Accessible Christmas Markets: Motability Special

With Christmas Markets playing a big part in the festive season, it’s important that everyone gets to enjoy them.

We know that especially in busy periods, accessibility can be difficult in different towns and winter wonderlands across the UK, so we’ve put together a list of the five most accessible markets this Christmas for the whole family to enjoy.

1. Winter Wonderland

Top of the list of course has to be the highly anticipated Winter Wonderland. From the 21st November to 5th January 2020, London Hyde Park is transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

With an array of shows, food stalls, festive bars, rides and even live music, it’s a Christmas event you don’t want to miss.

With all entrances to the event step-free and tarmacked, Winter Wonderland is certainly easily accessible. Although there is no specific Disabled access, they advise using the Red Entrance as this becomes less busy during peak times.

Winter Wonderland have a variety of helpful guides available on their website including those regarding accessibility, pre-bookable attractions and also a site map so you can plan your visit before you go. Disabled toilets and parking are also available at this event.

If you have any specific access requirements when booking tickets, all you need to do is let the team know in advance.

It really is a fantastic event there to be enjoyed by the whole family. So get planning and enjoy the festive spirit at Winter Wonderland this year!

2. Cardiff Christmas Markets

Cardiff Christmas Markets have been running for over 20 years and are certain not to disappoint. Located in the centre of the city and with over 200 stalls to choose from, it’s a festive experience for the whole family to enjoy.

Running from 14 November to Monday 23 December 2019, there’s plenty of time for you to visit.

Unlike many other Christmas Markets, Cardiff offers a free City Centre Mobility Service which carries disabled and elderly passengers around pedestrianised zones. With blue badge parking in abundance near the Christmas Markets and plenty of accessible toilets, the markets have been designed for everyone to enjoy.

There’s a variety of stalls offering gifts you won’t find on the high street, so treat your loved ones this Christmas in Cardiff!

3. Birmingham’s Christmas Market

Known as the largest authentic German Christmas Market outside of Germany, Birmingham’s Christmas Market is hugely popular with both tourists and local residents.

The market this year runs from November 7 to December 23, 2019 with a massive 5.5 million visitors expected!

It’s certain to get you in the festive spirit, with over 120 stalls there’s something to suit everyone. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect gift or are looking to experience traditional food, it’s the perfect place to be this Christmas.

Located in Victoria Square, the market is easily accessible for wheelchair users and there are plenty of accessible car parks around the city centre. Although, Friday and Saturday evenings in particular are the markets peak times, so you may want to visit earlier in the day or alternative evenings during the week.

So if you’re looking to enjoy a fantastic, authentic, festive Christmas Market, then Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is for you!

4. Belfast Christmas Markets

Located in the gardens outside of Belfast City Hall, this Christmas Market certainly captures the festive magic with over 100 wooden chalets offering a variety of gifts.

This year the market will open its doors on Saturday, November 16 and will run until Sunday, December 22.

With Santa’s Grotto, traditional food from across the globe and an exceptional range of high-quality gifts, it’s a festive event the whole family can get involved in.

Belfast have a unique service in place throughout the quieter times called the Buddy Scheme Tours where people with accessibility issues are accompanied around the market. Although keep in mind, this service does not run during peak times (Friday – Sunday and all evenings).

Enjoy exquisite food from around the world and relax in the festive atmosphere getting you and the family ready for Christmas.

5. Fancy something a little further afield?

If you’re feeling more adventurous this Christmas, then why not take a look at the fantastic markets around Europe? With an array of easily accessible European Christmas markets on offer, you’re spoilt for choice!

Christmas Markets in Copenhagen truly are magical and top of our list has to be the market in Tivoli Gardens. With an array of booths full of Christmas Delights, it’s certain to get you in the festive spirit.

All entrances to Tivoli Gardens are wheelchair accessible with several of the restaurants having ramps for easy access. There are also a number of accessible restrooms available at various locations across the gardens.

With other fantastically festive markets across Europe including Brussels, Belgium, Berlin, Cologne, Vienna and more there’s a destination for everyone to enjoy.

If you’re looking for a new Motability vehicle to help you visit some of these fantastic Christmas markets, then get in touch with our friendly team here at Quest Motor Group.