Accessible Guide to Devon

Delightful Devon has such a varied landscape. 

The English Riviera is a series of picturesque, south-coast harbour towns including Torquay, Paignton and Brixham. The South West Coast Path follows the coastline, taking in the towering cliffs of the northern Exmoor Coast and rock formations on the fossil-rich southern Jurassic Coast.

Quaint pubs, cosy tearooms, beaches, backed by rolling green hills, beach huts, fishing boats and miles of stunning coastline. The area is a dark skies attraction making it the perfect place on the Jurassic Coast for stargazing on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Across Devon the region’s top attractions are working to make sure they are accessible as possible, giving a warm welcome for visitors and locals with a variety of access needs. You can find organisations offering accessible water sports, rock climbing sessions, horse-riding, suitable for all ages and abilities. Attractions that are family friendly, wheelchair accessible and have everything from quiet rooms to staff that have specific disability and dementia training, like BSL.

Great options for a day out include a trip to one of the region's beaches, many of which offer ramps, accessible changing facilities, and reserved parking.

There is nothing like a day on the beach and Goodrington Sands and Saunton Sands have a beach Wheelchair. There is also good access to Woolacombe Beach. Westwood Ho, Croyde Bay, Sidmouth, Exmouth, and Bigbury-on-Sea beaches. Our verified accessible holiday cottages in Devon provide the perfect base to explore a county rich in facilities for those with limited mobility.

Scenery and Sensory Highlights

From dramatic coastlines to tranquil estuaries the area is rich with sensory delights. 

Public parks and gardens across the county often have sensory planting, accessible picnic areas and level paths that suit wheelchair users, families with pushchairs and those who prefer gentler walking routes. Many National Trust sites and countryside attractions offer all terrain wheelchairs or shuttle services to help visitors access the grounds. 

The English Riviera is full of charming coastal scenes. Fishing boats in Brixham Harbour, pastel-coloured cottages reflected in the water, and the wide open bays of Torquay and Paignton make it a photographer’s paradise. Watching the sun set over Woolacombe Bay or along the cliffs of North Devon is a memorable experience. Sensory highlights range from the sound of waves rolling over shingle, the scent of salty air, and the vibrant colours of beach huts and wildflowers along the coast path.

Places of Interest

Accessible Dartmoor

Dartmoor National Park is a special place, with breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife and a rich history. A place where everyone should have the freedom to explore this beautiful and unique environment, without barriers.

The Visitor Centres are the perfect place to start your Dartmoor adventure, with accessible parking, level access, hearing loops, accessible toilets, and a sensory kit among the many accessible features.

Take in Dartmoor’s beauty through Miles Without Stiles accessible trails, with level and suitable surfaces for a wide range of users including those in all-terrain powered mobility scooters and families with younger children.

You can hire an off-road electric Tramper directly from the Visitor Centre at Postbridge, and enjoy a specially created ‘Tramper Trail’ through Bellever Forest.

Accessible Exmoor

The beautiful landscape of Exmoor National Park is a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors, whatever your level of mobility. While some of the footpaths and bridleways can be rugged and challenging, many are much easier and suitable for a wide range of users. There is suitable access for people who are less mobile or use a wheelchair, families with young children or pushchairs, as well as anyone who just wants an easy going stroll. There are now several places on Exmoor where you can hire an all -terrain Tramper.  The "Exmoor Experts" located in the visitor centres, are always happy to answer any questions you have to help everyone get the  most out of a visit to Exmoor.

Sidmouth, South Devon 

Renowned for its family-friendly swim spots and regency history, Sidmouth stands within Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The purpose-built esplanade sweeps across the seafront, providing level and wide paving for wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility scooters. There are multiple access points to the beach along the seafront, including a slipway at the eastern end of the beach. In the summer months, find beach matting at the western end of the promenade next to the lifeguard hut for easier access across the sand and towards the sparkling shoreline. 

Venture into Sidmouth town where you'll be greeted by a plethora of eateries and shops offering accessible entrances and dropped curbs, providing a wheelchair-friendly day out. 

Toilets: accessible toilets are located in Sidmouth town centre, by the seafront and in Connaught Gardens, all of which require a RADAR key located in the Tourist Information Centre. 

