The Rural (East) Accessibility Guide

Updated: July 2010 www.ruraldorset.com 2 Accessibility Guide Welcome Thank you for requesting an accessibility guide to Rural Dorset. Please use it in conjunction with the illustrated Rural Dorset and Days Out Guides to plan a break in our beautiful area. We hope that you will find the guide helpful and informative.

Whilst we have tried to make it as comprehensive as possible, it does not include information on every attraction, accommodation provider, shop, business or organisation in Rural Dorset. In some instances we have had to rely on information provided by the property/business itself, so when planning a visit we recommend that you double check access and facilities in advance to ensure that your individual needs and wishes can be met.

If you would like further assistance in planning a visit contact our staff at the Tourist Information Centre in Wimborne, whose details can be found on the last page.

We look forward to welcoming you to Rural Dorset and hope that you enjoy your visit!

Rural Dorset Tourism

Please forward any comments, reports or feedback to; Rachel Limb, Tourism Officer, East Dorset District Council, Furzehill, Wimborne, BH21 4HN E-mail: [email protected]

Updated May 2010 3 Contents Page

Travel to East Dorset 5

Travel Around East Dorset 6

Wimborne Minster Town Centre Map 9

Car Parking in East Dorset 10

Accommodation

Hotels and Lodges 12

B&B/Guesthouses 14

Self-catering Properties 18

Camping, Caravan & Holiday Parks and Homes 22

Attractions and Related Facilities 25

Other Services of Interest 35

Leisure Time 37

Information Services on Disability Matters in Dorset 38

Accessible Public Toilets in East Dorset 40

Medical Information and Contacts 41

National Accessibility Schemes 42

Further Information 44

4 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Travel to East Dorset Coach Travel National Express Services Routes to Bournemouth and Poole ✆✆ Telephone: 08717 818181 www.nationalexpress.com

Rail Travel The nearest stations are at Poole and Bournemouth. ✆✆ National Rail Enquiries: 08457 48 49 50 Minicom: 0845 6050 600 www.nationalrail.co.uk South West Trains South West Trains Assisted Travel Telephone Line: 0800 5282 100 A travel assistance Freephone service for passengers with impairments to book at least 24 hours in advance of travel ✆✆ Tel: 0845 600 0650 Textphone: 0800 692 0792 www.southwesttrains.co.uk Virgin Trains Journey Care – if you are mobility impaired or have special needs ✆✆ Tel: 08457 443366 Textphone - Text phone users please call: 08457 443367, lines are open 08:00 - 22:00 every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day www.virgintrains.co.uk

Air Two regional airports provide regular scheduled domestic and international flights into the area: Bournemouth International Airport ✆✆ Tel: 01202 364000 www.bournemouthairport.com Southampton International Airport ✆✆ Tel: 0844 481 7777 www.southamptonairport.com

Updated May 2010 5 Travel around East Dorset Buses For general bus information contact Traveline on ✆✆ 0871 200 2233 Minicom Line: 0870 241 2216 www.travelinesw.com Wilts and Dorset Bus Company Wilts & Dorset Bus Company operate modern low-floor easy access buses on the majority of their routes in the area. The buses have space for one wheelchair. They also have built-in ramps to enable wheelchair access directly onto the bus. Assistance dogs are accepted on all routes and are carried free of charge. Many bus shelters now have information displays to countdown to the time of the next bus. A wheelchair symbol is also shown on this display if it is a fully accessible vehicle. www.wdbus.co.uk

Other Bus Companies operating in and around East Dorset: Damory Buses ✆✆ Tel: 01258 452545 Shamrock ✆✆ Tel: 01202 621581 Nordcat ✆✆ Tel: 0845 602 4547 Yellow Buses ✆✆ Tel: 01202 636060 First (re Jurassic Coastlinx Bus, X53 Service) ✆✆ Tel: 0870 010 6022

6 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Taxis - There are currently three fully accessible vehicles available for hire in East Dorset. As they are very popular, they must be pre-booked. They are all licensed to: Minster Cars ✆✆ Tel: 01202 888888 or 888810 The vehicles have ramps for wheelchairs, a side step, revolving back seat and hearing loop system. The vehicles take up to 5 passengers or one wheelchair and 1 or 2 passengers.

Care Car Dorset - www.carecars.co.uk Private hire company supplying travel needs for all disabled people and those unable to drive. Specially converted vehicles. East Dorset District Council registered. Pre-book only. ✆✆ Tel: 01202 895257 Mobile: 07796 990936 Vision Wimborne: Dial a Ride Service Vision Wimborne is a charity aiming to improve life for people living in Wimborne Minster and surrounding areas. This is a dial-a-ride service for people with severe mobility problems and offers door to door transport from home to destination and return. • Two Citroen Berlingos and one Fiat Multipla are specially converted to take a wheelchair passenger in safety and comfort. • Two of the cars are also fitted with a swivel front passenger seat to help those people who have difficulty bending or stooping. • Each vehicle is equipped with seat belts for all passengers. • The wheelchair is securely fixed to the vehicle. • The cars also have a special automatic fire protection system installed. • Dial a Ride provide specially selected and trained volunteer drivers. The drivers receive training in disability awareness, Passengers can go wherever they want. This could be a quick trip to the surgery or shops, or a longer trip to the train station. Donations will be requested based on the mileage and will be agreed on booking. The pick up area was originally restricted to a five mile radius of Wimborne. This has now been extended to cover St. Leonards and West Moors. Please phone if in doubt. ✆✆ To find out more call 01202 880699. Booking desk 9.30am -12.30pm, Monday – Friday. Messages left after 12.30pm cannot be answered until the next working day.

Updated May 2010 7 “Wheels for Freedom” “Wheels for Freedom” is a charity dedicated to giving freedom of movement to those with a walking difficulty. It operates in 6 towns in Dorset. Head Office is at: Poole Town Centre, Level B, Multi-storey Car Park, Kingland Road Service Road, Poole, BH15 1TA Equipment needs to be booked in advance by email or by phoning: ✆✆ Tel: 01202 661770 10am - 3.45pm, Monday to Saturday Email: [email protected] Website: www.pooleshopmobility.org.uk

In East Dorset, manual wheelchairs, electric scooters, and powerchairs are available from two town centres: Allenview Car Park, Allenview Road, Wimborne on Fridays from 9am-3pm Penny’s Lodge Car Park, Ferndown on Thursdays from 9am-3pm

Daily cost Manual wheelchair £3.00 £5.00 refundable of hiring All powered vehicles £6.00 deposit required.

