• Heritage Railways - a Guide for Wheelchair-user Visitors •
 Front Page
 Car Parking
 Getting Tickets
 Platforms
 Scotrail
 The Train
 Other Info
 Contact

Strathspey Railway

Overview

Inside the Van

A standard-gauge railway running between Aviemore and Broomhill in the Spey valley in the Scottish Highlands. Most of the comments here relate to a visit in August 2004 which took in a trip from Aviemore to Broomhill and back. We did not get off at Broomhill or Boat of Garten, the intermediate station.
go to top

Car Parking

We joined at Aviemore where there are several well signed spaces for disabled visitors. There is a brief stony track to cross, then a well finished pathway all the way to the booking office. Earlier that week, on a quick visit to the intermediate station, Boat of Garten, we had followed the road signs to the car park only to find no public access to the main platform for wheelchairs, only a footbridge. On motoring to the other side we found a few spaces right next to the booking office door. Shame it was so hidden away...
go to top

Getting Tickets

No problems with access at Aviemore or at Boat of Garten. No discount offered.
go to top

Platforms

Very easy access to the platforms at Aviemore and Boat of Garten.
go to top

Scotrail

These main line trains also stop at Aviemore and, there is cross platform access but some up Scotrail trains used the down platform. This would mean a lengthy detour for wheelchair-users to gain access to the Strathspey platform.
go to top

The Train

We were met promptly by the Guard who fetched the usual portable ramp from the Van and we wheeled aboard. The Van interior was fitted out with two tables with comfortable chairs, and we were helped to the table. The Van was occupied by other staff making their way to work elsewhere. Whilst these people were very friendly and chatty, we did feel a little uncomfortable, especially when their own discussions became loud. We could not gain access to the buffet and we were not offered any help by passing buffet staff. There was no disabled toilet as far as we could tell.
go to top

Other information

There is little to add to the above. The official website states "...Passengers using wheelchairs can be accommodated, except on 'Branch Line Days', in a specially adapted part of the train. However, as space is limited please contact Aviemore station in advance to check availability and best access to the platform.".


go to top

Contact information

Telephone  01479 810725
Fax  01479 812220
Email information@strathspeyrailway.co.uk.
Website /www.strathspeyrailway.co.uk/


The above comments are not necessarily those of the Strathspey Railway. No responsibility is accepted by this web site, the host web site or the Railway for any inaccuracies or ommisions or misinterpretations. The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.

Last updated 12 September 2004

go to top