British Film Institute on Southbank

The British Film Institue (BFI) (http://www.bfi.org.uk/) is located on the South Bank, near Waterloo station.  It is a destination for serious film lovers.  It houses one of the world's most in-depth film archives, and has world class learning resources.  We visited a learning room where people can watch old movies for free on private tvs (we watched the 1979 film "The Knowledge" starring Nigel Hawthorne, Mick Ford, and Kim Taylforth). But it's not all highbrow. The IMAX also is part of the BFI, and shows mainstream movies like "Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol" on London's biggest screen (located nearby to the main BFI facility).

The BFI is quite disabled friendly, but the lifts we used were the platform lifts rather than the typical built-in lifts, so we're not sure if the building was wheelchair accessible when originally built. It's probably best to enter through the front entrance rather than the rear, since the lift at the front did not require operator assistance. Still, all of the areas we looked at were wheelchair accessible, and the (helpful) staff informed us that the theatres also have wheelchair seating (we will confirm).  There is also an accessible lounge/bar area that looked quite nice for a pre-movie film drink or nibble (and the IMAX also has a cafe and bar). Sadly, the only thing missing was the smell of fresh popcorn.

South Bank itself is incredibly accessible, and is a destination spot for culture vultures, with the Tate Modern, Hayward Gallery, Royal Festival Hall, National Theatre, Old Vic and the BFI all located within easy walking (or wheeling) distance.

Details:

Transportation: Waterloo train station/tube station or buses 1, 4, 26, 68, 76, 77, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 211, 243, 341, 507, 521, or RV1. Apparently there is also underground parking at the Hayward Gallery.

Wheelchair Travel UK

For those times when using public transportation or black cabs is not practical (e.g. when travelling in a large group, or if you have a lot of luggage, etc.) you may need to hire an accessible car service or rent a van or minibus. We used Wheelchair Travel UK to pick us up from Heathrow (it also rents vans for hire). It was expensive, but well worth it. Our driver met us at the arrivals in Terminal 5.  He took us directly to the van (a late model Renault) which was parked very close by -- less than a minute away.  The driver was a kind man who did his utmost to make us all as comfortable as possible. We had an enjoyable journey through London, and we arrived at our destination in South London on time and relaxed.


Details:
http://www.wheelchair-travel.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1483 233 640 or +44 (0)1483 237 668

Black Cabs

All of London's iconic black cabs are wheelchair accessible.  The newer cabs have built in ramps that easily pull out of the floor and extend onto the curb, and the older cabs have ramps in the boot (or trunk).  I imagine that all manual wheelchair users, and most power chair users, can fit in the cabs (we do, even with Chazz's large power chair).  There is not a ton of headroom for power chair users, but as long as you do not have a long journey this should not be too much of an issue.

London cab drivers know where they're going, and it's almost a point of honour that they do not have to ask passengers for directions.  This is due in part because they must pass an exam called "the Knowledge" for which it apparently takes between 2-4 years to prepare (cabbies are tested on 320 routes, and there are about 25,000 streets in central London).  

One cannot overstate what a benefit it is to be able to use any black cab, and how much peace of mind comes from knowing that you will never be stranded.  Why other cities don't adopt similar taxi systems is a mystery to me.  

Hay's Galleria

Hay's Galleria is a great spot for wheelchair users.  It's difficult to describe what Hay's Galleria is exactly.  The atrium reminds us of a large, old fashioned train station but it houses a mixture of of corporate offices, restaurants, shops, and a pub.  Evidently, the building was used as a wharf during the early 1900s, primarily in the tea trade.  The wharf was damaged during the Southwark Fire, and also was bombed during the Second World War.  Surprising, the primary focal point of Hay's, the impressive glass ceiling, was not built until the 1980s are part of an urban regeneration scheme.

