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A guide to planning an accessible caravan holiday in the UK
Who says brilliant holidays should come with an obstacle course? Accessible caravan holidays in the UK are about relaxation, stunning scenery, and making memories, not navigating unnecessary hurdles.
No matter if you're planning your first accessible caravan holiday or you're a seasoned pro, we've got the inside scoop on how to make every moment count.
Key takeaways
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What is an accessible caravan holiday? – Learn how adapted caravans with ramps, wider doors, roll-in showers, and lowered surfaces make holidays stress-free.
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Why choose an accessible caravan holiday in the UK? – Enjoy independence, flexibility, and budget-friendly breaks with everything you need on your doorstep.
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Best accessible caravan parks in the UK – From Cornwall and the Isle of Wight to the New Forest and Lincolnshire, discover parks designed with inclusivity in mind.
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Accessibility features to look for – Step-free access, adapted bathrooms, lower kitchens, and parking right outside your caravan for maximum comfort.
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Top tips for planning an accessible caravan trip – Smart packing, choosing the right season, and making small tweaks for stress-free travel.
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Why book with Away Resorts? – Inclusive facilities, thoughtful design, and stunning UK locations make Away Resorts a trusted choice for accessible holidays.
What is an accessible caravan holiday?
An accessible caravan holiday is basically a regular, brilliant getaway, just designed with a bit more thought (and without the architectural puzzles).Â
Most modern accessible caravans come with:Â
- Ramps or step-free entrances
- Grab rails
- Wider doorways
- Roll-in showers
- Lowered work surfacesÂ
Some also have hoists, emergency pull cords, and accessible parking right outside your door.Â
This attention to accessibility benefits many people, including:Â
- Those with mobility aids
- People with visual or hearing impairments
- Someone who finds standard accommodation a bit challenging
- Families with elderly relatives
- Parents with pushchairs
- People recovering from surgeryÂ
But accessible doesn't have to mean boring. These caravans still have all the good stuff, such as proper kitchens, comfy lounges, decent telly, and often the best views in the park. You're not missing out on anything except the unnecessary stress of spending your first hour figuring out how to get through the door.Â
Why choose a caravan holiday for accessibility needs?
Wheelchair accessible caravan holidays have got everything you need in one neat package, without the faff of hunting down suitable hotels or wondering if your room will actually work for you.
Increased independence
Independence is the big winner here. Your caravan becomes your base camp, complete with an accessible kitchen, bathroom, and living space that's yours for the week. No more worrying about restaurant accessibility or whether the hotel lift is working: you've got everything sorted right on your doorstep (like having a personal butler, minus the fancy uniform).
Budget-friendly
Budget-wise, accessible caravan holidays are brilliant. Self-catering means you control costs, and splitting expenses with family or friends makes luxury surprisingly affordable. Plus, you're paying for accommodation, not per person, so you can bring the whole gang without breaking the bank.
Flexible holidaying
The flexibility is unmatched. Need a longer rest? Pop back to your caravan. Forgotten medication? It's two minutes away. Want to avoid crowds? Time your adventures perfectly. Many parks sit in stunning locations (coastal paths, forest trails, historic sites), all accessible from your front door.
Space for everyone
Best of all, everyone stays together. Accessible caravans often have space for companions, carers, or family members, so nobody gets left behind. It's inclusive holidaying where the only thing you're excluding is stress.
Planning an accessible caravan holiday
Planning an accessible caravan holiday requires a bit of upfront detective work that’ll save you heaps of hassle later. Getting the details sorted means more time for the good stuff: exploring, relaxing, and making memories that don't involve muttering about poorly designed layouts.
What to look for in an accessible caravan
An accessible caravan should feel like it was designed by someone who truly gets it, not someone who thinks accessibility means ‘just make the door a bit wider and job done.’
Access
Step-free entrances or ramps that don't wobble. Door widths of at least 850mm for wheelchairs and mobility scooters without having to breathe in.
Bathrooms
Wet rooms with roll-in showers, grab rails that take your weight, and toilets at the right height. Some have ceiling hoists for lifting assistance.
Kitchen
Lowered work surfaces, accessible storage, and space underneath worktops. Side-opening ovens beat drop-down doors: no gymnastics to check your dinner.
Bedrooms
Bed height around 480mm (not too high or low), space around beds for transfers, and storage within reach.
Other essentials
Light switches and heating controls at accessible heights, plus designated parking right outside, not three fields away.
Best time of year to travel for accessibility comfort
Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September-October) hit the sweet spot: mild weather, fewer crowds fighting for accessible facilities, and paths that aren't muddy quagmires or scorching hot.
Summer's lovely but busier. Winter has charm, but you’ll need somewhere with decent heating and regularly gritted paths. Avoid traditional British weather surprises: muddy paths and mobility aids don't mix well.
Top accessible caravan parks in the UK
When it comes to accessible caravan parks, Away Resorts has the best of the best. We're talking resorts that have thought things through properly, including smooth paths, decent facilities, and locations so stunning you'll forget you're not paying five-star hotel prices.
Best coastal spots with accessible caravans
St Helens Coastal Resort
St Helens Coastal Resort, Isle of Wight: Perched on the island's quieter side with accessible paths leading to sandy beaches. The adapted caravans here are well kitted out, and you're a stone's throw from Bembridge and those famous Solent views. The ferry journey adds adventure without the airport stress.
