Accessible Guide to Northumberland

Local Traditions, Events and Cultural Highlights

• Mighty Dub Fest – Every June, this music festival is hosted in the Pastures of Alnwick Castle and is not your typical music festival. The event has a very friendly atmosphere and community feel, attracting fans of reggae, dub, funk, folk, and their traditional VW campers and cars which are often spotted around the site. Aside from the music, the event heavily focuses on wellness, with options to partake in sound baths, yoga, meditation and craft activities. This is paired with delicious food from street food vendors, ‘jam sessions’ and even circus and performance acts. Despite the wealth of entertainment on offer, the festival is known for its laid-back approach and participates in the Access Card Scheme. The site is spacious, with minimal crowding and the opportunity to dip in and out of the day’s activities to suit users needs and energy levels. Accessible facilities such as toilets, parking and even accessible camping areas near the arena are offered. They also offer free entry for carer companions.
• Bellingham Show & Country Festival – This agricultural festival showcases the best of rural Northumbrian culture. Bellingham packs in livestock competitions, rural crafts, sheepdog and horse events, local food and agricultural heritage, all into one event, without the pressure of being at a large event. The festival is known to have a very ‘down to Earth’ feel, bringing pure Northumbrian identity and culture to the venue. For visitors seeking the ‘raw cultural experience’ of Northumberland, this is a great place to do so, as opposed to similar events on a bigger scale. The pace of the event is very relaxed, with less crowd aggression and more control over the individual’s day.
• Traditional Northumbrian Food – Pease pudding, stottie cake, Craster Kippers and pan haggerty are all slices of traditional Northumbrian food which are a ‘must try’. Pease pudding in particular even dates back to 14th century Northumberland, when families would cook large batches over the hearth to make this low-cost, satiating meal stretch for days, hot or cold. Over time it was the key meal for working class families and industrial labourers during the Victorian era, to provide energy the miners and shipyard workers of Northumberland.

Accessible Scenery and Sensory Highlights

When thinking about scenery and sensory highlights, of course the beautiful Northumberland coastline deserves an honourable mention. The vast, open horizons, the sounds of the seabirds, the crashing of the waves and the feel of the fresh breeze on your face. Hiring a beach wheelchair for your visit is essential for wheelchair users to get up close to the sea and drink in all the sensory delights of the coast. 

A second major highlight are the Dark Skies that Northumberland is known for, with the best accessible observatory being Battlesteads Dark Sky Observatory, in Wark-on-Tyne. The terrain in this area is much more manageable for wheelchair users in comparison to the other, more rural locations. There is step-free access into warm, indoor viewing areas, an accessible toilet, and parking close by the entrance.

Accessible Food and Drink Outlets

• The Treehouse Restaurant – This dining venue is located in The Alnwick Garden attraction, just follow the level access walkways towards the restaurant. It has a lovely magical, whimsical feel, decorated with twinkling fairy lights leading to a vast outdoor dining space or a cosy seating area inside. They offer Vegan and Vegetarian main meals, and for allergen-specific options, it is recommended to book in advance to discuss your needs.
• Pilgrim’s Gelato – A small, family-run business located in Holy Island offering exclusively Vegan and Gluten-Free ice cream and other delights. At time of writing, no nuts are used onsite, so this is also a perfectly safe option for visitors who have strict allergens or are ingredient-sensitive. The venue is also wheelchair accessible so visitors can feast their eyes on all the flavours before they make their order.
• The Potted Lobster – Located near Bamburgh Castle, this beautiful restaurant champions all that is good about local, fresh seafood produce sourced from the sea that surrounds it. Think Lindisfarne oysters, smoked trout, fresh-dressed crab and of course, delicious lobster. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, dog-friendly and offers gluten and dairy free options. Weekday lunchtimes are usually quieter so are recommended to avoid noise and have a more relaxed dining experience.
• Pine – This fine dining restaurant located at Vallum Farm in East Wallhouses is the perfect evening meal treat to add to a trip to Northumberland. They pride themselves on their farm-fresh, seasonal food, with ingredients sourced as local as from their very own ‘kitchen garden’. Instead of a typical menu, Pine serves Michelin-starred, multi-course tasting dishes inspired by the nature and produce of Northumberland. The restaurant is very spacious, with level access to the ground floor dining area, and further areas can be accessed via a ramp or lift. Staff can cater to Vegetarian and Pescatarian requirements. The atmosphere is ‘relaxed luxury’, allowing you to really focus all on the taste of the meal and truly enjoy it.
• The Cook & Barker Inn – Located 5 miles from Alnwick, this countryside pub brings comfortable, rural dining and great, homecooked food to the table. Accessed from the large park into the spacious ground floor dining area, visitors can delight in the traditional offerings of pies, steaks, fish and the widely acclaimed Sunday roast.

