Many live-in carers looking after clients in London know the best places to go to keep their clients engaged with life and maintaining social connections. But just in case you need a little inspiration here are some tips about visiting London.
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Getting Around London
At first glance it might seem like London will be difficult to navigate however it has a well-connected public transport system making it easy to get around. When it comes to accessibility many of the buses and stations in London are equipped for those with mobility issues and wheelchair users. There are a number of travel cards that offer free or reduced travel for those over the age of 60 including the London Oyster photocard and the Freedom Pass.
For those who are looking to travel outside the centre of London has numerous mainline train stations connecting London with destinations in the suburbs or further afield. Euston (NW1 2RT), Paddington (W2 1HU) and London Bridge (SE1 9SP) are amongst the most accessible stations in the centre of the city, however all of the stations have facilities for those with limited mobility. They all offer wheelchair assistance although it is wise to book this in advance.
London has a number of shop mobility services that rent a range of equipment for those with mobility limitations so they can get around for shorter periods of time. The dial-a-ride service in London is also a good choice for those struggling to access public transport. This is a membership scheme with a small fee and fares for each journey.
Exploring Outdoors in London
Despite being a large urban metropolis London still has plenty to offer to visitors and residents alike when it comes to outdoor activities. Richmond Park, (TW10 5HS) one of the largest Royal Parks is an extensive open space with woodlands and grasslands, offering the perfect location for a day out. Likewise, Hyde Park (W2 2UH) is another London Park that shouldn’t be missed. The parks all have accessible footpaths for wheelchair users. They also have plenty of places to have a picnic, making them a great place to sit and enjoy the green space in the middle of the city.
For those who love beautiful botanical gardens a trip to Kew Gardens (TW9 3AE) is an absolute must. There are onsite restaurants and cafes, using as many ingredients as possible from their own gardens.
Activities for Inclement Weather
Of course, the weather isn’t always ideal for being outside. Fortunately there are plenty of very accessible indoor spaces in London that are a must on any list of places to visit. The British Museum (WC1B 3DG) offers 2 million years of history and culture over a number of floors, the museum is very accessible for everyone, there is plenty of information on their website about all the adaptations they offer to make visiting easier.
Entertainment in London
One thing London is also well known for is its theatres. It has a huge number of cinemas too from contemporary cinemas to small independent arthouse cinemas.
Picturehouse Cinemas such as those at Hackney (E8 1HE) and Ealing (W5 5FA) are particularly well known for their accessible features including wheelchair spaces, step-free access and adaptations for those with visual impairments.
The West End(W2) is a good location for theatres (although not the only one), with a hugely varied program with plenty of matinees and good accessibility.
Social skills and workshops in London
A good social life can really make a difference to your quality of life. London offers many opportunities to meet new people and learn new skills. Age UK operates a number of senior citizen centres across the city.
Dining Out in London
London has a huge variety of restaurants and places to eat and drink with no shortage of accessible establishments. The Market Coffee House & Bar in Spitalfields (E1 6AG) offers a British / European menu and a quieter daytime atmosphere that is perfect for catching up with friends.
Both Covent Garden and Notting Hill are known for their accessible restaurants with relaxed atmosphere and make a great location to head to for a light lunch or an afternoon tea.