Kent’s beautiful countryside and historic sites are here for everyone to enjoy, whatever their access needs. We’re sharing information on some of the top spots in Kent that have specifically created tours and visits for those with access needs, from canoe trips and castles to the best accommodation.
Canoe Wild
Set along the idyllic River Stour, Canoe Wild offers canoeing and kayaking trips, paddling from the Canterbury City Centre right through to the countryside and Fordwich. With plenty of wildlife to be spotted along the way, plus sunset paddles and even the chance to learn about the native beavers who call this stretch of river home, there are plenty of tours to choose from. Whatever additional support you require, Canoe Wild will work with you to provide your paddle experience.
Maidstone Distillery
This award-winning distillery has opened its doors to welcome everyone to discover the secrets and craftsmanship that go into creating their range of spirits. Take a tour and tasting and you’ll have the chance to learn all about their George Bishop Gin, Kipsi Rose Gin, Ranscombe Wild Gin, and more. Your tour will lead your through the fully-accessible ground floor venue, with step-free access and spacious walkways with an experienced team on hand to ensure every guest gets the most from their tour. The team are experienced hosts, with tours and tastings for the blind and partially sighted, not to mention a full AccessAble Guide so you can find out more about what they offer.
Betteshanger Park
This 250 acre site in Deal is an absolute haven of grassland, wetland and woodland. With accessible pathways criss-crossing the park, it’s the perfect spot to get out in nature and enjoy the view. What’s more, the site has disabled parking, accessible toilet facilities, plus the Betteshanger Play Park, which has disability access, making it the perfect family day out. When hunger strikes, the Lamp Room Kitchen is easily accessible, with the brand-new Kent Mining Museum making for a perfect way to round off the day.
Bloom Stays
When you’re taking a break, we know just how important the accommodation is, and that home away from home feeling is an absolute must. With over 50 self-catering holiday homes across Kent with ground floor bedrooms, and many with step-free access and wide doorways made for wheelchairs, there are plenty of picture-perfect cottages to choose from for your next break. Our favourites include Waters Edge at Greatstone, Lacton Manor Barns in Ashford and the Hayloft just outside of Canterbury.
Turner Contemporary
An ode to artist JMW Turner, The Turner Contemporary Gallery is set right on Margate’s magnificent seafront. The gallery showcases world-class exhibitions, with an ever-changing calendar of events, and what’s more, it’s completely free to enter. The gallery has been purpose-built with accessibility in mind, with a dedicated access station, complete with ear defenders, stools, wheelchairs and more to make your visit more accessible. On top of this, the gallery offers free tours for all visitors to their exhibitions, with highlight tours, BSL and Relaxed Hours, which incorporate small changes to make them a more comfortable environment for those with additional needs.
Battle of Britain Memorial
The official Memorial to Churchill’s Few, The Battle of Britain Memorial offers an intriguing insight into the lives of the pilots who fought in the skies above the Channel. The Scramble Experience provides a hands-on experience, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the Battle, and the lives of the Few through interactive exhibits, a unique film created for the Memorial and much more. Outside The Memorial and Christopher Foxley-Norris Memorial Wall provide a moving tribute to the aircrew known to have flown in the Battle. Accessible toilets are on-site, along with designated Blue Badge parking and step-free access throughout the Scramble Experience and ground floor.
Macknade
The best spot for local produce, Macknade food hall celebrates some of the best suppliers and producers around, with 175 years on the Kent food and drink scene. Discover Kentish wines, delicatessen, butchers, fresh fruit and veg and more at this foodie favourite. Here you’ll find designated Blue Badge parking, step-free access, accessible toilet and changing facilities, plus seating and facilities for those with assistance dogs.
Balfour Winery
A haven in the heart of the Kent countryside, Balfour Winery has been at the centre of the English Wine industry since 2002. The estate covers more than 400 acres of rural landscapes, while the state-of-the-art winery, tasting room and restaurant provides breath-taking views over vineyards. Expect designated Blue Badge parking, accessible toilets and step-free access to the ground floor of the main building, where you can enjoy a tasting paired with spectacular views. The winery also offers self-guided and guided tours of the vineyard and grounds, which follow wide grassed paths.
The WonderWorks Margate
The home of childhood favourites Hornby, Corgi, Airfix, Scalextric and more, this makes for one fantastic family day out. Discover the latest releases, get hands on with the Grand Prix du Margate circuit, control model railways and build miniature icons from history together. The WonderWorks includes step-free access all on one level.
Stagecoach South East offers accessible bus travel to local tourist and destinations spots all over Kent. Find out more.
