The 21+ Best Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in London
London is a beautiful city that is on many travelers’ bucket lists. I have enjoyed the city on several occasions (both with limited mobility and as a wheelchair user). If you’re wondering about the accessibility of the city, I have you covered in this post where I’ll go over some of the best wheelchair-accessible things to do in London and other helpful travel tips.
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What to Do in London for Wheelchair Users
You may be wondering, is London worth visiting if I have mobility problems? The answer is yes! There are lots of things to do in London for wheelchair users and public transportation has good accessibility, making it easy to navigate the city.
In this post, I’ll share my London travel tips, what you can do with limited mobility or as a wheelchair user, and more to help you have a successful and enjoyable trip.
21+ Best Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in London
Okay, let’s get to the good stuff and talk about wheelchair-accessible things to do in London! There are so many wonderful options and I’ll go over my top 21. As an added bonus, I’ve also talked about some of my favorite accessible day trips from London.
1. London Eye
Ride the London Eye for fantastic views of the city. Situated along the Thames River, a journey on this iconic wheel will allow you to get aerial views of the Elizabeth Tower, Parliament Building, Westminster Abbey, and more.
Due to the popularity of this attraction, lines are often long so it is recommended to get your tickets in advance.
Wheelchair users and a companion can get ahead of the longest part of the line and then follow the ramps up to the loading area. Once there, the wheel is stopped and a ramp is used to bridge the gap between the platform and the capsule you ride in. Additionally, you will get to board first so that you are ensured a good location to view the scenery.
➡️ Pre-ordering tickets is HIGHLY recommended even though you get to avoid most of the line. Get your tickets now by clicking here.
2. Westminster Abbey
No doubt you’ve caught glimpses of this iconic church if you watched Prince William and Kate’s wedding or for other Royal occasions that were broadcasted. Let me tell you though, touring the inside is incredible. The stained-glass windows and sculptures are gorgeous.
Once inside, you’ll get to explore graves and tributes to some famous folks such as Stephan Hawking, Charles Dickens, the composer Handel, King Richard II, and more. Additionally, you can admire the fantastic works of art that include various sculptures, and phenomenal stained-glass.
Don’t forget to check out the Coronation Chair that was most recently used when King Charles took the throne.
The entrance to Westminster Abbey is on the side and you will most likely see a long line of people waiting to enter. However, as a wheelchair user, you can skip the line and enter to begin your visit. Registered people with disabilities and their carer can obtain free entry.
Most of the Abbey is wheelchair accessible with flat floors. However, some of the side rooms or chapels have a stair or two to enter and as a result, can only be viewed from the outside.
Overall, I felt like I got to see most of the highlights of the church and an audio tour helped me make the most out of my visit. I enjoyed getting to be in a prestigious place where royalty worships. The history of the Abbey was also fascinating.
3. Tour Buckingham Palace
Through the use of an alternative accessible entrance and lifts, you can tour Buckingham Palace as a wheelchair user. Although what you see on the tour is the same as everyone else, you will need to take a different route.
Additionally, you will need to pre-book the use of the accessible entrance by calling or emailing. I loved telling people that I got to talk with the offices of Buckingham Palace to plan my visit.
During July and August, the palace is open for tours of its staterooms and gardens. Outside of this time, you will need to book a guided tour which may be offered during limited days and times. People with disabilities will receive a discount and their carers can obtain free entry.
Please visit the Palace’s Mobility Access page for more details.
4. Changing of the Guard
Many people will combine a trip to Buckingham Palace with the famous changing of the guard ceremony. If you want to watch this iconic exchange, then you have a few options.
First, you can take a walking tour which includes the changing of the guard. Sometimes, these are a free option when you purchase a Hop On Hop Off bus pass. The benefit to this is that they often have a reserved viewing platform so you can actually see what’s happening.
The other option is to get to the palace VERY EARLY to try to get a good view of the action. Since this is one of the most popular things to do in London, there will be very large crowds and wheelchair users aren’t guaranteed a view of the ceremony.
