New 2025 Accessibility Guide for Cornwall Released Following Local Survey

A fresh resource for 2025 aims to remove barriers across the Duchy

A brand new Accessible Guide to Cornwall 2025 has just launched, promising to make exploring the Duchy easier for people with disabilities, health conditions, or reduced mobility.

Published by Access Cornwall this August, the 64-page guide brings together detailed, first-hand access information for attractions, beaches, accommodation, restaurants and transport — from Bude and Saltash to Land’s End and the Lizard.

Created by people with lived experience

The guide was developed in response to a survey carried out in February 2025, which revealed that 87% of disabled people in Cornwall saw an accessibility guide as one of the top three ways to help remove barriers.

Access Cornwall, a not-for-profit led by a team with disabilities and learning differences, has produced the guide to empower both residents and visitors with mobility, sensory, neurodivergent or other accessibility needs.

Helen Martin, Director at Access Cornwall, explained:
“Many people just assume that people with disabilities can just phone up, or look online if they want to check accessibility information, such as whether there are any steps at a place they wish to visit. But the reality, as I and my family know all too well, is that having to phone up every time you just want a family Sunday lunch or a trip to the cinema is exhausting.

“When you do call, you often get the wrong information. Added to this there is often very little guidance on accessibility available online on individual websites, or from organisations not dedicated to accessibility.

Having this information all in one place, on our Access Cornwall website and in our print and digital guide is incredibly freeing — it means you can go to more places and spend more time enjoying days out, healthy activities and social occasions without worrying if you’ll be able to get into the place once you arrive.”

Fellow Director Viki Carpenter added:
“We believe Cornwall should be enjoyed by everyone. This guide is about breaking down barriers and opening doors. It’s more than a directory — it’s a tool for freedom, independence, and inclusive adventure.”

📷Access Cornwall team photo

What’s inside?

The guide includes:

• Access reviews of key destinations and venues

• A county-wide map with places to visit, eat and stay

• Sensory-sensitive recommendations

• Tips and insights from disabled people, neurodivergent individuals and carers

Where to find it

10,000 printed copies of the guide have been distributed across Cornwall, available for free at hundreds of Seymac stands including supermarkets, shops, cafes, pubs and attractions. It’s also available online in a mobile-friendly format at accesscornwall.org.uk.

The project was made possible through funding from the National Lottery Awards for All Community Fund, The Clare Milne Trust and the Cornwall Community Foundation.

Access Cornwall is inviting residents, visitors and businesses to explore the guide and share their own experiences to support a more inclusive Cornwall.