Accessible accommodation : Hostels and bunkhouses

Accessible Accommodation in Hostels and Bunkhouses

Independent hostels and bunkhouses have a variety levels of access for the disabled.  Over 100 have some adaptations, often a bedroom or toilet designed for use by a disabled person, but some are accessible throughout.

Accommodation with some level of accessibility are indicated on this website with a wheelchair symbol and are shown on the map above.  Guidebooks from 2019 onwards will include a page listing accessible accommodation and readers of the 2018 guidebook can use the contact form on this website to request a free listing of all accommodation with some level of accessibility.

TROSSACHS TRYST  in the Trossachs provides some of the most accessible accommodation in the independent hostels network.  Run by Fabb Scotland, a registered charity working with disabled young people, the building includes an accessible self catering kitchen and bathrooms with inclusive facilities.   The hostel  is all on the ground floor, except for one non-accessible dorm on a higher level which is not charged for when disabled groups book exclusive use of the building.  The self catering kitchen has a rise and fall sink and side opening ovens with easy access for guest who use wheelchairs. The bathroom and toilet facilities include features such as shower seat, nursing bench and hoist.  Fabb Scotland also have a fleet of adapted bikes catering for all needs via their ‘Blazing Saddles’ project.  Trossach Trysts location has the dual advantage of a flat setting with quite roads ideal for exploring, and stunning mountain views.  Fabb Scotland’s aim is to encourage everyone to participate in exciting adventure activities. They very much welcome guests with additional needs to come and enjoy Trossachs Trysts accessible accommodation and the beautiful surroundings.

GILFACH WEN BARN in West Wales provides ideal accessible accommodation. There are no steps into the building or from the front door into the garden. There is a single step into the under covered BBQ area from the front of the building.     All of the downstairs of the building   (lounge,  kitchen,  dining room) is wheelchair accessible.   There is a downstairs bedroom,  and shower room with toilet and washbasin  all designed to be wheelchair accessible.    For more details see the virtual tour of the property the Gilfach Wen Barn website which can be reached via their page in the Independent Hostel Guide.  The virtual tour provides details of the layout of the building but also has a video tour of each room with the option to zoom into any feature of interest.

COLL BUNKHOUSE on the amazing Isle of Coll in the Hebrides, is all on one level and is all totally wheelchair accessible. There is at least one accessible room with a set of bunks,  single bed, accessible sink and plenty of space to manoeuvre.  There is also a designated wheelchair accessible bathroom with grab rails and a roll in shower with two wall mounted shower seats. The toilet is a perfect height for slide transfer.  There is parking right outside the Bunkhouse.

THE LONG BARN  Has an self catering accessible unit called the Cow Shed which sleeps 6 and is suitable for disabled people. There is parking on the flat outside and there is a disabled toilet and wet-room.

To find out which hostels have accommodation adapted to your needs take a look at their full details by clicking on the icons on the map above.  Taking the link provided to the hostels own website is often the best way to find their accessibility details.