Extra care on Dartmoor

    
Having pushed a heavy wheelchair for my late friend Brian, and driven him around Dartmoor in his specially converted van, I do know the problems associated with getting around for handicapped people. And I use that term without any hesitation in p.c. terms. Because life for disabled people is hard enough without all the hype about 'what we should
call them' .If you or your friend is in a wheelchair then I hope that some of these suggestions are helpful to you.
Camping maybe ?

This is the best equipped campsite that I have ever seen for disabled campers. The toilet and washing block are 100% top rate.
Woodland Springs at Venton between Whiddon Down and Chagford. Easy access off the road. They will take dogs,
and offer a good size doggy exercise field and/or you can house your dog in a day kennel on the site if you want to.
BUT PLEASE NOTE they do not take children, not even babes in arms. Campers and tourers welcome. Open all year round.
Jill says: We can wholeheartedly recommend this site to anyone in a wheelchair. Telephone 01647 231695

Looking for ground floor self catering ?

This ground floor let sleeps 2 in Moretonhampstead.
Parking is not usually on offer here, but for anyone
disabled, they will make allowances and let you park at
the rear of the property, but bear in mind that the
entrance is through a very tight alleyway, so a standard vehicle and a good driver are required. But there is a
public car park just a short stroll up the road if the
driver doesn't mind a 2 minute walk once a passenger
is dropped down. It has the benefit of a shower room adjacent to the bedroom and the whole is on one level.
Fitted out in 2009, so all new and ready to go. website

The Smithy at Brentor is another sleeps 2 all on the ground floor level. The
main living room is nice and spacious.
The bedroom is a bit tight for anyone in
a wheelchair, but fine for anyone who
can walk a few steps. Sally recently had a couple stay, the lady used a walking frame indoors, and they were so happy with the cottage, they booked again for later this year. There are 2 steps up into the property. There is thoughtfully, an external charge point for an electric wheelchair which is located in the carport which is for your use. Oh and a grabrail fitted in the shower.
Want to come as part of a group ?

All the facilities you would expect for a group holiday, including a 50" plasma television screen. Delighted to welcome disabled
guests. Lots of purpose built facilities on hand, and a wonderful setting. Perfect for large families or groups of up to 16.
Pets welcome too. They are making plans for an indoor pool and when it is ready I shall go over to see it.... watch this space !
This is on a real farm, that overlooks the Lew valley. Have a look at their website for prices and lots of useful information.
Galford Springs Holiday Centre at Lewdown, Okehampton, Devon, EX20 4PL Contact Mr. F. Harding.
Telephone (local rate call) 0845 2267173 or e-mail .

How about Youth Hostelling on Dartmoor ?
Wheelchair facilities are available at Bracken Tor Youth Hostel on Dartmoor at Saxon Gate, Okehampton EX20 1QW website Telephone 01837 53916 e-mail This is an activity youth hostel with abseiling, climbing, canoeing and local kayaking. The large house can accommodate up to 56 people overnight. Common room, tv lounge and garden on offer. Parking and bike hire.You can camp here too. Drying facilities, and self catering kitchen on offer along with BBQ stuff.

And just worth a mention if your journey to Dartmoor takes you past Exeter.
A most wonderful playpark not far from the M5 where anyone in a wheelchair can enjoy a swing and a seesaw

in the free to enter park for all abilities The Playpark is just the most wonderful place to visit with handicapped
children. There is a safe net swing for children who cannot 'hold on', a roundabout for wheelchair users and it's full of
smiling faces. Easy parking adjacent. You will need a radar key for the wheelchair swing. Details and a map of how to
find The Playpark can be found on the website. Jill says: I was asked to take photos of the opening, this place is so good that we have sponsored the project by building and running their website foc. Do have a look. It really is a super place.

Saturday 16th January to February 28th Don't miss the Paper Works free exhibition at the Devon Guild of Craftsmen in Bovey Tracey. Open 7 days a week, you will see some fascinating hand made objects made from paper. 10 to 5.30 each day, the cafe closing at 5. Find the Devon Guild at the lower end of Bovey. Disabled access on all levels including a lift to the first floor, where the restaurant is. More information on wheelchair access on their website.