Annual membership of “Wheels for Freedom” is £20.00 This gives members unlimited use of equipment at only £1.00 a time at all six town centres where “Wheels For Freedom” operates. Poole...... Monday to Saturday...... 9.45am – 3.45pm Wimborne...... Fridays only ...... 9am - 3pm Ferndown...... Thursdays only ...... 9am - 3pm Christchurch...... Mondays only ...... 9.45am – 3.45pm Weymouth (Winter)...... Tuesdays only ...... 9.45am – 3.45pm Weymouth (Apr-Sept)...... Tuesdays and Fridays...... 9.45am – 3.45pm Dorchester...... Wednesdays only...... 9.45am – 3.45pm

No scooters will be issued after 3pm.

8 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Figure indicates number of disabled parking spaces

Updated May 2010 9 Car Parking in East Dorset Blue badge holders may park in designated bays where available, as shown below. The badge must be displayed at all times. Blue badge holders must pay unless vehicle is exempt from road fund licence duty.

WIMBORNE CAR PARKS Disabled Spaces Total Spaces Allenview South 4 spaces 94 spaces Allenview North 0 spaces 63 spaces Allenview North Coach/Bus Park 0 spaces 7 (+4 taxi) Allenview West 3 spaces 140 spaces King Street 4 spaces 103 spaces Hanham Road 1 space 28 spaces Park Lane 2 spaces 13 spaces Poole Road 3 spaces 58 spaces Westfield Close 2 spaces 160 spaces Pye Corner 0 spaces 6 spaces Leigh Road 1 space 63 spaces Old Road 0 spaces 43 spaces Walford Mill 2 spaces 48 spaces Deans Court Lane Traders Park 0 spaces 33 spaces Brook Road 0 spaces 14 spaces Supermarket (Somerfield) 4 spaces 77 spaces Rowlands Hill 13 spaces 215 spaces Crown Mead 4 spaces 70 spaces

VERWOOD CAR PARKS Disabled Spaces Total Spaces Ebblake, Blackmoor Road 0 spaces 46 spaces Jenner Close 0 spaces 33 spaces Potters Wheel, Manor Way 7 spaces 103 spaces

OTHER CAR PARKS Disabled Spaces Total Spaces Towers Way, Corfe Mullen 2 spaces 24 spaces Water Street, Cranborne 2 spaces 14 spaces Penny’s Lodge, Ferndown 3 spaces 72 spaces Station Road, Park Way, West Moors 0 spaces 52 spaces

10 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Accommodation

National Accessible Scheme (see p42 for details) The National Accessible Scheme aims to identify those accommodation establishments that provide facilities and/or services for visitors with special needs. The properties are graded using a series of awards, further information on these can be found in the appendix on pages 48 and 49.

At present, Ellwood Cottages, Hartgrove Farm and Houghton Lodge – see pages 17 & 18 for details, are the only accommodation providers in the Rural Dorset area to have been inspected and graded under the National Accessible Scheme. It is hoped that in the future, more accommodation providers in the area will take part in this scheme.

Therefore with the exception of these properties, the accommodation listed on the following pages has not been inspected under the National Accessible Scheme, but the owners have indicated that they have adapted or suitable accommodation for those with special needs. We strongly recommend that you check individual requirements with the establishment before booking.

Updated May 2010 11 Hotels and Lodges The following offer wheelchair access and some facilities for visitors with special needs (not assessed/graded under the National Accessible Scheme).

Premier Inn - National Hotel Chain Premier Inn, Ringwood Road, Tricketts Cross, Ferndown, BH22 9BB ✆✆ Tel: 08701 977102 Fax: 01202 897794 www.premiertravelinn.com • 2 reserved car parking spaces, level entrance • 2 accessible rooms on ground floor with specially adapted en-suite bathrooms • Special ‘pillow alarms’ which alert hearing impaired guests to fire and other alarms, available on request. Rooms also equipped with visual flashing-light fire alarms • Access to reception and specially adapted public telephone facilities on ground floor • Breakfast served at adjacent restaurant which has ramped access and accessible toilet

King’s Head Hotel - National Hotel Chain King’s Head Hotel, The Square, Wimborne, BH21 1JG ✆✆ Tel: 01202 880101 Fax: 01202 881667 www.thekingsheadhotel.com • Accessible toilet on ground floor • 1 reserved car parking space, ramped access from rear car park to reception, bar, lounge and dining facilities on ground floor • Lift to bedrooms, no adapted bedrooms currently available • Braille menus and talking menu

St Leonard’s Hotel - National Hotel Chain St Leonard’s Hotel, Ringwood Road, St Leonards, Ringwood, BH24 2NP ✆✆ Tel: 01425 471220 Fax: 01425 480274 www.st-leonardshotel.com • Hotel restaurant and bar accessible by wheelchair through ramp leading to reception

12 East Dorset Accessibility Guide • Accessible toilet on ground floor • Lift capable of taking wheelchair up to ground floor bedrooms (note; ground floor is split level) • One en-suite bedroom adapted with widened doorways and large bathroom (no special adaptations to bathroom)

City Lodge – The Bridge House Ringwood Road, Ferndown, BH22 9AN ✆✆ Tel: 01202 578828 Email: [email protected] www.citylodge.biz • 11 bedrooms on the ground floor - however the bathrooms are not adapted for wheelchair access

Premier Inn – National Hotel Chain Poole North, Cabot Lane, Poole BH17 7DA ✆✆ Tel: 0870 990 6332 Fax: 0870 990 6333 www.premierinn.com • 7 reserved car parking spaces, level entrance. • 7 accessible rooms on ground floor with specially adapted bathrooms (no showers or wet rooms). • Special pillow alarms, which alert hearing impaired guests to fire and other alarms, available on request. Rooms also equipped with visual flashing light fire alarms.

Charlton Inn – Hall & Woodhouse Charlton Marshall, Blandford, DT11 9NH ✆✆ Tel: 01258 453160 www.thecharltoninn.co.uk Can provide “custom built accommodation with level and wide access, an en-suite shower and wet room with grab rails and handles”.

Holiday Inn Express – National Chain Walking Fields Lane, Poole, BH15 1RZ ✆✆ Tel: 01202 649222 www.exhipoole.co.uk • Full access for disabled guests • One room with open plan shower for disabled access

Updated May 2010 13 Guesthouses and Bed and Breakfast At the current time we have only one B&B property with specially adapted facilities for a wheelchair user, or someone with impaired mobility.