Lastly, if you aren’t concerned with seeing the actual change of the guards at the palace itself, you can watch the new guards march to the palace or see the horse’s guard ceremony instead. Both will have fewer crowds and better viewing if you are a wheelchair user.
Depending on what option you choose, watching the ceremony is free of charge. Just make sure to check the schedule and weather conditions as cancellations are possible.
➡️ Check prices and packages for Hop On Hop Off Bus tickets which include the ceremony by clicking here.
5. Tate Modern Museum
Considered to be one of the best art museums in Europe, the Tate Modern is housed in a former power station on the banks of the River Thames, the museum is a masterpiece of industrial architecture. Inside, art enthusiasts can explore an extensive collection of contemporary and modern art, featuring works by renowned artists like Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.
The Tate Modern’s galleries showcase a broad spectrum of artistic expressions, from paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations and performance art
There is accessible parking onsite but it must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance of your visit. Additionally, accessible entrances are available at both Turbine Hall and Blavatnik Building from Park Street. Furthermore, several lifts throughout both buildings allow you to visit all floors.
Admission is free.
6. Vicotria and Albert Museum
Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, the V&A boasts an extensive and eclectic collection spanning over 5,000 years of human creativity. From exquisite sculptures and decorative arts to fashion, photography, and contemporary design, the museum showcases the diversity of artistic expression. I
ts dedication to both historical and cutting-edge works provides a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of design and craftsmanship.
There are two accessible entrances to the museum, one on Cromwell Road and one on Exhibition Road with an automatic opening door. Once inside, there are lifts to all of the floors and 13 accessible bathrooms located throughout the museum.
Mobility aids and stools are also available for use. Additionally, the museum also offers tactile exhibits and audio description guides for those with low vision, as well as a sensory backpack for those with sensory needs.
Admission is free for all however some special exhibits and events may have a charge.
7. British Museum
Whether one is fascinated by ancient civilizations, world cultures, or significant historical events, the British Museum provides an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the shared heritage of humanity in an awe-inspiring setting. Visitors will experience a diverse collection of artifacts spanning centuries and continents which include the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, ancient Egyptian mummies, and the Lewis Chessmen.
This museum is mostly accessible. There are lifts at the North entrance on Montague Place and within the museum. However, there are 5 rooms that contain exhibits that are currently not accessible. Contact staff to access the onsite pizzeria through a step-free route. Accessible bathrooms are also available.
Admission is free but there are some guided tours and special programs that require a fee. It is advised to book your free entry ticket as well as any special fee tickets or services in advance.
8. Kensington Palace
If you really want to learn more about the life of the Royals, make sure to plan a visit to Kensington Palace. During your tour, you will see where Queen Victoria grew up, the rooms of both the King and Queen, as well as the crown jewels. In summer, make sure to visit the sunken gardens to see the statue and tribute to the late Princess Diana.
However, it should be noted that tours may be limited or unavailable depending on whether members of the Royal family are staying here or other important events may be taking place. Always check the website for availability before your trip.
There is a stair-free entrance to Kensington Palace and a lift that allows access to the upper floors. Additionally, there is an alternative route that allows you to see everything on the tour whilst avoiding stairs. People with disabilities will receive discounted admission. Free admission for carers is possible if you have proof of a registered disability (Blue Badge, Freedom Pass, DLA letter or PIP letter) typically given to citizens of the UK.
➡️ If you don’t have proof of disability, you can pre-order your palace tickets by clicking here.
9. St. Paul’s Cathedral
Designed by Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1710, the cathedral’s awe-inspiring architecture and imposing dome make it a masterpiece of the English Baroque style. Beyond its visual splendor, St. Paul’s has played a crucial role in British history, hosting numerous state occasions, including the funerals of luminaries such as Sir Winston Churchill.
The interior is adorned with intricate mosaics, beautiful chapels, and an impressive nave, showcasing the cathedral’s spiritual significance and artistic prowess.
The Cathedral is partially accessible to wheelchair users. There is a ramped entrance at the North Transept entrance and a lift is available to visit the Crypt and the Quire. However, the galleries and Triforium are not accessible due to stairs.
Free entrance to a person with a disability and one carer are available and can be obtained in person on the day of your visit or booked in advance through the church’s website.
