Traveling with Disabilities
Traveling with Disabilities
Hi everyone,
I’m gearing up for my first trip to England (I’m from the U.S.) and I have some questions regarding navigation and accessibility. I’ll be traveling with a friend, but we’ll be flying into different airports due to state differences and the high costs of coordinating a joint flight. While I can walk short distances, I struggle with prolonged standing or walking—thanks to some lingering effects from Covid. I have an electric wheelchair that I use for longer outings, and so far, I’ve been really impressed with the level of access and services available in England—it’s a big step up from what I’m used to!
Here are my questions:
1) At the airport, can I expect to receive assistance in an airport wheelchair to reach the Gatwick Express train from my gate? I understand that once I arrive at the train station, their staff can assist me. Would I be able to stay in my wheelchair until boarding time, or is there a place where I can sit? I will also need help with my checked bag when boarding.
2) Has anyone had experience with DirectMobility Hire? They offer a specific wheelchair that has caught my interest, one that I haven’t seen elsewhere.
3) Is the Power-Push Gravity-Lite wheelchair considered reliable? I’d rather not bring my own chair, as it can be cumbersome. This option looks lightweight and foldable, which would be great for our hotel room and for carrying over any steps we might encounter. I’ve read that some places aren’t step-free, and this chair seems like it would allow me more freedom to explore. I’m looking for something that doesn’t require my friend to manually push me.
4) Any general tips for navigating around? We’ll be visiting popular sites in Zone 1, taking the Harry Potter tour, and then traveling to Oxford and Lacock before heading back to London. I’m thinking that buses might be more accessible for us than the Tube.
5) Lastly, is it possible to fold up my chair and sit on the top deck of the open-air red buses? I’ve wanted to do that ever since I saw the Friends episodes set in London!
Thank you so much for your help and advice! 🙂
Hello!
It’s great to hear you’re planning a trip to England! I’ll do my best to address your questions and provide some helpful tips for your journey.
Airport Assistance at Gatwick: Yes, you can request assistance to get to the Gatwick Express train in a wheelchair from your gate. It’s best to inform your airline in advance about your needs, so they can arrange for assistance when you arrive. Typically, you would be able to remain in your wheelchair until it’s time to board the train, and there will usually be staff available to help you with your checked bag.
DirectMobility Hire: DirectMobility Hire generally has good reviews for their services. If they’ve got a specific wheelchair you’re interested in, it might be worth reaching out directly to inquire about its condition and any additional features.
Power-Push Gravity-Lite Wheelchair: This chair is known for being lightweight and portable, which should make it a good option for your needs. Many users have reported satisfaction with its reliability, especially for occasional use in various environments. Just ensure it meets your comfort and mobility requirements before making a decision.
Navigation Tips: You’re correct that buses can often be more accessible than the Tube, especially for someone with limited mobility. Look for routes that are specifically marked as accessible. It can also be helpful to familiarize yourself with the location of accessible facilities at tourist sites you plan to visit. It may be helpful to download apps like Citymapper or use Google Maps with accessibility filters to simplify your travel.
Open Top Buses: Many of the iconic open-top tourist buses in London are not equipped for wheelchair users on the upper deck. However, some operators may have lower deck accessibility options. You typically need to let the bus company know in advance to ensure they can accommodate you appropriately.
I hope this information helps as you prepare for your trip! Enjoy all the sights and experiences in England! 🏰✈️