Overview

Positives: 1. Good concession rate and carer gets free entry 2. Interesting art works and beautiful grounds 3. Friendly staff, mostly 4. Not far from Edinburgh Negatives: 1. Accessible toilet is very small, only room for one wheelchair user, not for carer or support worker too. 2. Some exhibits are inaccessible to wheelchair users and not all staff seem aware of this as we were directed to see one which we couldn’t get near. 3. Poor signage - we went out the wrong way as the exit is not clear. This resulted in having to reverse uphill and nearly damaging our vehicle when trying to turn, due to bollards and boulders along paths. 4. Poor road quality - the actual exit road is full of pot holes for a long way. Definitely in need of repair. No signage to Edinburgh where it joins the main road, so we turned the wrong way. 5. Cafe is expensive with "no picnics allowed" (£6 for slice of banana loaf, not even priced on the menu!) Contradictory advice from staff; we were told it would be okay to eat our packed lunches at outside tables if someone had allergies. We sat down to so, and were going to order drinks, but were told we had to buy food or leave. Embarrassing! Is Art only for the well off? Picnic tables should be provided.

Transport & Parking

The disabled parking is near the cafe and shop; but be very careful when leaving to take left road. Then take the exit road very, very slowly, or bring your own tractor. Turn right at main road junction to head towards the A71 to Edinburgh.

Access

Cobbled path uphill to cafe and toilets. A few parts inaccessible, but most ok.

Toilets

Accessible toilet in corner with very narrow path access and very cramped. Only room for one. Alex had to reverse out and back along the path.

Staff

The staff tried to help, but they have to follow venue policy.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Worth visiting, but be prepared to eat in your car, or in the woods! We understand that cafés do not want people bringing in their own food, but alternatives should be provided. Prices are also above the average for such venues. Tiny cups of coffee too (although Alex was kindly offered a refill when we complained. )

Photos