The most accessible beaches in the UK
Britain boasts one of the most beautiful and varied coastlines in the world, so it is understandable why the population flocks to the coast on days off – come rain or shine! Here is a collection of the most accessible beaches in the UK so that everyone can enjoy the ocean views…
Brighton and Hove, Sussex
There’s no doubt that Brighton beach is a firm favourite amongst Brits, but it’s also one of the most accessible beaches in the UK. With ramps down to the promenade, ‘Changing Places’ toilets (with equipment such as hoists, curtains, adult-sized changing benches and space for carers) and accessible walkways, Hove’s seafront is a great choice for everyone in need of some seaside air.
Roseisle Forest, Burghead, Scotland
Visit Roseisle Forest in Burghead to enjoy all that this rugged stretch of coastline has to offer. Visitors can access the forest on the flat tarmac path, then head to the beach along the wooden boardwalk up to a wheelchair-accessible look-out, where you can enjoy the coastline scenery without getting sand stuck in your wheels.
Summerleaze, Cornwall
Just like Bournemouth, Summerleaze beach in Cornwall is one of the UK’s most accessible beaches, as it also allows individuals to borrow sand wheelchairs from their respective Beach Office, which means users can transport the chairs to other beaches in Cornwall should they desire. This beach is conveniently situated close to the town centre, with direct wheelchair access to the beach and toilets via a level tarmac path.
Skegness, Lincolnshire
A family favourite on the east-coast, Skegness offers something for everyone with its fair ground, donkey rides and extensive ice-cream sundae selection. However, Skegness is also considered to be one of the most accessible beaches in the UK, thanks to its efforts over the years which have involved the implementation of tarmac, flat walkways from the main car park to the sand. The toilets, which are right next to the beach, also have good disabled access – a standard now for the majority of the Lincolnshire coast.
Bournemouth Beach
Another iconic beach in Britain, merely for its golden soft sand and clean water, is award-winning Bournemouth beach. This southern beach has fully accessible cliff lifts and land trains, providing access to both the pier and beach, which you can also take along the promenade. The Beach Office also offers sand wheelchairs for wheelchair users.
Poppit sands, Pembrokeshire, Wales
For those in need of an active beach day out, Pembrokeshire’s Adventure Wheelchair Walk at Poppit Sands might be worth a visit – a 380m walkway with spectacular views. However, for those wanting to dabble in a bit of relaxation, nearby Aberporth beach is an excellent choice too, both having wheelchairs available to hire. For those outdoor fanatics, there’s an accessible luxury Safari Tent nearby with a campfire, just five minutes drive from Aberaeron situated between three Welsh national parks.
Whitley Bay, Newcastle
Whitley Bay is a stunning coastline, with a picturesque lighthouse to view which is just minutes away from an accessible car park. What makes this one of the most accessible beaches in the UK, however is its all-terrain mobility device called a ‘Hippocampe’ which visitors can rent to access this stunning part of the North East. The ‘Beach Access North East’ charity also appointed Paralympic Champion Stephen Miller MBE as its President to ensure everyone can enjoy the rugged landscapes of the North.
Read more:
Discover Britain’s beautiful secret coast with Hidden Beaches