10. The Globe Theater
Step back in time and relive the days of Shakespeare when you visit the Globe Theater. Although the original theater burned down, this is an exact replica built just a short distance from where the original stood and is a wonderful place to visit for history and theater lovers alike.
Guided tours and performances are wheelchair accessible through the use of lifts. Furthermore, there are audio touch tours available for people with visual impairments and British sign language interpreters available for select performances. A quiet space is also on hand for people with sensory problems.
While I did not have the chance to do the guided tour, I did see a performance of one of Shakespeare’s plays at this iconic theater. The way they improvised to show the effects of what was happening without the use of modern technology was incredible. I absolutely loved the show and would see another one again in a heartbeat.
Please be aware that this is an open-air theater as there is a circular opening in the roof. As a result, you should plan to dress accordingly and for the appropriate weather conditions.
11. National Gallery
Nestled in Trafalgar Square, the gallery houses an unparalleled collection of European paintings spanning from the 13th to the 19th centuries. During your visit, you will encounter works by renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, and Rembrandt, which are sure to impress any art enthusiast.
Accessible parking is available but must be pre-booked 48 hours in advance of your visit. While the main entrance has stairs, a level, and accessible access is available at the Getty Entrance. Furthermore, there are lifts within the building to take you to various floors, just contact the museum before your visit for dimensions to ensure your device will fit.
Admission is free for all but pre-booking an entrance time is recommended.
12. Madame Tussauds London
Want to take a selfie with your favorite celebrity? Then visit Madame Tussaud’s wax museum for a unique and immersive encounter with lifelike replicas of celebrities, historical figures, and cultural icons. This fun museum provides a chance to snap photos and get up close to the remarkably realistic sculptures.
Visitors can expect the museum to be mostly accessible, with the Spirit of London ride being the only experience that you would miss unless you can walk a short distance unaided. There are accessible bathrooms and lifts throughout the building.
Please note that wheelchair users need to pre-book their visit due to a rule limiting the number of visitors in wheelchairs to 3 at a time. Additionally, a carer can obtain free entry when you have proof of disability.
13. Tower Bridge
Tower Bridge, with its distinctive twin towers and drawbridge mechanism, spans the River Thames and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. But why just admire it from afar? Make sure to ascend to the top for some fantastic views of London.
Inside, you will find the Tower Bridge Exhibition which provides an immersive experience, allowing you to walk across the high-level walkways and explore interactive displays detailing the bridge’s construction and operation. Additionally, the Engine Rooms (which you will also see) house the original steam engines that once powered the bascules, giving insight into the engineering marvel behind this Victorian masterpiece.
The Tower Bridge is accessible to most areas through the use of lifts which are located in both towers. A separate external elevator allows access to the Engine Room and gift shop. Accessible toilets are also available within the towers.
There are no discounts for travelers with a disability and visitors have options on what tickets to choose. There is a simple entry ticket, a guided tour (which also has the option to be led using British Sign Language), and a relaxed opening ticket which is designed for people with sensory problems.
14. Thames River Cruise
For an alternative view of some of London’s most popular sights, make sure to take a Thames River cruise. I loved passing by the London Eye, the Tower of London, sailing under Tower Bridge, and more.
This Hop On Hop Off boat trip has many stops where you can easily get off and explore. I took the boat to Greenwich where I got to see where the Prime Meridian was as well as other sights before taking it back to the London Eye. It was a relaxing and wonderful way to travel.
Ramps are used to access the dock and another ramp is used to enter the boat. Although these can be steep at times depending on the tides, I was still able to manage them. The hardest part (in terms of accessibility) was the threshold to enter the enclosed area of the boat so you may need some assistance with that part.
➡️ Get tickets in advance and check pricing when you click here.
15. London Zoo
Located in Regent’s Park, the zoo is home to a diverse array of species, from exotic animals to endangered ones, offering a unique opportunity to connect with wildlife. The zoo’s emphasis on conservation and education is evident through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and informative talks.