Accessible Attractions & Experiences

• VisitEngland Itineraries – VisitEngland have recently carried out an Accessible Tourism project ‘Accessible Things To Do in Newcastle’. Itineraries and further access information is available on the VisitEngland website, showcasing attractions such as…
• Newcastle Castle
• Discovery Museum
• Laing Art Gallery
• Blackfriars Restaurant
• Exhibition Park
• Wylam Brewery
• Tyneside Bar Café.
• The Glasshouse International Centre (Sage Gateshead)

• Hexham Old Gaol – This is England’s oldest purpose-built prison and is now a museum with original features such as the dungeon. Staff are trained in disability awareness and Dementia support and offer “Sound Down Sundays” which are their quiet times with reduced noise and fewer visitors to benefit noise-sensitive or Autistic visitors. Ear defenders are also available to borrow for free. There are hearing loops throughout the museum, several tactile activities, sensory resources and large-print exhibition panels. The glass lift to all floors enables everyone to experience the history and even the dungeon area. Automatic doors are frequent throughout the site, and there is a step-free entrance via a ramp. There are no toilets on site, but the nearest accessible facility is around a 3-minute walk from the museum. Visitors operating their own manual wheelchair may benefit from using a motorised scooter or having someone operate it for them, as the historic stone floors can provide uneven surfaces in the majority of areas.
• The Queen’s Hall Arts Centre – This arts centre is great for wheelchair access, with a step-free entrance at street level, automatic doors, and lifts to all public areas (except the main theatre balcony). Accessible toilets are on site. Online, visitors can watch a walkthrough video of the site, filmed at a wheelchair height for them to visualise what a visit will look like for them. The venue is also part of the WelcoMe service, where you can register your specific access requirements in advance and arrive to the venue with confidence, with a friendly face to greet you. Tickets for carers are free, and guide dogs are welcome. The arts centre regularly offers relaxed performances. There is an induction loop in the auditorium and large-print and high-contrast brochures are available.
• Roman Army Museum – An interactive and engaging museum experience for all. The entire attraction is indoors with level access throughout. There is also a café and a shop which are at entry level. There are accessible toilets. Dedicated accessible event and learning experiences help make visits feel engaging. ‘Sensory Bags’ are available to borrow for a more comfortable experience, as well as a digital sensory map, visual Sensory Story and virtual tour to help prepare visitors and support their experience. 
• Vindolanda Roman Fort – This outdoor, archaeological site features original stone, with some areas covering gravel, grass, and sloped paths. Therefore, it is advised for wheelchair users to follow the accessible routes or use a mobility scooter more suitable for rougher terrain. However, the connecting museum is accessible, flat and indoors so may be a more suitable option while still experiencing the site’s history. There are accessible toilets onsite. Staff are very friendly and happy to help make your visit more enjoyable where they can. The downloadable access statement and visual statement on their website helps prepare visitors for a day at the site.
• Ad Gefrin Distillery – A experience rich with history and whiskey combined into one. The Anglo-Saxon museum celebrates the Northumbrian history of whisky-distilling, which you can learn about here while taking a tour of the distillery, discovering the ingredients that make the whiskey special, and finally trying some for yourself in a cosy environment with warm ambient lighting and picturesque art projections surrounding you. The museum is wheelchair accessible and manual wheelchairs can be loaned on request (subject to availability).
• Whitehouse Farm Centre – This visitor attraction makes a fantastic day out, celebrating Northumbrian rural culture in a way that is more engaging and accessible for all, in comparison to some agricultural events. Onsite there is a ‘Play Barn’, café, shop and accessible animal interaction areas. Visitors can also handle some animals such as birds of prey. The site is structured to be wheelchair friendly, with wheelchair accessible tractor rides and even a Changing Places Toilet. Staff have Accessibility training, particularly in catering for Autistic visitors. They offer relaxed sessions, sensory bags, and sensory support.

