wearycmc

I'm trying to narrow down some choices for a trip next year, and I'd like to put Scotland is in the mix even though I previously took it out because of my circumstances. In everyday life, I get around most of the time with no problem. However, I have trouble walking distances multiple days in a row, and doing lots of standing (like in a museum). So I have a lightweight mobility scooter (TravelScoot) that I use on vacations and locally at places like the botanical garden.

Does anyone have experience visiting Edinburgh with mobility aids? While a trip would encompass locations throughout Scotland, some of which would likely be easier to maneuver, Edinburgh is certainly a necessity for at least a couple of nights, but it's a bit daunting given the hills, etc. To be clear, it's not something I would be using 100% of the time - I can get up and lift it up and down steps as necessary and for instance, could walk within a few blocks for dinner and the like.

I'd appreciate any insights!

janisj

Just quick since I'm dashing out for a few hours. Edinburgh is one of my favorite places on earth -- but it does have its issues for the mobility impaired/limited. It isn't just the hills - but lots of cobbled/uneven streets especially in the Old Town. And very especially sites like the castle. Edinburgh Castle has an extensive page devoted to access issues https://www.edinburghcastle.scot/pla...t/access-guide Edinburgh Castle can be a slog even for the totally able bodied with some quite steep areas.

The tram and buses are totally accessible - but the Tram is only applicable to 'down the hill' in the New Town/along Princes Street and out to EDI.

I'd just plan on using taxis and buses to get around as much as necessary/possible

uktravelover

Fortunately most hotels are disability friendly and you can ask for accessible rooms. I think that you will find your mobility scooter particularly helpful in Edinburgh’s Old Town and when visiting Edinburgh Castle. If you are not staying on the Royal Mile, I would suggest using a Black Taxi cab which are wheelchair friendly to take you to the Castle and then you would be going downhill from there towards the Palace of Holyrood House.
There are some accessible guided tours available, for some examples take a look at https://www.mercattours.com/accessibility
I had a colleague who used Sage Travel for some of her holidays as I understand they are specialists for accessible travel, so could be worth looking into.

bilboburgler

Frankly, you will find Scotland reasonably friendly to the physically limited, but .... Edinburgh is not on your side, not only is it very very hilly, it has cobble stones, steep staircases where other cities have alleys and just it is not an easy space for you. I would not recommend this trip to anyone with such limitations. Come to Scotland, just not Edinburgh.

janetkupfer8032

I was there in March 2023 and have to agree that it is pleasant, friendly, but hilly, and bumpy streets and sideswalks. I would go the taxi cab route or check about hiring a driver for the days that you are there.