Accessible Guide to the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is one of England's busiest rural tourist regions (with between 23 million and 35 million visitors per year), and it's better set up for disabled visitors than the tourist-board photos suggest. Several National Trust gardens have level, wheelchair-friendly paths, and the bigger attractions offer Blue Badge parking, Changing Places toilets and free mobility scooter hire. This guide covers the villages, viewpoints, restaurants, walks and events with the best access provision, plus the practical stuff: booking rail assistance, finding an accessible taxi, and where to hire mobility equipment locally.

Local Traditions, Events and Cultural Highlights

• Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling – Exactly like it sounds! This is a traditional Cotswolds event dating back to the 1820s, where a large wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is released at the top of a very steep hill. The aim of the event is to chase after the cheese and the first racer to reach the bottom wins the wheel. Despite it being a fun and comical event, people are very determined and get very competitive in this event! Due to the nature of the environment and activity, it is highly recommended to watch rather than participate. For a slice of traditional rural entertainment, this is a great opportunity not to be missed. It takes place every year on the Spring Bank Holiday (around late May) and anyone is free to attend and cheer on the racers. Note that since 2010 the event has run informally, without official organisers, stewarding or safety provision, so spectators should take extra care with footing, parking and emergency access.
• The Cotswolds Show – Agricultural events such as this keep the rural soul of the Cotswolds alive. This show in particular held at Cirencester Park includes all the nods to tradition, without compromising on accessibility. In comparison with other similar events, this one is known to be easier to navigate and a good introduction to English Country events if you are not yet familiar. The event combines livestock, rural crafts, food, demonstrations, country pursuits, shopping and family entertainment across a site which is on a slight incline (per the organisers) rather than fully flat; it's a popular, well-attended show, so allow extra time to navigate around when busy.
• Cowley Fete – This event captures the quintessential charm of rural Cotswolds celebrations and community, while making efforts in accessibility. The event takes place at Cowley Manor Experimental, a grand country house estate surrounded by gardens, woodland, and the rolling Cotswolds countryside. Being a well-established tourist attraction already, the Manor House is a more accessible venue for a fete as they offer level access to modern toilet facilities, lounges and bars, and the flat outdoor terrain makes navigation around the variety of stalls much easier. Staff can work with visitors prior to the event to arrange Blue Badge parking (confirm directly with the fete organisers in advance, as these arrangements are not independently verified). The day’s activities and events have been popular in fete traditions for centuries, such as locally baked cake and cream tea stalls, brass band music, Punch and Judy shows, Tombola and raffle prizes and dog shows.
• Morris Dancing – The Cotswolds are considered to be the birthplace of Cotswold Morris, one of England’s best-known traditional dance styles. Look out for the white-costumed dancers, hear the bells ring and folk music play out in the streets, market squares, outside historic pubs and at villages fetes around May Day (May 1st) and Summer weekends. Audience participation is encouraged but this can simply be a great event to sit back and watch.
• Tetbury Woolsack Races – During late May, people of the region gather to honour the Cotswold town’s wool-trading heritage by racing each other through the streets carrying heavy wool sacks. The excitement of the races is accompanied by music, food and other local festivities. Due to the events taking place in Tetbury town centre (Long Street), this expands the options for visitors wanting to take a break away from the main buzz of the festivities whenever they like. There are nearby cafes, pubs and shops and public parking is well signposted. The nearest accessible toilets are Tetbury Public Conveniences on West Street, a short walk from the races route. The standard toilet costs 40p; the separate accessible cubicle is free to use with a RADAR key. There is also a baby changing facility here.

