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Accessibility

A map is available to explain the wheelchair accessible route from the museum building to the gorge. This can be collected at reception.

We strive to make our site accessible to as many people as possible and are always exploring ways to improve. However, due to the nature of this archaeological site, the cave entrances are located high in the rockfaces and are not be suitable for some people with mobility problems.

If you have any other questions please get in contact before your visit so we can help you plan the best day out.

Mobility

Is the site accessible to wheelchairs/mobility scooters?

Yes, most of our site is totally accessible to wheelchairs and mobility scooters. This includes our visitor centre and exhibition (set on 2 floors with a lift between) and the meadow and gorge. However, unfortunately access to our caves is via steps so these are not wheelchair accessible.

Do you have wheelchairs or mobility scooters for hire?

Derbyshire County Council has provided us with a mobility scooter under their Tramper Hire Scheme. This can be hired for £7.50 an hour (first hour free) or £35.50 for a year’s membership. You must be 16 or over to use this scooter, and we require 2 forms of identification (including a recent bill to prove your current address) to hire the vehicle. Our staff will provide an induction on how to use it.

Derbyshire County Council Tramper Hire Details (opens in a new window)

We do not have wheelchairs for hire. 

How big is the site?

From the visitor centre to the far end of the gorge and back is approximately 1.5 miles. We recommend the average walker allow roughly 30 to 45 minutes to walk this loop.

Is there disabled parking?

Yes, we have a number of disabled parking bays just in front of the visitor centre. These are free as long as you are displaying your blue badge.

Are there disabled toilets?

We have disabled toilets upstairs and downstairs in the visitor centre. Please be aware that there are no toilets in the gorge or meadow.

The nearest Changing Places Toilets (larger toilets with hoists) are located:

 
Go! Active @ The Arc
The Arc
High Street
Clowne
Derbyshire
S43 4JY
GB

Children

Is the cafe suitable for children?

Babies and children are more than welcome in our cafe. We have a specific children’s menu including our increasingly popular babyccinos. The cafe staff are also happy to help with heating baby food for you. We also have several high chairs that are free to use should you require.

Is there baby changing?

We have a parent/baby room upstairs which includes baby changing facilities.

Is there parent and child parking?

Yes, we have a number of bays for families just in front of the visitor centre.

Is breastfeeding welcome?

Absolutely! We welcome breastfeeding throughout our visitors centre, and are fully supportive of any breastfeeding mothers at the Crags. If you prefer privacy while breastfeeding we also have a comfy armchair in our parent/baby room upstairs.


Deaf/Hard of Hearing

Are the cave tours suitable for those who are deaf/hard of hearing?

We do not have any provision for those who are deaf or hard of hearing on our cave tours. However our tour guides welcome sign language accompanying their tours.

Is the exhibition suitable for those who are deaf/hard of hearing?

Most of the exhibition is made up of text and images. Some of the interactive displays are subtitled. The Museum has induction loops fitted in all public areas.

Blind/Visual Impairment

Are the cave tours accessible to those who are blind/visually impaired?

We welcome those who are blind or visually impaired on our cave tours. There is some uneven ground and low ceilings so we recommend that a carer is present as well during the cave tours. If this is not possible we can provide a member of staff to assist you, but please let us know if this is required in advance so we can make arrangements.

Are there any areas of low lighting on site?

Yes, the caves by their nature have relatively low light. Our exhibition also has areas of low lighting. We recommend that a carer is present to help blind or visually impaired people to navigate this area.


Special Educational Needs

Are there provisions for SEN children and adults?

Absolutely! We are happy to arrange bespoke activities or trips for those with special educational needs. These can take place as part of our standard school trips, as a private group booking or on a one-to-one basis. Please contact us in advance to discuss your needs.