National Trust

• Wallington House, Gardens & Estate – A spacious, calm and widely accessible landmark. An online accessibility guide is available for this site, but accessibility at this National Trust landmark is very good, being one of the best in the area for visitors with mobility requirements. Accessible parking is available in the main car park and near the Walled Garden. There are two Trampers, mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs available to hire at least 48 hours in advance. There is level access into the café, shop and the many indoor spaces. Accessible toilet facilities are in the Courtyard and Clocktower Café. Inside, there are large-print guides, dedicated accessibility maps and routes, and induction loops throughout. 
• Cragside House – Where possible, Cragside House offers excellent accessible facilities, but the rugged, natural landscape of the dramatic hillside can provide some mobility challenges. However, there is a shuttle bus service during the main season, which makes the highlights of the area more accessible and reduces walking, especially during poor weather conditions. There is accessible parking at the visitor centre, house and Formal Garden. Manual wheelchairs are available for free hire with an advance booking. Accessible toilets are available at multiple points across the estate. There are Braille guides, induction loops and a BSL and subtitle introductory video inside the house. The main areas for wheelchair access include the ground floor of the house, middle terrace of the Formal Garden, and the café and shop.
• Seaton Delaval Hall – This dramatic English Baroque country house near the coast boasts beautiful 18th century architecture and a grand central hall, surrounded by landscaped gardens and peaceful woodland walks. This venue combines history with an enjoyable day out for all, with a café, family-friendly outdoor spaces and chances to broaden your knowledge. A visit is mainly self-guided, but accessible interpretation is available in the form of Braille and large print information, virtual tours, video content and helpful staff who are happy to share their expertise. Sensory equipment such as ear defenders, sensory maps and fidget toys can be borrowed, and there are quiet spaces within the building. Wheelchairs and all-terrain mobility scooters can be hired and there is both an accessible toilet and Changing Places onsite. Many of the sites main indoor and outdoor areas are level access, and the upper floors with stairs only can be accessed with a stairclimber (booked in advance) or by using the video tours to experience the area virtually. Hearing loops are at visitor reception and the café.

English Heritage Sites

• Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens – A beautiful landscape with a longstanding history of countryside Northumbrian life. Built in the 1800s and home to the Middleton family for over seven centuries, this Greek Revival country house, 30-acre exotic garden and medieval castle is now a fantastic place combining history and leisure. Dogs are welcome on leads in outdoor areas. The upper levels of the castle are inaccessible but there are step-free routes around major areas of the site. Mobility scooters and wheelchairs can be hired. The site has a calm feel, with easy navigation, lots of rest points and opportunities to find peace, especially in the gardens. Audio-described tours and tactile map booklets are available. There is baby changing, accessible toilets and a Changing Places Toilet in the toilet block in the car park which has accessible bays. RADAR keys are given at the admissions desk. There is also a café and a second-hand bookshop.
• Tynemouth Priory & Castle – This English Heritage site is a great day out for taking in history and culture in a ‘low-demand’ way, in the open air, with great views of the Northumbrian coast. Visitors can experience the castle ruins over manageable gradients, at their own pace, without any sensory overwhelm or pressure to partake in activities, tours or events. The site is open and vast, making it easier to navigate. It’s an ideal spot for autistic visitors with the need for calm spaces, visitors with fatigue conditions, or anyone wanting a ‘gentle access’ day out. Wheelchairs can be loaned if needed. There are accessible parking bays within 50m of the admissions area, baby changing facilities, unisex toilets and accessible toilets.
• Corbridge Roman Town – The sites of these preserved Roman ruins can be accessed better with a mobility scooter which is suited for rougher terrain, but even without accessing this area, wheelchair users can still get a very enriching experience from their visit. Accessible bays lead directly into the entrance and visitor centre, accessible toilets are onsite and wheelchairs can be loaned if needed. For nice weather, picnic benches and rest points are dotted around to enjoy the open air, or for rainy days, the museum exhibition is wheelchair accessible with lots to see and learn about. Braille guides, signage and audio tours are available, with some of these tours offering a transcript for the hearing impaired. The original stone of the Roman ruins provides a fantastic tactile experience.

