Bournemouth, England

The Elstead Hotel is one of those unfortunately all too rare finds – one with profiling beds suitable for people with limited mobility.

The rooms are a little dated but spotlessly clean and very comfortable.  There is plenty of space to move around inside the room and to access both sides of the beds.  However, the beds are divan style with little room underneath for a hoist, should this be necessary.

The bathroom includes a roll-in shower with an adjustable height shower and fold down seat.  The sink is also height adjustable – unfortunately the mirror in the bathroom is probably too high for someone in a wheelchair.

The communal areas are all accessible with step free entrance into the hotel through the automatic doors.  Guests can choose to eat in the restaurant or perhaps to relax with drink in the conservatory.

Downstairs there is a gym with pool and sauna.  There is step free access to the facilities but guests needing a hoist will need to bring their own.  The pool is lovely and warm and there is also a jacuzzi pool alongside.

There is plenty of disabled parking immediately in front of the hotel which is only a few minutes from the centre of town.

Staff are friendly and helpful and will gladly provide maps and tips on what to do.