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Accessibility at Dudmaston

Exploring the North Devon Countryside on a tramper
A visitor explores Dudmaston using the Powered Mobility Vehicle | © Paul Harris

Discover the accessibility features at Dudmaston Hall, such as our pre-bookable all-terrain Tramper (Powered Mobility Vehicle), quiet spaces, sensory bags and Changing Places toilet. The historic house and galleries we care for present challenges in creating access for all, but we are working to ensure Dudmaston is accessible to as many visitors as possible. Here you’ll find information about how to make the most of your visit.

Parking and arrival

There is designated accessible parking at Dudmaston Hall.  There are 13 designated spaces for visitors with access needs located in the front two rows of the car park nearest to Visitor Reception. These are indicated by signs.  There is the ability to drop off visitors by Visitor Reception whilst the driver parks in the main car park. There are small benches and seats available at Visitor Reception.

Powered Mobility Vehicle (PMV/Tramper)

An all-terrain Powered Mobility Vehicle (PMV/Tramper) is available to hire at Comer Woods. It is an electric all-terrain mobility scooter, designed specifically to cover rough ground and grass safely. It can go up and down slopes, over bumps and tree roots, through mud and soft ground and through shallow puddles.

Who can use it? 

The PMV is for those who wish to explore the outdoor areas of the Dudmaston Estate, which would otherwise be inaccessible to traditional mobility scooters. Tramper/PMV routes have been drawn up to allow users to explore as much of Dudmaston’s gardens and Comer Woods as possible, without the worry of getting stuck.

Explore Dudmaston

Those wanting to use the PMV will be able to book in advance, with one booking a day available. If there is no booking on any given day, then the PMV can be used on the day on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The user must be accompanied by an adult, at all times, while out on the trails and their party should have a mobile phone available to call for assistance if required. Contact details will be provided

The PMV must be returned to Visitor Reception before it closes (timings advised on the day).

To book the PMV/Tramper, please email dudmaston@nationaltrust.org.uk at least 24 hours in advance.

Accessible toilets

There is an accessible toilet in the orchard adjacent to the Orchard Tea Room.

Changing Places toilet

We have a Changing Places toilet, which provides an accessible space for more complex changing needs.  Our Changing Place is at the visitor entrance of Dudmaston near the kitchen garden.

The space comprises:

- Centrally placed toilet with grab rails and drop-down support rails on either side

- Large central space to fit carers and to enable turning of wheelchairs

- Height adjustable washbasin with space underneath

- Privacy screen

- Adult sized changing bench

- Ceiling track hoist

Access ramp

Dudmaston Hall can be accessed at the front via the access ramp.

Induction loop

There is an induction hearing loop set up across the property.  We also have a mobile induction loop which can be used on our tours.

Braille and large print guide

There is a braille guide to the hall and galleries and a large print guide available at Visitor Reception and the Hall entrance.

Picture folder

We can provide a picture folder to show the first floor of Dudmaston Hall and the galleries.  Please request it at Visitor Reception.

Quiet spaces

Outside, we have a quiet space in Ice House Woods near the Space Frame sculpture, which is off the beaten track and a good place to decompress or take time out.  

Double handled cups

At our tearoom, we have double handled cups and large handled cutlery available.

Sensory bag

Please ask to borrow our Sensory bag.  It is available at Visitor Reception.

Contents include:  Adjustable Ear Defenders* • Sensory Bottle • Wooden Easy-hold Magnifier or Mirror • Wooden Articulated Caterpillar • Rainbow Press Pop Fidget Toy • Textured Flashing Ball • Clipboard • Colouring Sheets • Colouring Pencils • Communication cards 

*please note, the ear defenders are not toys and children should not be left alone with them.

Adjustable Ear Defenders • Sensory Bottle • Wooden Easy-hold Magnifier or Mirror • Wooden Articulated Caterpillar • Rainbow Press Pop Fidget Toy • Textured Flashing Ball • Clipboard • Colouring Sheets • Colouring Pencils • Communication cards 
Sensory bags available to borrow at Visitor Reception | © National Trust

Map showing accessibility features of Dudmaston Grounds

PDF
PDF

View or download this map 

Dudmaston Grounds Map including accessibility