National Parks – Northumberland National Park

Beginning at The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre, explore one of the most accessible national park experiences in the region. The visitor centre, exhibitions and café are fully step-free, with accessible toilets and its very own Changing Places facility. Don’t miss out on the fully accessible rooftop walk with panoramic views over the district. Adaptive events and family activities are also often hosted. From here, natural, protected areas surrounding the National Park include Kielder Water & Forest Park, the North Pennines National Landscape, and of course the Northumberland coastline.

Accessible Villages/Towns

• Amble Harbour – This has been reviewed as one of the best areas for wheelchair access. In particular, Amble Harbour Village is a fan-favourite, showcasing lots of little independent businesses housed in wooden pods along the level access waterside, offering handmade gifts and souvenirs. Broad, level promenades encompass the area. There are excellent harbour and marina views from here, and bench seating is frequent to stop and enjoy it. You will find many attractions clustered close together nearby the pod shops, such as seafood eateries, ice cream parlours, and also accessible toilets for convenience (with a RADAR key). The best Blue Badge parking is Turner Street for convenient harbour access.
• Seahouses – This region is known to be a fantastic base for exploring Northumberland’s coastline but also offers many gems itself. With Seahouses having a rich fishing history, it’s no secret that the fish and chips are amongst the best in the county. Enjoy the fresh tastes of the sea and experience sights of castles and ruins in the distance. Town centre businesses such as this one are all in close proximity to one another, making access and exploration easier. The main seafront and harbour roads are also mainly flat and paved, with several car parks close by the harbour and promenade. Accessible toilets are available in the village and harbour area (with a RADAR key). Benches frequent good viewpoints to stop and rest. 
• Low Newton-by-the-Sea – This quaint coastal village is full of fishing-hamlet character, with traditional whitewashed stone cottages, a village green, a cosy pub and links to accessible places, all neatly packed into one little area. Beginning in the village, have a meal at The Ship Inn inside via level access or outdoors in sunny weather and enjoy the microbrewery. In the village centre there are accessible toilets and parking. From here, head towards Newton Pool for the accessible stroll along the nature reserve, see the wildlife in the wheelchair accessible bird hide and enjoy the coastal views.

Accessible Sporting Activities

• Calvert Kielder – This special centre is one of the UK’s leading providers of accessible adventure sport. They support a wide range of access needs, and offer lots of exciting, accessible activities such as climbing, canoeing and kayaking, archery, cycling, zipwire and sailing. They encourage everyone to get involved and believe no one should feel left out of the fun.
• Active Northumberland – A more practical option for visitors of Northumberland who love to stay active and committed to their exercising habits, even when on holiday. The centre offers inclusive swimming, disabled-friendly gym sessions and adapted fitness classes at locations across Ashington, Blyth, Hexham, and Morpeth, depending on where you’re based for the duration of your stay.
• Northside Surf School – Based in Amble, this is a great option for beginners interested in trying surfing and paddleboarding. The supportive coaching environment helps people get started at the sport and work up in skill level confidence. They offer adaptive surfing and can cater the sessions to accommodate access requirements by contacting the centre prior to booking.
• Wheels for All – This programme in partnership with Adapt North East hold sessions at Wentworth Leisure Centre in Hexham designed specifically for people with physical disabilities, learning difficulties, sensory needs, confidence barriers and neurodivergence. They provide adapted bikes and trikes along flat, safe circuit tracks which can be enjoyed alongside family or carers. The instructors are very friendly and supportive and help people of all skill levels. Accessible changing rooms, showers and toilets are onsite, with lift access throughout the building. 
• Newcastle United Football Club (St. James’ Park) – For visitors who prefer to watch the sporting happen from afar rather than join in directly, then going to watch Newcastle United play a match is the perfect activity. With the thoughtfully planned seating arrangements, wheelchair spaces are included within the main crowd rather than away from the energy, so everyone can cheer on together. Additional tickets for carers are free of charge and showing an ‘Accessibility Passport’ on arrival helps staff provide you with the assistance you and your party need. Lifts provide access to upper tiers and accessible toilets are located close by wheelchair seating bays. Alternative entry points are provided to avoid crowds as well as a dedicated Sensory Room and Kit. Hearing loops and audio-descriptive commentary systems are available for the hearing impaired. There is accessible parking and some food can be served to your seat if needed.