Visitors can witness animal feedings, attend live demonstrations, and explore themed zones like the Land of the Lions or the Gorilla Kingdom. Some of the animals you will encounter are lions, lemurs, tigers, gorillas, and more.
Although the zoo is quite old, it is mostly accessible through the use of ramps, however, some buildings and areas may be inaccessible due to age. It should also be noted that the slopes to the tunnels within the zoo are steep. Accessible parking and bathrooms are available.
There are ticket discounts for people with disabilities and one carer can enter free of charge. Animal encounters and experiences (some of which are accessible) are an additional charge and do not have discounts.
16. Natural History Museum
the museum houses an extensive collection of specimens that showcase the diversity of the natural world, including fossils, minerals, and life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures. The iconic Hintze Hall, with its soaring blue whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling, acts as a unique centerpiece.
Visitors can delve into interactive displays, participate in hands-on activities, and learn about Earth’s history, biodiversity, and the ongoing challenges of conservation.
A wheelchair-accessible entrance to the museum is located on Exhibition Road and once inside, elevators allow you to access each floor. If you have limited mobility and need to use a wheelchair during your visit, you can obtain one for free at the information desk. Accessible bathrooms are also located throughout the museum.
Admission is free for all however there may be times when special events or exhibits are held that require a cost.
17. Science Museum
The Science Museum boasts an extensive collection of exhibits covering a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, from space exploration and robotics to medical advancements and interactive displays. The museum’s commitment to making science engaging is evident in its hands-on exhibits and live demonstrations, encouraging visitors to explore and interact with the principles of physics, chemistry, and biology.
The Science Museum is accessible to wheelchair users through a level entry and the use of lifts to access different floors. However, please check the website for updates as some areas may be temporarily inaccessible due to construction and other reasons. Accessible bathrooms are available in the museum.
Although admission is free, several areas require an additional cost. These areas include the Wonder Lab, Power Up, Turn It Up, and the IMAX theater. Carers can receive free entry for these activities.
18. Hampton Court Palace
Situated on the banks of the River Thames, this historic palace is renowned for its connection to King Henry VIII and offers visitors a rich tapestry of Tudor and Baroque influences. Explore the opulent State Apartments, stroll through the breathtaking gardens, and marvel at the famous Hampton Court Palace Maze.
Sometimes, the palace hosts costumed reenactments, live historical performances, and informative exhibitions that bring the past to life.
I visited this impressive palace during my first trip to London. In fact, it was my first experience traveling internationally and I was awed by the history. I tried to imagine what it was like to live there and the little girl in me had all her princess dreams come true. Needless to say, I loved my tour there.
For wheelchair users, Hampton Court Palace is generally accessible, with designated parking spaces, ramps, and elevators in place. However, due to the age of the building, some areas may present challenges, mainly cobblestones and uneven surfaces.
People who have a registered disability can have a carer enter free of charge as well as receive discounted admission.
Getting to Hampton Court Palace from London
Although the palace is just outside of London, it is still easily accessible from the city. Travelers can take the bus (which is wheelchair accessible) that stops near the palace or choose to arrive at Hampton Court Station (about 200 meters from the palace). Accessible parking is available for those traveling by car.
19. Kew Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kew Gardens houses a remarkable array of plant species from around the world, including rare and endangered ones. The gardens are not only a testament to horticultural expertise but also provide a serene escape from the hectic city atmosphere.
Of course, the best times to visit are spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom, showcasing vibrant colors and fragrances. While you’re there, make sure to explore the iconic features like the Palm House, the Temperate House, and the Treetop Walkway for panoramic views.
The gardens are located amongst mostly falt surfaces and have paved pathways throughout. Additionally, the glasshouses and galleries are also accessible with a level entry or ramp. However, it should be noted that some of the buildings do not allow mobility scooters, only wheelchairs.
Furthermore, there is limited access to Kew Palace. Since this is a historic building, hallways and doorways are narrow requiring the use of smaller wheelchairs. Discounted prices are available for people with disabilities and a carer can enter free of charge.
➡️ Prebook your entrance tickets by clicking here.
