Hampshire welcomes everyone, with no shortage of accessible attractions for visitors. Whether you’re planning a family break, a short getaway with friends, or a quieter escape surrounded by nature, this beautiful part of the South offers a wide range of places that work hard to be welcoming and inclusive.
From the open landscapes of the New Forest to Winchester’s historic streets, many attractions across Hampshire have invested in thoughtful access features. Knowing what’s available can make all the difference when planning a day out, so we’ve pulled together some of the county’s most accessible places to help you make the most of your stay.
Why Choose Hampshire for an Accessible Break?
Accessibility is taken seriously across Hampshire. Many attractions offer facilities such as Changing Places toilets, wheelchair loans, sensory maps, and trained staff who are happy to help. Essential companions are also often admitted free of charge when accompanying a disabled visitor.
Better still, the variety is impressive. One day you could be enjoying a steam railway ride through landscaped gardens, the next getting close to birds of prey or wandering through centuries-old architecture – all with clear information to help you plan.
Wildlife and Animal Attractions in Hampshire
If you enjoy wildlife experiences, Hampshire has several accessible attractions worth exploring.
Marwell Zoo
Marwell Zoo, near Winchester, offers one of the most comprehensive accessible experiences in the county. Visitors will find:
- Accessible toilets in every block, plus a dedicated Changing Places facility
- Hearing loops at reception and in the shops
- Daily talks that include Makaton signing
- Support from staff who can help identify quieter spaces if needed
Paths are well maintained, and there are ample seating areas along the way.
The Hawk Conservancy Trust
The Hawk Conservancy Trust, near Andover, is another excellent option. Flat tarmac paths run throughout the site, and wheelchairs are available to borrow (booking ahead is recommended). Reserved viewing areas ensure wheelchair users have clear views during the flying displays, while large-print menus and visual aids support visitors with visual impairments.
New Forest Wildlife Park
New Forest Wildlife Park provides sensory maps highlighting areas with louder noises, stronger smells, or darker spaces. This allows visitors to plan their route in advance. Some woodland paths include pea shingle surfaces, which may be less suitable for some mobility aids, but staff are always happy to advise.
Historic and Cultural Accessible Attractions in Hampshire
Hampshire’s history is rich, and many historic sites have taken steps to improve access while preserving their character.
Winchester Cathedral
Winchester Cathedral offers ramps, stairlifts, and accessible toilets, along with touch tours, Braille guides, and a 3D model of the building. The Essential Companion scheme provides free entry for companions.
Some areas, such as the Crypt and Tower, are not fully accessible due to their historic nature. The staff at the Welcome Desk can provide more information on this and on sensory considerations, like organ practice.
Beaulieu
Beaulieu provides wheelchair and mobility scooter hire. Where physical access is limited in historic buildings, alternative experiences are available, including a DVD tour of Palace House’s upper floors. Induction loops, large-print information, and transcripts are available across the site.
Royal Armouries Fort Nelson
Royal Armouries Fort Nelson is built across multiple levels but includes ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets throughout. Visitors can borrow wheelchairs, use large-print guides, and enjoy galleries with tactile elements and captioned films.
Gardens and Outdoor Spaces for All Abilities
Spending time outdoors is a highlight for many visitors, and Hampshire offers plenty of accessible green spaces.
- Sir Harold Hillier Gardens features accessible paths and mobility scooter hire. Discounted admission is available for disabled visitors, with essential companions admitted free. You can download maps in advance to help plan your visit.
- Exbury Gardens offers wide, level paths and an accessible steam railway with adapted carriages. Manual wheelchairs and mobility scooters are available to hire. Route maps clearly mark the most accessible areas.
- At Queen Elizabeth Country Park, visitors can hire all-terrain mobility scooters known as Trampers. These allow access to designated trails that would otherwise be difficult to explore. Accessible toilets are available at key points across the park.
Family-Friendly Accessible Attractions in Hampshire
For families, Winchester Science Centre has made accessibility central to its visitor experience. Sensory backpacks, ear defenders, and wheelchair loans are available, along with a Changing Places facility. Exhibits, shows, and planetarium sessions are supportive for autistic visitors and d/Deaf visitors, with quiet spaces available.
Paultons Park, home to Peppa Pig World, offers a queue assist pass and Essential Companion tickets. Many rides are accessible, though some have safety-related restrictions. Ride information boards and the park’s accessibility guide provide guidance before you join the queue.
Staying Somewhere Comfortable After a Day Out
Exploring accessible attractions inHampshire is more enjoyable when you know you have a well-equipped place to return to at the end of the day.
Short Stay Homes offers a range of self-catering holiday properties across the New Forest, accommodating intimate (4 guests) and large groups (20+ guests). Because we own our properties directly, you’ll always get the best rate with no booking fees, along with straightforward information to help you plan. Many of our homes are award-winning, recognised for their quality and attention to detail.
All properties welcome dogs, so there’s no need to leave four-legged friends behind. Many also include features like secure gardens, hot tubs, or peaceful rural settings. Some properties offer unique extras, including private fishing, glamping-style accommodation, and equipment hire, giving you even more flexibility during your stay.
Contact Our Team for Assistance
If you’re planning an accessible break in Hampshire and would like help choosing a property, please contact us. Our team can share local insight and help you plan a stay that feels right for you.
