Accessible places to visit in Edinburgh with Mobility Aids

It is possible to make good use of your time spent in Edinburgh even if you have mobility problems. It is historically considered to be hilly, while the ancient buildings don’t, at first sight, appear to be accessible if you are using a mobility scooter or wheelchair, but there are still plenty of attractions which will fit the bill.

Edinburgh Castle, though it seems unlikely, is within reach for those in a mobility scooter or wheelchair. Caution is best observed, since parking is only available on the Esplanade for blue badge holders. Booking in advance is also compulsory and this can be done by phone. Once you have decided, the castle is best for those whose devices can handle cobbles and 15-degree inclines.

The restaurants, shops and toilets are all accessible with ramps being conveniently situated. Entry is free for carers accompanying disabled people and with some pre-planning and plenty of time Edinburgh Castle is well worth a visit.

The Royal Botanic Garden is situated a mile from the city centre and spans some 72 acres. It is free to enter albeit there is a charge for some of the glasshouses. Lifts and ramps make the restaurants, café, shop and toilets all accessible. It features approx. 13,500 different plant species, a Japanese hillside, and much talked about rock gardens. If you book in advance wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be hired. Checking before you travel to the gardens is advisable to avoid disappointment.

The Royal Yacht Britannia, which is berthed at Ocean Terminal, a short drive from the city centre, has appropriate parking facilities near the terminal and is free to park. Once you have parked, lifts provide easy access to level E where you will find the ticket office, gift shop and passageway to the Royal Yacht. Decks of the yacht can be accessed, while in your mobility device, via lifts. A tour can introduce you to the private living quarters of the Royal Family, State Rooms and operational rooms as well.

The Scottish National Gallery is free to enter, apart from sometimes there is a charge for certain exhibitions. It is accessible throughout, having a disabled entrance into The Academy at the rear of the building. The Academy is one of three buildings to take in. It houses temporary exhibitions, while The Gallery has the permanent art collection. The third is The Garden Entrance and this links the other two, and contains a waiter service restaurant, café and information desk. When warmer, the restaurant and cafes have outdoor eating areas which offer memorable views of Princes Street Gardens.

There is full access throughout for the less mobile, and wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be accommodated when moving between rooms. The lifts go to all floors and there are voice announcers in them to tell you where you are. Toilets are fully accessible and it is reassuring to know that staff are trained in all areas of disability to help you enjoy your day. 

It is possible to hire wheelchairs at the Gallery instead of bringing your own, and this is free also. To find the exhibitions that appeal the most, give the gallery a call and you will not be let down.

by Amélie