One of the people in our party for a June trip to London (and Paris) might have to bring a transport chair. Have any of you had to do this? I'm wondering what it will be like on the tube or in museums, etc? Thanks.
Posted by
Virginia, USA
5867 posts
For London:
Practically, the tube will rarely work for a wheelchair user (there are few accessible tube stations and you need the entry, exit, and transfer points to all be accessible). The bus will be a better choice. Check the TFL accessibility guide.
https://tfl.gov.uk/transport-accessibility/wheelchair-access-and-avoiding-stairs
For Paris, you will also want to plan to use buses.
Posted by
Ontario, Canada
5497 posts
In addition to the above (very valid) points, consider whether a wheelchair might be a better choice. The small rear wheels on a transport chair don't handle uneven surfaces nearly as well as the large rear wheels on a wheelchair. Something to consider when dealing with curbs without cuts or with cobblestone streets.
Most of the larger museums will have elevators for handicap access.
Posted by
Northamptonshire, England
34010 posts
I agree with the others about London.
I rarely saw a passenger lift in the Paris Métro, if ever, as well.
Just a note ... in the UK we don't use the term "handicap" or "handicapped" (except in horse racing) as it is seen as demeaning. The term we use is disabled, or we refer to "access" to somewhere...