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.
There are specific Visit England guidelines that must be adhered to, to ensure they are suitable for a variety of levels of disability which you can find by clicking here.
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
You’ll find help with this here the step-by-step guides will help you to produce your own guide.
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.
This week we are celebrating looking back on an extraordinary 13 years of Brompton Lakes luxury lodges, nestled in the rolling hills of Richmond, North Yorkshire.
So, you’ve decided to take the first steps in buying your first holiday home. This venture can be both financially and emotionally rewarding. However, as with any investment, there are several […]
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, Yorkshire Dales 
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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...
Darlington, North Yorkshire
8
4
2 
Dog Friendly
A stunning design and luxury features include the garden hot tub, fire pit, grounds and gorgeous bathrooms. Fantastic for families or a group getaway, explore...
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...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
A gorgeous country cottage with views of the Yorkshire Dales. Sleeping up to 6 guests in absolute luxury, bring the family here to venture into...
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...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
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...
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...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
6
4
Dog Friendly
A spacious luxury lodge for a large group of friends or a large family, Twenty One a perfect space for gathering. There are two private...
Richmond, Yorkshire Dales
4
2
1
Dog Friendly
A chic yet cosy self-catering holiday cottage for up to four guests, Austin is at Holly House Farm outside Richmond, North Yorkshire. There are is...
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...
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...
Ripon, Yorkshire Dales
10
5
5
Dog Friendly
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...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
With an impressive view over the West lake, Cara is a lakeside lodge which is dog-friendly at Brompton Lakes. Sleeping up to six in absolute...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
Flora is an East facing luxury lodge with impressive lakeside views, overlooking a small island and is the end lodge on the lake. The open...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
William is a luxury lodge overlooking the lakes and south facing at Brompton Lakes. The living area features a log burner and is open plan...
Near Barnard Castle, Yorkshire Dales
2
1
2 This is one of two luxury holiday cottages near Barnard Castle. The Coach House sleeps two guests, and is a perfect bolthole for couples looking...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2 Jules is a stunning hot tub lodge at Brompton Lakes sleeping up to 6 guests. The open plan living area features a log burner in...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
3
2
Dog Friendly
Juniper is a South facing luxury lodge with impressive lakeside views. Floor to celling windows stretch the length of the lodge, opening onto private decking...
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