Friendly Farm Shop
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Visit date:
This review is especially helpful for those who have or use the following: Wheelchair
Overview
Halfway between Cardross and Helensburgh, Ardardan is a Farm Shop, small gardening centre and tea room. Everyone is made to feel welcome!
Transport & Parking
It isn't the easiest place to reach by public transport, so going by car would be the option most would take. It is a sharp turn off the main road, but has its own car park with several marked disabled bays directly at the front door.
Access
All of the main building (shop/cafe/toilets) is on one level throughout, with even flooring. The outside doors (leading to garden area) require you to push a button and then they open automatically. In some areas, especially when busy, it can be a little tight to get round displays/the cafe if using a bigger wheelchair, however this is more than compensated for by the helpful staff, who will move things out of your way if necessary. Immediately outside the main building is the garden centre area - this is also all paved and good to access. Some of the walks beyond this though - particularly the woodland walk, may not be accessible for everybody. These are in a more 'natural' state - in dry weather when the ground is more solid, some might manage it in their wheelchairs, but at other times it can be quite muddy.
Toilets
Standard accessible toilet facilities, but made to look nice, and in-keeping with the decor of the other toilets. Was large enough to fit wheelchair and carer in room at same time. Unfortunately the emergency cord was tucked up so couldn't be easily reached if required. But did like that it had a good mirror at a wheelchair-friendly height.
Staff
There are lots of staff and they really have time for their customers. Many are regulars and they are treated as friends. Staff will give you space to look around, but are eager to help in any way required. They will also give advice particularly in the garden centre if you want to know more about the plants. They support many community groups (including local disability groups), and welcome everybody when they visit.
Anything else you wish to tell us?
Ardardan is a nice place to visit, with very tasty food in the shop & cafe! It isn't always the cheapest place...good place to buy gifts or to treat yourself to little bits and pieces, and an enjoyable place to be. Ardardan has occasional events on, mostly aimed at families, and generally at school holidays. It is currently developing and starting to build an additional petting farm/park & education area, with family cafe. Plans for this are on display. The staff accept and welcome everybody!! See more info on their website!
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