South View Guest House (VB ) (has one single fully accessible room) Mrs Bailey, South View, Ringwood Road, , Wimborne, BH21 6QY ✆✆ Tel: 01202 813746 Mobile: 0774 313 8592 £40 per person per night Single room on ground floor with wheelchair access and en-suite accessible wet room. This property also has 2 double/twin en-suite rooms which are not specially adapted.

The following properties offer ground floor bedrooms. (Not assessed/graded under the National Accessible Scheme)

Bless This Nest Janet Churchill, 21 Moorside Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, BH21 3NB ✆✆ Tel: 01202 602534 Mobile: 07867 554753 Email: [email protected] www.blessthisnest.co.uk £35.00- £45.00 per person per night

Bow Cottage Janet Vause, 76 Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, BH21 3LG ✆✆ Tel: 01202 693394 From £30.00 per person per night

Carey (VB  ) Mrs M Russell, 11 Southern Avenue, West Moors, Ferndown, BH22 0BJ ✆✆ Tel: 01202 861159 Email:[email protected] £30.00 - £35.00 per person per night

14 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Crick Hollow Mr and Mrs Dyer, 207 Ringwood Road, St Leonards, Ringwood, BH24 2QA ✆✆ Tel: 01202 897337 Mobile: 07788 924177 Email: [email protected] From £30.00 per person per night, £5 surcharge for single occupancy

Elms Lodge (VB Gold Award) Mrs Claire Kearley, 7 Cogdean Way, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, BH21 3XD ✆✆ Tel: 01202 699669 Mobile: 07826 730471 E-mail: [email protected] www.elmslodge.co.uk From £30 per person per night

Highlea Mr and Mrs Holford, Highlea, Haythorne, Horton, Wimborne, BH21 7JG ✆✆ Tel: 01258 840054 Mobile: 07739 045593 E-mail: [email protected] www.bandb-highlea.co.uk From £30 per person per night

Honey Lodge (VB Silver Award) Mrs Laycock, 41 Dunyeats Road, Broadstone, BH18 8AB ✆✆ Tel: 01202 694247 Mobile: 07752 647408 Email:[email protected] www.honeylodge.co.uk From £30.00 per person per night

Kenways (AA ) Mrs Osbourne, 90A Wareham Road, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, BH21 3LQ ✆✆ Tel: 01202 694655 Mobile: 07709 309954 Email: [email protected] www.kenways.com From £30.00 - £35.00 per person per night

Updated May 2010 15 Linden Lea (VB Silver Award) Mr and Mrs Fraser, Higher Merley Lane, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne, BH21 3EG ✆✆ Tel: 01202 886215 Mobile: 07775 921947 Email: [email protected] www.linden-lea.co.uk From £35.00 per person per night

Little Paddock (VB Silver Award) Mr and Mrs Jones, 218 Hurn Road, Matchams, Ringwood, BH24 2BT ✆✆ Tel: 01425 470889 E-mail: [email protected] www.little-paddock.com From £35 - £60 per person per night

The Log Cabin Anita Moralee, September Cottage, 12 Dogdean, Wimborne, BH21 4HA ✆✆ Tel: 01202 882664 Mobile: 07564 241227 From £40 per person per night

Oaklea Mrs Rider, 38 Wimborne Road West, Wimborne, BH21 2DP ✆✆ Tel: 01202 889357 Mobile: 07790 662489 From £25.00 per person per night

Thatch Cottage (VB ) Mr and Mrs Forster, Ringwood Road, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, BH21 6QY ✆✆ Tel: 01202 822042 Mobile: 07855 531674 Email: [email protected] www.thatch-cottage.co.uk £85.00 - £100.00 per room, per night (Single in double room £50.00 - £60.00 per night)

16 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Vernon (VB ) Mr & Mrs Rendell, 96 Blandford Road North, Beacon Hill, Poole, BH16 6AD ✆✆ Tel: 01202 625185 Email: [email protected] www.vernonguesthouse.co.uk From £22 per person per night (single from £32)

Updated May 2010 17 Self-Catering Properties National Accessible Scheme Assessed and Graded (See p48 & 49)

Ellwood Cottages (VB ) Mr & Mrs Heath, Ellwood Cottages, Woolland, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0ES ✆✆ Tel: 01258 818196 Email: [email protected] www.ellwoodcottages.co.uk Luxurious self-catering holiday accommodation all year round for less able- bodied guests and their families. Three tastefully furnished cottages, sleeping 3, 4 and 6 in a courtyard setting in lovingly restored single storey former farm buildings. Cottages have ‘wet-room’ style shower rooms and W.C’s with side access. Everywhere is fully wheelchair accessible. A mobile hoist and other aids are provided at no additional cost. Open all year. Prices range from £300 to £900 per cottage per week, and include all linen, towels, electricity, hot water and heating For further information please visit the website.

Grange Holiday Cottages Grange, Wimborne, BH21 4HX ✆✆ Tel: 01202 884426 Mobile: 07789 503343 www.grangeholidaycottages.co.uk Grange Holiday Cottages in rural Dorset have been created by converting redundant barns, an old granary and two farm workers cottages into holiday accommodation. Three of the cottages enjoy a courtyard setting, all bedrooms are en-suite with level entry shower facilities and are furnished to a high standard. They are well-equipped, with independent wheelchair access and facilities for the disabled. They have beamed open plan living/ dining areas and wood burning stoves.

18 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Houghton Lodge (VB ) Lucy Fiander, Houghton Lodge, Winterborne Houghton, Blandford, DT11 0PE ✆✆ Tel: 01258 882170 Mobile: 07787 774628 Email: [email protected] www.houghtonlodge.com Houghton Lodge is set in the beautiful Dorset Downs yet just a short drive from the Jurassic Coast and seaside towns of Poole, Bournemouth and Weymouth. Accessible accommodation with a touch of luxury for the whole family. Large wheel-in wet room. Indoor pool with hoist (available from 8.30am to 12.30pm daily), infra-red sauna, hydrotherapy hot tub, accessible gardens and patios. 1 unit sleeping up to 10 guests - 4 ground floor bedrooms - 2 suitable for guests with disabilities, 1 large fully accessible wet room. Please visit website for further information. Open all year. Prices: Low Season - Short breaks from £1195, weekly from £1795; High Season - weekly from £2,795

Updated May 2010 19 The following self-catering properties offer ground floor bedrooms, but not assessed/graded under the National Accessible Scheme.

