Discover London
Buckingham Palace
Intro: Serving as the official residence and administrative headquarters of the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, this iconic landmark, with its magnificent facade and sprawling gardens, attracts visitors from around the world who come to witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore its grand State Rooms during the summer months.
Accessibility features: As Buckingham Palace is an historic building, the floors and surfaces may be uneven and carpeted. Additionally the Garden path, at the end of the visit, is hard gravel. Buckingham palace does have a number of manual wheelchairs available to be borrowed free of charge for the duration of your visit however, these are subject to availability. You will need to book these in advance through the Specialist Sales team on +44 (0)303 123 7324 or by email: [email protected].
You are more than welcome to bring your own wheelchair provided it is compatible with the Palace's two lifts (dimensions: 148cm depth x 94 cm width with a maximum weight of 500kg; and 160 cm depth x 94cm width with a maximum weight of 750kg). Mobility scooters are also welcome.
Check with a member of staff, upon your arrival, if you require step-free access and wish to exit via the Garden so buggy transport can be arranged from the front of the Palace around to the bottom of the West Terrace. You can also exit via the front of the Palace by using the buggy. Assistance dogs are welcome. Concessionary rates are available for you if you have a disability and Buckingham Palace offers a free Access Companion ticket which can be booked online. No proof of disability is required.
Website:https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace
The National Gallery
Intro: The National Gallery in London stands as a beacon of art and culture, showcasing a vast collection of masterpieces from the Renaissance to the Impressionist era. Nestled in Trafalgar Square, this esteemed institution offers visitors a journey through centuries of artistic expression, featuring works by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet.
Accessibility features: It is advised that you enter via the Getty Entrance as this offers level access entry. Please contact the National Gallery for a full list of lifts and dimensions.
Website:https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/
Covent Garden
Intro: In the heart of London's West End, Covent Garden is a vibrant district brimming with entertainment, shopping, and dining options. Its historic market halls, street performers, and eclectic boutiques make it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking a lively and cultural experience in the capital.
Accessibility features:Covent Garden retains its historical charm with Grade II listed features and iconic cobbles. Though there are a number of wheelchair accessible routes around Covent Garden, it is important to note that these quaint streets may be uneven. The smoothest way into the Market Building is from Russell Street where there are a number of ramps and the bottom of James Street. Should you need any assistance in Covent Garden please visit the Information Booth at the front of the South Wells.
Website:https://www.coventgarden.london/
Kensington Palace
Intro: Situated in the heart of London's Kensington Gardens, Kensington Palace is a historic royal residence with a storied past. From its origins as a modest mansion in the 17th century to its role as the childhood home of Queen Victoria, Kensington Palace offers visitors a glimpse into royal life and history amidst elegant gardens and opulent interiors.
Accessibility features: Though an old building, this site is still accessible by wheelchair. The following route is recommended by the Palace for the best sightseeing experience:
- Take the Main Lift to the top floor and visit the King's State Apartments.
- Speak to a member of uniformed staff, and they will show you into the Queen's State Apartments. Return to the Main lift.
- Take the Main lift to the first floor and visit Victoria: A Royal Childhood. Return to the Main lift.
- Take the Main lift to the ground floor. Visit the shop and café, exiting the palace via the Shop lift.
As part of their access arrangements, visitors are entitled to bring an accompanying carer free of charge. These complimentary adult carer tickets can be obtained on the day of your visit upon presentation of proof of registered disability or can be booked online. Staff members will be available to assist you on the day of your visit as well. Further support can be found by emailing [email protected].
Website:https://www.hrp.org.uk/kensington-palace/
Holland Park
Intro: A tranquil oasis renowned for its serene atmosphere and stunning gardens, visitors flock to this idyllic park to stroll among its picturesque pathways. Come here to admire the vibrant flora and explore attractions such as the Kyoto Garden and the Opera Holland Park.
Accessibility features: Holland Park has multiple level access paths to the park. The best suited for disabled people are North Abbotsbury Road entrance, Ilchester Place entrance, and Duchess of Bedford entrance. This park includes a variety of paths, including tarmac and gravel.
