Written by Carrie-Ann Lightley, updated July 2020
Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city, and is a fantastic place for a short break. It’s easily accessible, steeped in history and royal traditions, and you can even find some tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle. Here are the 10 reasons I think it’s the ideal place to visit for anyone with a disability.
1. An Historic Fortress
There is good access around a number of major sights within Edinburgh Castle, and although the abundance of cobbles makes things uncomfortable, it’s worth it. Things like large print, audio guides, and tactile replicas of the Crown Jewels make the castle inclusive for everyone. The cafe also has accessible picnic benches outside, which have half of the bench missing, enabling a wheelchair user to get right up to the table. The staff are extremely helpful, and will go out of their way to offer assistance. A mobility vehicle is available to transfer those who find steep slopes difficult. Carers accompanying visitors with disabilities are admitted free of charge.
2. Whisky Tours
The Scotch Whisky Experience honors Scotland’s national drink, and visitors with disabilities benefit from lifts and level access throughout. The Whisky Tour is fun and interesting, and includes a tutored tasting of Scotch whisky at the end. During the tour visitors sit in Barrel cars, and there is one which has been specifically designed for wheelchair users. The nosing and tasting elements of the tour will be especially helpful to visitors with hearing or visual impairments.