Alderholt Mill (VB) Mr and Mrs Harte, Alderholt Mill, Sandleheath Road, Alderholt, Hants, SP6 1PU ✆✆ Tel: 01425 653130 Fax: 01425 653130 Email: [email protected] www.alderholtmill.co.uk Open All Year. £240 - £620 per week. 3 units sleeping 2-6

The Bungalow (in West Moors) (VB) Mrs Leach, c/o 22 West Drive, Cheam, Surrey, SM2 7NA ✆✆ Tel: 0208 241 7498 Mobile: 07958 209493 Email: [email protected] www.bournemouth1.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk Open May - September. £235 - £417 per week. Sleeps 5 + cot

Church Farm (VB) Andrew Ross, West Parley, Ferndown, BH22 8TR ✆✆ Tel: 01202 579515 Fax: 01202 591763 www.churchfarmcottages.co.uk Open All Year. £200- £450 per unit per week (4 units sleeping 2-6)

Forester’s Cottage & Keepers Cottage (VB 4 & 5) Mrs Baylis, Cottage Farm, Verwood Road, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, BH21 6RN ✆✆ Tel: 01202 820203 Mobile: 07929 375944 Email: [email protected] www.foresterscottages.co.uk Open All Year. £300 - £770 per week. Sleeps 2 - 5 + cot

Fripps and Sunset Cottages (VB) Helen Edbrooke, c/o 2 Rowlands Hill, Wimborne, BH21 1AN ✆✆ Tel: 01202 884908 Mobile: 07905 820687 Email: [email protected] www.wimbornecottages.co.uk Open All Year. £280 - £820 per week. Sleeps 4 + 1 20 East Dorset Accessibility Guide The Gables (VB) Mrs J Priest, Verwood Road, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne, BH21 6RW ✆✆ Tel: 01202 821322 Email: [email protected] www.rural-dorset-holidays.com Open All Year. £200 - £325 per week. Sleeps 2

Old Down Cottage (VB) Mrs P Davidson, Old Down House, Horton, Wimborne, BH21 7HL ✆✆ Tel/Fax: 01258 840969 Mobile: 07765 404248 Email: [email protected] www.olddown.co.uk Open All Year. £441 - £1,113 per week. Sleeps 6

The Old Exchange (VB) Mr and Mrs Holland, The Old Exchange, Witchampton Lane, Witchampton, Wimborne, BH21 5AF ✆✆ Tel: 01258 840809 Email: [email protected] www.theoldexchange.co.uk Open All Year. £260 - £360 per week. Sleeps 2

Parkfield Cottage (VB ) Michael and Karen Royles, 1 Parkfield, Newton Road, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4BT ✆✆ Tel: 01258 857804 Email: [email protected] www.parkfieldcottage.sturminstermarshall.co.uk Open All Year. £275 - £375 per week. Sleeps 4 + cot

West Farm Lodges (VB) Mr and Mrs R J Froud, West Farm, Verwood, BH31 7LE ✆✆ Tel: 01202 822263 Email: [email protected] www.westfarmholidays.co.uk Open All Year - From £17 per person per night (4 units sleeping 4 in each)

Updated May 2010 21 Camping, Caravan and Holiday Parks and Homes Parks and sites with some facilities for Visitors with Special Needs (Not assessed/graded under the National Accessible Scheme) It is always advisable to check individual requirements directly with the park, before booking.

Church Farm Caravan & Camping Site (AA) (VB) Mr S Judd, Church Farm Caravan and Camping Park, Church Farm, Sixpenny Handley, Salisbury, SP5 5ND ✆✆ Tel: 01725 553005 Mobile: 07990 603289 Or: 07766 677525 Email: [email protected] www.churchfarmcandcpark.co.uk • Quiet, family farm site in the heart of the Cranborne Chase, central position for touring. Heated amenity block and free showers. • Easy access to pitches on tarmac and marked paths • Toilet and shower block includes an accessible suite with shower, sink and toilet • Level access to washing up area • Rates from £6.50 - £8 per adult per night

Shamba Holidays (AA) (VB) 230 Ringwood Road, St Leonards, Ringwood, BH24 2SB ✆✆ Tel: 01202 873302 Fax: 01202 873392 E-mail: [email protected] www.shambaholidays.co.uk • Family run park close to the New Forest and Bournemouth. Excellent facilities including heated pool, new clubhouse and games room, shop and takeaway. • Completely level site. • Ramped access to games room, clubhouse, reception, shop, toilet and shower room, wash up area and laundrette and swimming facilities • Dedicated toilet and shower facilities for the disabled in main toilet/ shower block and in main clubhouse. • Information centre on level.

22 East Dorset Accessibility Guide • Paths/tracks, all wheelchair friendly. • Loo of the Year Award 2006, 2007 and 2008. • Bournemouth Tourism Award 2007 - Highly Commended. Holiday Camping & Caravanning Park of the Year Award 2008 - Highly Commended.

Shorefield Holidays Forest Edge Touring Park (VB ) Oakdene Forest Park (VB ) Merley Court Touring Park (VB ) ✆✆ Tel: 01590 648331 Email: [email protected] www.shorefield.co.uk • Reception staff happy to accept type-talk calls. • Disabled parking available in close proximity to reception at all parks. • Assistance dogs welcome in selected pet friendly units and permitted in shops/clubs. • Oakdene Forest Park offers a 4 berth luxury caravan designed for wheelchair users, with level access shower and lowered oven and sink, wide access doors and ramp, dedicated parking area. Most of the park is flat parkland. • Oakdene also has dropped kerbs throughout the park, accessible toilet facilities in the clubhouse and access and disabled changing area and toilet at the swimming pool. • Forest Edge Holiday Park has one male and one female accessible toilet and shower, the park is mainly flat, level parkland. • Merley Court Touring Park has a purpose built disabled suite, including shower, toilet and wash basin, the park is mainly flat, level parkland.

Wilksworth Farm Caravan Park (AA)(VB) Cranborne Road, Wimborne Minster, BH21 4HW ✆✆ Tel: 01202 885467 Email: [email protected] www.wilksworthfarmcaravanpark.co.uk • A popular, attractive family park set in the grounds of a listed house with outdoor heated pool. • Refurbished toilet block includes fully accessible shower room, with toilet, sink and shower.

Updated May 2010 23 • Ramp access to reception/shop. • Ramp to games room and tea room (but both doorways have high threshold). • Level access to dishwashing area. • Step up into laundry. • A family bathroom. • A disabled wetroom.

