London’s Top Accessible Attractions

London is a city that attracts visitors from all over the world. They come to see the historic buildings and get a taste for the city of the past, as well as to admire the stunningly modern architecture of buildings like the Shard. But just how accessible is the city? When those wonderful ancient buildings were constructed there was no need to think about wheel chairs and people with disabilities, so just how does the city make sure that it is accessible to as many people as it can without destroying a part of history to make it so? There will no doubt always be places that in no way could be adapted for wheelchair use, but that doesn’t mean that a disabled visitor is going to miss out an all of the major attractions. So just how accessible is the city?

The London Eye

This is one modern addition to the city which has been built with accessibility in mind. It is accessible to everyone regardless of ability; wheelchairs can be driven straight into the capsules so that everyone can enjoy the incredible views across this impressive city.

Buckingham Palace

The public access areas of the palace have been outfitted with accessible lifts to ensure that everyone can admire the palace interior. Though the lifts may struggle with some of the heavier, powered makes of wheelchair they do work and disabled visitors will be able to go to exactly the same places as the able bodied.

Museums: V&A, Natural History Museum and the Science Museum

All of these museums are located together in Kensington, all are in rather old and grand buildings and all have been adapted to accommodate wheelchairs. Disabled access is generally good on most days, however when the museums are particularly busy it can be difficult to manoeuvre. Access is there but can be limited by the sheer volume of people when trying to view special exhibitions.

The Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a wonderfully accessible place to explore. The galleries are spacious and the building easy to find your way around. All of the exhibitions are fully accessible and you can enjoy each exhibition for as long as you wish.

The British Museum

Like the other large museums this one too is fully accessible, however there is too much there to see and appreciate in the one visit. Manoeuvring can be difficult when the museum is busy, so be prepared to be patient.

Kew Gardens

Kew Gardens is wonderfully accessible and a beautiful place to visit, though disabled visitors should consider their transport options as this attraction is outside of the city centre.

St Paul’s Cathedral

If you are seeking a little peace in the heart of a bustling city, head for St Paul’s. The Cathedral is located within London’s ‘Square Mile’ and much of the Cathedral is accessible, although due to the age of the building there are still some areas that are off limits to wheelchair users such as the Golden, Stone and Whispering Galleries.