Accessible Scenery and Sensory Highlights

• Dover’s Hill – Near Chipping Campden, this is known to be one of the finest viewpoints in the region. From the car park, begin the gentle climb along the pathway towards the viewpoint, which is accessible for users of many abilities, including seniors of reduced mobility. There is a level, hard-track route from the car park to the viewpoint, plus a flat quarter-mile walk, both suitable for wheelchair and mobility-scooter users, so for visitors searching for dramatic scenery, this is not one to be missed. Once at the viewpoint, the reward is visually stunning, with sweeping panoramas across the Vale of Evesham with minimal additional physical effort.
• Broadway Tower – This famous tower sits on one of the highest points in the Cotswolds, offering expansive views across the vast, natural beauty of the region. For this reason, the sunset can be quite beautiful from up here, a simple activity, but definitely a sensory highlight to say the least. Although the tower itself is not accessible due to stairs, it provides a stunning backdrop for the great photos you’re bound to take home with you. There is parking very close to the viewpoint, an accessible café, and accessible toilet facilities. Due to the car park’s closing hours, it is recommended that visitors arrive late afternoon and enjoy the sky’s ‘golden hour’ transitioning into the sunset, as the official ‘sunset time’ is later on after the car park has closed (especially in summer). Is you’re more of an early riser, seeing the sunrise from this viewpoint is also quite spectacular, and can sometimes offer more benefits visiting at this time of day, such as reduced visitor numbers.
• Village Scenery – The pretty, golden honey-coloured houses in the picturesque villages of the Cotswolds are always lovely to look at, especially when the late afternoon light gives them a warming glow. Smells of woodsmoke drift through the villages on crisp winter evenings and the damp earth and fallen leaves are underfoot during autumnal months. Sweet scents of fresh hay, warm grass and Cotswold Lavender fill the air during summertime.
• Food & Drink – The Cotswolds is a region passionate about creating food and drink backed by the local land. They are famous for their Double Gloucester cheese, traditional cream teas, and distilled gin and brewed ales. Other delights include fresh sourdough bread from village bakeries, local honey with floral notes from wildflowers and lime trees, and ice cream made on farms. The region prides themselves on their valued ‘Farm to Fork’ approach and providing good food in harmony with the natural environment.

Accessible Food and Drink Outlets

• Wolfridge Alpaca – This venue is known to be a very affordable and attractive place to stop for a bite to eat in Alveston, South Gloucestershire (note: this is outside the Cotswolds, roughly 45 minutes’ drive from Cirencester). They have a delicious menu offering of lunches, coffee and drinks. Paired with a visit to the alpaca enclosures, this is a great family day out especially in warmer seasons when the sun is out. The routes around the café and enclosures are wheelchair accessible so visitors can get up close to see the resident alpacas. There is free parking onsite and an accessible toilet in the café. Visitor experiences such as alpaca petting can be booked, as well as afternoon teas, and craft workshops for both children and adults.
• Burford Garden’s ‘Glasshouse Café’ – This beautiful glasshouse overspills with natural light, greenery and an overall friendly and relaxed feel. Seasonal dishes, and delicious, sweet treats are crafted fresh every day ensuring the very best taste for diners. The café is the perfect place to meet friends for a catch up or indulge in the breakfast, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea menus. The modern layout of the venue provides step-free access and wide aisles to seating. There is parking close by the entrance and an accessible toilet onsite. The bright environment makes the café feel spacious and not overwhelming noisy in comparison with other cafés. Staff are very experienced and keen to cook you food you’ll love, so are always mindful of dietary requirements and any alternatives you may need. They also provide old newspapers to read which can be a point of interest for visitors with Dementia. Please note dogs are not allowed.
• ‘Grill’ by James Martin (The Lygon Arms) – For a more upscale dining experience, ‘Grill’ is the perfect choice. Delight the senses with a British fine-dining menu crafted with the very best, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, all served to you within the historic beauty of Lygon Arms in Worcestershire. Despite its grandeur, the venue has a very welcoming and comfortable feel, with oak flooring, a barrel-vaulted ceiling and historic architectural details which bring a sense of warmth to the dining room, while still enabling sufficient wheelchair access. There is accessible parking and a drop-off point directly outside the accessible entrance into the hotel and there is lift access inside. There is an accessible toilet. Hospitality staff are very professional and will accommodate a range of dietary needs where possible, such as even sugar-free, nut-free and Diabetic options.
• The Gateway Café – This little gem overlooking the lakes of Cotswold Water Park is the perfect rest stop to restore your appetite and treat your senses. The excellent location of the barn-style café means nature activities such as walking and birdwatching are close by and paired with a delicious meal, can make for a great day out. There is indoor seating and accessible seating outside, and both areas provide a spacious feel with beautiful lakeside views. There are good parking and accessible toilet facilities, level access into the building and good circulation space throughout, for standard and powered wheelchairs. There is a varied menu which caters to a range of dietary needs, with a specific focus on organic ingredients.