Woolsbridge Manor Farm Caravan Park (AA) Mrs Linda Johnson, Three Legged Cross, Wimborne Minster, BH21 6RA ✆✆ Tel: 01202 826369 Fax: 01202 820603 Email: [email protected] www.woolsbridgemanorcaravanpark.co.uk • The caravan park is part of a family run working farm, level and well sheltered in a quiet country setting. Very spacious pitches (all with electrical hook up). “We offer modern well equipped facilities - cleanliness is a priority”. • Fully accessible shower room with shower, toilet and sink. • Step over threshold into reception/shop. • Level, open access to dishwashing area. • Step up into laundry.

24 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Attractions & Related Facilities Avon Heath Country Park Brocks Pine, St Leonards, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2DA ✆✆ Tel: 01425 478470 580 acres of heathland and woodland offer many way- marked trails varying in length between three quarters of a mile and two miles. The park has a children’s playground, café and Visitor Centre. The Visitor Centre has a gift shop, exhibitions, maps of the park, activity trails for families, computer games and competitions for children. Open: 2010-2011 • Visitor Centre opens daily 11am - 4pm, except 25 & 26 Dec & 1 Jan. • Park open daily 8.00am - 5.00pm (or dusk - whichever is sooner). • Free entry (parking charges apply.) Access and facilities • Hearing loop in Visitors Centre. • 4 disabled parking spaces and free parking for disabled visitors displaying blue badge. • Level access to Visitor Centre, café and toilets. • Accessible toilet. • Automatic doors on Visitor Centre and hand rails at entrance. • 3⁄4 mile gravel track - suitable for some wheelchairs and scooters - depending upon the individual and the wheelchair. • Indoor bird hide with viewing over wildlife area, accessible via Visitor Centre.

Deans Court Garden Deans Court, Wimborne, BH21 1EE Thirteen peaceful acres on the River Allen near the centre of town, with large specimen trees. Herb and rose gardens and a walled kitchen garden with long serpentine wall. Chemical- free produce usually for sale on open days. Free parking. Assistance dogs only. Groups welcome by written appointment. Open: Contact the Estate Office on 01202 880515. Admission Charge: £4.00, Children (under 15) free. Access and facilities Please telephone Estate Office on 01202 880515 to request parking for disabled visitors and to discuss your individual requirements prior to your visit.

Updated May 2010 25 Dorset Heavy Horse Centre and Farm Park Edmondsham, Verwood, BH21 5RJ ✆✆ Tel: 01202 824040 www.dorset-heavy-horse-centre.co.uk Fascinating daily shows for all ages. Wagon and tractor rides. Hands-on with the friendly farm animals, pony rides, blacksmith’s workshop, gypsy wagons, Romany talks, straw play barn, go-karts and more. New café, gift shop. Your visit supports over 25 rescued heavy horses. Open: 2010 1 April to 31 October (plus Christmas event), daily 10am - 5pm Admission Charge: Adults £7.75, Concession £6.75, Child (2-14 yrs) £6.75, Family (2+2) £25.95 Access and facilities • Heavy Horse Centre is completely wheelchair accessible, with level concrete paths. • 1 accessible toilet • Special Needs Co-ordinator.

Dreamboats Riverside Point, Off Station Road, Wimborne ✆✆ Tel: 07794 507001 Email: [email protected] www.dream-boats.org.uk Rowing boats for hire by the hour or half hour on the tranquil River Stour. Electric motor boat also available for non-rowers. Open 2010: Opening day 1st May. Boats available weekends, public holidays and school holidays, 11am - 5pm.

Edmondsham House & Gardens Edmondsham, Wimborne, BH21 5RE ✆✆ Tel: 01725 517207 Fine Tudor Manor House with Georgian additions, Victorian stables and dairy. This is a family home and a conducted tour of the House is given by the owner. A 12th century church is nearby. Six-acre garden with unusual mature trees and lawns with a delightful walled organic garden with herbaceous borders.

26 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Open: 2010 • House & Gardens: Bank Holiday Mondays and Wednesdays during April & October, 2pm - 5pm. • Gardens only: Wednesdays and Sundays, April to October, 2pm - 5pm. • Admission Charge: House & Gardens, adults from £5 and children £1. Gardens only, adults from £2.50 and children 50p, under 5’s free. Access and facilities Please telephone Mrs Julia Smith (Owner) in advance to discuss individual requirements: 01725 517207.

Honeybrook Cranborne Road, Wimborne, BH21 4JD ✆✆ Tel: 01202 881120 www.honeybrook.org Butchers, bakery, dairy, café and country park with river, meadows, outdoor ranger, children’s playground and activities. Open: 2010 Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holiday Mondays, 9.30am - 5.00pm (May vary in Winter) Access and facilities • Special paths for wheelchairs and pushchairs around the farmyard. • Wheelchair access to shop and tearoom. • Accessible toilets for wheelchair users. • Note; Some of the grounds are gravelled, parking is available near the shop/tearoom. • Parking charges may apply.

Kingston Lacy House (National Trust) Blandford Road, Wimborne, BH21 4EA ✆✆ Tel: 01202 883402 Email: [email protected] www.nationaltrust.org.uk Glorious 17th century House with an outstanding collection of paintings. Gardens, woodland walks and children’s woodland play areas. Shop and restaurant.

Updated May 2010 27 Open: 2010 House: 13 March to 31 October, Wed to Sun (and Bank Holidays), 11am - 5pm. Garden and Park: 13 March to 31 October, daily 10.30am - 6.00pm 1 November to 23 December, Monday to Sunday, 10.30am-4pm. Admission Charge 2010: • House, Garden and Park: £10.50 adults, £5.25 children & £30 family ( 2 adults & 3 children) • Garden and Park: £5.25 adults, £2.70 children & £13.00 family ( 2 adults & 3 children) Access and facilities • Parking: in main car park, 30yds. Visitors reception at top of moderate slope. Buggy transfer to house available. • Building: Steps to entrance. Ground floor has 4 steps internally. Stairs with handrail to other floors. 1 extra access day for disabled visitors; please telephone the property for details. Note: 97 steps from entrance to attics. • WC’s: Adapted WC in Laundry courtyard. • Grounds: Partly accessible, loose gravel paths. 4 wheelchairs. 2 single-seater PMV’s, booking essential. • Accessibility Days (Tractor & Trailer Rides): Throughout the season Kingston Lacy has events for visitors who experience difficulties accessing some aspects of the property. The tours in the park, gardens and around the wider estate are by a specially adapted trailer which can take both wheelchairs and standard seats, so carers can travel alongside wheelchair users and those with mobility difficulties. Please call 01202 883402 or 0844 800 1895 for further information. • Induction loop in reception, shop, restaurant.

