Overview

Valley Gardens is a beautiful open space based in the centre of Harrogate town, opposite Harrogate`s historic Royal Pump Room. It is a great place for a stroll and to get some fresh air but also provides many leisure and sporting activities including a tennis court, crazy golf, pitch & putt golf, band stand, boating pool, paddling pool and children`s play area and skate park, but these activities can be seen as a barrier for the disabled. The children`s playground may be hard for disabled children to utilize and get around. For example, they do not have in place a pool lift or disabled friendly swings. Also, a very dog friendly place.

Transport & Parking

Includes street disc zone car parking around the gardens with accessible and disabled parking spaces. Sometimes hard to find a spot due to limited spaces. The train and bus station are based on the opposite side of town (approximately 15 minute walk to the gardens).

Access

Easy access to the 2 main openings into the gardens, all ground level. Footpaths are suitable for majority of manual and electric wheelchairs. Although, near woodland areas the slope slightly increases which many become difficult and tiring for the person or carer. Plenty of benches situated around the gardens to take a rest. Clear signs around identifying areas and information about some artchiteceture. Easy access to the grass area around the band stand, as well as some steps.

Toilets

There are a number of disabled toilets; one situated in the playground and another near the main toilets, these are quite hard to find. From a glance they seemed to be clean and included grab rails but seemed quite small inside.

Staff

No staff seen around. Although, lovely staff working in the cafe that will answer any questions or concerns you have.

Anything else you wish to tell us?

I would recommend this place to anyone, especially families who want to have a fun yet relaxing day out or are interested in attending local events and activities such as 1940 events and picnics. I believe there could be improvements made to make the place more disabled friendly, especially within the children`s playground.

Photos

Video