Hedingham Castle is a Norman Keep and was built over 860 years ago and, as such, it has a large number of uneven steps, spiral staircase, stepped doorways and a steep main drive / path leading up to the Keep which present limitations for guests who use a wheelchair or have other access requirements. To assist you, please find further information below about details of our attractions and facilities to help you make your day at Hedingham Castle an enjoyable one.

The Castle Keep

Unfortunately, it is not possible for wheelchair users to gain access to the majority of the indoor displays at the Castle. These attractions have steps at the entrances and exits and there is a steep spiral staircase inside to gain access to all other floors. There is however rope and or wooden handrails throughout to assist with access to the Keep and its different levels.

Grounds

The pathways through the grounds are all in keeping with the surroundings of this small country estate. The paths have many different gradients and the surfaces are woodchip, grass or pea shingle. It is advised that the paths are only fully accessible in good conditions as they can become very muddy and slippery in inclement weather.

Outdoor Events

Throughout the public open season there is outdoor entertainment including craftsmen, fighting knights, birds of prey displays and jousting tournaments which are all accessible to wheelchair users.

Refreshments

Unfortunately on standard open days our Tearoom is situated on the first floor of the Keep, The Garrison Chamber, which has the same issues as the Keep. On our event days we do offer refreshments at ground level around the Inner Bailey.

Gift Shop

Our gift shop is also situated in the Garrison Chamber on the first floor of the Castle. It is sadly not accessible for wheelchair users.

Lavatories

A lavatory suitable for wheelchair users is located on the Inner Bailey, to the right of the Keep as you cross the Tudor Bridge.

Parking

Disabled Car Parking spaces are available on non-event days outside the Mansion House at the top of the main drive. Drivers should note that the Tudor Bridge was not built for modern traffic and therefore vehicles are prohibited from crossing. On event days there is a designated area set aside for disabled parking.

Admission

As a result of restricted access, wheelchairs users are admitted free of charge on non-event days and their carer will receive the relevant concession admission rate. On event days the main attraction other than the Castle is fully accessible and a concession rate is charge on entrance to the grounds.

Registered assistance dogs only are admitted to the Castle.