Knoll Gardens and Nursery Stapehill Road, Hampreston, Wimborne, BH21 7ND ✆✆ Tel: 01202 873931 Email: [email protected] www.knollgardens.co.uk Glorious, secluded garden of international plantsman Neil Lucas, the UK’s leading authority on ornamental grasses. Showcase for naturalistic style; unusual shrubs and trees; rare and native species. 8 Chelsea Gold Medals. Nursery.

28 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Open: 2010-2011 May to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 10am - 5pm November to April, Wednesday to Saturday, 10am - 4pm Closed 19 December 2010 to 2 February 2011. Admissions Charge: Adults £5.50, Concessions £4.75, Disabled Person and Helper - £1 off each appropriate admission charge, Child (age 5-15) £4.00. Access and facilities • 3 designated parking spaces (gravel car park). • Toilet with hand rails for wheelchair users. • Manual wheelchair available - most of the gardens are accessible to those accompanied by an able-bodied helper, some gravel paths. • Assistance dogs welcome. • Large print visitor information.

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2ET ✆✆ Tel: 01425 470721 Email: [email protected] www.moors-valley.co.uk Enjoy great family days out at this renowned Country Park with walks, cycle trails, narrow-gauge railway, golf course, adventure Play Trail, Go Ape High Wire Adventure and numerous events and activities. Open: 2010-2011 Daily, except Christmas day, 8am to dusk (8pm latest). Admission Charge: Charges are per car and vary through the year. Maximum daily charge in 2010 is £8.00 per car per day. Access and facilities • The footpaths around the Moors and Crane lakes, the play trail and in the vicinity of the Visitor Centre are tarmac or compacted gravel and so are fairly good for wheelchairs and pushchairs. • There are regular resting points provided wherever possible. The restaurant, country shop and golf course are accessible to wheelchairs and wheelchair accessible picnic tables can be found in the car park and main picnic area.

Updated May 2010 29 • A wheelchair is available to borrow from the visitor centre. Two battery powered scooters, donated by the Wimborne and Ferndown Lions club is also available to borrow. These should be booked in advance to avoid disappointment (£50 deposit required), please telephone 01425 470721. • Trandems – basically a bike with a wheelchair on the front - are also available to borrow from the cycle hire centre, allocated on a first come first served basis (£50 deposit required). • A platform to enable people in wheelchairs to fish is located on the Moors Lake (Note: At times of high water this platform may be submerged). A trail orienteering course allows wheelchair users or people with mobility problems to take part in the sport. • New toilet block in Visitor Centre includes two accessible and one ambulant disabled toilet - one of accessible toilets will be changing places style with changing bench, hoist and space for carers. • Disabled parking bays - parking is free for persons with vehicles that are tax exempt. (Take a ticket on entry and then call in at the Information Point with your tax disc to claim your free parking pass.) Disabled (orange/ blue) badge holders pay normal car park charges.

Priest’s House Museum & Garden 23-27 High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HR ✆✆ Tel: 01202 882533 Email: [email protected] www.priest-house.co.uk The Priest’s House is an historic town house dating from the 16th century. This Grade II* listed building retains many original architectural features. This fascinating building also houses the Priest’s House Museum, with displays covering the rich local history and archaeology of East Dorset. Open: 2010-2011 April to October, Monday to Saturday, 10am - 4.30pm. Admission Charge: Adults £3.50, Concession £2.50, Children £1, Family (2+3) £8.50 Access and facilities • The museum has no parking facility, however, there is coach and car parking in Wimborne. • Ground floor and garden accessible to wheelchair users. • Toilet on ground floor suitable for wheelchair users with assistance. • Large print and audio version of information.

30 East Dorset Accessibility Guide • DVD containing information on the upstairs galleries available to view. • Inductive loop system available at front desk. • Assistance dogs welcome. • If you require further information or assistance regarding accessibility, please let the Curators know.

The Minster Church of Saint Cuthburga High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HT ✆✆ Tel: 01202 884753 www.wimborneminster.org.uk An historical Minster church on a site where worship has taken place for 1300 years. Full of curiosities including the beautiful Astronomical Clock, the unique Chained Library founded in 1686 and the ‘Quarter Jack’ on the West Tower. Gift shop inside Minister Church. Open 2010: Minster: Monday to Saturday, 9.30am - 5.30pm. Sundays, 2.30pm - 5.30pm. Please note entry is restricted on occasions for special services and events. The Minster usually closes at 12 noon on the Bank Holidays following Christmas, and on New Year’s Day. From Christmas to end of February the Minster closes at 4pm. Chained Library: Easter to the end of October, Monday to Friday, 10.30am - 12.30pm & 2pm - 4pm. Saturday, 10.00am - 12.30pm. Winter - Saturdays only. 10.00am - 12.30pm Please apply to the Church Office on 01202 884753 for other times or tour bookings. Free Entry, donations welcomed. Access and facilities • Parking spaces can be made available if requested in advance. • Please contact Parish Office on 01202 884753 to discuss individual requirements before visiting. • Main body of church is fully accessible. • Crypt, Presbytery, and Chained Library are not accessible, however a DVD player showing the interior of the Chained Library is continually playing. • Shop fully accessible. • Assistance dogs welcome.

Updated May 2010 31 Verwood Heathland Heritage Centre Manor Way, Verwood, BH31 6HF ✆✆ Tel: 01202 822658 www.verwoodheritage.org Mini-museum with coffee/tea and gift shop. Verwood Heathland Heritage Centre is the last remaining workshop/drying shed of Verwood’s once numerous potteries, restored and containing information on the pottery plus changing exhibitions of local historical interest. Craft events. Open: 2010-2011 Monday to Saturday, 9.30am - 12 noon and Sunday 2pm - 4pm. There is no entrance charge to the coffee and gift shop, but a small entrance charge is made for the museum and some exhibitions. Access and facilities • Wheelchair access to all public areas of the building. Please contact the Centre in advance to discuss your individual requirements.

Walford Mill Craft Centre Stone Lane, Wimborne, BH21 1NL ✆✆ Tel: 01202 841400 Fax: 01202 841460 Email: [email protected] www.walfordmillcrafts.co.uk For the best in contemporary craft and design, visit Walford Mill Craft Centre. There are exhibitions throughout the year in the gallery, high quality craftwork in the shop and on-site makers. There is an on-site Bistro and regular craft workshops. Open: 2010 Monday to Saturday, 10am - 5pm and Sunday 11am - 4pm. Free Entry. Access and facilities • Please ring bell in the courtyard or ask a member of staff if you require any assistance at all. • The car park is about 50m from the entrance and the nearest 2 places are reserved for cars displaying a disabled badge.Drivers may drive into the courtyard to set down disabled passengers but should use the adjacent car park. Disabled drivers may park in the courtyard. • There are wheelchair accessible toilets.

