Another trip in West Somerset

We thought we'd do the whole thing as most other folks do it.

We went to the Booking Office at Minehead to buy our tickets. Argggh. A step! Not overly high but still a step. Why? Anyway, we got our tickets. Excellent lady booking clerk understood our requirement first time. Another little step at the exit door. Immediately greeted by a lady member of staff "Are you travelling?". "Yes". "Follow me and I'll get the ramp sorted so you can get on the train".

We did and she did. And before too long we were on board. "Put the chair there next to the window". And the lady made room on two ordinary chairs further away but we didn't want to sit one end of the brake van with Matt the other end so one of us stayed with Matt.

We got off at Washford. Excellent, prompt and helpful service by the train staff. And we made our way off the station.

The plan was to take the Mineral Line Walk from Washford to Watchet. Then to catch the train back to Minehead. Something we have been doing since 1978.

The awkward kissing gate at the entrance to the Playing Field proved, well, awkward as usual but, for us, it is possible to negotiate with the wheelchair.

The Mineral Line Walk has been much improved recently and it now features a hard, smooth surface throughout its length. So off we trotted , around the field and past the court to the far end, where the Walk really begins.

Calamity. Concern. There, right across the paved path was a spanking new metal kissing gate. Not the large concern we had encountered earlier. But a small gate that swung inside a small semi-circular enclosure. Enough room for your average-sized walking bod to get through. But not a wheelchair, not a bike, not a pushchair. On each side of the metal gate structure was a gap. The gap on one side was a wooden fence; on the other side was nothing. Yet. But it was clear that a fence was due to be installed soon. B****r. That will completely block the Walk for us. Might as well build an eight-foot brick wall across the path.

We left the nice smooth path to traverse a bit of uneven rough ground, luckily it was dry and not muddy. So we were away. But heck, we thought. Just supposing there is a similar gate at the Watchet end - two miles away - and suppose that gate was finished, complete with side fences. We'd have to walk/wheel all the way back. But happily there was no gate at that end. Yet.

The rest of the walk went reasonable well. I won't relate the excursion to Kentsford Farm which involved another ruddy kissing gate...

We had to use the "troublesome" Govier's Lane Crossing but we found using the two swinging gates quite easy and we were not troubled.

The return trip began with equal care and attention by the train staff. And continued all the way to Minehead.

In summary, the trip on the train went well. The wander along the Mineral Line Walk gave us concerns. We have written to the authorities. Our message has been bounced from one department to another and then to another. Maybe one day we will find out what they think about their kissing gate and accessibility.

Nene Valley Railway

A very good day out on the Nene Valley Railway. Very, very attentive and friendly staff, throughout the day, made all the difference.

At Ferry Meadows, we were helpfully advised where to wait. When the train arrived, the Guard quickly established we were travelling. Before putting the ramp into position, he wound on the handbrake. We were very impressed with this action as an incident on another heritage railway nearly ended in disaster when, just as the wheelchair was on the ramp the train move slightly, about six inches, but enough to dislodge the ramp which nearly tipped us over before we could reach terra firma (we have written to the railway concerned - it was not the NVR).

The accommodation was the dreaded guards van, although this one had four comfortable ex-BR seats permanently fitted for "helpers". It was still a van, however, no trimmings, and allowing but poor viewing of the passing scenery. We shared the journey with a rubbish bin; a bike; several pushchairs and various members of staff. This is not the experience of others on the train and it tends to spoil things.

We got off at Wansford, again after commendable attention from the train crew. Brilliant. The station site was laid out very well for wheelchairs and we had no difficulty whatsoever getting around, including the pleasant riverside picnic area.

Our rover tickets allowed us a trip on "Thomas", from Wansford to Yarwell and back, via the tunnel. This train left from the opposite platform, but there was ramped access via the level crossing so no problems there. Continental stock was used for this shuttle train. A ramp was in place and into the cavenous wheelchair area we went. No seats for helpers sadly. But it was possible for us to get the wheelchair to the first seating bay which was extremely welcome as we could all travel together. Enough space too for the following family who also had a wheelchair. This facility is very commendable.

The return trip to Ferry Meadows started and ended with the excellent and friendly attention of the train crew. This time our party (four grown-ups, two kids and a wheelchair-bound grown-up) shared the guards van with a bike, pushchairs and other passengers, mostly standing for most of the way.

Clearly the NVR has prepared its stock and staff very well for wheelchair-bound visitors, a preparation which helped us to enjoy a good day out. Thanks NVR.

