Nature is for everyone to appreciate but it can sometimes feel tricky to find new exciting, accessible areas to explore. So, we have put together our 10 favourite spots across Great Britain for all abilities to enjoy…
Whistlepound, Devon
If you’re looking for a wonderfully serene, non-challenging walk then a stroll around Whistlepound Reservoir is a great option. There are two main paths around the reservoir and woods, but we would suggest keeping to the lower (which is wide and level) as the upper path can sometimes get muddy and uneven. There are activity stations around the paths suitable for those with disabilities, accessible bird hides for all the keen bird watchers, and a pagoda to spot mallards and waterfowl. There are no facilities around the lake but that just means you have the perfect excuse to pack a picnic!
You can find more information here.
Black Park Country Park, Buckinghamshire
With over 500 acres of woodland, grassland and heathland, Black Park is a favourite amongst locals looking to get back to nature. There are many accessible paths to choose from and all are well signposted. With plenty of benches and picnic areas it is an ideal place to enjoy the wildlife and watch the world go by.
You can find out more information here.
Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
Made famous by the ancient legends of Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest has so much to offer- including the Major Oak which is the biggest oak tree in Britain! Many of the paths are accessible but you may want to check with the staff in the visitor’s centre when you arrive to ensure you are aware of what paths are suitable for your needs. Standard wheelchairs are available to hire for free or if you would prefer an electric mobility scooter these are offered for £2 per hour. You can check availability and book the scooter or wheelchair before your visit by contacting visitor information here.
You can find more information here.
RSPB Fairburn Ings – Discovery Trail, Yorkshire
Fairburn Ings is a must for bird watchers as not only is it a bird migration route, it also has extremely diverse habitats, which is why the reserve has recorded around 280 bird species in the area. There are accessible hides and a bird feeding station viewing screen so there are plenty of opportunities to spot them. Some of the paths may be challenging for a standard wheelchair so you may want to stick to The Discovery Trail and The Arrow Lane Trail. Don’t forget your binoculars!
You can find more information here.
Loch Leven, Kinross, Scotland
With a path of 13 miles around Scotland’s largest lowland freshwater loch, this walk is the longest on our list, but is well worth it. There is an even pavement around most of the loch so no one misses out from the incredible wildlife you can see, including migrating swans and geese in the Autumn and Winter and ducklings, cygnets and dragonflies in the Summer. Loch Leven also boasts the largest concentration of ducks of anywhere in the UK! Standard wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired at the visitors centre free of charge but you should book in advance if you require a mobility scooter, you can contact them here.
You can find more information here.
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park, Wales
Cosmeston Lakes Country Park covers over 100 hectares of land and water and it is full of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for swans, mallards and even water diving birds like the Great Crested Grebe. A medieval village is also situated in the country park with costumed guides to show you around the reconstructed buildings (for this you do have to pay an entrance fee). All the paths are flat and easily accessible, so it is a perfect place to spend a day exploring.
You can find more information here.
Trentham Gardens, Staffordshire
Trentham Gardens have won many awards, and it’s easy to see why. Bright, bold, and beautiful flowers are in abundance here and all paths are one level and accessible. There are many interesting things to be on the lookout for. See if you can spot the fairies sprinkling some magic in the air around the gardens, made by hand from galvanised and stainless-steel wire or the wood carvings along the lakeside walk!
You can find more information here.
Sculthorpe Moor Nature Reserve Boardwalk, Norfolk
Small but perfectly formed, the Sculthorpe Reserve is a haven for wildlife. With the paths raised above the ground and well maintained you will have no problem getting around all the areas they have to offer. There are many accessible hides to relax and watch wildlife, and don’t worry if you are not the most confident bird watcher as some of the hides contain bird books to identify exactly what you’re looking at. They have really thought of everything! Bird feeders and nest boxes around the reserve also increase your chances of seeing something special.
You can find more information here.
Virginia Water and The Valley Gardens, Surrey
Virginia Water and The Valley Gardens are part of the Windsor Great Park Estate. A flat and even path goes around the beautiful lake at Virginia Water, passing the 100-foot totem pole and the Leptis Magna ruins, large structures dating back to the 1800’s. Unfortunately, there is a rather steep incline around the Cascade waterfall which you may need help with, but it isn’t completely inaccessible to wheelchair users. If you’re more interested in traditional and exotic blooms, the Valley Gardens are a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. There are maps which highlight the wheelchair friendly routes, including a viewing platform.
You can find more information here.
Pitsford Reservoir Circular Walk, Northamptonshire
Pitsford Reservoir offers a lovely walk around the waters edge, all with an accessible path. Lots of creatures call this place home, including brown hares, badgers, and harvest mice. But, it is the birdlife that is truly spectacular.. The Winter brings up to 10,000 birds to the reservoir like the Gadwall, Pintail and Teal and you can spend time spotting these birds from the accessible hide. Orange Foxtail, Golden Dock and Mudwort plants are also on display for the green fingered amongst you.
You can find out more information here.
