Walking with wheels
Routes for disabled ramblers to explore the Blackdown Hills.
The National Landscape Team have partnered with Disabled Ramblers Association in the development and promotion of routes that can potentially be accessed with suitable wheelchairs across the Quantock Hills. The Disabled Ramblers have surveyed many of the public rights of way and permitted tracks in the heart of the National Landscapes to assess the potential for access by wheelchair. Using the Disabled Ramblers grading system – click Route Categories – Disabled Ramblers to see more information on the grading system – the routes allow you to see which would be suitable to explore the Quantock Hills.
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The Disabled Ramblers have developed the guidelines that correspond very broadly to the following users equipped to differing standard:
Category 1 is designed for almost all scooters and buggies, and power-chairs. Additionally, users of manual chairs may manage the routes, provided the rider is either powerfully built with plenty of upper body strength or is aided by able-bodied pushers. The distance travelled along the ramble will usually not exceed 5 miles.
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Category 2 is considered generally suitable for very many scooters and buggies, particularly those with large or medium-sized wheels and adequate batteries (at least 50ah capacity, or preferably 60ah). Four-wheel machines are recommended, although some three wheelers are acceptable, if driven with care. Some heavy-duty power-chairs may be used, if adequately supported by an able-bodied helper who can steady the machine downhill or on cross cambers. Occasionally users of manual chairs may take part, provided the rider is exceptionally strong in the upper body, and/or has at least one strong fully able-bodied helper. Maximum distance: usually 8 miles
Category 3 is designed for users of heavy duty and powerful scooters or buggies only. The distance covered may be highly variable – from 5 miles if along a very hilly route with long steep climbs, up to 8 miles along more level routes. Category 3 routes will present few problems to experienced users of heavy-duty buggies.
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Category 4 is only for adventurous users of heavy-duty buggies, prepared to try routes that may prove impassable. The Disabled Ramblers do not offer this level of ramble.
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More information on the Disabled Ramblers Association including advice and guidance, routes and events please visit the Disabled Ramblers website.
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