Accessible Attractions & Experiences

• Blenheim Palace – This stunning piece of history surrounded by formal gardens and bright open space is ranked highly for its accessibility efforts. There is level access to key areas such as most of the ground floor State Rooms and the Orangery restaurant, with lift access. There is an accessible route through the Formal Gardens via the West Courtyard. The main facilities such as the café, shops and exhibitions are all level access, and accessible toilets are frequent throughout. Standard wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired for free with an advance booking. Some staff are disability awareness trained or have BSL training. Quiet sessions are offered for the Adventure Play area, as well as ‘Touch Tours’ and BSL interpreted tours of the Palace on selected dates. Audio and large print information is available. The ‘Adventure Play’ area was designed with accessibility in mind, including ramps, wide pathways, handrails, and anti-slip surfaces. Blue Badge parking is available close to the entrance, with free companion tickets if visiting with a carer.
• Cotswolds Distillery – This popular attraction is the epitome of a ‘sensory experience’, particularly fantastic for visitors with sight loss but is a great day out for everyone. Visitors can first watch a video of the fine crafting process, tour the distillery, taking in all the sights and smells. Later comes the tastings; the best part. Visitors can sample the Distillery’s most popular blends such as their whiskey made from the neighbouring farm’s barley, and gin made from local, aromatic lavender. They also offer cocktail, whiskey and gin blending masterclasses for those interested in handcrafting their own mix and understanding the work behind the bottles. There are step-free, accessible routes around parts of the site and accessible toilets, though some areas of the tour are stairs-only. Check with the venue about which sections are accessible before booking. There is a drop-off point and accessible parking close to the level access entrance. The venue has good visual contrast and an audible alarm system.
• Birdland Park & Gardens – This wildlife attraction in Bourton-on-the-Water is home to over 500 exotic birds, penguins, cranes, parrots and much more. Visitors can tour the attraction at their own pace via level access routes and easy access to key areas such as the gift shop, accessible toilets and disabled parking bays, as well as accessible routes to viewing areas around the site, where wheelchairs can be hired free of charge. Take in the many bright colours and patterns of these unique bird species, housed in both indoor and outdoor spaces. They also host themed areas, such as ‘Out of Africa’ for unique African bird species, and a Jurassic themed exhibition.
• Cotswold Motoring Museum – This museum is a great day out for driving back down memory lane, showcasing some of the best motors from the 20th century and the rich history behind them. This may be a great attraction in particular for older visitors and those with Dementia to reminisce and take their minds back to another time. However, it is an enjoyable day out for anyone who is interested in motoring history. Many may also recognise the little car ‘Brum’ from the children’s television show which lives here. The museum offers informative audio tours, with wheelchair access to most of the venue (it’s a historic mill building, so visitors are advised to call ahead). SEND bags and a ‘soft opening’ visiting time for neurodiverse visitors are reported to be available but check directly before visiting. Dogs are welcome.
• Roman Baths – This 2,000-year-old site is located just outside the Cotswolds but is well worth a visit as they have made significant progress in their Accessibility. Around 90% of the site is wheelchair accessible and there are four lifts which provide access to the mezzanine galleries, lower museum, Great Bath and East Baths. There are accessible toilets available near the main entrance and at the beginning of the Kings Bath corridor. In terms of other access provision, the attraction offers BSL and audio guides on handheld devices which are also hearing loop compatible. There are printed transcripts, some Braille information, and tactile models of key features. Quieter spaces and times, Sensory Bags and Sensory Stories help support Autistic visitors. Carers can accompany paying visitors free of charge. Blue Badge parking is available nearby on Cheap Street which is a 2–3-minute walk on mostly level pavements.
   

