The Sage). Watch the film on the big screen accompanied by The Royal Nothern Sinfonia orchestra playing music from the movie. To make the day even more special, singing will be provided by the Voices of River Edge choir.
The Glasshouse offers an Access Scheme if you have specific access requirements. This will provide you with the best available seats that can be kept on file whenever you visit.
Throughout the venue, there’s step-free access with lift access also available. Priority parking for blue badge holders is located close to the entrance and assistance dogs are welcome.
Find out more about Home Alone in Concert
Yorkshire Winter Wonderland
If you can’t make it down to London for Winter Wonderland, never fear. Yorkshire has its very own Winter Wonderland in York. It’s also home to The Ice Factor – the largest outdoor ice rink in the North of England.
Winter Wonderland is free to enter and promises a fun-filled day for the whole family. Visit Santa’s Grotto, take a ride at the funfair, or cosy up in the alpine cafe, The Chalet.
From 23rd November – 14th December, accessible/quiet skating sessions will be held on Thursdays at 10.30am.
Find out more about Yorkshire Winter Wonderland
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