Website:https://www.rbkc.gov.uk/parks-leisure-and-culture/parks/holland-park
Saatchi Gallery
Intro: The Saatchi Gallery in London is a contemporary art gallery housed in a stunning Georgian building in Chelsea. Showcasing cutting-edge artworks from emerging and established artists around the globe, it offers visitors a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of modern art trends.
Accessibility features: Entrance through the Gallery's main entrance allows for assisted or ramp access (to the right of the archway wall). Lift access is available on every floor and wheelchairs are available on request. The Saatchi gallery is fully wheelchair accessible.
Website:https://www.saatchigallery.com/
Natural History Museum
Intro: The Natural History Museum in London is a world-renowned institution dedicated to showcasing the diversity of life on Earth. With its striking architecture and extensive collections, including iconic dinosaur skeletons and rare specimens, it offers visitors an immersive journey through the wonders of the natural world.
Accessibility features: Step-free access to the Museum is via the Exhibition Road entrance. This entrance is also wheelchair accessible, as is the rest of the museum with lifts on all levels. Wheelchairs are available to hire free of charge from the Information desk. Groups travelling with wheelchair users can avoid queuing by arriving at the accessible entrance on Exhibition Road. Accessible toilets can be found on the ground floor near Hintze's Hall and near the Investigate Centre on the lower ground floor. Assistance dogs are welcome.
Website:https://www.nhm.ac.uk/
Science Museum
Intro: The Science Museum is a captivating destination where visitors can explore the wonders of science, technology, and innovation. From interactive exhibits and historic artefacts to immersive experiences, it offers a fascinating journey through the past, present, and future of scientific discovery.
Accessibility features: The majority of lifts in the museum are wheelchair accessible, these are detailed on the museum map. Members of staff are also available at the Info Desk on Level 0 to offer assistance and directions should you need them. Working guide and assistance animals are welcome at the museum. Important Note: Due to an ongoing technical fault, there is currently no step-free access to the mezzanine level in Making the Modern World and Flight galleries.
The Science Museum offers free carer tickets for all paid activities and exhibitions. To arrange these, order your own ticket online and then email the Contact Centre at [email protected] with your order number, and the booking team will be able to add a free carer ticket onto the order. Alternatively, you can book all tickets over the phone via the Contact Centre on 033 0058 0058.
Website:https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/home
Harrods
Intro: Harrods, located in the upscale Knightsbridge area of London, is a world-famous department store renowned for its luxury offerings and opulent surroundings. With its iconic green and gold façade and a vast array of designer goods, gourmet foods, and exclusive services, Harrods offers visitors a truly luxurious shopping experience unlike any other.
Accessibility features: Wheelchair users will find Harrods easy to access via any of the front doors along Brompton Road. There are also options for access into the building via Basil Street or Hans Crescent. All of these locations have nearby lifts for access to the upper floors.
Website:https://www.harrods.com/en-gb/
Tate Modern
Intro: The Tate Modern, situated on the banks of the River Thames in London, is one of the world's foremost contemporary art museums. Housed in a converted power station, it showcases an unparalleled collection of modern and contemporary artworks, offering visitors a captivating journey through artistic innovation and expression.
Accessibility features: The Tate Modern is made up of two buildings, the Nathalie Bell and the Blavatnik. All Tate Modern entrances are step-free and there are lifts to every floor of both buildings. The main entrance to the building is via the Turbine Hall which leads into the Natalie Bell Building on Holland Street, or into the Blavatnik Building on Sumner street. Check the museum map for your desired exhibition.
Website:https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-modern
SEA LIFE Aquarium
Intro: SEA LIFE London Aquarium is located on the South Bank of the River Thames. It offers visitors a fascinating underwater adventure with its diverse marine life exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive experiences. It provides a captivating glimpse into the wonders of the ocean.
Accessibility features: SEA LIFE is fully accessible with lifts to all levels. There is a ramp at the entrance which can be used for entry and exit into the aquarium. Please note that for health and safety reasons, SEA LIFE can only allow access for 10 wheelchair users at any one time. You do not need to reserve a wheelchair slot for your visit and places are allocated on a first come first serve basis. Mobility scooters are also permitted.
