Overview

Chatsworth House has always provided my family with a fantastic day out. Having 2 boys with disabilities, one users a wheelchair, the other mobility issues because of a stroke, I have extensive knowledge on how to get around and enjoy the estate. With Chatsworth House the staff are extremely helpful and the management are continually looking at ways to improve access. To access the house park at the bottom of car park, to access the maze park at the top end. This avoids push up the incline. Nice paths to the maze and Emperor Lake. Hard to give 100% access to historic site but provides 100% enjoyment. Level access shop/restaurant/accessible loos. (Nearest Changing Places Toilet is 7 miles(15 minute drive) at Arc Leisure Centre, Matlock.) Wheelchair accessible Trailor Tour(Farmyard and country estate) and buggy tours for those who can step out of their wheelchair. Loan equipment Wheelchairs and scooters. Audio description in house. Any queries just ask for help! They are so helpful.

Transport & Parking

Chatsworth has plenty of disabled parking bays . However the majority of these are on an incline. My top tip would be to think whether you want to visit the House(Park at lower end) or visit the restaurant/shop/maze(Park at the top end). You can 'drop off' at the entrance to the House(flat smooth area near car park entrance point) or the entrance to the Stables restaurant etc right at the top of the aisle for disabled parking. This is a good tip for those who struggle to push(Powerchairs Are fine). The only area that is a bit bumpy are the large stone flags in front of the Stables at the top.

Access

Signage, maps, lifts, alternative formats, access statement, helpful staff, level access, hire equipment, accessible loos, entrance concessions, carer goes free etc etc WONDERFUL day out! A hoisted Changing Places Toilet would make my family life complete but we are encouraging all major attractions to install one or link to 'nearest CP' I scored it 5 even though some paths are too difficult for some because everyone can get 100% enjoyment from a day at Chatsworth(The Estate is massive). It is a paradise for those with Autism or Learning difficulties because there is so much peace and space within the gardens. The sensory Garden and Farmyard are superb. The Farmyard is up a steep slope to get to the entrance but once inside the the lift proves level access to ground and first level. The play area is up a further slope and last time I visited that are it had a covering of chip bark which was difficult to push my sons wheelchair BUT always ask staff who will help rather than struggle.

Toilets

They won 'Loo of the Year' in the past so you cannot fault their toilets. Clean, accessible. However this next comment is for All Attractions, a Changing Places toilet would be THE best facility ever as it opens up a world of opportunities to 250,000 people who cannot stand and use a standard accessible toilet . They need hoisting so without a CP outings are SEVERELY limited. Special schools,nursing homes day care, groups etc always have to choose somewhere with changing and hoist facility

Staff

In the house the staff are so helpful for people with visual or hearing impairments. A lift now allows full access to both floors. Just simply let them know how your 'experience' can be improved and I know they are very keen to assist and improve.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Every season changes the 'look' of Chatsworth so get a season ticket with Carer goes free and you will have endless pleasure visiting all their events throughout the year. Check out www.accessiblederbyshire.org for accessible level access holiday properties and extend your stay!

Photos