Monthly Archives: May 2013

top 5 tips for travel

Posted on by
Disabled Access Glasgow is having a little holiday so thought would give my top5 tips for a Preholiday travel checklist
There is all the usual holiday preparations such as clothes, tourist information etc. But there’s also some disability specific extras including
1. valid travel insurance: make sure this includes any medical conditions and covers for mobility equipment. A valid E1 11 card is also required in the European Union
2. Ensure a full supply of medications including spares in case of unexpected extended stay. Consider carrying your medications in hand luggage in case your bags are lost. Consider getting a letter from your doctor if you have any medication such as opiates, other substances which may be illegal abroad or medical equipment such as syringes or needles. Obviously check with your doctor that its safe to travel and check foreign office guidelines on hygiene and vaccinations
3. If possible get as much accessibility information in advance especially regarding your accommodation but also tourist information. It can be easier to gain this from websites here especially if language will be a barrier. It also allows you to plan better your activities
4. Ensure all any mobility equipment is charged and in good condition before you go.
5. Have a backup/ in case of emergencies plan. For example, enough money for emergencies, reliable communications eg landline at hotel where you can be contacted in case of mobile phone issues, first aid kit for likely minor ailments.
I know it sounds a lot of hassle and hopefully you won’t need any of it but at least it means you can relax on holiday and if the worst happens it won’t be a disaster

The chop house brasserie – merchant square

Posted on by
Positives
There is level access to the venue through the central cobbled square of merchant city.
The venue has an upstairs area but tables are available downstairs and can be reserved in advance.
The toilets are on the ground floor with level access. However a specific disabled toilet is not available within the restaurant and has to be accessed elsew…here within merchant city Square.
There is a good range of steaks plus food for non-meat eaters. The prices are relatively reasonable for the merchant city and the staff are friendly.
As before, with the merchant city (see review of boudoir or Italian caffe) the big benefit of merchant city Square is that several bars and restaurants are available on the level under one roof.
Negatives
Parking is available in a carpark five minutes walk away. However the surfacing is uneven and you have to pay.
Apart from the difficulty with parking and the disabled toilet being out with the restaurant. This is a relatively accessible venue and a good place to start a Saturday night out. http://www.thechophousebrasserie.co.uk/

wheelchair accessible trolleys

Posted on by

A slightly more unusual note today. I wanted to highlight  wheelchair accessible trolleys. these clip onto the front of most wheelchairs. These are useful in that you don’t have to balance your shopping on your legs
they provide independence for wheelchair using shoppers
They’re also a protection against people bumping into you with their trolleys.
They should be available in all major supermarkets but can be difficult to get in reality. I have had a 12 months battle for my local supermarkets to order them but now they are available to anyone who wishes to use them.
I’m sure most of you know all about this but I just wanted to make sure anyone who might benefit is aware

Nicks Italian bar and Grill – Hyndland Road

Posted on by
Positives
There is level access to the venue
The bar area and some dining tables are available on the ground floor. This can be specified in advance
There is movable seating to accommodate wheelchairs
There is a disabled toilet on the ground floor
The staff are very friendly and accommodating
It serves nice quality slightly different to the usual Italian fair.
There are also numerous 5 PM deals if you’re hunting for extra good value.
It has a nice lively atmosphere most nights of the week and quite a hip trendy west end feel
Negatives Parking in Hyndland is difficult as always. There is a bus stop 20 m from the venue.
Larger parties can only be accommodated in the upstairs section of the venue.
Overall this is a great local restaurant and bar if you’re looking from this stylish Italian meal out http://www.nickswestend.com/about.html

The Gallus Pub – Dumbarton Road

Posted on by
Positives
Seating is available on the level but it is mostly fixed booths
there is a disabled toilet available with the key from the bar. Other toilets are also available on the level
This is a lively local pub with a range of activities most nights of the week including pub quiz, live music and showings of sporting events.
Negatives
the church st entrance has five steps down. The alternative entrance is up one large step and then through two double doors.
Parking can be found on Church Street but is about 20 to 40 m from the venue
Overall this venue is not suitable for wheelchair users but maybe suitable for those with mobility implements who can manage one step and transferring to booth seating. http://bargallus.com/

The chocolate factory – Woodlands

Posted on by
Positives
There is level access to the venue and throughout
There is movable seating
There is a disabled toilet available
There is a delicious range of chocolatey snacks, drinks and ch…ocolate making classes
The staff are friendly and helpful
Negatives
parking can be difficult in Woodlands. But can usually be found in the adjacent street especially if you have a disabled badge.
Overall, this is a good slightly different option for an afternoon catchup especially for anyone with children as there’s lots of space for them to run around

Cup – city centre branch

Posted on by

Cup
I am a big fan and a previously reviewed Cup on Byres road.
I have not visited the branch in town but I have discussed its accessibility with the owners of the Byres road branch.
They advised me that it is not suitable for wheelchair uses or those with significantly impaired mobility. As there are a number of steps to the entrance. Also, the only toilets are downstairs.
I hope this review is of use. A more detailed review is unlikely as the premises aren’t accessible to myself but I thought it would be useful to say this much in case any fans of the West End branch wanted to try the city centre version

Duck Bay Marina – Loch Lomond

Posted on by
This is a good accessible restaurant on the banks of loch lomond.
The food may be a little pricey (average two course £25/head) but is worth it for the stunning views through the full length glass windows looking over the loch and to Ben lommond
“The science bit”
This is a location that really requires a car to access it but disabled spaces are available
There is ramped access to the venue
There is a disabled toilet which is clean and well equipped
There is a platform lift to main restaurant area otherwise there are five  steps up to it
There are surrounding paths for a loch side walk I but these are very uneven and have with high curbs
Overall though this is a beautiful wheelchair accessible venue in the Scottish countryside if you’re looking for a nice meal

The Richmond – woodlands

Posted on by
The Richmond describes itself as a modern  gentleman’s club  and doesn’t disappoint
Positives
Level access venue, venue level throughout
Movable seating to accommodate wheelchairs at most tables
Disabled toilet available
Parking is limited as always in the west end but better here than most places as it’s situated in a cul de sac and near the park and ride for the subway. As well as being on a couple of bus routes.
It’s also just opposite Kelvingrove park if you want a wee post lunch wander This place has really friendly and helpful staff
The food is mix of trendy cafe bites including burgers, sandwiches, wraps and sharing plates but REALLY well done with great flavors and generous portions. It also offers a varied and different from the norm cocktail menu.
Negatives: No dedicated disabled parking??
Overall, it all comes together for me with the main positive being the overall feel of a cool chilled out spot in the heart of the west end for a lazy weekend brunch or classy weeknight dinner. A great new trendy and accessible west end wonder http://therichmondglasgow.com/