Cotswolds National Trust

• Snowshill Manor & Gardens – Set within a historic hillside landscape, providing beautiful views and unique garden spaces. The attraction offers a range of accessibility features to help visitors enjoy their experience, including Blue Badge parking, accessible toilets, a shuttle buggy service, wheelchair loans, sensory resources, and Braille guides (a large-print guide is not confirmed, check with the property before visiting). connected by a network of paths. While the nature of the historic venue means that access varies across different areas, visitors can use the accessible pathways and make use of ramps, virtual tours, and staff support to explore as much of the site as possible.
• Newark Park – This property is built on a steep hillside, with many sloping and uneven garden paths and gravelled areas. This can make some areas challenging for wheelchair users and people with limited mobility. However, wheelchair and Tramper mobility scooter loan is available for exploring parts of the estate. There is Blue Badge parking close to reception, accessible toilets, and an accessible toilet with an adult changing bench and there is step-free access to the ground floor of the house. The upper floors of the historic house are only accessible by stairs, although photo guides are available to help visitors experience these spaces. The venue also offers sensory bags, large-print and Braille information, assistance-dog access, and free admission for carers.
• Hidcote Gardens – This attraction offers a thoughtful and well-supported accessibility setup that helps many visitors enjoy its famous Arts and Crafts garden. There is Blue Badge parking close to the entrance, with step-free access into key areas including the café, shop, toilets, and plant centre. Visitors can also borrow mobility scooters and wheelchairs to help explore more comfortably. A clearly signposted accessible route allows easier movement through a meaningful portion of the garden, letting visitors experience some of Hidcote’s iconic outdoor “rooms” and planting design. Staff are also on hand to provide advice and assistance, helping ensure visitors can make the most of their visit at their own pace.

Cotswolds English Heritage Sites

• Hailes Abbey – This site of the impressive Abbey ruins offers a welcoming and accessible experience for many visitors, with disabled parking located close to the entrance, level access to the museum, accessible toilet facilities, and assistance dogs welcomed throughout the site. The grounds are largely open and relatively flat, allowing visitors to explore the ruins and surrounding landscape at their own pace. The site also provides a rich sensory experience, with peaceful natural surroundings, wildlife, and wide open, scenic views that can be enjoyed by many. As with many outdoor historic sites, some areas include grass and uneven surfaces, but the main visitor facilities are designed to support accessibility and comfort.
• North Leigh Roman Villa – This English Heritage attraction is almost purely a viewing activity which can be done at one’s own pace. Visitors can view the exposed foundations of the Roman ruins and the original rooms, and the Saltire Mosaic, the highlight of the attraction. Note it is sometimes only viewable on selected open days or pre-booked visits. The site is not fully wheelchair accessible since it is outdoors and therefore vulnerable to changing weather conditions, so in poorer weather the ground can become more challenging for wheelchair users. For visitors with milder mobility issues and those who can independently manage the terrain, this attraction is a great choice for some sightseeing on an easy-going afternoon.
  
