One of the most inaccessible places we've visited but could easily be improved
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Date of visit: October 2023
overall Rating Text
Bad
We visited Inveraray Castle as we were travelling that stretch of the A83 from Kintyre to Loch Lomond, and we hoped it would provide a short break from driving. It was easy to find and we were travelling by motorhome. They had marked out parking for motorhomes, which was really positive.
disabled Access In AndAround Text
Bad
The main difficulty is that the entire grounds are gravel. This is the first time gravel has been so difficult even in my mountain trike. Usually, it handles gravel quite well but this was so deep, I couldn't get traction and my big wheels were just spinning. We persisted, as I knew the ground floor of the castle was accessible. There are two ramps to get in. They were just about wide enough for my mountain trike but they were both so steep that I needed help getting up them. Coming down was even more difficult. Apparently, they are looking into getting a lift installed. That would be very good! Inside the castle, the ground floor was very good. I could move around easily. There was plenty of space. We really enjoyed that bit. The gardens (more gravel) are accessed by a large gate and a member of staff on reception was happy to open that for us. I made it, with a lot of effort to the gardens, which were absolutely beautiful with all the autumn colours, but my energy had run out. In the end hubby took my dog for a short walk and I sat and took photos and rested. The cafe and shop are downstairs and not accessible by wheelchair.
parkingTransport Text
Average
We arrived by motorhome and easily found the venue and the appropriate parking area. There is blue badge parking but the whole parking area is fine gravel and it is deep and difficult to move a wheelchair over. Motorhome parking is at the furthest end of the car park, so I was exhausted before we even made it to the entrance.
accessibleToilets Text
0I don't think there were any.
staff Text
Good
The lady on reception was really lovely and was happy to take feedback on access issues. The staff inside the castle were also good.
