As the years pass by there are ever more places to visit in London, a vibrant and exciting city, which has never shirked from offering opportunities to those with mobility issues.
What follows is a sometimes surprising but always intriguing breakdown of some of the sites and also activities that those with a powerchair, wheelchair or mobility scooter can engage in.
Up at the O2 wheelchair Climb
A unique experience offering the visitor the chance to ‘climb’ on the roof of the O2 Arena by means of using a 52-metre-high fabric walkway providing a 360-degree view of London suspended 2 metre above the roof surface!
Wheelchair climbs are available here. If you are tempted, plan your visit in advance since there is a waiting list for this activity. It is open throughout late spring to early autumn, and you can participate here with your device two days a week, specifically Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.
Accessible parking here is available, but it is much better to pre-book your planned stay in advance to avoid disappointment. This avails blue badge holders of a 50% discount. The O2 Parking page is the official place to book. The changing places toilet has a ceiling hoist, changing bench and shower. It is located on the ground floor.
Bring your camera and enjoy a captivating, unforgettable experience.
Uber Boat by Thames Clippers
This option is more affordable than other cruises and allows you to plan your route through London as it doubles as a taxi.
All Uber boats are wheelchair friendly and once you have taken in the sights, there is a choice of 24 piers available for disembarkation. These cruises run from morning to night, 7 days a week. A caveat is worth noting, that Cadogan, London Bridge City and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers are not wheelchair accessible.
Sea Life London Aquarium
When planning a fun day out for all the family, this venue ticks all the boxes. It is wheelchair accessible, but bear in mind the closest parking space is a 15-minute walk across Westminster Bridge from the Q-Park Westminster Car Park, SW1P 3RX. Pre-booking offers a 15% to 30% discount.
Upon your arrival there is a wealth of marine life to observe, over 500 to be specific. These include sharks, jellyfish and penguins. One of the highlights is the Ocean Tunnel where you are just inches from a sting ray or a turtle.
Regarding accessibility, the entrance is step-free and there are lifts to all 3 floors. Standard toilet facilities are available throughout the aquarium, and entry is free to those accompanying a wheelchair user.
The London Eye
Located on the South Bank with the closest parking for blue badge holders being at Southbank Centre Car Park, 62 Cornwall Road, SE1 9PU, The London Eye offers an amazing experience for those with a head for heights. It is the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, which takes the viewer on a 30-minute ride above London offering a unique all-around perspective of the capital city.
Depending on the time of day and year that you choose to plan your visit, early mornings and pre-booking are advisable if you don’t like crowds. Discounts are sometimes available and fast-track tickets, which bypass the standard queues are an option at premium rates.
Access to the box office and ramps to embark in the capsule make this easy-to manage experience and one that will live long in the memory of the participant.
These are just some of the attractions available to those with mobility issues and many online sites exist to help you plan your day out.