   

Accessible Villages and Towns in the Cotswolds

• Bourton-on-the-Water – This area is generally one of the most accessible villages in the Cotswolds for visitors with mobility requirements. Its compact layout and mostly flat terrain make it easier to get around than many nearby villages, with paved footpaths, dropped kerbs, accessible parking, and disabled toilet facilities available in the village centre. Most shops, cafés, and services are located within a short walking distance of each other, supporting independent mobility. However, some uneven surfaces and narrow pavements remain due to the village’s historic character, and busy tourist periods can make navigation more difficult. Overall, Bourton-on-the-Water provides a relatively accessible for most visitors, which is easy to navigate, compared with many traditional rural villages.
• Cirencester – This town is generally regarded as one of the more accessible areas in the Cotswolds, although some barriers remain due to its historic environment, with some narrow or uneven paths around older structures. However, it offers a good level of accessibility and connectivity, with a relatively flat, compact layout that supports independent movement for many disabled visitors. The town centre is easy to navigate, with key services, shops, and community facilities located within close proximity to one another. Accessible parking, step-free routes and accessible toilets are available in many parts of the town, and there is one Changing Places facility, located at Abbey Grounds.
• Dursley – A historic market town located on the edge of the Cotswolds boasting a varied high street, with level access and ample disabled parking. There are several nearby attractions and experiences, many of which are wheelchair accessible. These include archery at Tyndale Archers (based in nearby Cam, with some sessions in Dursley) and delicious meals at venues such as Gravity Fish & Chips, Leaf and Ground deli and garden centre, Buongiorno Café, and The Old Spot Inn for a traditional pub setting.
• Bibury – This is a lovely, picturesque village located on the River Coln and a perfect day out for visitors attracted to a slower pace of life and enjoying being in the company of nature. The paths at Bibury Trout Farm between the ponds are accessible in parts, though gravel sections can be difficult for manual wheelchair users; motorised wheelchairs and scooters generally cope better, and it’s worth calling ahead for assistance. Visitors can approach close to the ponds and see the trout swimming around, and even ‘catch your own trout’. There are BBQ and picnic areas, and a nice café onsite. A full visitor’s guide of the area is available on the National Trust website, which includes individual access features in greater detail.

Accessible Sporting Activities

• Cotswolds RDA – This program is part of a wider association called ‘Riding for the Disabled’ and offers inclusive horse-riding activities in the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds (based at Cheltenham Racecourse). Staff and volunteers are very supportive and helpful. They offer adapted riding sessions, mechanical horse training, hoist-assisted mounting, and coaching for riders with physical and learning difficulties.
• Whitefriars Sailing Club – The ‘Sailability’ programme at the club is rated very highly for pan-disability access. They offer a wide range of adapted boats and equipment, with options for independent, companion or group sailing. Hoists enable boat access for wheelchair users and adaptations, and instructor support helps cater for visitors with limited dexterity, sight loss, learning difficulties and injury recovery. Sailing is a great choice as a therapeutic, or recreational activity, whatever your access requirements may be. The programme runs seasonally (April–October, Wednesdays and Thursdays), so check dates in advance. The clubhouse heated changing rooms and showers are all accessible.
• Accessible Cycling – There are many beautiful places to cycle in the Cotswolds. One of the best places which is highly rated is Westonbirt Arboretum. Here, manual trike wheelchairs, (along with standard equipment) can be hired free of charge with an advance booking. The Tree Top Walkway is a fully accessible boardwalk, and surrounding routes are majorly flat, passing through the plants and florals of the season; cherry blossom trees in spring or bright red, crispy leaves in autumn. There is an accessible café and gift shop, and a Changing Places Toilet at The Great Hall, around 400m from the main entrance.
• Cirencester Open Air Pool – This swimming pool offers accessible changing facilities, a pool hoist, wheelchair-friendly routes around the venue, and accessible parking close by for convenience.
• Tyndale Archers – Based in Cam, near Dursley, this friendly archery club welcomes new members of all abilities and organises ‘have a go’ sessions, all suitable for wheelchair users with the help of specially created adapted equipment.

