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Accessibility Welcome Guide

Welcome to Blarney Castle & Gardens. We are dedicated to making your visit as enjoyable and inclusive as possible. Whether you’re exploring the gardens, lake walks, or simply taking in the natural beauty, we want every visitor to feel confident and supported. This guide outlines accessibility features, facilities, and ongoing improvements across the estate.

1. Accessibility Contact & Support

If you’d like to discuss your needs before arrival or need assistance during your visit:

2. Travel & Arrival Guidance

By car: Located in Blarney Village, 8 km northwest of Cork City. On-site parking is available, with designated accessible spaces near the entrance.

By public transport: Buses operate from Cork City to Blarney. From the drop-off point, expect a short walk to the entrance.

Arrival tip: Inform staff in advance of any mobility or assistance needs so we can help you on arrival.

3. Key Accessibility Features & Areas

Area / Feature Access Summary Notes & Considerations Assistance / Alternatives
Gardens & Grounds Mostly accessible Paths are firm in many areas but may be uneven or sloped. Some routes are long or involve boardwalks. Choose shorter routes; benches and rest points throughout; staff can advise best paths.
Castle / Tower / Blarney Stone Not accessible The castle includes narrow, steep staircases and no lift. Enjoy views from ground level; explore gardens and exterior vantage points instead.
Accessible Toilets Available Located near the main buildings and gardens. Dimensions and grab rail details under review. Staff can direct you to the nearest facility.
Café / Gift Shop / Rest Areas Accessible Level access to main café and shop; some indoor thresholds may have small steps. Staff can assist with doors, carrying items, and table arrangements.
Parking Accessible parking available Spaces located near entrance on firm surfaces. Use designated drop-off area if required.
Virtual Tour / Maps Accessible online and printed Available on the website and at entry point for route planning. Use maps to identify accessible paths and facilities before arrival.

4. Facilities & Supports

  • Accessible toilets located near visitor centre and gardens.
  • Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the grounds.
  • Rest points and benches available along major paths.
  • Virtual tour and printed maps available for pre-visit planning.
  • Staff trained in accessibility awareness and assistance.

5. Sensory & Planning Tools

  • Virtual tour and garden maps highlight surfaces, slopes, and rest areas.
  • Quiet areas throughout gardens for relaxation or low-sensory experience.
  • Benches and sheltered areas for rest stops.
  • Colour-coded map showing accessible paths and gradients (coming soon).

6. Emergency & Medical Info

Nearest hospital: Cork University Hospital, Wilton, Cork (approx. 15–20 min drive).

Nearest GP/Clinic: Blarney Medical Centre / 021 4382077.

Nearest Pharmacy: Walsh’s Pharmacy / 021 4381223.

In an emergency, call 112/999 and provide your location (Blarney Castle & Gardens, Blarney Village).

7. Visitor Stories

“The gardens were beautiful and easy to navigate with my wheelchair. While I couldn’t access the castle, there was plenty to enjoy outside.” — Visitor A

“Staff were very welcoming and helped guide us through the flatter paths. Assistance dogs are allowed, which made the experience relaxing.” — Visitor B

8. Known Limitations & Ongoing Improvements

  • The castle interior and tower climb are not accessible to wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties.
  • Some garden paths are sloped or uneven; surfaces may become slippery in wet weather.
  • Some building thresholds are raised or narrow.

Planned improvements include clearer route signage, additional benches, surface maintenance, and improved tactile/contrast signage.

Last updated: [14 10 2025] • Next review: [14 11 2025]