The island of Ireland is well-known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, and today there are a growing number of attractions and sights that are dedicated to ensuring that visitors with disabilities have the opportunity to experience the best of what the island has to offer.
Sightseeing and attractionsIn Dublin:Dublin is a city rich in history and culture, with many attractions that are fully accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Trinity College is a must-see for anyone visiting Dublin, and its buildings and grounds are easily accessible thanks to ramps and lifts. The
National Museum of Ireland is also fully accessible, with audio-visual aids and audio guides available. Phoenix Park is one of the largest public parks in Dublin and is also highly accessible, with wheelchair ramps, wide pathways, and designated accessible parking spaces.
Dublin Castle is another popular attraction that is in large part accessible, with ramps and lifts throughout the building. The
National Botanic Gardens of Dublin also offer wheelchair-friendly pathways and facilities. And if you're interested in wildlife,
Dublin Zoo is fully accessible for people with disabilities.
Belfast and Northern Ireland: Belfast is the birthplace of the Titanic, and the
Titanic Belfast is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of this iconic ship. The
Giant's Causeway is another popular attraction and parts of it are now accessible for people with disabilities, with accessible parking, ramps, and paths that allow you to explore the world-famous rock formations.
Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s Ancient East:There are a large number of attractions outside of Dublin that are accessible. First off, the stunning
Cliffs of Moher have accessible parking spaces and a ramp leading up to the cliffs to explore and take in the breathtaking views. The scenic drive around the
Ring of Kerry is also one to enjoy, with accessible stops along the way. Other attractions include
Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th-century mansion, which has wheelchair-accessible gardens, as well as the fascinating
Skelling islands off the west coast. There are
accessible boat tours available to accommodate wheelchairs, although it is recommended to confirm this when booking. The
Rock of Cashel can be accessed with prior arrangement, as is the important Neolithic site of
Newgrange.
Accommodation:
When it comes to accommodation, there are several options available for visitors with reduced mobility. Jurys Inn, Premier Inn, and O'Callaghan Hotels are a few of the popular hotel chains that offer accessible rooms and facilities in various locations across Ireland and Northern Ireland. You’ll find more accessible places to stay on the
Accessible Ireland website as well as the
Disabled Friendly Hotels platform.
Transportation:
Getting around the island is made relatively easy thanks to its
public transportation network.
Busses are generally equipped with ramps for wheelchair access, although the level of accessibility can vary depending on the bus company and the specific bus. Most
trains in Ireland and Northern Ireland have designated spaces for passengers with disabilities, but some stations may not have ramps or lifts, so it's always a good idea to check before travelling. Taxis are generally accessible, but it's always best to confirm with the driver before getting in the taxi. The DART trains have designated spaces, and most stations are accessible with ramps or lifts, although rush hour can make travelling more difficult.
Furthermore, it remains possible to rent disabled-friendly cars through
Motability Ireland.
Some extra tips:Planning ahead is key when it comes to accessible travel. Researching accessible accommodation options is essential and will make your stay so much more pleasant by having sorted this out prior to travelling. When it comes to transportation on the island, the public transportation network is excellent, but it's important to check in advance that the necessary options are available and accessible (ramps, spaces…). Taxis and private hire vehicles can be pre-booked with wheelchair accessibility. It's also a good idea to check the accessibility of attractions before visiting by calling ahead or checking the website. If you need assistance, don't be afraid to ask for help. The locals are known for their friendly and helpful nature and will be more than happy to help with transportation or navigating an attraction. Finally, it's important to note that gardens, parks, and other outdoor activities are also accessible to wheelchair and disabled visitors, so the island’s scenery is there to be enjoyed by all!
For more tips, there are some excellent resources on our
Accessibility in Ireland page.