There is no discounted ticket rate for disabled guests however, you are welcome to a free carer ticket with the purchase of any ticket from either SEA LIFE directly or a third party ticketing company.
Website:https://www.visitsealife.com/london/
London Eye
Intro: As one of London's most recognisable landmarks, the London Eye provides visitors with a memorable and panoramic perspective of the capital's landmarks and attractions.
Accessibility features: The London Eye is able to accommodate all access requirements. Wheelchairs with a width of up to 94 cm are allowed on board (and a width of up to 83 cm for the River Cruise). Due to health and safety, only two wheelchair users can board one pod, and eight on the whole of the London Eye, at a time.
Tickets are best booked in advance via the website and guests with accessible needs are entitled to a free carer ticket for one personal assistant or carer.
Website:https://www.londoneye.com/
London Dungeon
Intro: The London Dungeon is an immersive and interactive experience that delves into the darker aspects of the city's history. Visitors can journey through time and experience spine-chilling tales, live actor performances, and thrilling rides, bringing to life London's gruesome past in a uniquely entertaining way.
Accessibility features: On arrival, please speak to a staff member on the front entrance steps. You will be escorted into the building via step-free access next to The London Eye Ticket Office. Though The London Dungeon is made of mainly level pathways, some floor surfaces are uneven to mimic the historical footways of London. There are also moments where the flooring can move, as part of performances, so it is recommended that you apply the brakes of your wheelchair whenever stationary.
The attraction covers three levels, with a lift, and staff in place to assist you around the tour. Please note: The London Dungeon experience has a few rides such as a short boat ride and a free fall at the gallows. Wheelchair users must be able to transfer un-aided into and out of the ride seats to go on them.
Website:https://www.thedungeons.com/london/
Royal Festival Hall
Intro: This renowned cultural venue, located within the Southbank Centre, is celebrated for its world-class performances and events. Its striking modernist architecture, superb acoustics, and diverse program offers visitors an unforgettable cultural experience in the heart of London.
Accessibility features: All ticket offices, toilets, performance and exhibition spaces at the Southbank Centre are accessible. This includes the cafes, bars and restaurants. The public transport links to Southbank Centre have step-free access. You may find that there are short queues to enter, especially during performance times, and it is advised that you speak to one of many Visitor Assistants should you be unable to queue or need further assistance.
Assistance dogs, as well as any medicine, food, or drink you require to manage your disability are welcome. Visit the Southbank Centre website for more accessibility information, including videos on how best to access the venue and detailed access maps.
Website:https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/venues/royal-festival-hall
Borough Market
Intro: A bustling food market renowned for its gourmet delights and vibrant atmosphere, visitors can explore a vast array of artisanal foods, fresh produce, and international cuisine. Borough Market is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and travellers seeking a taste of London's culinary scene.
Accessibility features: The Market is laid out on a single ground-floor level making it accessible to wheelchair users. The Tooley street entrance allows for step-free access.
Website:https://boroughmarket.org.uk/
Shakespeare's Globe
Intro: The Globe Theatre is a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse where William Shakespeare's plays were performed. Visitors can experience the magic of Shakespearean drama in an authentic setting, with performances ranging from timeless classics to innovative interpretations, offering a unique glimpse into the theatrical world of Renaissance England.
Accessibility features: Both theatres and all guided tours are wheelchair accessible. The lift to the theatres is to the right of the Welcome Desk and there are 2 viewing positions available in The Globe. One is a platform in the Yard and another is in the Boxes in the Middle Gallery. The wheelchair platform, with a ramp for access, in the yard is 1200 mm by 1200 mm in size and elevates the user sufficiently, so they can clearly watch the show whilst still enjoying the immersive experience of the performances as a ‘Groundling'.
Please note: The Globe theatre is open air and so the platform in the Yard is exposed to the elements.
Website:https://www.shakespearesglobe.com/
Southwark Cathedral
Intro: Southwark Cathedral is a stunning Gothic church steeped in history and architectural splendour. It boasts a magnificent interior, including intricate stained glass windows and ancient tombs. It offers visitors a serene sanctuary and a glimpse into centuries of religious heritage. If you are lucky, you may even spot Hodge the Cathedral Cat.