Accessible Walking Routes

• Newton Pool Coastal Walk – This short, gentle walk along the Northumberland coast passes wheelchair accessible hides and plenty of wildlife-spotting opportunities. The first section of the track (approximately 0.5km) is accessible for all, with a surfaced track suitable for wheelchair and pushchairs.
• Bolam Lake Country Park – This peaceful park surrounded by a lake features a wide, 1.6km surfaced route along various woodland paths which are accessible for many wheelchair and mobility scooter users, pushchairs, and people who prefer a gentler walk. There are accessible toilets near the Visitor Centre and Boathouse Wood car park, which has easy access to join the start of the walking route. The Visitor Centre and café are fully accessible. There are many benches and picnic resting points around the route. 
• Tyne Riverside Country Park – Located near to Newcastle, this country park has a sensory garden and wide, level paths which are accessible for all. Blue Badge parking spaces are close to entrances and facilities. There are accessible toilets at Hedley’s Riverside Café, which has ramped access. Plenty of benches and picnic areas provide resting points along the route. 
• Reaveley Farm – This family-friendly, circular walk passes through Reaveley, the River Breamish, and the lovely Reaveley Farm, taking approximately 1.5 hours at most to circle 4km. Enjoy the natural sights and sweet smells of blooming wildflowers.
• Druridge Bay Country Park – This route features a flat, approximately 1.8-mile (3km) circular trail with views of Ladyburn Lake.
• Whitley Bay – This walk has fantastic wheelchair access with flat, paved promenades and panoramic sea views. 
• Hauxley Nature Reserve – This is a circular walk passes through wetlands, with nature watching opportunities and two accessible bird hides.

Best ‘Easy Access’ Beaches

Beach Access North East (BANE) is a fantastic, volunteer-run initiative passionate about enabling everyone to experience the natural beauty of Northumberland’s beaches. Anyone who has signed up as a member for free can request the hire of a beach wheelchair (at least 24 hours notice) for the following locations:

• Bamburgh
• Beadnell
• Blyth
• Newbiggin
• Newton -by-the-Sea
• Roker
• Seaton Carew
• South Shields
• Spittal
• Tynemouth
• Whitley Bay

Scenic Drives and Viewpoints

• Hadrian’s Wall – Here there are multiple locations great for stunning natural views and breaths of fresh air. To name the best, these are Walltown Country Park, which has an easy access path and picnic site, Steel Rigg, with an easy access path from the car park to the famous Hadrian’s wall itself, and Cawfields Dark Sky Discovery Site, for unforgettable views of the stars in the night sky, or enjoying a picnic in the bright of the daytime.
• Coquetdale – Some fan-favourites of this area include the tranquillity of Elsdon, particularly the Village Green and tea room, Rothbury, with an easy access walk and picnic site along the River Coquet, and Ingram & Breamish Valley, featuring picnic sites beside the river and tea room. 
• The Northumberland Coastal Route – This is a spectacular, 62-mile drive starting from Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed, which hugs the coastline and passes iconic fortresses such as Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh, as well as charming sea villages like Craster and Seahouses.
• The Kielder Forest Drive – This is a thrilling 12-mile route along a forest toll road, which cuts through the heart of Kielder Water and Forest Park, with views of deep woodland surrounding. 
• The Cheviot Valleys (Breamish & Harthope) – These winding valley routes take you deep into the rolling Cheviot hills. 

