Motability: Five Accessible Festive Days Out in the UK
The dark nights are upon us and that means one thing. Christmas is almost here! The festive period is a time of creating new memories with friends and loved ones.
We’ve rounded up five accessible days out in the UK to help you do exactly that. From The Eden Project to Dunham Massey and Alnwick Gardens. There’s sure to be something for everyone.
Read on to find out our top five picks.
The Eden Project, Cornwall
If you live in or near Cornwall or Devon, you’re probably more than familiar with The Eden Project.
Opened in 2001, the unique greenhouse complex is located in a reclaimed china clay pit. Each of the three domes emulates a natural biome and is filled with thousands of plant species.
While beautiful all year round, The Eden Project really comes to life at Christmas. From November, an immersive light experience will be taking place on selected evenings. You can also enjoy ice skating and meet Father Christmas himself.
Residents of Cornwall and Devon can save up to 45% with a Locals’ Pass, which also gives you 12-months access to The Eden Project.
The Eden Project strives to make the venue accessible for all. Mobility vehicles are welcome and up to 25 free manual wheelchairs are available. Assistance dogs are also permitted.
Mobility scooters are available for hire for £20 but must be booked in advance.
Find out more about Christmas at The Eden Project
Murton Park, York
Murton Park, just outside of York, is the first Makaton-friendly attraction.
Makaton is a type of communication which uses signs made by your hands, symbols and speech. You can find Makaton signs and symbols throughout the park. This supports visitors with learning and communication difficulties.
Murton Park offers festive activities for the whole family. Meet Father Christmas and Mother Christmas, as well as crafts, wish-list writing and a ride on the Derwent Valley Light Railway.
Murton Park can get busy, so if you are looking for a quieter experience, it’s recommended that you book tickets for the opening day.
Find out more about Christmas at Murton Park
Winter Lights at Lilidorei and The Alnwick Garden
Each year, Alnwick Gardens is transformed in winter with immersive light and sound installations.
This is the perfect opportunity to experience the gardens in a new light and create a new Christmas tradition.
As well as seeing the illuminated gardens, you can also meet Father Christmas at his grotto in the enchanting Lilidorei village.
Accessibility is at the heart of Alnwick Gardens with an accessible route that spans the entirety of the gardens. Free wheelchairs are available for hire and accessible car parking can also be found next to The Treehouse.
Find out more about Winter Lights at Alnwick Gardens
Dunham Massey
Dunham Massey is an English country house which is part of the National Trust. Each year thousands of visitors enjoy the beautiful twinkling lights and glowing deer.
The after-dark event offers a stunning light trail, complete with a glimpse of Father Christmas himself along the way. Immerse yourself in the colour-changing batons of light and discover the huge silver star, Nova.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to pre-book in advance and the trail is mostly flat.
Guide dogs and registered assistance dogs are also welcome to come along. The event can get very busy and calmer sessions are available to book with reduced visitors and quieter audio.
Find out more about Christmas at Dunham Massey
Blenheim Palace
Located in Oxfordshire, Blenheim Palace is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. With a whole host of festive events, it’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with the family.
The Christmas Market in The Great Court is the go-to place to pick up unique Christmas gifts and indulge in tasty treats.
Level access is available to the majority of the palace from the main entrance. Companion tickets for blue badge holders are free of charge and assistance or support dogs are welcome. There is also a lift into the Orangery for wheelchair and scooter users.
Find out more about Christmas at Blenheim Palace
Is your Motability lease coming up for renewal?
As the year draws to a close, your Motability lease might be coming to an end. To help you start the search for your next vehicle, read our article on new cars coming to the Scheme in 2025.
If you need any help throughout your search, we are never too far away. Whether you prefer to visit your local Motability dealership or give us a call – we're here to help.