Hay's Galleria (facing South)

It's a trick of the mind that a glass ceiling can make a space feel larger than the outdoors, but to us that's  the "wow" factor for this building.  No matter how many people are around, there always seems to be plenty of wheeling space and one never feels claustrophobic, whether due to the sheer height of the roof, the light streaming in from above or the constant fresh air from the north and sought open entrances.

There are a few good eating options here.  We always enjoyed Cafe Rouge pre-wheelchair days, but were a bit leery of going back since so many of this chain's interiors, though cozy, are very cramped.  The Cafe Rouge at Hay's, however, is very accessible since the "outdoor" seating is in the atrium itself with oodles of space. http://www.caferouge.co.uk/french-restaurant/hays-galleria

Cafe Rouge: Note the accessible 

"outdoor" seating

If you take the wide, side ramp up to the Thames Walk side of the Galleria, there is also a nice restaurant called "Cote."  I was disappointed to see a number of steps down into the dining area, but when I spoke with a manager I learned that there is an accessible back entrance.  The manager seemed genuinely interested in telling me about the accessible entrance, and even offered to personally show the entrance to me despite being in the midst of a busy Sunday lunch service.  I didn't take him up on the offer, but plan to go back for a trial lunch not least because I'd like to support a business that's so welcoming. Top marks for effort. http://www.cote-restaurants.co.uk/Cote_LondonBridge.html

Ramp to North entrance, & 

Horniman's at Hay's pub on right.

There is also a pub called "The Horniman at Hays" that I quite wrongly (and embarrassingly) thought was named for something entirely other than tea (Frederick Horniman, an English tea trader).  We haven't been in this pub yet since the very few accessible tables (on the upper level) are always taken.  It's a shame, since the glistening chandeliers and rich wood bar are enticing.  The outdoor seating always seems similarly packed, but one can hardly blame the punters since the panoramic view of the City, as well as the HMS Belfast (battleship) almost at your fingertips, are big draws.
http://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/thehornimanathayslondonbridge/

HMS Belfast (facing Tower Bridge)

You can easily wheel directly East to Tower Bridge on the very accessible Thames Walk which, during the summer, is also excellent for people watching.

Details:  

Address:  

Tel: 

Web:

Transportation: London Bridge tube station* and London Bridge overground.

*Please note that although London Bridge is designated as a wheelchair accessible station, in our experience some power chair users may not be able to use the tube (gap between platform and tube).

Hotels

As we live in London, we probably will not road-test any hotels here.  However, we recognize that this is a huge factor for anyone's travel plans to London, so we'd like to ask you to post your comments regarding your experiences with London hotels/hostels and their accessibility.  You'll be helping the disabled community make better choices about where to book their stay in this great city, and perhaps help change hotels' views with regard to providing accessible accommodation.

Tower Bridge Exhibition - Engine Rooms

Those Victorians. Who can rival their ingenuity and industriousness?  If you're interested in learning how Tower Bridge (the pretty one that most tourists wrongly call "London Bridge") was originally operated then a visit to the engine room chambers will provide you with more information about coal and hydraulics than you thought possible.

Most people come here after a visit to the Tower of London (other side of Bridge) or on their way to the Thames Walk from Shad Thames.  The entrance to the Exhibition is on the south side of the river, directly under the Bridge.  The entrance is completely accessible, and as you enter the Exhibition there is a disabled toilet directly to your right!

We wouldn't recommend that you go out of your way for this Exhibition, but it is certainly a pleasant way to spend a half hour or so if you have the time and you are nearby.  And at just over 3 pounds a ticket, this won't break the bank.  A good choice for young children and mechanically-minded adults (both groups were mesmerized by giant gears).

This venue is also available for hire for special events, and I think it would be a cool, accessible option for a party.

Details:

http://www.towerbridge.org.uk/TBE/EN/
+44 (0)20 7403 3761

Transportation: Tower Hill tube is the closest tube, but it is not accessible.  We believe that the buses that run on Tower Bridge Road are all accessible (e.g. 188, 45).  If you come via London Bridge,* you should be able to get to this pub easily via the accessible Thames Walk.

