Garden Wildlife Week: Discover the Joy of Accessible Gardening Across the UK

Garden Wildlife Week is the perfect time to get outside and experience the incredible diversity of wildlife in our gardens. It’s also a timely reminder that nature should be accessible to everyone. Across the UK, many gardens and green spaces are welcoming visitors with disabilities – offering everything from step-free paths and disabled parking for visitors travelling in wheelchair accessible vehicles, to sensory planting and calm spaces to enjoy nature up close.

And thanks to charities like Gardening with Disabilities Trust (GDT), more people than ever are finding joy in gardening and the outdoors regardless of their accessibility needs. Explore our list of wheelchair accessible gardens across the UK to make the most of Garden Wildlife Week with your families! 

London: Explore Kew Gardens with Ease

At the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, accessibility is beautifully integrated into every part of the experience. Wide, flat pathways make navigation easy for wheelchair users and most glasshouses are step-free. There are accessible toilets throughout the site and dedicated disabled parking spaces near the entrance. 

It’s a truly inclusive space for wildlife lovers – from the buzzing pollinator beds to the serene Waterlily House.

Cornwall: Discover Eden in Full Bloom

The Eden Project offers wheelchair accessible paths that weave through both outdoor gardens and the famous biomes. Mobility scooters are available for hire, and all main buildings are step-free. There’s also Blue Badge parking and assistance available at the entrance. 

Expect an immersive experience with wildflower meadows, butterflies, birds, and tropical plant life – all thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind.

Manchester: RHS Garden Bridgewater – Built for Everyone

As one of the newest RHS gardens, RHS Garden Bridgewater was designed with accessibility in mind. Its extensive flat paths, accessible facilities and clear signage create a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids.  

There is also a sensory garden and peaceful woodland areas – ideal for quiet exploration and wildlife spotting during Garden Wildlife Week. 

Birmingham: Botanical Beauty with Step-Free Access

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens offer step-free access throughout most areas, along with disabled toilets and accessible parking. Their wide paths and lower-level planting beds make it easier for wheelchair users to interact with the greenery. 

This Victorian Garden space is rich in biodiversity and charm – a great destination to celebrate the occasion. 

A National Mission: The Gardening with Disabilities Trust

Founded over 50 years ago, the Gardening with Disabilities Trust, a UK charity that supports people living with physical or mental disabilities to keep gardening – at home or in their communities. GDT offers small grants for raised beds, adapted tools, mobility-friendly greenhouse access, and more. 

Their mission is simple: to make the benefits of gardening available to everyone. 

Find out more or donate here.

Planning Your Visit: Accessibility Tips

When visiting any accessible garden, here’s what to look out for:

• Disabled parking with space for wheelchair accessible vehicles.
• Step-free entrances and well-maintained, flat paths.
• Accessible toilets including Changing Places where available.
• Drop-off zones near entrances for convenience.
• Quiet, low-sensory areas for those needing a more peaceful experience.

Always check your chosen garden’s website or contact them ahead of your visit to confirm their latest accessibility info.