32 East Dorset Accessibility Guide • Ramp into exhibition gallery. Exhibition catalogue and other information are available in large print on request. Seating in the gallery. • Access into lower level of shop via permanent ramp. • Lift to higher level of shop. • Lift to silk weaver’s workshop. • Induction loop at shop counter. • Ramp into restaurant. Some tables in the outdoor courtyard are designed for use by wheelchair users.

White Mill (National Trust) Sturminster Marshall, Wimborne, BH21 4BX ✆✆ Tel: 01258 858051 Email: [email protected] www.whitemill.org/nationaltrust/whitemill 18th century lowland watermill with earlier wooden machinery in a delightful spot on the River Stour and close to Dorset’s oldest bridge. Part of the National Trust Kingston Lacy Estate. Admission by guided tour, booking essential. Open: 2010 27 March to 31 October, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holiday Mondays, 12 - 5pm. Last admission 30 minutes before closing, last tour 4pm. Admission Charge: £3 for adults and £2 for children. NT members free. Access and facilities • Separate parking. Wheelchair accessible transfer. • Ramped entrance. • Ground floor has steps, ramp available. • Many stairs with handrail to other floors. • No WC. • Hard gravel paths, slopes.

Wimborne Market All Enquiries: Ensors, 1 Poole Road, Wimborne, BH21 1QA ✆✆ Tel: 01202 841212 Mobile: 07710 841212 ✆✆ Tel: 01305 260800 (Wednesdays only) www.ensors.uk.com No trip to the area is complete without a visit to the famous Wimborne Market and Grand Bazaar, with over 400 stalls under one roof.

Updated May 2010 33 Every Friday, 8am – 2pm Large general market, bric-a-brac and collectibles and farmers market. Every Saturday, 8am – 1pm The largest car boot and flea market in the south. Every Sunday, 9am – 4pm Massive open and covered market. Access and facilities • Large adjacent car park with designated disabled parking spaces. • Market is all on one level with tarmac and concrete floors/paths.

Wimborne Model Town and Gardens King Street, Wimborne, BH21 1DY ✆✆ Tel: 01202 881924 www.wimborne-modeltown.com The superb 1/10th scale models of the town centre of historic Wimborne Minster are an exact replica of how the town looked in the 1950s. The many shop windows show in minute detail the goods and services available to local folk in the post war years. Truly fascinating. Open: 2010 Daily, 26 March to 31 October, daily, 10am - 5pm. Admission: £4.50 adults, £4 OAPs and £3.50 children (3-15 years). Children under 3 free. Access and facilities • We endeavour to be fully disabled friendly. • Accessible toilet. • There are two wheelchairs on site at all times if required. • Assistance dogs welcome. • Sorry we cannot accept payment by plastic cards.

34 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Other Services of Interest Allendale House East Dorset Heritage Trust & Community Learning Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne, BH21 1AS ✆✆ Tel/Fax: 01202 888992 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.edht.org.uk • Allendale House offers a range of learning opportunities in East Dorset and provides a superb venue for meetings and conferences. • A programme of events open to anyone including talks, guided walks and special events. • Computers. • Courses with tutors in small groups covering all abilities from absolute beginners to competent users. • Use a computer to help with: book keeping, tracing your ancestors, improving your English. • Courses to help improve English or French. • Occasional literature study days.

Access and facilities • 2 disabled parking spaces close to the House. • Ramp to the right of the main entrance, leading to separate entrance with entry buzzer and intercom. • 2 wheelchair accessible toilets, with hand rails and emergency alarms. • Wheelchair accessible lift. • Large print visitor information available on request. • Inductive Loop System. • Computer keyboards and special mice for use of disabled visitors. • Assistance dogs welcome. • Tractor and trailer built for wheelchair users available at a number of venues. Contact Sarah Evans for details: 01202 888992.

Updated May 2010 35 Community Learning & Resource Centre (CLaRC) 41-44 King Street, Wimborne, BH21 1EB ✆✆ Tel: 01202 847602/847600 www.dcawimbornelearning.org.uk • Centre open Monday - Friday, 9am - 4.30pm • Situated next to the Minster in Wimborne, the CLaRC is a tastefully converted Victorian School that now provides an atmospheric and enjoyable venue for people to meet and learn. The CLaRC has its own café and is adjacent to a town centre car park. The Centre has 5 rooms available for hire which are ideally suited to Training, Conferences, Seminars and Meetings. Café open school term time only, Monday to Thursday 9am to 2pm. Access and facilities • Powered entrance door wide enough for wheelchair access. • “We are a single floor premises and are on level ground with the exception of some of the entry points, which have ramps” • All access points within the building satisfy current regulations and have been approved by wheelchair users. • A designated toilet suitable for wheelchair users and other physically impaired visitors. • Hearing loops fitted in reception and in 3 of the 5 training rooms. • Portable hearing loops available for remaining rooms, please ask at reception. • Wireless Internet available at front of building, café and in 2 of the training rooms.

36 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Leisure Centres in East Dorset Queen Elizabeth Leisure Centre, Wimborne ✆✆ 01202 888208 www.qe-leisure-centre.co.uk Ferndown Leisure Centre, Ferndown ✆✆ 01202 877468 Verwood Leisure Centre, Verwood ✆✆ 01202 821007 www.verwoodleisure.co.uk Local Theatres and Cinemas Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne ✆✆ 01202 885566 www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk Layard Theatre, Canford School ✆✆ 01202 847525 www.canford.com Barrington Theatre, Ferndown ✆✆ 01202 894858 www.barringtoncentre.co.uk The Hub, Verwood ✆✆ 01202 828740 www.thehubverwood.co.uk Lighthouse Centre for the Arts, Poole ✆✆ 0870 066 8701 www.lighthousepoole.co.uk Bournemouth Theatres ✆✆ 0844 576 3000 www.bic.co.uk Empire Cinema, Tower Park, Poole ✆✆ 0871 471 4714 www.empirecinemas.co.uk GALA Bingo, Tower Park, Poole ✆✆ 01202 739989

Updated May 2010 37 Information Services on Disability Matters in Dorset Disability Wessex Centre for Independent Living Registered Office, Unit 5, Ground Floor, Stratfield Saye, 20-22 Wellington Road, Bournemouth, BH8 8JN ✆✆ Tel: 01202 589991 Typetalk welcome Textphone: 01202 293940 E-mail: [email protected] www.disabilitywessex.org.uk Office open Monday to Friday, 10am - 4pm. Phone line only Monday to Friday,10am - 1pm. Autistic Spectrum Service: ✆✆ 01202 312085, 10am - 4pm, phone line or email: [email protected]. Appointments by arrangement.