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre

Donegal Railway Heritage Centre is based at the former Donegal Station just a short distance from the main car parks in Donegal Town. Other than the usual problems of crossing roads, it was quite easy making our way to the Station. A notice at the Station Approach said parking was for "bus employees only". We did not notice any parking for blue badge holders. Access to the building was ramped and once inside there was sufficient room for the wheelchair, except perhaps to and from the audio/visual room. The historical exhibits were laid out for standing people although the excellent model railway was low enough for sitting folk to enjoy. We did not see any evidence of the rides on the small length of minituare gauge track on the platform. Indeed we did not (could not?) get onto the platform. The exhibits in the garden could be viewed by wheelchair users and Coach no 28 has ramped access allowing close inspection of the outside and, through the windows, the inside. There was no sign of the CDR steamer Drumboe. Overall, we found access reasonable to this invaluable historical resource and we wish them well.

West Somerset Railway

We had parked the car at Washford and walked along the old West Somerset Mineral line, now a footpath, down to Watchet, with the idea of catching the train back to Washford. When the train, a four-car DMU, arrived at Watchet, we looked for the Guard's van. We were right opposite it. But there were two! And the doors of van near us were locked as one helpful passenger (a off-duty WSR volunteer as we later found out) found. But at least he tried. At the same time, another WSR person travelling on the train, dashed out, said "Hold on" and ran to the other end of the train, ran back to us, and guided us to the van at the other end. By that time, the ramp was in place, but we had to wait as other wheelchair-bound passenger detrained. A slight delay as the Guard patiently advised that party on the best way to get into town. Then we were onboard and promptly guided by the Guard and TTI to the wheelchair space where we found we could sit in real comfort with Matt alongside in a normal carriage area, along with other passengers. At Washford, we were detrained with equal efficiency. Well done the train crew and the two other WSR people who were so quick to help. We hear a lot about the legendary WSR friendly staff who go the extra mile to help and advise - well, we have now experienced it for ourselves!

Isle of Wight Railway

Overview
A standard gauge railway using original locomotives and coaching stock over a five mile line on the Isle of Wight. The comments below are largely drawn from observations during an unannounced visit made in September 2000, starting at Havenstreet - the best place for car-bound visitors. A useful rail link can also be made using Island Line trains, changing at Smallbrook Junction for the steam trains.

Car Parking
A large, tarmac car park at Havenstreet with a few spaces reserved for "disabled" visitors. These spaces are a bit narrow, however. There is a short walk over small gravel - a little difficult for small wheels - of around 50 yards from the car park to the ticket office, where hard surface is regained.

Getting Tickets
The ticket office controls access to the station site at Havenstreet and is easily navigated bar one small gate. All level access.

Platforms
The train arrives and departs from the one island platform at Havenstreet. Access to the platform involves crossing one track via a boardwalk and tnen a ramp to the platform proper. I cannot recall a shelter on the platform.

Getting there using the Island Line trains
There is a very useful cross-platform interchange at Smallbrook Junction, where the steam trains link with the electric Island Line trains on the Ryde Pier to Shanklin route. This option may well suit especially as travel on the Island Line is particularly good for the wheelchair-user.
The Train
Given the very vintage nature of the rolling stock on the Isle of Wight Railway, it is good that wheelchairs can be carried at all. Here, the Guards Van is used via a short ramp. Space in the Van is confined with more than one chair and no more than three can be carried. Restricted views - if any - for the wheelchair-user, mostly through the door windows and the end-windows. The latter give a rare view of the engine in one direction or the line in the other. Nevertheless, it is not good viewing for the wheelchair-user, but, this may be offset by the "belt-and-braces" experience of travel in an old four-wheel Guards Van.

Other information
The shop at Havenstreet is a bit congested and the adjoining small museum is difficult as there are steps.
The helpfulness of the Staff can not be overstated. Every effort is made to help and inform.



Disclaimer


The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.



Last updated 23 September 2001

Bure Valley Railway

Overview
A narrow gauge railway running for nine miles between Aylsham and Wroxham in Norfolk. Wheelchair-users are conveyed in specially built coaches which have wide doors and ramps. Helpers can travel in the same coach using standard seating. The comments below are largely drawn from observations during an unannounced visit made in September 2001, starting at Wroxham.

Car Parking
At both Aylsham and Wroxham, there is free parking for all, with easy access the few yards to the Station via lowered kerbs.

Getting Tickets
The doors to the building at Wroxham were a little difficult to open and keep open - one set to enter the shop to buy the tickets, and one set from the shop to the platform. All level access. The tickets were purchased over the shop counter near the door which created a little congestion. No discount offered.

Platforms
The train arrives and departs from the one platform at Wroxham; at Aylsham there are two or three platforms and whilst these are wide enough for a chair there are several metal pillars to avoid.

Anglia Trains
Visitors may also like to know that Anglia Trains from Norwich and Cromer call at Wroxham (Hoveton) Station. There is a direct ramped walkway - about 200 yards - from the "big" station to the "little" Bure Valley Railway station.