Retail

• Barter Books – This little gem is one of the largest second-hand bookshops in the UK and has a location right in Alnwick. The building is part of a restored Victorian railway building dating back to 1887 and despite its history, has excellent wheelchair access. Visitors have praised it for having seamless navigation for browsing around the shelves and taking in the atmosphere of a traditional bookstore. There is a charming model train which travels across the quotes on beams which bridge the shelves. Disabled visitor advice for wheelchair users is to avoid busy times or day or rainy days when it is likely everyone will want to flock indoors. This can make a calm browse through the aisles difficult. Visitors suggest visiting earlier in the daytime and grab a treat from the Station Buffet, serving hot drinks and cakes.
• Grainger Market – This popular ground floor market in Newcastle has hundreds of stalls offering fresh fruit and vegetables, fishmongers, bakeries and clothing, great for gifts or just for general browsing. There are spacious pathways between stalls and overall, the market brings back the traditional retail experience, often selling unique items from ‘yesteryear’ which may be of interest for older visitors and those with Dementia. Every Tuesday between 2 and 4PM are their ‘Slow Shopping’ hours. No music plays, deliveries are kept to a minimum, and traders take extra care when communicating with their customers. There is an accessible toilet (with RADAR key access) and baby changing facilities.
• Newcastle Town Centre – This bustling city is full of high-street fan favourites and big brands, surrounded by the iconic landmarks of Newcastle. It is recommended to park in the town centre rather than by the Quayside, as there are steep inclines towards the shops which involve pushing up hill. Once in the town centre, majority of shops are level access, and getting about from here is as simple as taking the Tyne and Wear accessible Metro. There are two main shopping centres; ‘The Gate’ and ‘Eldon Square’, both feature lift access and wide, accessible bays. ‘Eldon Square’ also has a Shopmobility store to borrow equipment.

Entertainment

• The Alnwick Playhouse – This performing arts theatre is named one of the best entertainment venues in Northumberland for its accessibility, and offers a very varied programme including touring theatre, live music, tribute bands, comedy and cinema. The modern venue has step-free access, accessible toilets and designated wheelchair seating. Navigation around the site is seamless and straight forward and friendly staff are on hand to help.
• The Maltings Theatre & Cinema – A leading performing arts venue in North Northumberland offering a year-round programme of theatre live music, comedy, dance, cinema, opera and ballet broadcasts, talks, workshops and family events. These are hosted in the beautiful building which overlooks the scenery of the River Tweed. With a positive review on Euan’s Guide, the venue provides; ramp and automatic door access from the car park, lift access to all floors, wheelchair spaces in the main theatre, accessible toilets, hearing support, subtitled film screenings, Autism-friendly and relaxed performances, and of course, helpful staff trained in Accessibility. The adjoining café bar along with the theatre entertainment makes for an enjoyable full afternoon or evening out.
• Tyneside Cinema – This is the North East’s premier independent cinema in Newcastle and boasts stunning and stylish interiors with a fantastic range of film showings and great wheelchair access. Wheelchair users review the venue very highly for its commitment to accessibility, with dedicated seating areas with great screen views, automatic doors, nearby accessible toilets and the venue itself being majorly level access, along with lifts in between floors. Subtitled, audio-described and hearing assisted screenings are offered, as well as an induction loop. Their ‘Access Cinema’ programme offers relaxed screenings for Autistic or noise-sensitive visitors, babies and children, and ‘Silver Screen’ showings to support the older generations. Staff are disability trained and there is a virtual tour to preview online to prepare people for their visit in advance.
• Theatre Royal (Newcastle) – This is the perfect place for visitors interested in the more luxurious side of theatre and performance entertainment. Since 1837 is has been the artistic home of theatre plays, opera, ballet, dance and music. They offer relaxed performances for Autistic visitors, or those with learning, sensory or communication needs. A drop-off point outside the venue leads to a step-free entrance via automatic doors. Visitors with mobility requirements can take the lift to the dedicated wheelchair seating areas in the upper stalls which have excellent views, or transfer into a standard theatre seat if preferred. There are multiple accessible toilets. The venue recognises the Sunflower Lanyard, offers an ‘Access Membership Scheme’ for free companion tickets and an ‘Access Host’ will assist you around the venue. There is a hearing loop system in the auditorium and infrared assistive listening headsets are available for clearer audio. They regularly offer captioned, audio-described and BSL interpreted performances.
• The Stand Comedy Club (Newcastle) – This popular venue has a comedy line-up every night of the week, showcasing some of the comedy world’s best performers, as well as local up-and-comers. The auditorium has its own bistro and wheelchair access via a lift to enter the venue, then connecting to a ramp. There is an accessible toilet in the bistro area. There are dedicated wheelchair seating areas and companion seats. The venue does not have a car park onsite but there is a public car park very close by, and the Metro and train stations are also in close proximity.