NorDDiS Covering all Dorset for information on equipment hire and purchase, accessible holiday accommodation, transport, mobility, benefits, home visits. 1 Newbury Court, Gillingham, SP8 4QX ✆✆ Tel: 01747 821010 Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm Saturday, 9.30am - 1pm www.norddis.org.uk E-mail: [email protected]

Dorset Blind Association Sight and Hearing Centre – A centre displaying equipment and providing information for people with sight and hearing difficulties. 17 Bournemouth Road, Lower Parkstone, Poole, BH14 0EF ✆✆ Tel: 01202 712860 www.dorsetblind.org.uk Email: [email protected] Monday to Friday, 9.30am -12 noon. There is wheelchair access with parking available in front of the premises.

38 East Dorset Accessibility Guide East Dorset Sight and Sound Centre At Hanham Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne Wednesday mornings 10.00am - 12.30pm ✆✆ Tel: 01202 877445 Textphone: 01202 828262

The Dorset Association for the Disabled Affiliated to RADAR. Provides additional services and social amenities for Disabled People in Dorset. 34A High West Street, Dorchester, DT1 1UP ✆✆ Tel: 01305 266969 www.dorsetdisabled.co.uk E-mail: [email protected]

Updated May 2010 39 Accessible Public Toilets in East Dorset RADAR systems are in the following toilets: Cook Row, Wimborne: Open 24 hours 7 days a week Hanham Road, Wimborne: Open 7am – 6pm, Mon to Sat Towers Way, Corfe Mullen: Open 8.30am – 6pm, Mon to Sat Library Road, Ferndown: Open 6.30am – 6pm, Mon to Sat Manor Road, Verwood: Open 7am – 6pm, Mon to Sat

Without RADAR systems: Christchurch Road, West Parley: Open 8.30am – 6pm, Mon to Sat Parkway, West Moors: Open 8.30am – 6pm, Mon to Sat

RADAR keys are available from most Tourist Information Centres for a small fee, or free for local residents of East Dorset from East Dorset District Council Technical Services Secretariat.

Dorset Loo Guide is a free pocket size booklet available from: The Dorset Association for the Disabled 34A High West Street, Dorchester, DT1 1UP ✆✆ Tel: 01305 266969 E-mail: [email protected]

40 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Medical Information and Contacts British Red Cross - Medical Loan Centres Please call 0845 331 3331 for details of opening times and locations.

Emergency Services The nearest Accident & Emergency Departments to the East Dorset area are: Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Longfleet Road, Poole, BH15 2JB ✆✆ Tel: 01202 665511 www.poole.nhs.uk Emergency Reception Tel: 01202 442202 Royal Bournemouth General Hospital Castle Lane East, Bournemouth, BH7 7DW ✆✆ Tel: 01202 303626 24 Hour Accident & Emergency Department. Accident Centre ✆✆ Tel: 01202 704167 Victoria Hospital Minor Injuries Unit Victoria Hospital, Victoria Road, Wimborne, BH21 1ER ✆✆ Tel: 01202 858200 Monday to Friday 8.30am - 6.30pm (NB. X-Ray Department closes at 4pm.) Closed weekends and all Bank Holidays including Good Friday.

Emergency Dental Services for holidaymakers and unregistered patients in East Dorset are available at: Dorset Dental Helpline ✆✆ Tel: 01202 854443 Urgent Care Service ✆✆ Tel: 0845 701 0401

Updated May 2010 41 The National Accessible Scheme VisitEngland’s National Accessible Scheme for accommodation includes standards for hearing and visually impaired guests in addition to standards for guests with mobility impairment. VisitEngland has a variety of accessible accommodation in its scheme, and the different accessible ratings will help you choose the one that best suits your needs. When you see one of the symbols, you can be sure that the accommodation and core facilities have been thoroughly assessed against demanding criteria. If you have additional needs or special requirements, we strongly recommend that you make sure that these can be met by your chosen establishment before confirming your booking.

England Accessible Ratings (excluding Camping and Caravan Parks)

Mobility

Older and Less Mobile Guests - If you can climb a flight of stairs, but banisters or grip handles would make this easier, look out for this logo.

Part-time Wheelchair Users - If you have problems walking or can walk a maximum of 3 steps, or need to use a wheelchair some of the time, this logo applies to you.

Independent Wheelchair Users - Similar to the international logo for independent wheelchair users. If you’re a wheelchair user and travel independently, look out for this logo.

Assisted Wheelchair Users - If you’re a wheelchair user and travel with a friend or family member who helps you with everyday tasks, this logo applies to you.

42 East Dorset Accessibility Guide Visual 1: If you have difficulty reading small print, are registered blind, have poor sight or a visual impairment, accommodation with this logo is suitable for you.

Visual 2: An exceptional level of facilities and services that would be suitable for anyone with a visual impairment from mild sight loss to having no sight at all.

Hearing impairment Hearing 1: If you have a slight hearing difficulty, are deaf, wear a hearing aid or have a hearing impairment, look out for accommodation displaying this logo.

Hearing 2: An exceptional level of facilities and services that would be suitable for anyone with a hearing impairment from mild hearing loss to profound deafness.

Updated May 2010 43 Further Information For further information and assistance please contact;

Wimborne Tourist Information Centre 29 High Street, Wimborne, BH21 1HR ✆✆ Tel: 01202 886116 E-mail: [email protected] Open Monday to Saturday: Summer (April to September): 10am - 5pm Winter (October to March): 10am - 4pm

The Centre is wheelchair accessible with low level desk and level flooring throughout. Hearing loop. Magnifying sheet available. Radar keys available. The centre’s friendly staff are pleased to assist with information on accommodation, transport, attractions and events. They are also able to book coach and ferry tickets and B&B accommodation for visitors at the centre. In addition the Centre offers a wide range of local interest books, maps and souvenirs for sale. Up to date information on accommodation, attractions and events can also be found on our website; www.ruraldorset.com

Other useful websites: RADAR (National Organisation run by disabled people) www.radar.org.uk

Citizens Advice www.citizensadvice.org.uk

44 East Dorset Accessibility Guide