Kent Countryside accessible for all
Tunbridge Wells welcomes everyone to step into an adventure tailored to their pace. Whether you seek the grandeur of historic houses and gardens, the exhilaration of panoramic trails, the serenity of woodland escapes, or the unique delights of sensory walks, Kent’s countryside greets you with open arms.
Access to Historic Houses and Gardens in KentÂ
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Kent’s countryside is a treasure trove of history, waiting to be unearthed by all. Accessible paths invite you to step back in time through the grandeur of historic houses and the vibrant tapestry of gardens, no matter your individual access requirements.Â
Journey through a medieval dream at Scotney Castle. Explore the romantic ruins of the moated castle, wander through the picturesque Victorian gardens, and breathe in the fresh air of the surrounding wooded estate. Wheelchair-accessible routes wind through the grounds, ensuring everyone can experience its enchantment. You can book a wheelchair or mobility scooter before your visit, free of charge. There is level access to the shop, café and ground floor of the Mansion House and a digital tour is available to view for those unable to access the first floor. For those with hearing impairments, there are hearing loops available. Find out more on the National Trust website.  Â
Penshurst PlaceÂ
Unveil the Tudor secrets of Penshurst Place. Once the playground of King Henry VIII, this grand estate boasts manicured gardens, a historic courtyard, and fascinating interiors. A designated wheelchair route allows you to discover its charm (two wheelchairs are available to pre-book). There is ground level access to the house to explore parts of the estate. Braille and large print guides are available. View full accessibility information here. Â
Hever Castle
Follow the footsteps of royalty at Hever Castle. Home to Anne Boleyn, before she became Queen of England, this magnificent castle offers a glimpse into its opulent past. Explore the formal gardens, meander through the Tudor village, and learn about its intriguing history. Pathways and some parts of the castle are accessible but there are also some steps. A limited amount of magnifying glasses and a brief history of the castle is available in braille. There are hearing loops and interactive audio guides available in English and several other languages. View the full accessible guide on the Hever Castle website.  Â
Most of these locations offer detailed maps and guides specifically tailored for visitors with limited mobility or other individual requirements. We suggest that you contact attractions in advance to ensure an enjoyable visit. So, grab your sense of wonder, and embark on an accessible journey through history in Kent. These magnificent houses and gardens await, ready to share their stories and secrets with everyone.
Accessible Parks in Royal Tunbridge Wells
Tunbridge Wells Common is an open space in the heart of the town providing an excellent opportunity for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The pathways are generally wheelchair-friendly, and there are benches along the way for resting. Calverley Grounds is close to the town centre and provides a peaceful place to relax. It has accessible paths and a café for refreshments. Just outside of the town centre, Dunorlan is a beautiful park featuring a lake, walking paths, and landscaped gardens. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature. Many of the paths are accessible for wheelchairs, and there are accessible parking spaces available. All have accessible toilets.
Accessible Places to visit in Royal Tunbridge Wells
The Amelia Scott museum and gallery showcases the history and culture of the area. It offers accessible entrances, elevators, and disabled toilets. There are also tactile exhibits and some audio displays for visitors with visual or hearing impairments. Assistance dogs are welcome. There is step free access to the Fine Grind café located at the heart of the Amelia Scott.
The Pantiles
This historic Georgian colonnade is a must-visit destination. It’s known for its unique shops and outdoor cafes. The area is generally wheelchair-accessible with a ramp between the upper and lower walk at the southern end of the Pantiles next to the Tunbridge Wells Hotel. The Pantiles is a great place for people watching or to sit back and soak in the atmosphere at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Please do note that the surface can be uneven in some places. Â
Theatres
There are two theatres in Royal Tunbridge Wells town centre. The Assembly Hall Theatre is a popular venue for various live performances, including music, theatre, comedy and more. Trinity Theatre is a community arts venue that hosts a variety of events, including theatre productions, an extensive cinema programme and art exhibitions. Both venues have accessible seating available as well as audio enhancements for select shows. Please enquire directly with the venue for details before making plans. Â
Wheelchair Hire in Tunbridge WellsÂ
If you wish to hire a wheelchair for you holiday in Tunbridge Wells, please visit Clearwell Mobility on Grosvenor Road, in Royal Tunbridge Wells. View the range of wheelchairs available as well as the cost on Clearwell website. Â
Remember to check with each attraction for their specific accessibility details and any assistance they can provide to make your visit more enjoyable. Additionally, it’s a good idea to contact them in advance to inquire about any special accommodations or guided tours that may be available for visitors with individual needs. For further information about accessibility visit the Accessable.co.uk website. Â
Enjoy your visit to Tunbridge Wells!Â
