Wheelchair Accessible Trails in the UK
If you are a wheelchair user, getting out and about in nature should not be fraught with worry and stress, but this can often be the case.
When planning a day out, the trail usually has to be checked in advance for any issues it could pose to a wheelchair user and then there’s the added consideration of accessible parking and toilet facilities.
There are plenty of accessible trails aross the UK that are suitable for wheelchair users, all with flat footpaths and no obstructions.
South West:
Stover Country Park, Devon
Set across 114 acres, Stover Country Park allows you to get up close and personal with nature and you can expect to see plenty of birds, butterflies and dragonflies as well as colourful flowers and trees.
Made up of marshland, grassland, heathland and lakes & ponds, Stover Country Park is ideal for those looking for a quiet afternoon walk or to enjoy a picnic with the family.
Cyclists are not permitted on the surfaced pathways, meaning wheelchair users and walkers are free to enjoy the area safely.
Exploring the scenic surroundings of Stover Country Park calls for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that’s both comfortable and capable of handling Devon’s blend of rural roads and natural landscapes. A mid-sized WAV offers a great balance between space and agility, making it ideal for the journey from nearby towns to the park’s peaceful woodland and lakeside areas. Look for a model with dependable ramp access, smooth suspension for uneven car parks, and enough ground clearance for countryside travel. Since Devon’s terrain can be unpredictable, especially in wet weather, it’s worth choosing a vehicle with a strong build and reliable conversion features. Access to local servicing and maintenance around Newton Abbot or Exeter will also help keep your WAV running smoothly for regular outdoor adventures.
Our Stover Country Park WAVs are available at our used showroom today.
South East:
RHS Wisley, Wisley
RHS Wisley are proud to provide accessibility throughout their gardens, with a recommended wheelchair route but do state that some features may be more difficult to access.
The footpath is paved and well marked out so wheelchair users should have no issues navigating this pathway.
There’s accessible parking available within 200m of the garden entrance and there’s also adapted unisex WC’s near the entrance and catering facilities.
When choosing a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) for Wisley, Surrey—where you’ll find motorways like the M25 and the A3, with junctions, slip-roads and the odd narrow country lane—you’ll want a WAV that balances manoeuvrability with robust access. A compact to medium-sized WAV is beneficial for accessing local lanes and village entrances, yet it should also offer a reliable ramp or lift that can operate smoothly on any uneven surfaces at home or near garden centres. Given the frequent traffic activity and ongoing roadworks near the M25/A3 interchange, choosing a vehicle with strong suspension, good build quality, and certified adaptations is key. Always check that wheelchair tie-downs and access mechanisms meet approved safety standards and that servicing and support are readily accessible in the Surrey region.
North East and Yorkshire:
Cinder Track, Whitby - Scarborough
As this is a 21 mile trail, the accessibility of the route may vary based on which part of the path you decide to join. The Burniston to Scarborough route is pathed and flat, therefore suitable for wheelchair users. Be aware that cyclists are permitted to use this route, so it might be worth keeping to one side during busier times, to prevent having to keep moving for cyclists and allow you to enjoy your visit.
When selecting a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) for the coastal and moorland environment around Whitby and Scarborough, it’s essential to account for narrow seaside streets, steep inclines and the single-carriageway rural roads that cut through the North York Moors National Park via routes like the A171. Opt for a WAV with a compact or mid-sized footprint so it remains manoeuvrable in tight village squares and harbourside parking, yet offers strong access features (ramp or lift) that work on uneven or sloping surfaces. The vehicle should also have a robust suspension and good ground clearance to handle the frequent gradients and potential coastal weather exposure. Above all, ensure the adaptation is fully certified, with secure wheelchair tie-downs, and that you have access to local servicing in this region with its occasional road closures and challenging terrain. Check out our range of WAVS for sale in Whitby, Scarborough.
Northumberlandia, Northumberland
Known as the ‘Lady of the North’, Northumberlandia is the largest human landform sculpture that offers spectacular views across the Northumberland countryside. The paved path weaves around the sculpture so you can really immerse yourself in the art. There’s also a cafe and toilet facilities as well as a car park.
When choosing a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) in Northumberland, it’s important to consider the county’s mix of rural lanes, coastal roads, and historic towns. Smaller or medium-sized WAVs, such as a Citroën Berlingo or Volkswagen Caddy Maxi, are ideal for navigating narrow village streets while still offering comfort and practicality. For families or those travelling longer distances, a larger WAV like the Peugeot Boxer provides extra space and flexibility. Given Northumberland’s varied terrain, opt for a vehicle with strong suspension, good ground clearance, and reliable access features like a rear ramp or lift that performs well on uneven surfaces. Always ensure your chosen WAV meets approved safety standards and that you have local access to servicing or adaptation specialists for ongoing support.
