Looking for some new places to explore as we head into cosy season? Keep on reading!
Autumn is the perfect time of year to hire a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) and visit somewhere new. When you’re ready to book your WAV rental, get in touch with Open Road Access and the team will take care of you from there. It won’t be long before you’re on your way.
Pickering, North Yorkshire
Drive into the North York Moors, and you’ll find the vibrant market town of Pickering. As well as exploring the town centre (and grabbing some classic Fish and Chips: it would be rude not to in Yorkshire, right?), Pickering makes the perfect launch pad for exploring more of North Yorkshire in your WAV.
Just a short drive away, you have Dalby Forest, which is at its most beautiful as the leaves on the trees begin to change colour. You can explore the woodland via accessible cycle (for a small charge) or Tramper (for free), and then treat yourself to a cosy hot chocolate in the Visitor Centre as a reward afterwards.
Or, if you’re in the mood for a bigger adventure, you can park up at the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and get the steam train to Whitby and back. There’s an accessible carriage with portable ramp access for wheelchair users (wrap up warm, it’s a breezy ride!), and what better place to visit in spooky season than Whitby Abbey, part of the inspiration for Dracula?
Keswick, Lake District
The stunning views of the Lake District are impressive year-round, and autumn is a wonderful time of year to plan a road trip in your WAV. Even the drive into the Lakes is part of the experience – the views out your window grow more striking as you get closer to your destination.
Many people head to the Lake District to enjoy world-famous walks and hikes (you can find some accessible routes here), but if you’re looking for a lower-energy escape, Keswick is the ideal base.
Along with the beautiful scenery from the fells, you’ll find plenty of cafes and coffee shops serving seasonal drinks and treats (Yonder is wheelchair-accessible and highly recommended!), plus museums and attractions in the heart of town. The Lake District spans a huge area with so much to see and do, so hiring a WAV for the weekend or longer is the perfect way to experience all the region has to offer.
Conwy, North Wales
Don’t be fooled by the coastal location – Conwy in North Wales is full of autumnal charm. If you enjoy rambling, there’s easy access to the wheelchair-accessible parts of the iconic Wales Coast Path, where you can make your way along the River Conwy with atmospheric (and very Instagrammable!) views of Conwy Castle in the distance.
When it’s time for a well-earned treat, head to The Quay Hotel & Spa to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea on their accessible terrace with phenomenal views. There’s Blue Badge parking outside, and their unique Conwy Mountains Breakfast Blend tea is not to be missed.
If you want to extend your trip, Llandudno is only a short drive away in your rented WAV and boasts even more fun things to do. If you’re feeling brave, you can even take on a spooky Ghosts, History and Mystery walking tour – be sure to communicate your access needs in advance as the website states the route changes day-to-day, and then enjoy the unique experience of being guided through the area by the renowned storytelling Monk of the Great Orme.
Bath, Somerset
Full of Georgian architecture and known and loved worldwide, Bath is an excellent road trip destination for Autumn. Whether you’re a Jane Austen fan wanting to immerse yourself in literary culture and destinations that inspired her works, or you’re a foodie looking for delicious treats (Bath Pizza Co is not to be missed), the city centre has everything you need for a great day out with friends or loved ones.
However, the benefits of renting a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle for your trip mean you can explore far beyond the city streets and tourist spots alone. Bath is surrounded by beautiful countryside and woodland, making for a stunning road trip with many interesting stop-off points along the way – Dundas Aqueduct is reportedly a great place to watch the boats passing by on the River Avon while you enjoy a hot drink from the cafe. Plus, it doesn’t take long at all to drive from Bath to nearby Bristol: often regarded as one of the most wheelchair-accessible cities in the UK and full of museums and attractions.
Blyth Bride, Scottish Borders
If you’re looking for a truly peaceful autumnal spot to explore, the Scottish Borders simply does not get the recognition it deserves. This beautiful part of the UK is best explored by vehicle, so book your WAV rental, grab your favourite snacks and fall playlists, and immerse yourself in the beautiful Scottish scenery this season.
If you need a place to rest your head, the nearby Netherurd Garden House near West Linton is level access throughout. They offer a range of wheelchair accessible rooms and facilities, including an events room and a sensory garden where you can pick your own vegetables and collect eggs from the on-site hens.
You’ll also have no shortage of opportunities for pumpkin picking in the Scottish Borders, with many farms just a short drive away – make sure to check access in advance as PYO (pick your own) activities may be difficult for some wheelchair users, but Stouslie Farm is one example of a venue offering a range of seasonal activities to enjoy with some adaptations in place.
What are your favourite towns and cities to explore during the autumn? Do let us know, and don’t forget to book your Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle rental through Open Road Access when you’re ready to begin exploring!
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