* Please note that although London Bridge is designated as a wheelchair accessible tube station, in our experience some wheelchair users may not be able to use the tube due to the gap between the platform and the tube.

Borough Market

Including Borough Market as a place of interest in a blog devoted to wheelchair accessibility is a tough call.  This market is not easily maneuverable for anyone other than young, lithe students.  But that doesn't stop the rest of us from flooding in every Thursday, Friday and Saturday to this foodie heaven.  Truly, this is the best market we've ever been to and the vibrant atmosphere is intoxicating.  There are stalls upon stalls of the freshest meats, cheeses, and vegetables, with countless other sweet and savory delights in every nook and cranny.  As soon as you turn a corner into the market you are rendered powerless to the vivid bursts of colors, the sumptuous smells and the cacophony of ever present voices.

That said, wheeling in this market requires preparation.  There are simply too many people around to make wheeling in a straight path possible, and people are too engrossed in finding a stall that sells just the perfect cut of lamb to notice that a wheelchair user trying to push through the heaving mass.  Indeed, I have seen many parents near tears as they try to push strollers with crying toddlers through the crowd while still trying to sample olives and figs.  It often ends in their slugging lots of mulled wine and having sneaky cigarettes.

With all that aside, you shouldn't miss this market.  If you can, try to go early on a Thursday, or on a Friday morning at the latest.  Saturday is a disaster, but that said we went today (to try to order our Thanksgiving turkey) and we survived.  In fact, we shared a truly magnificent duck sandwich in a quiet alley, and we found another wheelchair user doing the same.  So put on a game face and go for it!

P.S. With my expat hat on, I have a special note to the Americans.  If you're at all concerned with trying to fit in, please do not call this "Burr-O" Market.  It's pronounced more accurately like "Burr-Agh" Market.  And you may wish to reconsider telling everyone how we have better and bigger markets in the States.  We don't (and no, CostCo doesn't count).



Details:

http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/

Transportation: See the following link for complete transportation information:  http://www.boroughmarket.org.uk/page/3020/Visit-us.  However, please bear in mind that the closest tube station, London Bridge, while designated as a wheelchair accessible station may not be accessible to all wheelchair users due to the gap between the platform and tube.

St. Bride's - Fleet Street

Fleet Street is an amazing part of London -- bustling with lawyers, bankers, newspaper men and everyone in between.  On manic weekdays one is particularly grateful to find a  place of calm and tranquility nestled right in the heart of it all.  One quick turn off Fleet Street into St. Bride's and you can find a lovely courtyard (which The Old Bell also backs on to) to sit and eat your sandwich in quiet solitude.

It is particularly heartening to find a big wide ramp leading to the courtyard, as well as a sign asking visitors not to park their bikes along the ramp as this might block access to the disabled.  How thoughtful!  

I should include a brief history of St. Bride's, but with over 2000 years of history it is quite daunting to do so.  Some highlights include that it was rebuilt seven times. The last time it was rebuilt was after it was bombed in World War II.  The bomb led to the discovery of forgotten underground crypts which are quite a sight to behold.  As far as I can tell, the crypts are inaccessible, but the church is accessible via a side entrance that is very elegantly designed.  

Go for the service, the lunch hour concerts, a tour of the church (tours held on Tuesdays from 3 - 4.30 pm) or just to talk to the kind staff, who also sell used paperbacks for 50 p.  Oh, and don't forget to look up -- evidently the steeple is what the first tiered wedding cakes were modeled after.

Details:

St. Bride's Church

Fleet Street
London
EC4Y 8AU
+44 (0)20 7427 0133

Transportation:

Buses (all accessible): 4, 11, 15, 23, 76

Train: City Thameslink

Tube: St. Pauls, Central Line (not accessible) 

http://www.stbrides.com/

Accessible Tube Guide

This map provides very helpful information about which tube stations are accessible, and how accessible they are:

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/assets/downloads/step-free-tube-guide-map.pdf

Careful attention should be paid to the map's notations re the size of the steps and gaps for "step free" access.  In our experience, some power chair users may have difficulties with the size of the gap and the incline to the tube.