Accessibility features:Southwark Cathedral offers step-free access on all days of the week from the Millennium Courtyard off Montague Close. Unfortunately, none of the doors are self-opening however, by calling in advance (Mondays to Fridays 9.00am to 4.30pm if you telephone 020 7367 6700) staff members will be able to assist you.
There is a lift just past the Cathedral shop next to the disabled toilets which provides access to meeting rooms, the basement, and the Cathedral. The Nave is accessible for wheelchairs and there are temporary ramps into the South Transept and the Retrochoir. If you wish to visit the High Altar, Choir, or Retrochoir you can do so via the Parish Door. For any further assistance, ask a member of staff.
Website:https://cathedral.southwark.anglican.org/
ZSL London Zoo
Intro: ZSL London Zoo, located in Regent's Park, is one of the world's oldest and well known zoological institutions. With over 700 species of animals, interactive exhibits, and immersive zookeeper experiences, it offers visitors a captivating journey through the wonders of the natural world and a fun-filled day out for the whole family. Don't forget to stop by the reptile house to see the snake and exhibit from Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.
Accessibility features: The Zoo is nearly 200 years old and contains many old buildings. For this reason, some areas of the Zoo are harder to access however, most of the Zoo is accessible for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility and there is level or ramped access to most buildings. In some areas, the paths may be uneven and the slopes leading to the two tunnels in the Zoo are steep.
For more information, download ZSL's access summary PDF and head to their website to watch a video on accessibility at London Zoo.
Website:https://www.londonzoo.org/
British Library
Intro: Located near King's Cross Station,The British Library is one of the world's largest and most prestigious libraries, housing over 150 million items from every era of human history. Visitors can explore its extensive collections, including rare manuscripts, historic maps, and literary treasures, making it a must-visit destination for scholars, researchers, and book lovers alike.
Accessibility features: All floors have step-free access, including all Reading Rooms, events spaces, exhibitions and Learning Centre. All doors to the Reading Rooms and the entrances to the Knowledge Centre have button-assisted opening. Seating is available for visitors around the building with folding gallery stools available in the galleries.
Concessions are available for disabled visitors for ticketed exhibitions and events. Free tickets are available for personal assistants and these tickets can be booked via The British Library website.
Website:https://www.bl.uk/
British Museum
Intro: The British Museum is world-renowned; showcasing the history and culture of human civilization. With its vast and diverse collection spanning over two million years, including iconic artefacts such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, it offers visitors a fascinating journey through the ages and across continents.
Accessibility features: Most lifts in the Museum are wheelchair accessible and their locations can be viewed on the Museum map. Paper maps are also available from the Great Court.
Unfortunately, as listed on the website, the following galleries do not have lift access:
- Ground floor
- Room 16: Bassai sculptures (Mezzanine)
- Room 20a: Greek vases
- Room 21: Mausoleum of Halikarnassos
- Room 22: The world of Alexander
- Upper floors
- Room 33b: Chinese jade (The Selwyn and Ellie Alleyne Gallery)
- Room 69: Greek and Roman life (Mezzanine)
You can find an accessible entrance to the Pizzeria through a back-of-house route. Uniformed staff members will be readily available for assistance. Please contact the British Museum for more information on lift dimensions and access features please contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: +44 (0)20 7323 8971
Website:https://www.britishmuseum.org/
Postal Museum
Intro: The Postal Museum offers visitors a captivating exploration of Britain's postal heritage, from its origins to modern-day innovations. With interactive exhibits, historic artefacts, and a thrilling ride on the Mail Rail, visitors can delve into the fascinating world of mail delivery and communication.
Accessibility features: The Postal Museum and Mail Rail exhibitions are completely accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchairs are permitted everywhere in Mail Rail except for the Mail Rail Ride. Wheelchairs are available to borrow during visiting hours, on a first-come first-serve basis, they can also be booked in advance by calling 0300 0300 700. Both sites of the museum have step free access, via ramps or lifts.
