Accessibility Information

As a historic listed building, access at The Highfield has traditionally been a challenge. However, we are continually working to improve and adapt our facilities wherever possible to ensure all guests feel welcome and included. While certain structural limitations remain, due to the age and design of the property, we are committed to doing everything we can to support visitors with accessibility needs. Our team is always here to help—please feel free to call or email us ahead of your visit.

Arrival, Drop-Off & Parking

Visitors arrive via the main Drive Court entrance, which offers a clear drop-off point. Complimentary parking is available for all guests:

  • Restaurant Guests may park in our woodland parking area, approximately 100m from the Drive Court. Surfaces include some uneven ground and a tarmac road.

  • Overnight Guests may use Stable Road parking, which is up to 70m away from the Drive Court along a tarmac route.

  • The Drive Court itself is a firm gravel surface and offers limited parking.

We have four parking spaces available within the Drive Court, and one dedicated accessible bay. These spaces can be reserved in advance by contacting our front desk on 01377 256 231.

Outdoor Access & Surfaces

Access to the house is via a 40m fine gravel path that leads to a ramped entrance suitable for wheelchair use. The ramp is surfaced with honed stone to provide a slip-resistant, safe entry, with a landing area at the top for turning.

  • The Garden Entrance door has an effective width of 800mm and opens outwards, making it suitable for small to medium-sized wheelchairs. Plans are underway for a wider, more accessible entrance.

  • Handrails are installed on both the ramp and new external steps from the Drawing Room.

  • The House Lawns are accessible during dry months via mown paths, but may be less suitable in wetter conditions.

  • Woodland areas feature wood chip paths, many of which are wheelchair accessible. Ongoing improvements are planned to enhance access further.

Assistance with entry or use of external doors can be requested at our front desk.

Inside the House

The ground floor is fully step-free and includes the following accessible areas:

  • Reception Hall

  • DrawMe Room

  • Think Pink Parlour

  • Library Bar

  • Dining Room

  • Ground Floor WCs

All internal doorways exceed 900mm in width. Table service is available throughout all ground floor and terrace areas.

  • Two accessible WCs are available for small to medium-sized wheelchairs. Full DDA-compliant facilities are scheduled for completion by the end of 2023.

  • The first floor is not wheelchair accessible, and unfortunately, due to the constraints of the building, a lift has not yet been feasible.

  • Our Great Hall is equipped with a live video feed, viewable from the Library Bar and the Evening Parlour, allowing guests to experience events held upstairs.

Floor surfaces with level changes are clearly contrasted for visibility. We offer a range of dining chair styles and seating arrangements upon request—please ask a team member or contact us in advance.

Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs are warmly welcomed in all public areas of The Highfield.

For any further questions or specific needs, please don’t hesitate to call our front desk on 01377 256 231 or email us. You can also view our basic accessibility information