Accessible Walking Routes

• WWT Slimbridge – This accessible walk through the wetlands has level access throughout much of the site with the main routes consisting of tarmac, along with some compacted gravel and boardwalk sections. There are 17 accessible parking bays close to the entrance, and manual wheelchairs are free to hire with an advance booking. Mobility scooters are also available for £15 per day plus a refundable £25 deposit; scooters must be booked at least a day ahead by phone (Monday–Friday). There are 6 accessible toilets across the site, as well as a Changing Places Toilet.
• Saul Junction – This picturesque location is where the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal meet the Stroudwater Canal. The route around the canal is wheelchair accessible; a perfect opportunity to get fresh air and watch the kayaks and quaint narrow boats glide past on the water. There is accessible parking by the visitor centre which has an accessible toilet, and there is more parking by the Stabled Café. This eatery offers a delicious, freshly cooked breakfast, refreshing lunch options and a range of tasty cakes and bakes. Vegetarian options are available.
• ‘Riders and Striders’ Routes -This programme was specifically designed so that walkers and mobility scooter users can enjoy and explore the true Cotswold countryside together, rather than wheelchair users having to be separated on an alternative, paved route that doesn’t capture the true rurality of the area. There are several routes across the region which are suitable for both hikers and all-terrain scooter users like Trampers. These routes pass through stunning, rugged locations with panoramic views, and are often guided by a knowledgeable volunteer who will lead the excursion. These activities encourage wider participation and community between all hiking groups, often with accessible facilities to stop off at along the way. The most popular routes include Cleeve Hill, Crickley Hill Country Park, Leckhampton Hill, Eastleach Organic Meadows and Cirencester Town and Countryside (including Monarch’s Way).

Accessible Beaches

The Cotswolds doesn’t offer any typical, natural seaside beaches. However, there are several lakeside beaches which offer a similar experience and provide sandy areas. The most popular location is the Cotswold Country Park & Beach in the Cotswold Water Park near Cirencester. Here, there is a large sandy beach, swimming lagoon, paddleboarding and kayaking. There is a visitor centre and a café, and accessible walking routes which pass through the lakes and canals. There are accessible toilets and parking, with sloped, paved surfaces providing wheelchair access to the main areas (the sand beach itself is not wheelchair-passable without a beach wheelchair). There is a Changing Places Toilet, but it is RADAR-key access only rather than open to the general public. The attraction itself does not provide any beach wheelchairs, but Tewkesbury Mobility Hire does (confirm beach-wheelchair availability and delivery to this site directly with them before your visit, as this has not been independently verified).

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

• Cleeve Hill – This is the highest point in the Cotswolds and offers stunning panoramic views across the region, spanning Cheltenham, the Severn Vale, the Malvern Hills, and on clear days, even as far as Wales! To access by car, drive up the B4632 and park near the summit. The viewpoint is accessible via a very short walk from here or can still be enjoyed nearer the car park.
• Coaley Peak – The perfect, low-effort, high-reward viewpoint. Simply drive up to the roadside viewpoint and take in the stunning visuals of the countryside, stretching across the Severn Vale toward the Forest of Dean and even Wales.
• Barrow Wake – This is rated to be the best spot for watching the sunset and taking great photos. With parking nearby, there is a very short walk to the viewpoint, where you can stay a while and simply enjoy the view.
• Fish Hill – This is a popular panoramic drive, particularly at sunset or on clear autumn mornings. The drive is via the A44 from Broadway towards Moreton-in-Marsh. Near the top of Fish Hill there are lay-bys with sweeping views across the Vale of Evesham. It is possible to stay in the car and avoid walking at this location.
• Leckhampton Hill – This viewpoint is also popular for watching the sun set over the countryside and the pretty rural towns which populate it below. Drive up via the lanes above Cheltenham and park near Devil’s Chimney for the best views. Depending on preference, visitors can also walk 5-10 minutes towards a further viewing area.