20. Churchill War Rooms
For a compelling journey into the heart of World War II history and the strategic command center used by Winston Churchill and his government, visit the Churchill War Rooms located in the Imperial War Museum. Preserved beneath the streets of London, this underground complex served as a secret bunker during the war, where crucial decisions were made.
The museum offers a gripping audio-guided tour, allowing visitors to explore the wartime offices, the Cabinet Room, and the map room left largely as they were during the conflict. The immersive exhibits, personal artifacts, and audiovisual presentations provide a vivid insight into the challenges and triumphs of wartime leadership.
There is a step-free entrance to the museum on Horse Guard Road by St. Jame’s Park. Once inside, there is an elevator to take you underground to the famous War Rooms. While the rooms are considered accessible, you should know that doorways can be narrow (68 cm is the most narrow width) and there is a required 90-degree turn around a corner.
Discounts are available for people with disabilities and one carer can obtain free entry.
21. See the Ruins of an Ancient Roman Arena
Located underneath the Guildhall Art Gallery are the remains of an old Roman Arena. If you remember your history, the Romans conquered and were present in most of Europe during the height of its rule. You will see evidence of their reach by seeing these spectacular ruins and by traveling further north in England to see Hadrian’s Wall.
While the arena ruins aren’t as spectacular as the Colosseum in Rome, they were mostly forgotten until they were rediscovered in 1988 when the gallery was undergoing construction. There are signs around the exhibit that tell of its history and significance.
I found the ruins fascinating and enjoyed my short visit there. It’s a sight that most tourists don’t know about so there aren’t many crowds.
The arena ruins are accessible through an elevator within the gallery (which has a step-free entrance). While there, you can also browse through the works of art at Guildhall Art Gallery and use the accessible bathrooms on site.
Wheelchair Accessible Day Trips from London
While there are plenty of amazing things to do in London, there are also some wonderful day trip options as well. In this section, I’ll talk about 3 popular and accessible options.
22. Stonehenge
While some may wonder if Stonehenge is worth visiting since it’s essentially a grouping of rocks (seriously that’s what some people describe them as), I am always amazed when I visit there. The fact that we don’t know how people managed to construct it with the tools they had at the time, or even what its purpose was adds a sense of mystery.
Of course, there have been many theories over time, which you can learn about during your visit there, many people see this site as being special. While there, you will see the famous Stonehenge, but you can also see the recreated village of how people of the time lived, and tour the onsite museum that talks more about the history of the area and its significance.
There are accessible bathrooms on site, and the museum is fully accessible to wheelchair users with a flat surface throughout. Compacted gravel paths lead around the small village and entry to the replicated dwellings typically requires a small step or navigating over a threshold.
You will take a shuttle bus to Stonehenge itself which has a fold-out ramp and a dedicated space for wheelchairs. Once at the site, there is a grass pathway (which sometimes has rubber mats) around the rocks. The final portion of the path has pavement as well as a few inclines.
Getting to Stonehenge from London
To see Stonehenge as a day trip from London, you have a few options for getting there. First, if you have access to a car, you can simply drive to the monument from London (which takes about 2 hours depending on traffic).
Second, you could take the train from London to Salisbury and then take the wheelchair-accessible Hop On Hop Off bus from the station to Stonehenge. As an added bonus, you will get a narrated tour of the area. Depending on which ticket option you choose, you can also get admission to Salisbury Cathedral where there is an original copy of the Magna Carta.
Lastly, you can take an accessible tour from London to Stonehenge. This is what I did for ease and convenience (and because I was heading to Southampton afterward to board the European Cruise I had scheduled). The company I used was Landmark Taxi Tours and I highly recommend them as it was a great experience.
➡️ Get your Hop On Hop Off Tour Tickets and check prices by clicking here.
23. Harry Potter Tour
While there is a Harry Potter walking tour in London that visits the sites where the movies were filmed, another popular option is to do the Harry Potter Studio tour. A short 1-1 1/2 hour drive from London, this is a must for any Harry Potter fan.
Guests can explore meticulously crafted sets, including the Great Hall, Diagon Alley, and the Hogwarts Express. The tour unveils the magic of filmmaking, showcasing costumes, props, and animatronics that brought J.K. Rowling’s wizarding world to life. Visitors can witness the intricacies of special effects, and learn about the creative process.