Parking: designated Blue Badge parking can be found close to the beach across Mill Street (0.4 miles), Roxborough (0.4 miles) and Manor Pavillion (0.3 miles) car parks.

Exmouth, South Devon

Nestled at the mouth of the River Exe, Exmouth boasts over two miles of glorious golden sand, marking the western gateway to the rugged Jurassic Coast. Charming Georgian and Victorian architecture line the streets housing a vibrant community of independent boutiques and eateries. Despite its title of the oldest seaside resort in Britain, Exmouth’s beautifully flat promenade makes exploring with little ones in pushchairs or for those in wheelchairs, stress-free. Beach matting provides easy access to the shallow bathing waters where RNLI lifeguards patrol during peak seasons. 

The Beach Wheelchair Project provides specially adapted wheelchairs for all terrains and open water, ensuring no one misses out on wading into the turquoise shallows.  You can book your accessible beach wheelchair free of charge ahead of your visit and collect from Exmouth Beach Wheelchair Hire premises, where a stand aid and hoist are also available on a first-come first-served basis. 

Toilets: accessible toilets can be found next to the Ocean Centre along the Esplanade, as well as Foxholes Car Park and the Imperial Recreational Ground. 

Parking: designated Blue Badge parking bays close to Exmouth Beach can be found along the esplanade along with, Queen’s Drive Long Stay (0.3 miles), Maer Road (0.7 miles) and Foxholes (0.9 miles) car parks. 

Bigbury-on-Sea, South Devon 

Surrounded by the picturesque Bantham and Challaborough beaches along the South Devon coastline, Bigbury-on-Sea is a firm family favourite. Descend the slipway ramp from the car park towards the beach where rockpools brimming with marine-life await. At low tide cross the causeway to the infamous Burgh Island, absorbing the breathtaking surrounding views. Head to the Venus Café for organic refreshments where beach wheelchairs can be hired. The gentle sloping shoreline into clear waters provides a safe bathing space for families to splash in the shallows.

Toilets: a separate disabled toilet block is located next to Venus Beach Café.

Parking: disabled parking bays can be found close to the main beach toilet block, providing accessible parking close to the beach.

Saunton Sands, North Devon 

Famous for its expansive three mile beach and gentle dunes, there’s plenty of room for the whole family to explore at Saunton Sands. Step-free access to this well known film location, the beach access is via a gentle sloping sand-covered concrete ramp. With several all-terrain Landeez wheelchairs available to hire from Saunton Beach Shop, don’t miss the opportunity for everyone to enjoy this world-class shoreline. 

Ideal for watersports enthusiasts, the long slow-breaking waves provide perfect conditions for a surf lesson at Walking on Waves Surf School, where SEN qualified instructors are on hand to ensure a memorable summer. 

Toilets: two disabled toilets are situated to the left of the Surfed Out Surf Shop and accessed via a RADAR key. 

Parking: there are seven signposted disabled parking spaces on the tarmacked area of the beach car park, close to the entrance barrier. 

Clovelly

A village that feels like you stepping back in time.  A traditional fishing village set on a 400ft steep cliff side with a sheltered harbour. With cobbled streets and no cars allowed visitors can walk down to the harbour surrounded by quaint cottages and flowers bursting with colour. Sledges are seen outside the cottages as this is the only way that villagers can transport things. Donkeys used to be used but they are now an attraction providing donkey rides for the children. This environment presents a challenge for those with reduced mobility but there is a seasonal payable service where a Land Rover can transport visitors who cannot manage the steep streets. The Visitor Centre, Clovelly Court Gardens, craft workshops and donkey stables are all accessible for visitors with disabilities. 

Salcombe

Picture postcard perfection with blue sea set against green meadows with small fishing boats scattered around the bay. The access for wheelchair users is very restricted due to steps and steep pathways but it is a sensory delight in so many ways.

Totnes and Barnstable 

Totnes, is a vibrant town full of small independent businesses and quaint streets. There is a popular ‘Access For all’ path which runs for 2 miles alongside the River Dart and through the Dartington Hall Estate. An audio guide is also available about the path. There are benches situated along the route. The streets in the centre of Totnes are known for their steep terrain which can be challenging. Built on a hill, rising up from the River Dart, the level access areas are surrounding the river area.

