Where Can You Find Wheelchair-Friendly Outdoor Spaces in South Lanarkshire?
Discover wheelchair-accessible parks, trails and heritage sites across South Lanarkshire this summer.
Where Can You Find Wheelchair-Friendly Outdoor Spaces in South Lanarkshire?
June is an ideal time to get outside and enjoy nature, but for individuals who use mobility aids or need additional support, accessible outdoor spaces aren’t always easy to come by, but with the right planning and support, there are wonderful local spots designed to be inclusive and welcoming for all. So, where can you go in South Lanarkshire that’s suitable for a wheelchair, has disabled parking, and offers accessible toilets? At Home Instead South Lanarkshire, we believe time outdoors should be enjoyable for everyone, not just possible, but comfortable and safe. Whether you’re planning a Father’s Day outing on Sunday 15 June or just looking for a peaceful walk, picnic, or wildlife experience, this blog highlights accessible outdoor spaces across the region designed to be inclusive for all.
From local heritage sites and riverside paths to national parks and inclusive wellbeing projects, South Lanarkshire is full of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, with the right planning, support, and access in place.
Accessible Heritage: Low Parks Museum, Hamilton
Low Parks Museum in Hamilton is a shining example of how culture and inclusion can come together. Housed across three buildings — Portland House, the Duke’s Riding School, and the Portland Gallery — the museum showcases local history with physical access front of mind.
Key Accessibility Features:
- Wheelchair Access: Step-free entry throughout, with a wheelchair available to borrow.
- Accessible Toilets: Located in Portland House, alongside baby changing facilities.
- Trained Staff: Recognisable in purple uniforms, the team is trained in disability awareness and emergency support.
- Quiet Times: Ideal visiting hours are weekday mornings outside of school holidays.
- Assistance Dogs: Always welcome, with water bowls and designated toileting areas available.
Children are well catered for too, with pushchair access, interactive displays, and dress-up areas. To speak to the team directly, call 01698 452382 or email [email protected].
Two Outdoor Spaces with Excellent Disabled Access
1. Calderglen Country Park
Located in East Kilbride, Calderglen Country Park combines nature with family fun — and does so with thoughtful consideration for visitors with reduced mobility.
What to Expect:
- Adapted toilets and accessible paths
- Designated disabled parking bays
- A small zoo and activity areas for children
- Wheelchair access to core facilities
- Step-free access to the visitor centre
- Adapted toilet facilities
- Blue badge parking
- Dog-friendly areas for assistance dogs
The park’s paved paths and supportive facilities make it easier for all to enjoy woodland walks and riverside routes without barriers.
2. Chatelherault Country Park
Just outside Hamilton, thi historic park centres around an 18th-century hunting lodge and offers sweeping views, mixed woodland trails, and well-maintained routes suitable for wheelchair users.
Accessibility Highlights:
To plan your visit or check for upcoming events, call 01698 426 213 or email [email protected].
Scotland’s Outdoor Access Rights — What You Need to Know
Since the Land Reform Act of 2003, people in Scotland have had the right to access most land and inland water responsibly. This includes walking, cycling, using mobility scooters, or riding adapted vehicles.
Organisations such as the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, Ramblers Scotland, and Forestry and Land Scotland offer advice to help people with disabilities navigate the countryside safely and respectfully.
Walks and Trails for Wheelchair Users Across Scotland
If you’re open to exploring a bit further afield, here are 10 routes designed with accessibility in mind:
- Loch Leven Heritage Trail (Kinross) – 19.6 km, flat terrain, great for birdwatching.
- Strathclyde Loch Circular (Motherwell) – 6 km, paved route with benches and memorial points.
- Lochore Meadows (Fife) – 5.5 km, event-friendly loop with minor inclines.
- River Dee Walk (Banchory) – 9.7 km, firm riverside paths.
- Silverknowes Esplanade (Edinburgh) – 6.3 km, coastal promenade with open views.
- The Hermitage and Birnam (Dunkeld) – 7.1 km, wooded trail with partial access.
- Donmouth to Aberdeen Beach – 6.3 km, a scenic mix of natural and urban space.
- Innerleithen to Peebles – 18.8 km, ideal for longer assisted journeys.
- Fyvie Castle Circular (Aberdeenshire) – 3.2 km, through castle grounds.
- Linhouse Circuit (Livingston) – 3.4 km, gentle gravel paths in woodland surroundings.
Many of these trails are suitable with assistance or powered mobility aids — but it’s always wise to review local conditions in advance.
Health, Wellbeing, and Nature: The Green Health Partnership
South Lanarkshire is part of the national Green Health Partnership, a forward-thinking programme that encourages people to engage with nature to support physical and emotional wellbeing.
Inclusive Activities Include:
- Guided walks on accessible routes
- Outdoor volunteering
- Family-friendly events
- Water-based and wildlife-focused sessions
The Get Walking Lanarkshire project also offers route suggestions for all mobility levels, helping more people enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently.
Financial Support for Carers Through SLLC
Caring for someone can be both rewarding and exhausting. To support the health and wellbeing of unpaid carers, South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture (SLLC) offers several concessions.
Available Support:
- 50% Discount on Memberships: Reduced from £25 to £12.50 per month.
- Four-Week Free Trial: Via referral through Lanarkshire Carers under the Physical Activity Prescription programme.
- Registration Card: Show this at any SLLC venue to access benefits.
This initiative gives carers the opportunity to stay active, meet others, and take time for themselves — something that’s often overlooked but deeply needed.
Accessibility Across SLLC Facilities
Many of South Lanarkshire’s libraries, cultural centres, and leisure venues now include:
- Wheelchair access and stair lifts
- Adapted toilets
- Guide dog-friendly environments
- BSL support (at select sites)
- Clear signage and disabled parking bays
Operating hours typically run Monday to Friday, 08:45–16:45 (with early Friday closures). For further information, visit the South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture website or contact customer services directly.
Trusted Planning Tools: AccessAble
Before heading out, many people use AccessAble — a nationwide platform offering accessibility information for public spaces, including:
- Museums, cafés, shops and hotels
- Colleges, councils and universities
- Parks and walking routes
Their online listings include details such as ramp availability, lighting, step-free access, parking, and hearing loop provision — all essential for planning safe and enjoyable days out.
Looking Ahead
South Lanarkshire continues to show that outdoor experiences shouldn’t be limited by mobility. With more accessible green spaces, inclusive facilities, and active community support, families and carers can plan their days with greater ease.
Home Instead South Lanarkshire is proud to support inclusive care that values independence, dignity, and connection. Whether you’re supporting a loved one or seeking services for yourself, we’re here to help.
Areas We Serve
Lanark, Carluke, Biggar & the surrounding areas
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