Accessibility for Edinburgh Visitors

Scotland is committed to the provision of a high standard of accessible facilities for visitors and delegates to conferences.

There is a range of information and tools available for conference organisers and delegates visiting Edinburgh as well as details to assist hotels and venues welcoming disabled guests.

Air - Edinburgh Airport is committed to ensuring all of their passengers have the best experience possible and have been working in partnership with industry experts to help passengers who might need a little extra assistance.

To make the journey through Edinburgh Airport as easy and stress-free as possible they’ve introduced a Travelling with Additional Needs toolkit.This toolkit is made up of a series of factsheets which break the airport journey down into easy step-by-step stages - allowing passengers to familiarise themselves with Edinburgh Airport and be clear on what to expect when travelling. For additional information please view Edinburgh Airport website.

Bus - Lothian Buses is Edinburgh’s award- winning public bus service and operates a frequent timetable in and around the city with a large fleet of modern vehicles which are all easy access.

Tram - Edinburgh’s modern new tram service launched in May 2014 and provides the quickest journey between Edinburgh Airport and the city centre at the east end, stopping at key transport links, conference & event venues including the Edinburgh International Conference Centre, business districts and shopping areas.

Edinburgh Trams are environmentally friendly with zero on-street carbon emissions. They provide a smooth, fast service with easy access platforms and the low-floored trams are 100% wheelchair accessible.

For further useful information on the use of mobility scooters on Edinburgh trams please see here.

Rail - Edinburgh has two city centre train stations, located at the east and west end of Princes Street, and within walking distance of many of the city’s hotels and conference venues. Edinburgh Waverley, at the east side, provides a step-free entrance and disability assistance.

VisitScotland's Accessible Tourism project's aim is to make Scottish Tourism fit for the 21st Century and is in line with Scottish Government Policy of equality and fairness. VisitScotland have been working on a range of tools to help organisers and tourism providers:

Accessible Events’ guide - which will provide events’ organisers with practical advice on how to integrate accessibility into the organisation and delivery of their events.

Accessible Tourism online training tool for venues & hotels.

Access statement guidelines.

For further useful information please view VisitScotland's (website).

Please find below some information to assist you during your visit to the city.

Euan's Guide - and insiders guide to disabled access and getting around Edinburgh.

Lonely Planet Guide - Accessible Edinburgh, A Festival Guide. A useful resource offering information on Edinburgh Festivals, restaurants, attractions and much more.

Please find below an example of access statements for two venues in the city:

The Royal Yacht Britannia

The Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh

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