It’s that time of the year again – twinkling lights are being strung along city streets, trees are being festooned in glittering trimmings, and Christmas markets are springing up all across the country. Many of the UK’s best Christmas markets set up shop in the country’s town centres and squares, making for beautiful settings but not necessarily making for the most accessible experience for Disabled visitors. Between cobblestone streets, crowded aisles and rickety stalls creaking under vats of mulled wine and festive trinkets, it can be tricky to manoeuvre around or find your way around easily.
Below, one study reveals the UK’s most accessible Christmas markets to visit this year. The list has been compiled by Cool Crutches & Walking Sticks , a company created to empower those who need support to walk by providing innovative designs and solutions. This year, Bath came in first place – the historic destination may be known for its higgledy-piggledy streets and ancient buildings.
Still, the Somerset city has designed its Christmas market with accessibility in mind. Not only has it catered for wheelchair users and those with poor mobility by incorporating accessible pathways and Blue Badge parking nearby, but there are also accessible rides and a wheelchair-accessible ice rink. There’s even a Quiet Zone for those with cognitive disabilities or sensory sensitivities.
Close runners-up were Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, Manchester’s Christmas Market, and Edinburg.
