Accessibility at Lilypod
Our approach to accessibility
We understand that people have different needs, and we try to accommodate everyone who would like to visit Lilypod. Below is an overview of the measures we already have in place. We are here to help and keen to learn, so please get in touch if you have any questions or if there are aspects of accessibility you feel we could improve.
The natural environment
Lilypod is set within a natural lakeside environment, with gravelled paths, changing levels and floating pontoons connecting the pods to the shore.
Some areas may not be suitable for wheelchair users or guests with limited mobility. We have provided practical information about the distances, surfaces, gradients and access to each pod below to help you decide whether Lilypod is suitable for your individual needs.
Car park and pathways
The car park has a large turning circle suitable for larger vehicles.
The pathways are generously proportioned, at 1m wide or more, and finished with compacted stone chippings with grass edges.
The pathways are well maintained and firm underfoot. They follow the contours of the lake, meandering towards the pods.
Heron
From the car park, Heron is approximately a 90m walk. The final 10m gently declines towards the lake and onto the timber pontoon, which, although floating, is very stable.
The pontoon is 1m wide and has a decking rope balustrade.
Entrance to the pod is through double-opening doors measuring 1.2m wide. The pod has a well-laid-out, single-space living area, all on one level.
The ensuite bathroom is accessed through a door measuring 70cm wide.
Kingfisher
From the car park, Kingfisher is approximately a 120m walk, passing through a land-based fire pit area and rustic seating. A shorter 4m pontoon connects the pod to the shore.
The pontoon is 1m wide and has a decking rope balustrade.
Entrance to the pod is through double-opening doors measuring 1.2m wide. The pod has a well-laid-out, single-space living area, all on one level.
The ensuite bathroom is accessed through a door measuring 70cm wide.
Access to the pod includes some soft inclines and depressions, with the number and height of any steps varying according to the lake level.
Lapwing
Lapwing is our closest pod to the car park, approximately 45m away. Access is via a gravelled path which follows the natural topography of the site, with a gentle change in level between the car park and the lake.
The pontoon is 1m wide and has a decking rope balustrade.
Entrance to the pod is through double-opening doors measuring 1.2m wide. Like our other pods, Lapwing has a well-laid-out, single-space living area, all on one level.
The ensuite bathroom is accessed through a door measuring 70cm wide.
Pontoons and changing lake levels
Each of our pods has been designed with accessibility in mind, and we have done our best to minimise steps between the shore and the accommodation. However, there may be some steps to negotiate depending on the season and the current level of the lake.
Our pontoons are designed to rise and fall with the changing water level. This means that the height of the pontoon in relation to the shore can vary. We minimise this wherever possible by using small ramps and keeping the pontoons as level as possible.
If you have specific mobility requirements, please get in touch before booking and we will be happy to discuss the current access to each pod with you.
Video walkthrough
We can provide a video walkthrough of all three pods, beginning at the car park and following the route to the accommodation. Please get in touch if you would like a link.
Local deliveries
All the major supermarkets in the area will deliver to the Lilypod car park.
Hidden disabilities and individual needs
We recognise that many disabilities are hidden. Lilypod provides a secluded and tranquil retreat immersed in nature, which may be particularly appealing to guests who benefit from a quieter environment, including some people with autism, anxiety or depression.
If you are travelling with a support animal, please let us know before booking so we can help you select the accommodation most suitable for your needs.
Check-in and support
If you would prefer to be checked in to your accommodation by a member of our team rather than using the self check-in video, please get in touch and we will be happy to arrange this.
Key members of our team have completed the NHS Disability Matters training course.
Digital accessibility
We have made changes to our website to make it easier for visually impaired and neurodiverse visitors to navigate.
This includes:
Streamlined content to make it clearer and less confusing
Choice of text colour and size
Avoiding photographs with text overlays
Checking for screen-reader optimisation
Checking colour-blind compatibility
We are happy to provide all information in large print on request.
Questions or individual requirements
If you have any questions about accessibility or would like to discuss your individual needs before booking, please get in touch. We are always happy to help.