
If you are not fully mobile, or have young children with you, then the stiles found on many walks can be hard to cope with. You may also find that many attractions and places of interest can be difficult to access. This section should help to point you to sources of information that mean you can make an informed decision about whether something is suitable for you. And don't forget there are other outdoor activities which can be suitable for a much wider range of people than you think, and there are specialist instructors who can help to make things happen.
Routes and experiences
The North York Moors National Park Authority has developed eight fully accessible routes for heavy duty wheelchairs and pushchairs through woodland, along riversides, by lakes, overlooking the Heritage Coast, through the heart of the moorland and around an important archaeological site.
Across the rest of the public rights of way network difficult gates and stiles are also being removed where possible, with the aim being to open up 25% of all bridleways and 8% of all footpaths for easy access.
Few places can be better than the North York Moors for people who really want to enjoy spectacular countryside but are not very mobile.
The thing that makes this National Park so special is that the best views are there for everyone to see; you don't have to climb a mountain or trek for miles. Many roads cross the moorland plateau and there are plenty of viewpoints where you can really take in the unique atmosphere of such a special place.
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In the Yorkshire Dales there are many great places to visit however mobile you are. There are a number of accessible trails that have been developed, some suitable for wheelchairs, accessible fishing platforms, as well as farms and waterfalls that can be visited.
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More adventurous activities
There are a number of outdoor activity providers that specialise in courses for people with a range of disabilities. There are also others that can easily adapt to many peoples' needs.
Low Mill is a converted water mill in Askrigg in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Centre provides accommodation and a wide range of activities for up to forty people. The Centre is fully accessible and caters for all ages and abilities
Low Mill
Askrigg
Leyburn
North Yorkshire
DL8 3HZ
Tel 01969 650432
Bendrigg Trust is a residential activity centre for groups of disabled and disadvantaged people. Situated between the Lakes and Yorkshire Dales. Groups can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor and indoor activities regardless of ability.
Bendrigg Trust
Bendrigg Lodge
Old Hutton
Kendal
Cumbria
LA8 0NR
Tel 01539 723766
Another popular activity is to go horse riding or carriage driving. This is possible at a number of riding centres, see the horse riding section for details of all providers. You will need to contact any of the centres to check they can meet your requirements.
You can also view our Easy Access Year of Adventure activities:
Cotter Force Easy Access
Tramper Route to Old Gang Easy Access