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.
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
5With hundreds of 5-star reviews, Waterloo Lodge is a fantastic place for a multi-generational celebration with family and friends in beautiful North Yorkshire. Within easy...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
2
1
1
Dog FriendlyA charming one-bedroom cottage with hot tub in a beautifully peaceful setting. The hot tub, luxury interiors, and far-reaching views make this dog-friendly cottage the...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyA spacious yet cosy hot tub log cabin at Sun Hill Lodges with incredible views over North Yorkshire. Sleeps up to four guests and dog-friendly...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog FriendlyA 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
3
Dog FriendlyNewly developed for 2026, and with fantastic views over the North Yorkshire countryside, Field Cottage features large comfortable bedrooms, a games room, and a private...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
8
4
4
Dog FriendlyEnjoy the stunning views, luxury furnishings, and garden hot tub at this luxury 4-bedroom home. Shorthorn is perfect for a celebration or family holiday, sleeping...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyA South-facing and dog-friendly luxury lodge with three spacious bedrooms on the impressive lakefront at Brompton Lakes.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyFeaturing 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...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyPercy is our stunning lodge for 6 guests with a hot tub at Brompton Lakes. This popular lodge boasts a stylish, open-plan living area, log...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
10
5
4
Dog FriendlyWith five-star reviews, enjoy stylish interiors, large bedrooms, luxe bathrooms, a log burner, private hot tub, and a games room with a bar at The...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyThis luxury two-bedroom barn conversion features a large garden with a hot tub and makes the perfect escape. Venture into Richmond and the Yorkshire Dales...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
4
2
2A pet-free, South-facing luxury lodge with beautiful interiors and three luxury bedrooms.
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
10
5
4
Dog FriendlyA stunning five-bedroom barn conversion with hot tub, spacious and light living areas, and fantastic interiors. Receiving national press for its style and interiors, it...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyThis log cabin sleeps up to four guests and is the perfect dog-friendly countryside escape with the added luxury of a jacuzzi-style hot tub. This...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog FriendlyThis luxury lodge sleeps six guests and features big windows looking onto the private enclosed deck and a small island full of wildlife on the...
Ripon, North Yorkshire
16
8
5
Dog FriendlyOur largest group getaway, formed by two adjoining houses Wheatsheaf Barn and Field Cottage, the Big Green Barn offers eight stylish bedrooms, two games rooms...
Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
3Standing majestically in extensive grounds, this hot tub hideaway on the outskirts of Ripon, North Yorkshire offers a tranquil escape. One half of the Unbridled...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
2
Dog FriendlyMake yourself at home at The Stables at Woodlands Farm, a chance for up to four guests to unwind and indulge in a luxurious Yorkshire...
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