The Train
The Bure Valley Railway prides itself in the facilities provided for wheelchair-users. The train had two specially adapted coaches, each has wide doors and a low portable ramp and can hold probably three wheelchairs. Helpers can sit with the wheelchair-users, and a further four people in each of two end-bays. The floor is rubberised. No clamps are provided. Whilst the roof is low - to be expected on a narrow-gauge line - the windows are also low and all get a super view during the journey.

Other information
At Wroxham and Aylsham, there are suitable toilets for all. Access to the Whistlestop Restaurant at Aylsham is straightforward. Self-service selection is quite easy with no barriers or similar. Plenty of room at tables. The shops at Aylsham and Wroxham are quite spacious.
The Bure Valley Railway are constructing four more coaches - a clear indication of the ongoing commitment to enhance the experience for the wheelchair-user. The Railway also has a growing number of local people using the line and the coaches are also used for pushchairs and prams.

Update March 2004
The four disabled access coaches mentioned above are now in service. As a result the Railway can guarantee that wheelchair accessible coaches will be available on every train. And that is wonderful news.
Platform Three - the main departure/arrival one - at Aylsham is to be widened by approximately three feet

Disclaimer

The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.

Last updated 17 March 2004

Strathspey Railway

Overview
A standard-gauge railway running between Aviemore and Broomhill in the Spey valley in the Scottish Highlands. Most of the comments here relate to a visit in August 2004 which took in a trip from Aviemore to Broomhill and back. We did not get off at Broomhill or Boat of Garten, the intermediate station.

Car Parking
We joined at Aviemore where there are several well signed spaces for disabled visitors. There is a brief stony track to cross, then a well finished pathway all the way to the booking office. Earlier that week, on a quick visit to the intermediate station, Boat of Garten, we had followed the road signs to the car park only to find no public access to the main platform for wheelchairs, only a footbridge. On motoring to the other side we found a few spaces right next to the booking office door. Shame it was so hidden away...

Getting Tickets
No problems with access at Aviemore or at Boat of Garten. No discount offered.

Platforms
Very easy access to the platforms at Aviemore and Boat of Garten.

Scotrail
These main line trains also stop at Aviemore and, there is cross platform access but some up Scotrail trains used the down platform. This would mean a lengthy detour for wheelchair-users to gain access to the Strathspey platform.

The Train
We were met promptly by the Guard who fetched the usual portable ramp from the Van and we wheeled aboard. The Van interior was fitted out with two tables with comfortable chairs, and we were helped to the table. The Van was occupied by other staff making their way to work elsewhere. Whilst these people were very friendly and chatty, we did feel a little uncomfortable, especially when their own discussions became loud. We could not gain access to the buffet and we were not offered any help by passing buffet staff. There was no disabled toilet as far as we could tell.

Other information
There is little to add to the above. The official website states "...Passengers using wheelchairs can be accommodated, except on 'Branch Line Days', in a specially adapted part of the train. However, as space is limited please contact Aviemore station in advance to check availability and best access to the platform.".

Disclaimer
The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.

Last updated 12 September 2004

Swanage Railway

Overview
A standard gauge railway running for around five or so miles between the Dorset seaside resort of Swanage and Norden. Wheelchair-users are conveyed in the parcels compartment of a normal brake coach which has wide doors. Portable ramps appear are used to assist wheelchairs on and off. Helpers can travel in the same coach using four domestic wooden chairs. The comments below are largely drawn from observations during an unannounced visit made in April 2003, starting at Swanage.

Car Parking
We did not check out the parking arrangements at Swanage Station.

Getting Tickets
Level access from the platform to the doors to the Ticket Office which were sufficiently wide for a wheelchair. The Clerk's window was a little high. No discount offered.

Platforms
The train arrives and departs from the one platform at Swanage - access is very easy indeed from the main street. We did not alight at any of the other stations - Harman's Cross seemed to have a good sloping access path to either platform, Corfe Castle seemed to present no problems at all and looks to be a super destination, and Norden looked purpose-built and therefore very suitable for chairs.

The Train
The Swanage Railway seemed to have made minimal effort to cater for wheelchair-bound visitors - the parcels area of a Brake Coach with no facilities at all. No clamps are provided. The wheelchair-bound visitor can be positioned near a window if one of the few are free of obstructions - the area is also used for cycles, pushchairs and similar. There is no suitable toilet.

Other information
The attention by Railway Staff was excellent. We were met by a courteous ticket inspector whilst on the platform who arranged for the ramp to be put in place for us. We were also impressed by the helpfulness of other Staff whilst on the train and at each Station.

Disclaimer
The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.

Last updated 23 April 2003