Cambridge & Oxford

Cambridge and Oxford, renowned for their historic universities, are making strides in accessibility. Both cities have medieval layouts with narrow streets and old buildings, which can present challenges. However, recent efforts have improved access in many areas. According to a 2019 survey, 68% of visitors with disabilities rated Cambridge's overall accessibility as 'good' or 'very good', while Oxford scored 62% in a similar study.

Both cities adhere to UK accessibility laws, including the Equality Act 2010. Cambridge City Council has implemented an 'Accessibility Charter' since 2018, focusing on improving public spaces. Oxford's 'Access to Oxford' project, launched in 2017, aims to enhance accessibility in the city center. As of 2021, 75% of pedestrian crossings in Cambridge and 80% in Oxford have tactile paving and audible signals.

Both cities offer accessible bus services. In Cambridge, 100% of Stagecoach buses are low-floor accessible. Oxford's bus fleet is 95% accessible as of 2022. Taxi services in both cities include wheelchair-accessible vehicles, with Cambridge having 213 and Oxford 167 such taxis as of 2021. Both cities have designated disabled parking bays, with Cambridge offering 120 and Oxford 95 in their city centers.

Many colleges in both universities offer accessible tours. In Cambridge, King's College Chapel and the Fitzwilliam Museum have step-free access and provide wheelchairs for loan. Oxford's Ashmolean Museum and Bodleian Library are fully accessible. Punting companies in both cities offer wheelchair-accessible boats, but advance booking is required. As of 2022, 80% of Cambridge's major attractions and 75% of Oxford's are wheelchair accessible.

Both cities have hotels with accessible rooms. In Cambridge, 15 hotels offer fully accessible rooms, while Oxford has 18 such hotels as of 2022. University colleges also provide accessible accommodation during vacation periods. Cambridge University offers 50 accessible rooms across various colleges, while Oxford University provides 65. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Plan ahead and contact attractions and accommodations directly to discuss specific needs. Both cities have uneven pavements in historic areas; manual wheelchair users may need assistance. Use official websites like 'Visit Cambridge' and 'Experience Oxfordshire' for up-to-date accessibility information. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons (October to March) for less crowded conditions. Both cities offer mobility equipment rental services, with 5 providers in Cambridge and 4 in Oxford as of 2022.