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.
If you are considering a new holiday home, are you buying for rental income, capital growth or a lifestyle investment? There's plenty to consider when identifying the perfect property, and here's some top tips to consider during your search...
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.
Ripon, North Yorkshire
16
8
5
A luxury group getaway, formed by two adjoining houses Wheatsheaf Barn and Field Cottage, the Big Green Barn offers eight stylish bedrooms, two games rooms...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4A blissful destination, nestled in the rolling hills of North Yorkshire, this farmhouse with four bedrooms, games room, and hot tub has been renovated to...
Ripon, North Yorkshire
8
4
3Newly developed for 2026, and with fantastic views over the North Yorkshire countryside, Field Cottage features large comfortable bedrooms, a games room, and a private...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1Perfect for couples looking to escape to the glorious countryside, this luxury lodge with a hot tub in Yorkshire is within the grounds of Sun...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
5With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Waterloo Lodge is a fantastic place for a multi-generational celebration within easy reach of the Moors, Coast and Dales. This...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
3A gorgeous country cottage on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Sun Hill Cottage is a stylish home with plenty of features including a hot...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1This one-bedroom romantic hideaway with outdoor hot tub and cosy log burner is located close to Leyburn, ideal for exploring the Yorkshire Dales. The large...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2Our luxury two-bedroom lodge with hot tub at Greenbank Lodges, set in 150 acres of private land in North Yorkshire. The perfect backdrop for romantic...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2Luxury boutique lodge for four with Scandinavian-inspired design, peaceful surroundings, a private hot tub, and beautiful countryside views. Ideal for couples, friends, and weekend getaways.
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2An idyllic country cottage in North Yorkshire, complete with 3 bedrooms, beautiful grounds, and a bubbling hot tub. And it's dog-friendly too.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2This luxury log cabin with a hot tub is at Sun Hill Lodges, sleeps up to four guests, and is the perfect place to put...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2This luxury lodge is one of our pet-friendly holiday lodges at Brompton Lakes, and enjoys wonderful South-facing views over the lakes.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2A two-bedroom log cabin with a Scandinavian-style barrel sauna, a hot tub, and an outdoor shower. This dog-friendly lodge with great views, in the grounds...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4A stylish rural retreat for up to 8 guests. Tucked away in the quiet Yorkshire countryside, this idyllic hot tub house blends contemporary interiors with...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2A pet-free, South-facing luxury lodge at Brompton Lakes with beautiful interiors and three luxury bedrooms.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2Featuring traditional log cabin interiors, a log burner, a hot tub, two en-suite bedrooms, and close proximity to the Yorkshire Dales, Ninetta lodge is the...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
8
4
4An exclusive winter getaway, available between November and February. Lovingly designed by its owners, this beautiful, large lodge with a hot tub, sauna and pool...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
1A 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...
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