Stockport is a vibrant town in Greater Manchester with a wealth of inclusive activities and attractions to enjoy. From museums and cinemas to breweries and parks, Stockport has something for everyone. This guide will uncover the most wheelchair accessible and inclusive activities in Stockport, so those with disabilities can make the most out of this welcoming destination.
Getting to Stockport Destinations in a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle
Stockport offers an easily navigable experience for those in wheelchair accessible vehicles. Stockport’s Merseyway Shopping Centre provides level access to a huge range of high street stores with lift access and clearly signposted toilets. Plus, disabled parking provision here is second-to-none, with a dedicated Blue Badge holder car park ideal for those considering wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale to explore Stockport. What’s more, with free parking for customers at the central Redrock NCP car park – and ample disabled parking spaces on the street too – getting there in your wheelchair accessible vehicle has never been easier. The NCP car park at Stockport train station also offers a wide range of Blue Badge parking spaces, lift access, and a nearby taxi rank to make getting around easier than ever.
Big Screen Entertainment at The Light Cinema
For an inclusive night at the movies, make your way to The Light Cinema located conveniently within Stockport’s Redrock leisure complex. The Light Cinema aims to make film-going comfortable and stress-free for all, with autism friendly screenings, subtitle glasses and audio description headsets available. The spacious screens have ample seating including companion seats, while thoughtful touches like low lighting and reduced sound make sensory difficulties easier to manage. With the latest blockbusters, independent films and National Theatre Live showings, The Light Cinema truly lights the way towards cinema for all.
Hollywood Glamour at Stockport Plaza
Live entertainment venues often lag behind with accessibility, but Stockport Plaza, just off the A6, is paving the way for more inclusive arts and culture. This eclectic, art deco theatre stages professional touring shows, indie cinema screenings and glamorous club nights transporting visitors back to the roaring 20s. Despite being a grade II listed building, the Plaza’s recent renovations have made it more accessible. Plus, with accessible seating and acoustic controls to benefit those with hearing issues, there’s a show for everyone here. With a little creative thinking, barriers to inclusion can be overcome even in older spaces like the Plaza. Before your visit, contact their friendly and helpful team to discuss any accessibility requirements.
Foodie Friday Brings Flavour for All
Every last Friday of the month, Stockport’s town centre comes alive with artisan food and drink stalls thanks to Foodie Friday. This vibrant monthly food festival welcomes a wide range of stalls selling everything from Korean street food to fish and chips, cocktails to loaded burgers. The compact layout ensures food stands are easily navigable for wheelchair users, while seated picnic benches outside the Produce Hall provide inclusive spaces to enjoy tasty treats. Foodie Friday not only supports small, local businesses, it brings the community together every month to socialise over good food. The infectious, celebratory atmosphere creates a welcoming space for Stockport residents and visitors alike. Bear in mind, this event gets busy very quickly, so arrive early to beat the crowds.
VR Arcade Offers Immersive Fun for All
One of the most exciting recent additions to Stockport’s activity scene is the VR Arcade on Merseyway Shopping Centre. X-GenVR is a futuristic arcade offering cutting-edge virtual reality experiences that transport visitors to new worlds. What makes this VR arcade stand out is its commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair accessible equipment and experiences designed for gamers of all abilities. Groups can battle space invaders, experience rollercoasters in VR or slash fruits in inclusive, fun, and immersive games. The enthusiastic, friendly staff are disability aware and on hand to assist anyone who needs help getting set up.
The Hat That Left Its Mark
No guide to Stockport is complete without mentioning the town’s historic hat-making heritage, still celebrated today at the Hat Works museum. The old hat factories have made way for this modern museum telling the story of Stockport’s past dominance of the UK’s hat trade. Friendly guides bring the exhibitions to life as you watch the machines in action and explore the old factory floor. Hat Works delivers with lift access to all floors. Tours are available on select dates and through advance booking only. And don’t forget to visit the quirky gift shop! Located on Wellington Road South, the two closest car parks featuring spaces for wheelchair accessible vehicles include Grand Central and Heaton Lane.
A Taste of Tradition at Robinson’s Brewery
Nothing encapsulates Stockport’s heritage better than Robinsons Brewery, which has been masterfully crafting traditional ales since 1838. This historic warren of brick buildings contains a cosy visitor centre and pub where tours can sample popular tipples like Trooper and Dizzy Blonde. Friendly tour guides adapt their delivery based on visitors’ abilities and interests, while the Brewery’s central location with nearby car parking makes it easy to get to. There’s a wheelchair accessible entrance and most of the visitor centre is wheelchair accessible.
Sheltering from the Storm
As shocking as it sounds today, during World War Two Stockport residents feared death from above on a daily basis. The Air Raid Shelters near Mersey Square provide a glimpse into these terrifying times through an evacuation passageway lined with 1940s memorabilia. The walkthrough experience has level access throughout, ensuring those less mobile can still easily imagine hiding underground during the air raids. Plaques detail personal testimonies from those who sheltered in the tunnels, bringing emotional resonance that transcends physical barriers. Thanks to considered design, this poignant part of Stockport’s history remains accessible to younger generations.
Step Back in Time at Bramhall Hall
Transporting visitors back to Stockport’s past is the majestic Bramall Hall, a striking 14th century manor house tucked away in a quiet suburb. This medieval gem contains rare wall paintings, ornate plasterwork ceilings and one of England’s oldest working kitchens. Guides enthusiastically share stories from the families and servants who once lived there, bringing the rooms to life. The ground floor of the hall is completely accessible, but as it is located in a country park, some areas might not be suitable. Staff are always on hand to assist with any accessibility issues you might have.
Relax in Nature at Vernon Park
The oldest country park in Stockport, Vernon Park in Portwood transports visitors back to Victorian and Edwardian days with its recent restoration to former splendour. This heritage parkland boasts mature woodlands and river paths alongside a bandstand and unique zones for traditional pastimes like crown green bowls. The bowling greens and clipped hedge-lines feel beautifully preserved in time. Meandering pathways encourage relaxed exploration through Vernon Park’s varied landscape. Considerate design ensures the park’s nostalgic vistas and facilities can be accessed by all, including wide pathways and thoughtfully placed benches.
From fully immersive VR to heritage hat museums, Stockport provides a diversity of inclusive activities for visitors of all abilities. Venues like The Light Cinema and Stockport Plaza lead the way in championing accessibility in leisure and entertainment, while spaces like Vernon Park and Foodie Friday bring communities together to socialise.
OTS News on Social Media