Barnstable, the largest town in North Devon. This river-port town is home to a thriving business scene and small independents as well as bigger chains, attractions, food scene, live music, theatre etc and is a popular choice as a holiday destination.

The Museum of Barnstable and North Devon, The Lynton and Barnstable Railway, the Tarka Trail and beaches such as Westwood Ho, with good wheelchair access, make it a popular choice.

Exeter, Plymouth and Torquay

Towns which are bursting with life and atmosphere.

Attractions

National Trust Properties 

• Holnicote Estate offers an accessible walk on Exmoor. 
• There is a National Trust accessible walk between Potters Hill and Woolacombe. 
• Saltram House & Gardens, A short drive from Plymouth city centre offers a range of accessible walking routes that allow wheelchair users to explore the parkland and formal gardens. Meander through the ancient woodlands, take in the scent of blooming flowers, and marvel at the grandeur of the Georgian mansion.  The estate provides designated accessible parking spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps to ensure a comfortable experience for all. There is free parking for all National Trust members, or you can park for a small fee for the day.
• For those with dementia a visit to the National Trust property, Greenway House and Garden is a great day out, described as 'the loveliest place in the world' it is the former holiday home of Agatha Christie.  However, it does have access challenges with very steep gardens and paths, which are not wheelchair accessible.  There is a buggy service available from the car park to the house and the ground floor, café and shop has level access, so although access to all areas may not be possible it can still be a beautiful day out. 
• Arlington Court and National Trust Carriage Museum has accessible routes, level access around the garden, large print guides, a hearing loop and a Changing Places Toilet. 

Much is being done to improve accessibility at all National Trust properties and sites across Devon. An accessibility guide by AccessAble has been produced for each National Trust site, which clearly reports on not just wheelchair access, but comprehensive information around giving a warm welcome to those with sight loss, hearing loss, autism and dementia etc. 

Other Attractions 

• Dartmoor Zoo, the majority of the zoo is accessible to wheelchairs, some areas are quite rugged and some of the paths are challenging. There are electric mobility scooters and wheelchairs available for hire and there is a unisex disabled toilet on site.  
• Decoy Country Park in Newton Abbott has a Changing Places toilet. There is a blue circular trail around the lake, suitable for most wheelchairs, particularly if used in a clockwise direction to avoid the only uphill slope.  It has a tactile map with Braille text for people with visual impairments
• The Big Sheep Farm and Theme Park, has excellent facilities for wheelchair users.  The train ride has a dedicated wheelchair carriage and the majority of the site has ramped access.  There is a dedicated viewing area for wheelchair users at the daily animal shows. 
• Stuart Line Cruises, sail along the South Devon & UNESCO Jurassic Coastline taking in the beautiful sights on a wheelchair accessible boat (contact the operator prior to booking).  Commentary sheets for people with hearing loss are also available. 
• Babbacombe Cliff Railway is designed to accommodate wheelchair users and those with limited mobility.  It provides an accessible experience for everyone to enjoy the ride between Babbacombe and Oddicombe beach. 
• Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is an accessible cliff railway located in Exmoor National Park. It has facilities to accommodate wheelchair users.  The railway itself is powered by water, not electricity. 
• The Calvert Devon Equestrian Centre, provides horse riding experiences for people of all abilities and backgrounds.
• Pony Axe S takes visitors who are wheelchair users to all the places where wheelchairs can’t take them. No need to transfer to all terrain or beach wheelchair, no need to leave your wheelchair behind. They take the visitor in their own wheelchair, anywhere!

The places listed below have varying levels of accessibility. Please check their website to ensure the information, facilities and customer service meets your own personal needs.

