Road Trip from the UK to France

Contemplating your next adventure? Traveling by car from the UK to France you will discover some beautiful sights and landmarks that are wheelchair accessible. Even before you get on the ferry, it is quite breathtaking to see the infamous White Cliffs of Dover in the UK. If you have some time to spare before the voyage, Dover is well worth a visit. The museum offers a number of highlights, including an approximately 3000-year-old Bronze Age boat. The museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users. If you’re parking in the town and require a parking badge, you can complete your blue badge application online before your trip.

From Dover take the ferry across the English Channel to Calais. The ferry crossing is approximately one and a half hours. When booking, you can inform the staff of your specific requirements and they can organise for parking next to the lift in order to ensure easy access to the passenger deck. They will endeavour to provide appropriate accommodation throughout the journey guiding you to the most wheelchair accessible deck.

Once you’ve disembarked at Calais, you’ll find some fascinating landmarks such as the Calais Town Hall and the Nieulay Fort. Forging ahead on your trip, you will be immersed in the French culture. Below you will find accessible highlights well worthy of a visit. 

Parisian Open Air Markets

Paris is arguably one of Europe’s most loved cities. Hosting such a wide variety of attractions from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, it can almost become overwhelming if you’re only staying a few days. One recommendation for those spending only a day or two in the city would be to sample one of the open-air markets. Depending on your preference, there are stalls specialising in an array of products from arts and crafts to fresh flowers to delectable local produce. The Rue Cler, for example, is famous for its variety of delectable French foods whereas fresh flowers can be found in abundance at the Saxe-Breteuil. There’s something for everyone. Head there with an open mind and you’ll be a frog’s leg and snail connoisseur in no time! On a practical note, many of the surrounding cafés have wheelchair accessible restrooms so you won’t be caught short.

Dijon

Located approximately three hours South East of Paris by car, Dijon is famously known for its medieval history (as well as its mustard!). You’ll find a beautiful art museum situated in the heart of Dijon housing some fantastic portraits of famous regional figures along with mesmerising depictions of medieval times. The museum is accessible to wheelchairs and has a lift in order to move from floor to floor along with an accessible restroom. After browsing the gallery, find a local café to sit back and soak up the atmosphere over good coffee and a traditional French lunch.

Reims

Less than a three-hour journey from Dijon, Reims is packed with places to visit. Its Notre Dame Cathedral was constructed in the 13th century and is now classed as a world heritage site. Following a visit to the cathedral, you can take a cruise along the river Marne courtesy of Croisi Champagne whilst enjoying 360-degree panoramic views of the surroundings. The cruises are fully accessible and operate most days within the season. Guided tours around a beautiful nature trail in the area also make for a memorable activity.

The vibrant atmosphere of the French towns and cities is an attraction in its own right. Steeped in culture and history, the country makes for a must-visit destination. Last words of advice, don’t forget your camera and Euros!