There is restricted access to the Mail Rail ride due to health and safety requirements, therefore if you are unable to ride the train there is an option for you to purchase the Reduced Access ticket. By purchasing a reduced access ticket, you forego the Mail Rail Ride and can instead watch a film about it. This ticket also includes one free companion ticket.
The museum is set over 2 sites, The Postal Museum and Mail Rail, with a public road, Phoenix Place, separating them. Assistance dogs are welcome and there is seating available throughout the museum.
Website:https://www.postalmuseum.org/
Hampstead Heath
Intro: Hampstead Heath, located in North London, is a picturesque expanse of parkland offering stunning views of the city skyline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks through ancient woodlands, swim in the historic Parliament Hill Lido, or simply relax amid the tranquillity of this natural oasis.
Accessibility features: The Heath offers a large number of surfaced paths suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter users. Check the Hampstead Heath map for details on these routes. There are disabled toilets at various locations around the Heath as well as dedicated disabled parking bays at each of the four car parks: Parliament Hill Lido Car Park, East Heath Car Park, Jack Straws Car Park, Golders Hill Park Car Park.
Website:https://www.hampsteadheath.net/
Sky Garden
Intro: Sky Garden, located at the top of the iconic "Walkie Talkie“ building, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. With its lush greenery, stylish bars, and restaurants, it provides a unique and memorable experience, combining stunning vistas with a vibrant social atmosphere.
Accessibility features: There is level access to the Sky Garden entrance along either side of the building from Fenchurch Street. There are also lifts on Philpot Lane and Rood Lane that will take you from street level to the Sky Garden entrance level.
There is level access to the Sky Garden entrance along either side of the building from Fenchurch Street. There are also lifts on Philpot Lane and Rood Lane that will take you from street level to the Sky Garden entrance level.
Website:https://skygarden.london/
St Paul's Cathedral
Intro: St. Paul's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece, is a symbol of resilience and grandeur. Visitors are captivated by its magnificent dome, intricate interior, and rich history, making it one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a must-see destination for tourists and worshippers alike. During times of worship, it is free to attend mass at St Paul's.
Accessibility features: The North Transept entrance has ramped access to the Cathedral floor, and this is the recommended entrance for wheelchair users and anyone else who requires step-free access. A number of wheelchairs are available on request and smaller mobility scooters are allowed inside. It is important to note that the lift connecting the Cathedral floor and Crypt cannot accommodate many Class 3 scooters or some larger class 2 scooters. The Crypt and Quire have step-free access but any wheelchair or scooter must fit into the lift (1.4m length x 1.3m width).
Unfortunately, due to limitations of the old architecture, access to the Whispering Gallery, Stone Gallery, and Golden Gallery is via stairs only. The Triforium does not have lift access either. All disabled visitors and an accompanying carer or assistant are offered a free ticket to sight-see St Paul's Cathedral. Check the website for additional access information.
Website:https://www.stpauls.co.uk/
Barbican
Intro: This sprawling estate is renowned for its brutalist architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore its diverse offerings, including art galleries, theatres, cinemas, and concert halls, making it a hub for creativity and entertainment in the capital.
Accessibility features: The Barbican has lift access and wheelchair reserved spaces in its cinemas and theatres. Assistance dogs are welcome and can be left with the front desk during film or theatre performances should you prefer. There is a conservatory on the 3rd floor which has lift access. Please check the downloadable access guide for further information.
Website:https://www.barbican.org.uk/
Kew Garden
Intro: Kew Gardens, located in southwest London, is a globally acclaimed botanical garden boasting a diverse collection of plants from around the globe. Visitors can wander through its lush landscapes, marvel at its iconic glasshouses, and learn about the importance of conservation efforts, with notable figures like Sir David Attenborough championing its role in preserving biodiversity for future generations.
Accessibility features: The Gardens are largely flat, with tarmac paths in most places, making it accessible to wheelchair users. However, it is important to note that mobility scooters are restricted in the Princess of Wales Conservatory and the Treetop Walkway.
Free entry is available for essential carers, personal assistants, support workers, and next of kin accompanying disabled visitors. If you require assistance during your visit, as a member of staff.
Website:https://www.kew.org/