• Buckland Abbey and Gardens, 
• Castle Drogo
• Quince Honey Farm
• Totnes Rare Breeds Farm
• Powerdon Castle
• National Marine Aquarium
• Watermouth Castle
• Babbacombe Model Village
• Crealey Theme Park and Resort
• World of Country Life
• The Donkey Sanctuary
• Paignton Zoo
• Exmoor Zoo
• Bygones, Torquay
• The Milky Way Adventure Park
• Dartmouth Castle
• Dartmouth Zoo
• Dartmouth Prison Museum
• Exeter Cathedral
• Arlington Court 
• RHS Garden Rosemore
• Royal Albert Memorial Museum
• Diggerland
• Darlington Crystal

Accessible Boating and Water Sports Organizations in Devon

• The Wave Project in Croyde, for those in need of additional adaptations, the Wave Project around the headland at Croyde is the first official surfing centre for people with disabilities. The ‘adaptive surfing hub’ provides highly trained coaches and the latest adaptive surfing equipment including seated surfboards and adjustable wetsuits, allowing people with disabilities to participate in surfing with greater independence, comfort and confidence. 
• Wheelyboats are accessible boats for people with disabilities, and can be found in several locations in Devon, Wimbleball Lake, and the South West Lakes Trust which has access to Wheelyboats at locations like Kennick Reservoir and Roadford Lake. 
• Wetwheels is a charity based in Torbay, providing accessible boating experiences on a specially adapted catamaran. Experience the excitement of power boating without boundaries. Wetwheels Torbay is fully accessible – not just giving visitors the chance to be a passenger, but also to take the helm as the skipper – everybody gets the chance to drive!
• Dart Sailability is a charity that offers sailing and motor boating on the River Dart and is equipped with a large motorboat that can accommodate up to four wheelchairs.  They have regular taster sessions for new participants.
• Discovery Surf provide the thrill-seeking adventures to enjoy. Discovery Surf School is a specialist centre for taking children/adults with special needs. They specialise in welcoming visitors with autism.
• There is an accessible boat in the naval port of Plymouth to enjoy the open water, the ‘Plymouth Venturer’. 
• AS Water Sports in Exeter 
• Calvert Trust in Barnstable

Accessible Outdoor Walks

• Countryside Mobility - Devon is serviced by Countryside Mobility, a not for profit equipment hire scheme improving access to the countryside. Visitors can hire Tramper all terrain mobility scooters to explore rural locations.  Some of the locations Trampers can be hired from 
• Halden Forest Park
• The Tarka Trail 
• Abbeyford Woods 
• Baggy Point
• Haddon Valley 
• Berry Head Nature Reserve 
• Miles Without Stiles - For those who enjoy walking there are accessible routes across Dartmoor and Exmoor through the Miles Without Stiles project which removes barriers such as stiles or steep steps to create gentle level routes. The South West Coast Path includes a selection of accessible sections with clear grading, suitable for wheelchairs, mobility scooters or pushchairs.
• The Granite Way: A very popular, flat, and mostly traffic-free route along an old railway line in Dartmoor National Park.
• Stover Country Park: A popular accessible park in Devon. 

Promenades and waterside strolls make a lovey day out. Paignton Pier and esplanade , Torquay Harbour and seafront, Dawlish sea wall walk, Dartmouth, Ilfracombe, Croyde, Exeter Quay, Teignmouth, Plymouth Hoe.

An evening watching the sun set over Woolacombe bay is an unforgettable experience.

Plymouth Area

• The Hoe Promenade

The journey begins at the heart of Plymouth, on the iconic Hoe Promenade.

This accessible walkway stretches along the seafront, offering unparalleled views of Plymouth sands and its vibrant harbour. The flat, well-paved surface makes it ideal for wheelchair users, ensuring a smooth and comfortable stroll.

Immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of the city, visit the Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse, or simply relax on one of the numerous benches and watch the world go by. It is wheelchair accessible all the way down through to the cobbled streets of the Barbican.

• Central Park

For a greener escape in Plymouth, head to Central Park, a true oasis in the city. This expansive park boasts several wheelchair-accessible paths that wind through beautifully landscaped gardens, tranquil lakes, and open meadows.

Enjoy the vibrant colours of the floral displays in the sensory garden or admire the diverse wildlife that calls the park home. With accessible toilets and parking facilities available, Central Park caters to the needs of all visitors.

