Access Information

As an historic site, we recognise there are a number of difficulties at our site for those with disability.
The following accessibility facilities are in place…
  • The main entrance, Gift Shop, and The Key Learning Centre are all fully accessible.
  • We have lifts in both the castle* and The Key Learning Centre. Both our lifts have tactile and Braille controls, and voice announcements. The doors are 900mm clear opening, and the internal dimensions are 1360x1360mm.
  • All floors of the Prison Wing are accessible by lift*, and information throughout is provided through a mix of displays and multi-media solutions.
  • We have accessible toilet facilities equipped with emergency call alarms. These are located in Castleyard Cafe and The Key Learning Centre (left/angled and right hand transfer).
  • Throughout the year, we hold many events in the Castleyard which are all accessible to wheelchair users.
  • We are unable to offer left luggage facilities due to security reasons and lack of storage space.

Regrettably, due to the historic nature of the building not all areas of the attraction are accessible by wheelchair:

  • St George’s Tower (which has 101 steps on a steep, narrow and winding staircase).
  • The Mound which has some steep steps and gradients.
  • Guide dogs and assistance dogs are allowed, however for health and safety reasons they will not be able to climb St. George’s Tower. No other dogs can be admitted to the castle or on the mound.
  • Some of the prison cells which have 620-640mm wide doorways.

Visitors unable to climb St. George’s Tower may wait at the bottom of the tower in the seating area. We will play a short movie which shows the views from St. George’s Tower and the Mound. You will then be able to rejoin your group and continue with your tour throughout the castle.

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide wheelchairs for our visitors. There is a shopmobility scheme in Oxford for visitors who wish to hire wheelchairs.

There is no parking available on site although drop off can be permitted via prior arrangement. Details of parking arrangements in Oxford for disabled visitors may be found on the Oxford City Council website.

There are no strobe lighting effects in Oxford Castle & Prison.

Due to the historical nature of the building Prams & Pushchairs do not fit through our doors, so they need to be left in the reception area where they will be looked after by a member of our team.

*Please note, that our lift has a maximum weight capacity of 300kg;  this may mean that our basement (crypt) and upper (exhibition) floors may therefore be inaccessible to guests in motorised wheelchairs accompanied by a carer.

 

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Continuum Attractions is committed to achieving the highest standards of Health & Safety to all its visitors and employees. We are proud of the processes, systems and procedures we have in place across our business. Health & Safety is much a part of our company culture as our dedication to delivering unique experiences in memorable locations.