Overview

This was my first visit to the SSE Hydro (to see Madonna) and I will admit I was disappointed with a number of things. For a modern venue I expected disabled patrons needs to be incorparated into the venue, not catered for to what seemed to me, a mere afterthought. I have a congential spinal disability causing great discomfort..this I was prepared for. What I was not prepared for was that disabled parking was in multistorey which included a fair walk through an open to the elements walkway, down a lift, more walking to venue entrance. Cost of parking £8. Cost of walk?..jiggered! Inside is stark and spacious. We took the lift up to 2nd level where our disabled & carer seats were. was a bit shocked to see we were seated in plastic fold up chairs with a soft cover but no real padding. I could not see when the row in front stood up & although staff kept telling them to sit down this caused me embarrasment & didnt seem fair. Ladies toilets only at each end of venue..mens every 2 blocks.

Transport & Parking

Plenty parking in nearby multistorey but walkway to Hydro is a bit of a walk, lift then walk. All exposed to elements. Cost £8 which I expected. Would be better if had blue badge parking directly outside but doesnt. Took 30 mins to get car out of multistorey due to high volume of cars leaving.

Access

Yes, there were disabled toilets but why should that be all we should expect? Disabled seats on 2nd level were a let down. Uncomfortable and limited view if you can only remain seated (at gigs..other events people in front may remain seated?) Take a cushion with you if you have comfort issues

Toilets

Although there was signage they were still difficult to locate. Not as many accessible toilets as expected. You will need radar key or help unlocking from staff. I am able to use regular toilets. Bit inconvienient that ladies are only at each end..plenty of mens toilets scattered throughout venue

Staff

plenty of them. Some were not over enthuisatic towards disabled. Saw me struggling but didnt advise how far left to walk. Inside staff were helpful to the point of irritating. Kept telling people in front of me to sit down so I could see. I was very embarrased after 3 times.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

Would not hurry back. Modern does not mean it is more disabled friendly alas. Plan your trip wisely especially if you get breathless or uncomfortable as i do. Could have been somuch better