Find out more
Whitecliff Bay
Whitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight: Another island gem with accessible caravans overlooking dramatic white cliffs. Level pathways throughout, plus adapted facilities that really work. The coastal walks here are gentle enough for most mobility levels.
Find out more
St Ives Bay
St Ives Bay, Cornwall: Classic Cornish charm with accessible caravans just minutes from that famous harbour. Adapted facilities, accessible parking, and you can practically smell the pasties from your front door. The Southwest Coast Path has accessible sections for stunning sea views without the cliff-edge terror.
Find out moreCountryside caravan sites with great accessibility
Sandy Balls
Sandy Balls, New Forest: Don’t be fooled by the silliness of the name: this place is seriously good for accessibility. Adapted caravans nestled among ancient woodland, with level forest paths perfect for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Wild ponies wander past your door, and the accessible facilities are top-notch.
Find out more
Tattershall Lakes
Tattershall Lakes, Lincolnshire: Lakeside accessible caravans with fishing platforms designed for wheelchair users. Flat pathways around the water, adapted boating facilities, and those big Lincolnshire skies that stretch forever. Perfect for peaceful breaks without hills to navigate.
Find out more
Appletree
Appletree, Lincolnshire: Classic countryside vibes with accessible caravans set in spacious grounds. Wide pathways, adapted facilities, and gentle walking trails through farmland. Close enough to Lincoln for culture, far enough away for peace and quiet.
Find out moreAccessible caravan holiday tips and travel hacks
Smart packing and a few clever tweaks can transform your accessible caravan holiday from ‘managing fine’ to ‘absolutely brilliant.’Â
Packing checklist for accessible caravan trips
Essentials: Extra batteries for mobility aids, phone chargers with long cables, torch for nighttime navigation, and any personal care equipment. Pack medications in original containers so you know what’s what.Â
Comfort boosters: Cushions for better seating support, non-slip mats for wet floors, and a small step stool if needed. Bring familiar bedding: caravan mattresses can be hit-and-miss for comfort levels, depending on your needs.
Contingency gear: Basic tools for wheelchair adjustments, spare walking stick, and emergency contact numbers for equipment suppliers. Rain covers for mobility scooters because British weather has zero respect for holiday plans.
Clever additions: Portable ramps for unexpected steps, grabber tools for high shelves, and a small cool bag for medications that need temperature control.
How to make your own caravan more accessible
If you’re taking the plunge and thinking of buying your own caravan, some simple swaps can make a massive difference:Â
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Lever-style door handles
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LED under-cupboard lighting
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Lower hanging rails
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Pull-out drawers
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Non-slip strips
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Grab rails (mounted, not wishfully stuck on)
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Contrasting tape
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Plug extenders
Most upgrades deliver holiday comfort for years. Get in touch with our team to learn more about owning your dream holiday home.
Why choose an accessible caravan holiday with Away Resorts?
At Away Resorts, we don't simply tick accessibility boxes: we actually think things through. Our adapted caravans and lodges come with ramps, lower and adapted surfaces, and parking that doesn't require a cross-country hike. Wide pathways connect everything, and our team genuinely gets it rather than just nodding politely.
Located in stunning spots from Cornwall's coast to Scotland's borders, each park offers accessible facilities designed by people who understand real needs. Plus, we're upfront about what's available: no nasty surprises when you arrive expecting one thing and finding another.
Book with confidence knowing your accessible holiday will actually be accessible, comfortable, and memorable for all the right reasons. Give our Holiday Heroes a call today on 01442 50 88 50 if you have any specific questions.
Accessible caravan holidays FAQs
Do all caravan parks offer accessible accommodation?
Not all parks have accessible options, and standards vary wildly. Always check beforehand: some parks think one step counts as ‘accessible.’ Away Resorts parks specifically cater for accessibility needs with adapted caravans: simply give us a call if you have any questions.
Can I bring my own mobility equipment or hire it on-site?
Bring your own kit: you know it works. Unfortunately we don’t offer to hire equipment, so it’s always best to confirm storage space in your caravan for your own scooters or wheelchairs beforehand.
Are accessible caravans more expensive to hire?
No, accessible caravans are the same price as our standard caravans. You're paying for location, the size and luxuriousness of the caravan, and dates, not accessibility features.Â
How do I check a site’s accessibility before I go?
Call directly and ask specific questions: photos can’t always show everything. Request details about ramps, door widths, bathroom layouts, and pathway surfaces. Virtual tours help, but nothing beats speaking to someone knowledgeable, and our team is happy to help.
Can I park close to the caravan if I have mobility needs?
Most accessible caravans include designated parking right outside or very nearby. Always confirm when booking if you’re unsure.
Do accessible caravans allow assistance dogs?
At Away Resorts, we’re incredibly dog-friendly, and welcome Registered Assistance Dogs in all of our adapted caravans.Â
Are there on-site activities suitable for guests with limited mobility?
Many parks offer accessible activities like adapted pools, accessible entertainment venues, and gentle activities. Check what's available when booking: variety depends on individual park facilities and location.