The ultimate guide to 35 disability friendly spots worth visiting in Northern Ireland
However, there are lots of great places that house facilities which enable everyone to access the premises, removing the worry that locations won’t be suitable.
From locations of fabulous natural beauty to adrenaline-pumping activity spots, there are a wide variety of places to visit that accommodate everyone.
For beach spots throughout the country, The Mae Murray Foundation seeks to change the lack of accessibility, with the Larne-based charity working with beaches to add disability-friendly facilities through fundraising.
Here are some of the best disability friendly locations that are definitely worth visiting across Northern Ireland.
Additional reporting by Maisie Laughton
For beach spots throughout the country, The Mae Murray Foundation seeks to change the lack of accessibility, with the Larne-based charity working with beaches to add disability-friendly facilities through fundraising.
5. Lagan Valley Island - 1 The Island, Lisburn
The Island Hall in Lisburn is Lagan Valley Island’s biggest performance space. A variety of different events take place here such as musical performances, dance shows, and comedy nights, and big bands and choirs also hold their events here. There is a changing places facility on site meaning that all visitors are welcome to enjoy this stunning space, and they are committed to providing an outstanding model of both fully inclusive and accessible customer service. There is also a number of disabled parking spaces on site, and a disabled access lift, as well as being signed up to the buddy card scheme, which is a scheme that makes it easier for disabled individuals to visit public spaces. Their buddy or helper gets free access to events under this scheme, meaning that a day out is cheaper. Photo: Lagan Valley Island website
6. Orchard Leisure Centre - 37-39 Folly Lane, Armagh
This fantastic leisure centre is designed so that absolutely everyone can enjoy physical activities. Housing two swimming pools and a relaxation suite, which includes a sauna, steam room and jacuzzi, as well as over 35 classes a week and a soft play area, there is something that everyone can enjoy. As well as their changing places facility, there are accessible ways of using all facilities, with helpful members of staff on hand to aid you and your family whenever needed. Photo: Get Active ABC
7. Portadown People’s Park - Portadown
This park has recently undergone a significant refurbishment after securing £5.5 million of funding, regenerating a green space into a park for absolutely everyone to enjoy. The state of the art play park offers something different than most parks, catering not just to small children but also to teenagers. There is also a new pond area that features biodiversity. It also features an Amphitheatre and themed gardens. Visitors will be pleased to know there is a changing facility and disabled toilet available on site. Photo: Unsplash
8. Lanyon Place Train Station - East Bridge Street, Belfast
Formerly known as Central Station, Lanyon Place station makes up one of four train stations serving the citizens of Belfast and beyond. All Translink trains are accessible to wheelchair users via a ramp and also have toilet facilities on board that are wheelchair friendly. However, if an individual requires a changing places facility, there is now one provided in the train station. The station now also has a changing places facility and a lift for wheelchair users who cannot make their way up the flights of stairs inside. It is also worth noting that Translink offers half-price concession travel for individuals with medical conditions and disabilities aged 16-64 years old who meet a certain criteria. Photo: Visit Belfast website