Retail

• Cotswold Designer Outlet – Located near Tewkesbury just off J9 M5, this venue is great for a day out shopping, exploring brands, and getting a bite to eat. The open-air layout, wide pathways and clear navigation make the venue feel spacious and less overwhelming than traditional indoor shopping centres. There is step-free, level access throughout and lifts where necessary, accessible toilets, wheelchairs to hire, and dedicated Blue Badge parking close to the entrances. ‘Guest Services’ staff are very aware of access needs, provide hearing loops at key locations, ‘quiet hours’ during the week and a relaxing space onsite.
• Eastgate Shopping Centre – This shopping centre is the best choice for convenience, especially from Gloucester city centre either on foot, via bus, or rail. Inside, you will find familiar high street stores and brand favourites, with lift access throughout, step-free access to most areas, and accessible toilet facilities.
• St. Oswald’s Retail Park – This retail park in Gloucester houses big brands, as well as typical supermarket chains, making it a great, accessible location for stocking up or nipping out during your stay in the Cotswolds. Blue Badge parking, wide, level pavements and modern layouts provide easy access in between stores, taking the stress out of shopping. Many of the stores within the park have accessible toilet facilities, which may require a customer purchase in order to use the facility.
• ‘Diddly Squat’ Farm Shop – This farm shop in Chipping Norton has been made famous from the Amazon Prime series ‘Clarkson’s Farm’. Owner of the farm is ex ‘Top Gear’ host Jeremy Clarkson, who began farming the land himself in 2019 (having bought it in 2008) and documented his agricultural journey throughout the episodes. One of his challenges was building the ‘Diddly Squat’ Farm Shop, which now successfully sells fresh produce grown in his fields and crafted onsite. The farm shop is all on one level inside a barn with step free access, with accessible parking bays near the entrance and an accessible toilet onsite. Knowledgeable and friendly staff are on hand to assist with your retail needs. Payments are card only, and it is recommended to visit during weekdays to avoid long queues, and not to visit during wet weather as the land can become muddy and challenging for visitors with mobility issues.

Entertainment

• The Barn Theatre – Located in Cirencester, this performing arts theatre also functions as a cinema and arts space. They are a great venue for all-round entertainment including original and touring professional theatre productions, musicals, dramas and comedy, regular packed into the season programming. There is a bar, a restaurant and accessible toilet onsite, and the venue provides step-free access throughout. There is wheelchair and companion seating integrated within the auditorium audience which is advisable to pre-book. There is a hearing loop system in performance spaces, and some showings are captioned and audio described. Staff are friendly and considerate and provide a ‘quiet space’ and a pre-visit ‘visual story’ for some productions to help autistic and neurodiverse visitors.
• Stroud Subscription Rooms – This 19th century building has a great mix of heritage, arts and accessibility. There is a step-free entrance and access to key areas, with lift access where necessary, and there is an accessible toilet. Wheelchair spaces are provided in the audience, and hearing support is standard. Additional support such as BSL interpretation and audio-captioning is available for certain events, particularly theatre showings or talks. Along with the café bar and the overall style of the venue, it offers a more ‘community’ like feel, rather than an overwhelming large arena.
• Tetbury Goods Shed – This small railway good shed turned arts venue provides a welcoming visit celebrating live music, theatre and inspiring and entertaining speakers. There is step-free access from the accessible parking bays, into the venue, entrance foyer, and bar, which is a great ‘breakout’ area if required during shows. A hearing loop is available for selected events, there is an accessible toilet, and the flexibility of the audience seating means staff are able to seat wheelchair users and their companions on the level viewing area.
• Longborough Festival Opera – This venue is internationally recognised as one of the UK’s most distinctive opera houses, and has hosted the works of Richard Wagner, Mozart, Verdi, Handel, and other ambitious contemporary composers. Guests are invited to take in the vocal arts in this beautiful building set in the countryside near Moreton-in-Marsh. The venue combines the atmosphere of a country house opera festival, with an intimate, purpose-built theatre. Inside, the theatre seats up to 500 guests, with accessible seating in the boxes and front stalls. There is an accessible toilet, accessible parking, and a drop-off point directly outside the theatre entrance. Unlike many operas, the performances feature a 90-minute interval for guests to enjoy the beauty of the grounds, picnic in the gardens, or dine in one of the on-site accessible restaurants. Although the venue’s access provision is fairly limited to the mobility impaired only, this a fantastic choice of entertainment for people who would find a visit feasible. Box office staff encourage anyone with access needs to talk with them to see how they can best accommodate you so you can have an enjoyable visit.

