The market for accessible holiday homes is ever increasing. In fact, according to Visit Britain, it is estimated that one in six people in England and Wales have an activity-limiting health problem or a disability. What’s more, we are an ageing population and this older sector represents a huge slice of the holiday cottage market.
It makes sense to design a layout that works for those with reduced mobility, it can also add appeal to your holiday home. It’s estimated the accessible tourism market is worth £12bn in England alone!
Ground Floor Bedrooms and Bathrooms
If you are able to add a ground-floor en-suite bedroom, this can be a huge plus point. For larger properties, this will mean your holiday home will appeal to those groups with older grandparents in the party.
For smaller one-bedroom properties you’ll appeal to retired couples looking for a short break.
Wet rooms are a better choice over a bath; as well as offering easier access they also fit into a smaller space and can look very stylish.
Make sure bathroom tiles are non-slip and you include a bath mat. Offering to include suction handrails and a shower seat are also a good option; these provide a low-cost option that can be easily stored away when not required.
Accessible bedrooms and bathrooms in holiday homes can still look great!
If there are stairs in the property then the simple addition of a handrail can help to make your property suitable for people with some mobility issues
The Visit England Guide – One Step ahead (looks at accommodating older and less mobile guests) states:
“Provide at least one handrail next to the steps or stairs (both sides are better) that easy to grip, there should be sufficient space for a firm hold but your arm shouldn’t be able to slip through”
To ensure your property appeals to the reduced mobility market, you’ll need to give some extra thought to the layout. Routes through your property should be clear of obstructions, with plenty of room for guests to easily move around.
The Visit England Guide – One Step ahead again states:
“Ensure the bedroom provides clear space to walk around without bumping into furniture, are the windows easily reached, and are they simple to operate”
If you’re considering going wheelchair friendly then you’ll have to think about entrance ramps and ensure external/internal doors are of sufficient width. It’s also important to think about cupboard heights and the height of other fixtures and fittings in the bathrooms and bedrooms.
It’s very important to also ensure that outside areas are also accessible. Ensure all pathways are level and well maintained, and they are adequately lit as guests may well arrive later in the day, especially during the Winter months, and need to clearly see where they are going.
Parking is also important, so try to make this as close to the property as possible
Accessibility Guide
Creating an access guide and a floor plan will help guests determine whether your property is the right one for them. It will also assist you in appraising how accessible your holiday home is.
Holiday at Home is the booking agent for a unique collection of luxury holiday homes across North Yorkshire.
If you need any assistance with your holiday home please contact our friendly team on 01748 850333.
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From the decor to the bed headboards, we have compliments about many of our cottage interiors. Feel free to take as little or as much inspiration as you wish, and take a bit of Holiday at Home design home with you.
The Holiday at Home journey started in 2009 with the launch of Brompton Lakes lodges, and has grown to include nearly 70 five-star luxury holiday cottages and lakeside lodges across North Yorkshire.
Richmond, North Yorkshire 
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Dog Friendly
Percy is a stunning hot tub lodge at Brompton Lakes sleeping up to 6 guests. The open plan living area features a log burner in...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1
Dog Friendly
Nestled in stunning countryside with far-reaching views is this one-bedroom romantic hideaway with an alfresco hot tub and cosy log burner. Ideally located close to...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
5 Large groups love Waterloo Lodge, which is a fantastic place for a multi-generational celebration with family and friends in beautiful North Yorkshire. Within easy reach...
Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
10
5
5 Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply escaping the everyday ordinary, experience the perfect blend of idyllic country living and city life. From your very...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog Friendly
Make yourself at home at our latest rural retreat; The Stables at Woodlands Farm, offering the ultimate space for up to four guests to unwind...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1
Dog Friendly
A cosy cottage made for the two of you, close to Leyburn and the Yorkshire Dales. The perfect add-on for guests staying at Sun Hill...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1
Dog Friendly
Enjoy a spa like escape like no other at Lillie Lodge nestled within the grounds of Sun Hill Lodges. Enjoy making use of the private...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
An idyllic country cottage in North Yorkshire, complete with beautiful grounds and a bubbling hot tub. Georgia boasts spacious open plan living with a bold...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog Friendly
One of three large holiday homes at Greenbank Barns, Shorthorn is perfect for a celebration or family holiday, sleeping up to 8 guests. Enjoy stunning...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
Juniper is a south-facing luxury lodge on the impressive lakefront at Brompton Lakes. Floor-to-ceiling windows stretch the length of the lodge, opening onto private decking...
Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2 At this boutique retreat in Ripon, North Yorkshire, experience the perfect blend of idyllic country living and city life. Riding Boots balances contemporary design and...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog Friendly
Dragonfly is a rural retreat for up to 8 guests. Tucked away in the quiet Yorkshire countryside, it promises a unique opportunity to recharge your...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
10
5
4
Dog Friendly
A stunning five-bedroom barn conversion with spacious and light living areas, fantastic interiors, and a garden hot tub. Receiving national press for its style and...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog Friendly
Luxury awaits you at Constable Burton Lodge where modern elegance meets the rustic charm of a traditional log cabin. Tucked away in the private grounds...
Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
3 Standing majestically in extensive grounds, this hot tub hideaway on the outskirts of Ripon, North Yorkshire offers a tranquil escape. One half of the Unbridled...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
Flora is a luxury lodge with impressive lakeside views at Brompton Lakes luxury lodges in Yorkshire. Well located for exploring Richmond and the local area,...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog Friendly
A blissful destination, nestled in the rolling hills of North Yorkshire, this farmhouse has been renovated to the highest standards. With a host of quirky...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog Friendly
A blissful spot for a glorious break to the Yorkshire countryside, Alborada at Sun Hill Lodges offers a truly peaceful getaway. Fantastic views over the...
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