Access
We strive hard to provide access for visitors of all ages who have a variety of mobility or other special requirements. Please take a little time to review the advice given below.
Mobility
Our carriages
Specially adapted vehicles, which allow wheelchair access, are available on certain trains and can accommodate wheelchairs that are within the dimensions prescribed in government regulations covering public transport (700mm wide by 1200mm long). Disability-friendly toilets are also fitted in some of these vehicles. At all stations, excluding Northwood and Country Park Halts, ramps are available which connect between the train and the platform. The train crew and station staff will assist passengers in wheelchairs if required; they are used to doing this.
We strongly recommend all wheelchair users to seek advice prior to booking. All trains are wheelchair accessible, but some of the carriages' accommodation is not suitable. Suitable disabled accommodation on-train is strictly limited, and only available on a first come, first served basis.
Due to operational difficulties, wheelchair accommodation may sometimes be unavailable at short notice.
We can only accommodate standard designs of wheelchair and mobility scooter. Unfortunately, some larger vehicles are too wide and heavy to traverse the ramp into our carriages.
Wheelchairs, pushchairs and buggies can be accommodated on our trains, but MUST be stored in the Guard's Carriage when travelling. It may be necessary to fold these items during busy periods.
Our dining trains
Due to the historic design of our dining car carriages with their narrow doors and gangways, it is NOT possible to accommodate wheelchairs at a table in one of these carriages. It is also important to note that passengers with mobility issues will need to climb up or down a step to get into or out of the train.
For those who are able to walk a short distance wheelchairs can be folded and carried in the brake van.
Our Stations
Please remember that our stations were built in the 1850s and, as such, can pose some access difficulties.
At Kidderminster - Designated parking bays are situated immediately in front of the station building. These bays are heavily used. We advise drivers to ‘drop off’ passengers who have mobility problems at the door of the station. Additional bays are located to the right of the car park entrance barriers.
At Bewdley - Designated bays are situated immediately in front of the station building. These bays are adjacent to the platform for trains to Bridgnorth. The toilets are also nearby. The town of Bewdley is a downhill walk from the station which takes approximately 10 minutes. The return journey is hilly in parts. For trains travelling to Kidderminster, passengers in wheelchairs must use the barrow crossing (assisted by a member of staff) at the far end of the Station to join and leave the platform. Access is via uneven surfaces at the end of the carpark, which some wheelchair users may find difficult.
At Arley, Highley & Hampton Loade - Parking is very limited at these countryside stations. We do not recommend that disabled visitors park at these stations.
The Engine House, Highley - Designated bays are situated in front of The Engine House. The entrance to the Visitor Centre is adjacent. These bays are suspended during certain special events. Access from the Station from the trains is via a 150 yard path.
At Bridgnorth - Temporary designated bays are situated opposite the signal box, whilst redevelopment work takes place. Access to platform 1 (the main platform) is a flat walk away. Platform 2 is also used on busier days and is accessible via a footbridge. A step-free crossing to platform 2 is available with staff assistance and when the line is clear. This involves a short walk with short, steep slopes at each end. Wheelchair or mobility scooter users and those with walking aids should allow extra time to join or change trains, as it may not be possible to delay departures.
The town of Bridgnorth is very hilly and is unsuitable for the less able on foot or in a wheelchair.
When thinking about parking, it is important to remember that the Railway is extremely busy during certain special events. On these dates parking at our main stations, Kidderminster, Bewdley or Bridgnorth is strongly recommended.
There are toilets at all stations, excluding the halts. Toilets with full accessibility are available at Kidderminster, Highley - The Engine House and Bridgnorth. The toilets at Bewdley have ramped access but are not specifically adapted for wheelchair users.
Assistance Dogs
We recognise that that these dogs provide assistance not only for the sight impaired but also for those with hearing loss, epilepsy, diabetes, physical mobility problems and more. Assistance dogs are welcome in our restaurants and public houses, on our trains and at the Visitor Centre at Highley. We also welcome Assistance Dogs in training providing they are accredited as such.
Assistance Dogs (and those in training) travel free on our trains.