The Old Thameside Inn -- Pub near London Bridge

The Old Thameside Inn is about as wheelchair-friendly as you get.  It can be a bit tricky to get to since you'll be fighting the Borough Market crowd on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, but if you ask where the Golden Hinde is (replica of Sir Francis Drake's ship, a must see in itself) then you can't miss it.

The Golden Hinde

This pub may not be everyone's cup of tea since it is often mobbed with tourists, and you'll find flocks of jet-lagged people eating fish and chips and complaining loudly about prices, weather, etc.  Notwithstanding, this is a good choice as a meeting place since it's conveniently located near London Bridge station and is situated directly on the Thames with great, unobstructed views of the city.  

There is a wide, permanent ramp leading to the pub's entrance, and a further ramp leading to the upper level for outdoor seating by the Thames.

Old Thameside Inn - notice wide ramps

Inside, the doors are wide and you can roll straight into to the spacious bar.  There is a separate dining area in the second back room that is not accessible (steps), and further dining downstairs which is also not accessible.  However, the first room is fully accessible, with both high and low tables.

The service was fine, and the beer selection good.  This is not a gastro pub, and you should only expect to  order typical pub grub (although some of the starters seemed alarmingly adventurous -- e.g. prawn and chorizo?).  Even so, I give this pub high marks for being so disability-friendly, particularly because it had a separate (drumroll, please) disabled bathroom!  

Details:  

Address:  Pickfords Wharf, Clink Street, London, SE1 9DG

Tel: 020 7403 4243

Web: http://www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk/theoldthamesideinnlondonbridge/

Transportation: London Bridge tube station* and London Bridge overground.

*Please note that although London Bridge is designated as a wheelchair accessible station, in our experience some power chair users may not be able to use the tube (gap between platform and tube).

  

The Bridge House - Pub near Tower Bridge

Whether you're tired from a day out at the Tower of London, or just cold after crossing Tower Bridge in the rain, a good port of call is The Bridge House.  This is the first pub that you will come to after crossing Tower Bridge (going South).  Although on the small side, it still functions well for wheelchair users since it has very wide doors and no-step thresholds, as well as wood floors throughout.  However, on the downside the bathrooms are located on the lower level, and so be warned that this is not a fully accessible pub.

Immediately when you walk (or roll) in there are two tables on your left.  One is a small, high table, and the other is a regular small table by a fireplace.  For wheelchair users that use a power chair with the ability to raise/lower, the high table is convenient for eating.  For regular wheelchairs, the small table is a nice option, and it's great to be able to warm up near the fire.  Either way, you will be made to feel very welcome at this pub -- the service is great.  Reservations can be taken, which is particularly convenient if you have a large group.

Lesser known lagers and ales are served which are all very nice (I liked the Adnams pale ale), and my father-in-law was particularly pleased to see a fish finger sandwich on the menu.  This is a clean, bright and up-scale choice for lunch or a quick pint. We've been back several times and the menu keeps getting better and better. The food is freshly made, hot and always delicious. 

Details:

Address: 218 Tower Bridge Road, London, SE1 2UP

Transportation:

Tower Hill tube is the closest tube, but it is not accessible.  We believe that the buses that run on Tower Bridge Road are all accessible (e.g. 188, 45).

If you come via London Bridge,* you should be able to get to this pub easily via the accessible walkway along the Thames but will have to cross the crosswalk at Tooley Street.

Transportation: London Bridge tube station* and London Bridge overground.

*Please note that although London Bridge is designated as a wheelchair accessible tube station, in our experience some power chair users may not be able to use the tube (gap between platform and tube).