Sandcastles, fish and chips, arcade games, sticks of rock and spectacular views. There is something quite special about a day at the British seaside, as well as increasing evidence of very real boosts to our health and wellbeing. When the sun is out, there is no better place to be. Here are a few of the UK’s best wheelchair accessible beaches with fantastic options for those with accessibility needs.
This article was originally written by myself for Lifestyle Magazine, which you can view on page 30-31 here.
1. North Berwick, East Lothian, Scotland
Situated just twenty-five miles from Edinburgh is one of Scotland’s most accessible beaches. Not only can you enjoy beautiful views across to Bass Rock, but you can also hire beach wheelchairs from the Beach Hut to explore the long stretch of sandy beach. A hoist is available for transfers – just bring your own sling. It’s a popular family beach for relaxing, playing and paddling. Make a day of it and visit the Scottish Seabird Centre just a short walk away.
2. Summerleaze Beach, Cornwall, England
Summerleaze Beach is one of many accessible beaches in Cornwall. Enjoy the views from the level-access viewing area or hire a sand-chair from Cornwall Mobility for the perfect beach day. Set below the cliffs is a beautiful sea pool if you fancy a paddle in calm waters. Make a pit stop in one of the accessible cafes dotted along the seafront.
3. Boscombe Pier Beach, Bournemouth, England
Boasting stunning views across Poole Bay, this accessible beach with sand wheelchairs is an exciting place to visit with lots of beach and water activities. There is something for everyone, making it a favourite spot for families looking for fun and relaxation. Unwind in one of the accessible beach huts which have electric charging points and cooking facilities. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the wheelchair accessible Boscombe Chine Gardens.
4. Broad Haven South beach, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Broad Haven is another award-winning beach. Be advised that it attracts large crowds of people in the summer months, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. If you do fancy visiting this beautiful spot along the Pembrokeshire coast, be sure to visit during low tide and check out the all-terrain wheelchairs for the ultimate experience. Discover a number of rock pools and small caves below the cliffs and stroll through the tranquil lily ponds nearby.
5. Benone Strand Beach, Causeway Coast and Glens, Northern Ireland
Surrounded by spectacular mountains and cliffs, Benone Strand is not only one of Northern Ireland’s most accessible beaches, but it’s also a paradise for nature lovers. Spend the day discovering the haven of plant and wildlife living along the seven-mile stretch of golden sand or enjoy a picnic whilst watching the watersports. Pre-book beach mobility equipment from local charity, Mae Murray Foundation and a portable shower trolley and hoist are available for transfers.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to five of the best wheelchair accessible beaches in the UK. For more information about enjoying the beach as a wheelchair user, check out my experience using the WheelEEZ® Beach Wheelchair Conversion Kit and how it helped me enjoy the beach again for the first time in years.
What is your favourite wheelchair accessible beach in the UK, and why? Let me know in the comments below!
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2 Responses
Hi,
I am Chair of a charity, SECH, based in Southend Essex. I am currenty negoiating for a building on Southend Seafront which I want to use as a day base for groups of people with disabilites. Groups will have exclusive use of the center for the day. Groups will have privacy to change, toilet, and eat with plenty of room for wheelchairs. We have planned to have a changing bed and hoist. From your experience is there anything else we should provide? I see on your blog beach wheelchairs maybe.
Hope to hear from you soon.
Kind regards
Accessible toilets that are not to far away from the beach in case of emergencies. Ones that are accessible through the RADAR key system. That can only be accessed through the key, you don’t have to ask to use and is only available to those who have disabilities and the key.
Can also be used as a changing room as well because there is ample room to be able to do this. Grab rails for those of us that can stand for a moment or two.