Countryside Access - Things to Know - Access For The Disabled

If you want to get out to enjoy the benefits of the countryside, being disabled shouldn’t be a barrier. This section outlines the responsibilities of different authorities for providing access to the outdoors for disabled people. We are currebtly building on this section so please Contact Us if you have suggestions for links or would like us to provide more information on a certain topic.

Pauline Cox trying out Tramper mobility scooter for Surrey Wildlife Trust, Newlands Corner, Surrey ©Countryside Agency/Bruce Tanner

The Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 states that every provider of facilities and services has to improve access by making ‘reasonable adjustments’ to help disabled people. This means that local authorities must now take into account the needs of people with mobility problems when authorising the erection of stiles, gates or other work on footpaths or bridleways.

Now you can reasonably expect that manmade barriers, such as fences, steps and stiles or uneven surfaces, will not restrict your choice of places to visit.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail ©Countryside Agency

The DDA also places a duty on public bodies to work with disabled people in the design and provision of services – and that includes rights of way and other routes. That gives you the opportunity to make sure that your needs are met, regardless of your disability. We focus on mobility impairments here although we plan to improve this section so please send us your feedback .

Disabled Ramblers, a charity set up to bring together people to campaign for better access is very active and has a full programme of events. They are keen to share the knowledge and experience they have gained. Find out more at the Disabled Ramblers website.

Download our Access for Disabled People advice sheet to find out more about the rights for people with mobility difficulties and where you should go for further information:

Download the Access for Disabled People Advice Sheet

Millennium Miles was a project started in 2000 that aimed to identify more 3210 kms [2000 miles] of countryside suitable for access by disabled people. Managed by The Fieldfare Trust, you can find out more here .

Find a wheelchair-friendly place to stay using the Disabled Holiday Directory .