North West:
Tarn Hows, Cumbria
Located near to Coniston in the Lake District, Tarn Hows has an accessible pathway which offers fantastic views of the tarn and further afield.
The circular route is around 2 miles and should take no longer than 1 hour to get round. You will start the trail at Tarn Hows car park.
The pathway is gravelled, but well trodden so a wheelchair should have no issues accessing this route. Alternatively, the National Trust at Tarn Hows allows you to rent a scooter which is more durable than an everyday wheelchair.
Visiting Tarn Hows in Cumbria requires a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that’s prepared for the region’s hilly terrain, winding country lanes, and changeable Lake District weather. A medium-sized WAV with good traction and suspension will handle the steep approaches and uneven surfaces around the car park and scenic routes with ease. Since Tarn Hows is surrounded by narrow rural roads, a vehicle that’s compact enough to manoeuvre comfortably yet spacious inside for passengers and mobility equipment is ideal. Choose a WAV with a reliable rear ramp or powered lift that performs well on gradients, and ensure all tie-downs and restraints are securely fitted to handle the area’s inclines. For added peace of mind, opt for a model from a converter with strong aftercare support in Cumbria, ensuring you’re never far from help when exploring this stunning part of the Lake District.
Take a look at our used WAVs for sale in Cumbria and speak with our specialist team for all your accessibility queries answered.
Midlands:
Sandringham Estate, Norfolk
The Royal Sandringham Estate makes it as easy and stress free as possible to visit if you are a wheelchair user.
With accessible parking and even a free shuttle bus directly to the gardens, accessing the gardens and estate is easy and safe.
Some of the paths may be unsuitable due to the weather, but within the 214 hectares, there’s plenty of routes to find.
Exploring Sandringham in Norfolk calls for a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) that’s comfortable for longer drives and easy to handle on the estate’s mix of tarmac roads, gravel car parks, and gently sloping paths. A medium-sized WAV is a great choice here — spacious enough for passengers and mobility aids, yet compact enough for manoeuvring through nearby villages and visitor areas. Look for a model with smooth suspension and a reliable rear-entry ramp or lift that performs well on uneven or gravel surfaces. Since Norfolk’s countryside can be flat but exposed to wind and rain, a sturdy, weather-resistant WAV with secure wheelchair restraints is ideal. Access to trusted servicing and adaptation specialists around King’s Lynn or Norwich will also ensure your WAV remains dependable for regular visits to Sandringham’s gardens, woodlands, and historic estate grounds. Review our Norfolk WAVs for sale and contact our team for more information on running costs, etc.
Scotland:
Pollok Country Park, Glasgow
Packed with heritage and listed buildings, Pollok Country Park is ideal for those who want to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some greenery and animals in their natural habitat.
With plenty of accessible paved paths, Pollok Country Park is suitable for wheelchairs. At times, vehicles will be denied access on weekends, but this does not include Blue Badge holders.
Wheelchair-accessible vehicles for navigating Glasgow need to handle a mix of busy city streets and open rural routes. This requires a medium-sized WAV that offers the best flexibility — compact enough for urban driving and parking in Glasgow’s tighter spaces, yet comfortable for longer journeys across the Central Belt or into the Highlands. Look for a vehicle with excellent suspension to manage Scotland’s varied road conditions, plus a reliable ramp or lift system for smooth access on kerbs or uneven pavements. Since the city can be hilly in parts, particularly around areas like the West End, ensure the WAV provides secure wheelchair restraints and a strong braking system. Opting for a modern, fuel-efficient model with local servicing support around Glasgow will help ensure reliable mobility whether you’re heading into the city centre, exploring Loch Lomond, or travelling across the wider region.
Wales:
Millennium Coastal Path
Popular with cyclists, the Millennium Coastal Path is perfect for those looking for a route with spectacular views out to sea.
This trail goes directly from Llanelli to Pembrey passing Ashpit Ponds Nature Reserve as you go, where you’ll discover a wide range of wildlife and plant life.
The full length of this part of the coastal path is 4.5 miles, so you might want to consider doing this in sections.
Being a wheelchair user should not limit you to a small selection of days out, there’s still plenty to explore in places where there’s suitable pathways.
If you would benefit from a WAV for areas in Wales, to help you get from A to B, see what we have in stock and ready for you to take a test drive.