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.
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Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
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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...
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Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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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...
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A gorgeous country cottage on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Sun Hill Cottage is a stylish home with plenty of features including a hot...
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2 Lola is a South facing luxury lodge with an impressive view, overlooking a small island and is close to the River Swale. It has a...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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Sitting on the edge of the North York Moors near Leyburn, Woodlands is a luxury lodge cabin in the UK nestled in the grounds of...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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4 An exclusive winter getaway between November to February. Lovingly designed by its owners, this beautiful log cabin with a pool table considers every detail, combining...
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