As we reach the end of another long winter we can start to think of some accessible places in and around Milton Keynes for family days out.
The Stables is a beloved MK venue, an intimate theatre offering an eclectic mix of music and entertainment. There’s plenty of wheelchair-friendly seating in the auditorium, with lift access as well as three accessible toilets. There are eight disabled parking spaces, though these are on a first come first served basis.
Take a look what’s coming up at The Stables.
There’s no better way to spend time with a loved one than a joyous and nostalgic trip to the theatre. Milton Keynes Theatre is a popular one, hosting all manner of performances.
It has dedicated seats both in the stalls and upper circle, which has lift access. The theatre’s bars have low-level counters, enabling easy service for wheelchair users. There are also accessible male and female toilets. A reviewer on Euan’s Guide, a UK disability charity, said staff were happy to help when they required assistance.
Upcoming highlights include 12 Angry Men (a record-breaking West End production), plus various stand-up comedy acts and a Whitney Houston tribute.
The beating heart of the city has plenty to offer all ages. And it’s second to none when it comes to wheelchair access, with one TripAdvisor reviewer describing centre:MK as ‘a wheelchair user’s paradise’.
Over 130 shops and restaurants can all be accessed from one floor, and all the entrances are automatic opening with access controls at wheelchair height. There are 80 disabled parking bays near the main entrances or in the multi-storey car park, so you won’t have to travel too far from your car.
The centre has five disabled toilets, and the central one near TK Maxx has an adult changing table with an electric hoist. If you forget your Radar Key, you can borrow one from Customer Services near TK Maxx.
For an easier way to get around the vast centre, you can hire a mobility scooter free of charge via Shopmobility. Just give them a call on 01908 398115 before your visit to reserve yours, or ask at the desk when you arrive.
There’s plenty going on at centre:mk, and your elderly companions are sure to love the market on Midsummer Boulevard, just outside the centre (closed Monday and Wednesday), and the upcoming vintage clothing sales in February and March.
If the hustle and bustle of the city centre is not your thing, why not try a walk around one of MK’s accessible scenic locations? The Parks Trust of Milton Keynes has worked hard to make Great Linford Manor Park more wheelchair-friendly in recent years.
Most of the park’s attractive features can now be reached by a network of paths that meander through the tranquil scenery – a lovely way to enjoy each other’s company. The paths are compacted gravel and make pushing a wheelchair easy, though there are a few slopes to contend with. Think of it as a bonus workout.
There are accessible toilet in the Milton Keynes Arts Centre within the park, though this is not always open. There are also plenty of disabled parking bays identified by Blue Badge signs.
St Andrew’s Church, situated in the park, hosts a dementia-friendly cafe on alternate Tuesdays from 11am-1pm. There’s also the option of a guided accessible walk around the park and village.
A different option for a wheelchair-friendly scenic walk in MK is Howe Park Woods, also one of the Parks Trust’s accessible locations. A 2-mile wheelchair-friendly path takes you around the scenic woodland for a relaxing and pleasant walk.
We’re lucky to have one of Britain’s most significant WW2 sites on our doorstep, and this vibrant heritage attraction is well worth a visit even if you’ve been before.
With plenty of disabled parking spaces, accessible toilets across the site, and wheelchair ramps, it’s a great place to visit for people with limited mobility. There is level access throughout most of the and wheelchair ramps for raised entrances. There’s also a platform lift to enter The Intelligence Factory.
Most internal doors are kept open, and most have stewards standing by or wheelchair-level buttons to open them. Stewards also provide help at the lifts. There are a limited number of wheelchairs available to borrow, and entry is free for carers or companions of wheelchair users.
If you really wanted to treat your elderly companion, consider booking an afternoon tea in the iconic Mansion, available on Fridays and Saturdays.
So, there you have it. Five places in MK where you can have a great time with your elderly companion, even if they require a wheelchair.
Of course, there are plenty more spots in our unique city where people with limited mobility can get around easily and enjoy themselves to the fullest. Visit AccessAble and search Milton Keynes venues to find more places to enjoy.
And if your elderly loved one uses public transport to get around, don’t forget to make sure they get an Older Person’s bus pass to save some cash.
As part of our home care services, our expert care professionals can take your loved ones out and about, ensuring they live life to the full.