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.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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This 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...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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2This 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...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
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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...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
12
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4Sleeping 12 guests, this luxurious large lodge is ideal for a group of friends or the entire family. Enjoy the hot tub, sauna, and BBQ...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
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2This luxury lodge sleeps six guests and features big windows looking onto the private enclosed deck and a small island full of wildlife on the...
Richmond, North Yorkshire
6
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2The impressive views over the West lake alongside the three stylish bedrooms make this dog-friendly lodge the perfect choice for a luxury break.
Richmond, North Yorkshire
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2A South-facing and dog-friendly luxury lodge with three spacious bedrooms on the impressive lakefront at Brompton Lakes.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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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...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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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
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2A pet-free, South-facing luxury lodge at Brompton Lakes with beautiful interiors and three luxury bedrooms.
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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1Enjoy a spa-like escape like no other at Lillie lodge, with its private hot tub, sauna, and spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.
Richmond, North Yorkshire
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2This 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...
Leyburn, Yorkshire Dales
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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...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
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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...
Near Richmond, North Yorkshire
10
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4A 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...
Ripon, North Yorkshire
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5Our 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, North Yorkshire
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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
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1Quietly tucked away in a beautiful part of North Yorkshire, Rosina is our luxury, one-bedroom lodge with a hot tub and sauna at Sun Hill...
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