• Plymbridge Woods

Venture a little further afield to Plymbridge Woods, a nature reserve situated on the outskirts of Plymouth. This enchanting woodland boasts a fully accessible trail that runs alongside the picturesque River Plym.

The flat, well-maintained path ensures a pleasant journey, with opportunities to spot wildlife, listen to the soothing sound of the river, and admire the lush greenery. 

• Mount Wise

Enjoy a different coastal scenic route at Mount Wise which overlooks the infamous Royal William Yard. A quieter spot than Plymouth Hoe, with free parking and a cafe for ice-creams and drinks if required.  Or why not head to Mount Wise swimming pool for a dip? It’s open with free entry during the swimmer and has level access. 

• Royal William Yard

The Royal William Yard is a historic waterfront development that houses various shops, restaurants, and businesses. While efforts have been made to make the area accessible, including the installation of ramps and lifts in some buildings, it’s best to contact the individual establishments before visiting.

However, if you’re just coming for a walk to appreciate the area, Royal William Yard is one of the best spots. Typically quieter than places like Plymouth Hoe, there is accessible parking spots and a bus route that takes you straight to the door.

Watch the sunset over the yard or take your luck at trying to spot some seals. This magical place has everything you need for a fun day out.

Plymouth and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of wheelchair-friendly walks, providing the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in nature and explore the region’s beauty. From the stunning views of the Hoe Promenade to the tranquillity of Plymbridge Woods, there is something for everyone. These accessible walks ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can enjoy the wonders of Devon’s landscapes with ease.

It is crucial to note that accessibility may vary depending on individual needs and conditions, so it’s advisable to check specific routes and facilities beforehand. Nevertheless, with a commitment to inclusivity, Plymouth stands as an exemplar in providing accessible outdoor experiences.

So, grab your wheelchair, embrace the fresh air, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Plymouth’s wheelchair-friendly walks. Nature’s splendour awaits, welcoming visitors of all abilities to explore and enjoy.

Maritime History 

• The Dartmouth Royal Regatta, a 3-day event held on the River Dart, takes place each year at the end of August, it is known as the friendly festival with lots of music, fun, fireworks and food. 
• A pirate festival is held on the bank holiday in early May. Swashbuckling fun for all held in Brixham Harbour. What started as a bit of fun in 2002 to liven up a quiet bank holiday has grown into one of the biggest pirate festivals in the world. Wheelchair accessibility is possible but due to large crowds it can be very challenging.
• There is such a strong Maritime history and for visitors with dementia it can be great to see the large warships in Plymouth and the life size authentic replica ship of the Golden Hind, Sir Francis Drakes galleon in Brixham Harbour. This museum ship is not wheelchair accessible, but the website provides some detailed information about visiting the area, including local accessible toilets.

Retail

As well as wonderful independent shops selling local crafts and produce, Devon has larger shopping areas such as Princesshay in Exeter and the gold award-winning Affinity Devon Outlet Shopping Centre which won gold in the tourism awards for its best practice in welcoming disabled people.

Transport

All daily bus services in Devon are operated by accessible, low-floor buses. There are regular local train services linking many parts of Devon, with some superb scenic journeys. Visitors with specific access needs should contact the appropriate rail provider prior to travel, to arrange assistance. 

• A real jewel in the area is to take a train journey along the spectacular coastline on the accessible train from Paignton to Dartmouth and then take the accessible passenger ferry into the town. This is a popular experience for disabled people visiting in the area.
• The Dartmouth Steam Railway is the accessible steam train that runs from Paignton to Kingswear, with a final leg to Dartmouth via a short ferry ride. The railway has level access, ramps for wheelchair users, and designated wheelchair areas on board.  

Changing Places Toilets

Changing Places Toilets is a campaign which is gathering great momentum across the region, and this opens the area to those with severe disabilities. Places such as 

• Ilfracombe
• Barnstable
• Croyde
• Biddeford
• Tavistock 
• Plymouth
• Totnes
• Paignton 
• Torquay
• Newton Abbott
• Exeter
• Honiton 
• Tiverton        
• Dawlish
• Brixham
• Cullompton

All have these vital facilities. These facilities are a good indication of being able to enjoy and spend more time in a location.