Transport

• Rail Travel – The best accessible rail stations are Moreton-in-Marsh, Cheltenham Spa, and Stroud railway station. These locations offer step-free access and assistance can be arranged via the ‘Passenger Assistance’ scheme.
• Buses – Many local buses in the Cotswolds are low-floor and wheelchair accessible from providers such as Cotswold Green, Pulhams Coaches and Stagecoach, who cover the majority of the region.
• Taxis – Providers such as A2B Cotswold Travel, Leaf Mobility, and Wheel Chair Taxis UK offer door-to-door, wheelchair accessible travel serving the wider Cotswolds area and are a great option for visiting villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury, or Stow-on-the-Wold. It is recommended to book in advance, especially for travel in rural areas.

Mobility Hire

• The Mobility Store (Bourton-on-the-Water) – This supplier is convenient if you’re staying in the heart of the Cotswolds. They offer mobility equipment sales, servicing, and short-term hire.
• Tewkesbury Mobility Hire – This supplier specialises in short and long-term rentals of a range of mobility equipment, such as hoists, standing aids, profiling beds, shower chairs, and wheelchairs, including those suitable for more challenging grounds and sand. They are especially a good choice if visitors need equipment delivered direct to their holiday accommodation.
• Recare Ltd (Long Hanborough) – A professional supplier with friendly consultants and staff who can help meet complex requirements. They offer a range of disability, rehabilitation and bariatric equipment.
• Cotswolds Attractions – Mobility and all-terrain scooters (e.g. Trampers) can be hired at popular visitor attractions such as Cotswold Wildlife Park, Cotswold Farm Park, Cotswolds Designer Outlet and countryside and woodland trails at locations such as Woodchester Park & Batsford Arboretum and Mallards Pike (Forest of Dean). Please note these often require a temporary ‘Countryside Mobility’ membership.

Changing Places Toilets

The following locations are reported to have the best Changing Places Toilets. The facilities have long opening hours, and attractions and activities nearby, altogether supporting a full day out for visitors with more complex access requirements, where a standard accessible toilet does not meet their needs. It is important to note that many of these locations require admission into the venue, as they are not open to the general public (listed below).

• Abbey Grounds (GL7 2DA) – Open 08:00-16:00, free to the public.
• Cotswold Country Park & Beach (GL7 6DF) – Open 10:00-17:00, venue admission required.
• Westonbirt, The National Arboretum (GL8 8QS) – Open 09:00-16:30, venue admission required.
• WWT Slimbridge (GL2 7BT) – Open 09:30-16:30 (Nov-Jan), 09:30-17:00 (Feb-Mar) or 09:30-17:30 (Apr-Oct), venue admission required.
• Cirencester Leisure Centre (GL7 1US) – Open 06:30-22:00 Monday-Friday, 08:00-18:00 Saturday, 08:00-21:00 Sunday. Venue admission required.
• Cotswold Wildlife Park & Gardens (OX18 4JP) – Open 10:00-18:00 (last admission at 16:00) in Summer, and 10:00-16/17:00 (last admission at 15:00) in Winter. Venue admission required. The Changing Places unit itself has narrower hours (10:00–16:45 in Summer, 10:00–15:45 in Winter) and requires a door code from gift-shop staff — adhere to these times, not the general park hours, to access the facility.