How to check venue accessibility before you go: 10 questions that get useful answers

If you have ever called a venue and asked, “Are you accessible?”, you may have received a confident yes that did not tell you very much. Learning how to check venue accessibility is mostly about asking smaller, more specific questions.

1. Is the customer entrance step free?

This is clearer than asking whether the venue is wheelchair accessible. If the answer is no, ask whether there is another entrance and how it is accessed.

2. Are there any steps inside?

A step free front door does not guarantee a step free venue. Ask about the route to the areas you plan to use.

3. Is there an accessible toilet?

Ask where it is, whether it is on the same level and whether it is currently available to customers.

4. Is there lift access to every public floor?

If you need the lift, ask whether it reaches the exact area you are visiting and whether there is another route if it is out of service.

5. What is the quietest time to visit?

This simple question can be more useful than asking whether a venue is sensory friendly. Staff often know exactly when the environment is calmer.

6. Is there somewhere quiet to take a break?

Ask whether there is a dedicated quiet room or simply a calmer area you can use if needed.

7. Can you reserve a suitable seat or table?

If you need space for a wheelchair, mobility aid, assistance animal or support person, confirm it before arrival.

8. What support is available for queues?

Long standing times can be a barrier. Ask whether there are seats, alternative queues or staff who can help with waiting arrangements.

9. Can you send a photo or measurement?

For hotel bathrooms, doorways, ramps and similar details, a current photo or simple measurement can answer more than a long description.

10. Who can confirm this information?

If a feature is essential, ask for the name of the team or person who manages accessibility and get the answer in writing where possible.

Turn good information into a better directory

When a venue gives you useful access details, add or update them on Can We Go so other people do not have to start the same research from scratch.