Overview

Having passed by the "big wheel" in the gardens I'd been wondering what it would be like getting on board as a wheelchair user?

Transport & Parking

Public transport around this area of the city is great. Buses stop right outside the gardens and they're of the low floor wheelchair accessible type. There's a tram stop nearby at the side of the Mound and Waverley station is on a short walk away.

Access

Not the experience I imagined because the folk at the Wheel had everything so well organised. Along with a friend I bought a ticket at the ticket kiosk. There I was told to follow the queue where an attendant would give us further instructions. We followed the queue and we were greeted by the attendant who explained we would go in the via the exit as that was ramped. Going up the ramp we were placed in a holding area whilst the ramp was put in place to board. A steep and odd angled ramp but plenty of help was on hand and we wheeled in. One of the bench style seats was folded to make space.

Toilets

Staff

Top marks to all the staff. From the ticket lady who helped us and explained the concessions through to the guys who helped us board the cabin and get off once the ride was over. It was all done in a seamless manner with no fuss. Fantastic job!

Anything else you wish to tell us?

The cabin on the wheel had two bench style seats with seating for around six people. Both of these can be folded to allow for wheelchair access. I had one folded and my colleague sat on the other seat. There was enough space to turn my manual chair and enjoy the views from all directions. I would advise folk that this is not a ride suited to powerchairs - hence my using my manual chair and getting help.

Photos