There is a flat entry and most of the tour is accessible. The challenges you will face are uneven surfaces (cobblestones and slate) in Diagon Alley and the Great Hall. Additionally, there is a narrow door at Privet Drive. The Knight’s Bus and Hogwarts Express will also present obstacles and may not be accessible to everyone.
For clear expectations on accessibility, please visit the studio website.
There is a tour from London that includes transportation, but you will need to contact the tour operator in advance so they can ensure accessible transportation and be aware of your needs.
➡️ Check prices and availability for the studio tour with transportation from London by clicking here.
24. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. Steeped in royal tradition, visitors can explore the State Apartments adorned with opulent furnishings, marvel at the intricate St. George’s Chapel, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
Additionally, the castle’s extensive grounds provide picturesque views of the Thames River and offer a chance to stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
The castle itself as well as the chapel are accessible through a series of lifts and ramps. However, the floors may be uneven at times. Accessible bathrooms are also available at several locations throughout the property.
Overall, the biggest obstacle to accessibility is the steep incline to reach the castle and an additional incline from the welcome booth to the castle itself. Furthermore, people with mobility devices should check the mobility access page on the castle’s website to ensure that their device will fit within the dimensions of the lifts.
Getting to Windsor Castle from London
If you have a vehicle, you can drive to Windsor Castle from London. However, since there is no parking at the castle, you’ll have the challenge of finding a space.
Alternatively, you can also take a direct train from London Waterloo station to Windsor & Eton Riverside which is about a 10-minute walk/roll from the Castle. This train ride is about an hour and offers regular departures. Just make sure to contact the train station in advance to notify them of your accessibility needs.
Lastly, you can also take an accessible tour from London to the castle. Many of these tours will combine popular sites such as Bath, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle and are a great option if you don’t want to worry about taking the train. Just contact the company in advance to let them know you will need a lift and be using a wheelchair.
➡️ Check prices and availability for a combination tour to Windsor Castle from London by clicking here.
Where to Stay in London
The city center and its surrounding neighborhoods offer a variety of hotel chains and other accommodations that would make for good options for those of us with limited mobility or who are wheelchair users. Since there are a variety of wheelchair-accessible hotels in London, it can be hard to determine where to stay.
I suggest if it’s your first time in London or you are short on time there, to stay in the city center or near where you want to visit. This will save commuting time. However, it will also be more expensive.
For hotels that are easier on your budget, look to stay in nearby neighborhoods like Shoreditch or Camden. Choose hotels close to public transportation for a quick commute to the city.
Here are my top 2 choices:
The Westminster London, Curio Collection by Hilton
This hotel is known for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service. The rooms are elegantly designed, offering a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Guests can expect modern amenities, thoughtful touches, and a high standard of cleanliness.
Accessible rooms are available and have grab bars near the toilet, a roll-in shower with a seat, and there is ample room to navigate the room and bathroom in your wheelchair.
As an added bonus, The Westminster London Hotel is centrally located near iconic sites such as Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace.
👉🏻 Check prices and availability for your travel dates by clicking here.
Holiday Inn London – Kensington High St., an IHG Hotel
The Holiday Inn is conveniently situated just a brief stroll away from both Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. Additionally, it boasts proximity to public transportation, providing easy access for a quick journey to other renowned attractions in London.
The hotel offers accessible accommodations featuring amenities such as a roll-in shower, shower seat, and grab bars, in addition to standard rooms. For a nominal extra charge, guests can enjoy a delightful daily breakfast buffet on-site. The clean rooms and prime location are highly praised by visitors.
👉🏻 Check prices and availability for your travel dates by clicking here.
Accessible London Travel Tips
Now that I’ve mentioned accessible things to do in London and options for where to stay, I want to cover a few London travel tips to help you plan your trip. The following tips are designed to help you maximize your time and experience while hopefully avoiding any unwelcome surprises.