Transport

• WATBus – A wheelchair accessible transport service based in Ashington but operating services across much of Northumberland. They offer wheelchair accessible minibuses and other smaller vehicles transporting individuals to their day-to-day activities such as medical appointments or day trips like shopping or social activities. They are a charity with a friendly, community feel which is perfect for those who don’t feel comfortable with mainstream transport.
• MegaBus – This operator is the one of choice for services regularly connecting to Newcastle city centre, stopping at Newcastle City Library, with excellent street access to attractions, shops and more. Most MegaBuses are equipped with a wheelchair accessible lift or ramp, dedicated wheelchair spaces and even accessible toilets for longer journeys. It is highly recommended to enquire and book in plenty of advance to ensure the correct vehicle is confirmed.
• Train Travel – Many rail companies operate within and throughout Northumberland  including the local ‘Northern’ operator. Stations connecting to the services are step-free with ramped access on board, dedicated wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets. An advance booking or contacting the helpful customer service lines can get you connected with a friendly member of staff who can assist you at the stations.
• Tyne & Wear Metro (Newcastle) – The Metro is a great choice for exploring the city of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. All stations are step-free, some having lifts, others with ramps. There is detailed Access Information regarding suitability for Autistic travellers online.
• Taxis – There are several wheelchair accessible taxi services across Northumberland around and at the most prominent train stations; Alnmouth for Alnwick, Morpeth, Hexham or Newcastle Central for Ponteland or Blyth. It is highly recommended to enquire before booking to find out further details. These taxi services are great for individuals or even larger groups in bigger vehicles.

Mobility Hire

• North East Mobility Solutions – With branches across North Northumberland, they offer hire of mobility scooters, wheelchairs and hoists. Their hire services are perfect for both long-term and shorter holiday stays, especially around Berwick, Seahouses, Bamburgh, Alnwick and Holy Island.
• The Outdoor Mobility Network – This provider offers the hire of all-terrain Tramper scooters at multiple places including Northumberland National Park, the North Pennines National Landscape, Hadrian’s Wall, Howick Hall and Belsay Hall, Castle & Gardens.
• Mobility Direct – This provider is a good option for South-East Northumberland around Ashington, Morpeth, Newbiggin and Blyth. It is family-run with workshop engineers and repair support, useful for emergency repairs or local servicing during a hire period. They offer the hire of mobility scooters and powered wheelchairs, stairlifts, walking aids and rise-recliner chairs. 
• Eden Mobility Cramlington – This retail provider is best for short-term hire arrangements near Cramlington and Newcastle. They offer mobility scooters, powerchairs, adjustable beds, walking aids, and bathing and home-access equipment. 
• Beach Access North East (BANE) – For the hire of beach wheelchairs across multiple coastal locations. Check availability before booking. Contact and reserve in advance to secure equipment.
• Elden Square Shopping Centre – At this popular shopping venue, there is a Shopmobility store for your mobility hire needs. 

Changing Places Toilets

For full-day outings, the best Changing Places toilets in Northumberland are the ones attached to visitor centres, leisure centres, and key public facilities that stay open for long hours. Northumberland County Council maintains several Changing Places toilets across the county, and these are specifically designed for people who need a hoist, height-adjustable changing bench, and extra space. The below facilities are open long hours to support a full day out.

• Druridge Bay Country Park (NE61 5BX)
• Cramlington Hub (NE23 6YB)
• Ashington Leisure Centre (NE63 9JY)
• Berwick Leisure Centre (TD15 2AS)
• The Sill: National Landscape Discovery Centre (NE47 7AN)
• Seahouses Public Toilet (NE68 7SN)
• Holy Island Changing Places Toilet (TD15 2SQ)
• Newbiggin Sports and Community Hub (NE64 6HG)
• County Hall (NE61 2EF)

Simply Owners recommend calling any venue and checking their accessibility to ensure it meets your individual needs prior to visiting as situations continually change