☑️ Call Ahead to Ensure Lifts are Working
There are a lot of older buildings in London with similarly older lifts. That’s why I always recommend calling before your trip to ensure the lifts are working and to verify their dimensions. A lift may be working but still not be large enough for your specific mobility device and the last thing you want to do is show up and not be able to access the hotel or attraction you want to see because you can’t fit in the lift or it’s broken.
☑️ Use the App to Plan for How to Get Around During Your Trip
There are a lot of accessible public transportation options in London, but they aren’t all created equal. For the best experience getting from place to place, use the London transportation accessible planning service for updates and to find the best route options. They have an app for easy planning during your trip.
☑️ Travel in Off or Shoulder Season
When I travel, I enjoy fewer crowds and cheaper prices so I find that traveling in the shoulder season is a wonderful option for me. At the same time, I don’t do well with cold weather, so when I travel to London, I prefer visiting during April, May, and September which in my opinion has the best of everything I’m looking for. If you are like me, then these will be some of the best months to visit London for you as well.
☑️ See Attractions that are Close Together
London is a large city and some attractions can be pretty far apart from each other. Maximize your time by planning to combine things close together during your day. For example, the Globe Theater, Tower Bridge, and Tower of London can be combined into one day as they are somewhat clustered together.
☑️ Plan Where You Will Eat in Advance
One of the most common accessibility challenges I found in London was finding accessible restaurants. Where I was staying many eateries had a step to enter and in September, it was too chilly to eat outside. Ultimately, I began asking if there was a ramp and some places had them so that I could easily navigate over the step.
As a result, my advice is to look at your London itinerary and make note of accessible places to eat near where you stay and the sights you want to visit. This will help save you time, energy, and frustration during your trip.
Likely, you will need to use a combination of Google Maps (street view) and contacting potential restaurants directly to inquire about stair-free entrances and whether there is an accessible bathroom on site. Be very specific with your needs and questions so that there is no room for interpretation of what “accessible” means.
☑️ Look for Free or Discounted Entrance Fees
Many of London’s most popular sites have either free or discounted entrance fees for people with disabilities which is fantastic news for anyone traveling on a budget. I’ve done my best to make note of these perks when describing the accessible places mentioned earlier in this post. However, if you plan to visit an attraction I haven’t mentioned, always check for discounts.
London FAQs
How Handicap Friendly is London?
While there is no perfect destination for accessibility, I find that London is one of the most accessible cities in Europe. There is accessible public transportation, plenty of wheelchair-accessible things to do, and hotels with adapted rooms.
I always have a lovely time when I visit London and I think you will too, regardless of your accessibility needs.
How Easy is it to Get Around London in a Wheelchair?
I found London to be one of the most accessible cities in Europe in part due to its wonderful and accessible transportation options. Public buses are wheelchair accessible with fold-out ramps and dedicated wheelchair spots. Likewise, all of the official black cabs in London have fold-out ramps and room for wheelchair users inside.
There are also some accessible tube stations if you would rather travel on London’s underground transportation.
Can Wheelchair Users Use the London Underground?
There are accessible tube stations that have elevators but it is important to ensure they are working before traveling. That’s where the app I mentioned earlier comes in handy. It will show you accessible stations and provide critical updates that may affect your journey.
Overground trains are less accessible than the London underground or tube stations.
When Should I Visit London?
The best and worst time to visit London depends on what type of trip you want. If you want the nicest weather, summer is the time to go, however, if you would like fewer crowds, more budget-friendly options, and fair weather, I suggest going in April, May, or September.
How Long Should I Visit London?
Four days in London is a good minimum if you’ve never visited before. However, five days in London will allow you to see more and do at least one day trip. If you live nearby and want a quick 2 days in London as a weekend getaway, it’s a wonderful destination for that as well.
What Do I Need to Pack for a Trip to London?
Packing layers is always a good idea since the weather in London can vary. Additionally, other helpful items include a universal travel adapter and umbrella. For my full list of suggestions, make sure to read my London Trip Packing List post.
Recap on Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in London
I hope that this post on the best wheelchair-accessible things to do in London has helped you plan your trip to this incredible city. I keep coming back and always find new places to explore and think you’ll enjoy the city as much as I do.
