Tag Archives: holidays

Attractions, Holidays, Quingo Scooters

Quingo Scooters Accessible Getaways: A Trip to Edinburgh

According to research by Airbnb, Edinburgh is the second most visited city in the UK, with over 163,600 guests taking in the city in the summer of 2016 alone. But what is it that makes this historical city so popular? Let’s find out.

Edinburgh is a hub of excitement no matter what season you visit. With a dramatic setting, you’ll find the world’s biggest performing arts festival, a 1,000-year-old castle and a mountain – Arthur’s Seat – right in the middle of the city. From morning to night, you’ll find the vibrant city full of stimulating activities, both modern and historic. Trace Edinburgh’s rich historical links, experience the Scottish culture and discover the city’s hidden gems – there are always adventures to be found in here!

To help you make the most of your next visit to Edinburgh, Quingo Scooters is heading to the Scottish capital to rediscover all of our favourite spots. Whether you’re a lover of art, a fan of history or simply want to sample the local whisky, we’ve got recommendations for every type of trip. Let’s have a look what this incredible city has to offer…

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© Peter A. Cordes – Carlton Hill and Edinburgh at sunset.

Where to go

While you’re in Edinburgh, you’ll find so many things to see and do. Here are our top picks.

  • If you’re a keen gardener, you’ll love the Royal Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1670, this beautiful site is now a world-renowned centre for science, education and horticulture. With 4 different gardens making up the experience, this the perfect place to learn all about plants and their relationships, evolution, conservation and biology. Each garden has a different use:

Edinburgh: Here you’ll find the world-famous Rock Garden, peat and woodland gardens. Whether you’re marvelling at the well-stocked glasshouses or exploring the colourful herbaceous borders, this garden is an idyllic break from the hustle and bustle of Edinburgh. The specialist collections are not to be missed!

Benmore: Set in a milder oceanic climate, come face to face with plant life found in high rainfall areas. The conifers and rhododendrons are particularly incredible natural beauties!

Logan: Scotland’s most exotic garden! With an almost sub-tropical climate, these ideal growing conditions are home to southern hemisphere plants. As an added bonus, these warmer temperatures are a perfect break on cold days!

Dawyck: Hardy plants from the colder and drier areas of the world find their home here. You’ll be fascinated by how these tough plants overcome the adversity of their environment and have adapted to survive.

When you’re here, make sure to meet the edible gardening team! This is available on Mondays and Tuesdays between 1pm and 2.30pm. While you’re looking around the productive garden with members of the Edible Gardening Project volunteers, you’ll be able to pick up helpful tips to make your garden the best it can be. With advice on what jobs need doing in your garden and answers to your vegetable growing questions, your garden will be blooming in no time!

  • Art fans – we’ve got the perfect place for you! Set in the historic and beautiful official Scottish residence of the Queen, The Queen’s Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse is home to a rotating series of art. Make sure to check out their page before you visit, to see what exciting events are on now. Here are some of our recommendations for what to catch.

Shadows of War: This is the first exhibition to focus exclusively on Roger Fenton’s pioneering photographs of the Crimean War, taken in 1855. This moving insight into war captures the human and emotional impact of war. This thought-provoking exhibit will stay with you long after you’ve left.

Charles II- Art & Power: After over a decade of austere rule in England under Cromwell, the restoration of the monarchy in 1660 led to a resurgence of the arts in England. This exhibit brings together the monumental works of art that re-established the monarchy within Britain. A stunningly decadent look into British history!

  • When we think of Scotland, whisky undoubtedly comes to mind. While you’re in Edinburgh, why not learn all about one of the world’s most popular spirits at The Scotch Whisky Experience. Find out all about the production and craft of whisky, all while taking a ride through a replica distillery. With 5 tours to choose from, ranging from first-time drinkers to whisky fanatics, there’s something to suit you:

The Gold Tour: For absolute pros! This package includes a tasting tray of four single malt Scotch whiskies, membership to the Scotch Whisky Appreciation Society and discounts at the bar, restaurant and shop within the membership year. If you love whisky, there’s no better way to spend an Edinburgh day!

Morning Masterclass: Taking a behind-the-scenes look at the creation, here you’ll see a private viewing of the world’s largest collection of Scotch Whisky, experience a sensory perception test and even try nosing a new-make spirit and boxed crystal whisky tasting glass!

The Platinum Tour: If you like whisky, but aren’t ready to be classified as a connoisseur, you’ll find this tour your perfect speed. This includes a whisky barrel ride through the production of Scotch whisky, guided nosing and tasting of four contrasting single malt whiskies and an extended viewing of the collection of Scotch Whisky.

The Taste of Scotland: If you’ve brought your appetite, come along to this tour! This not only offers the features from the Platinum tour but also includes a three-course Scottish food experience menu and a dram of Scotch whisky with dessert. Delicious!

The Silver Tour: If you’re travelling with kids under 18, this is the tour for you. With a whisky barrel ride through the production of Scotch Whisky, a dram of Scotch Whisky – Irn Bru for under 18s – and a viewing of the Scotch whisky collection, this is a fun and informative tour for all ages!

Where to eat

Eating in Edinburgh is always a treat! With so many restaurants and bars to discover, you’ll be sure to find a delicious meal. We’ve gathered some of our favourite accessible places to make sure you’re finding the best places to eat!

For brunch, there’s no better place than Southpour. Serving up classics like avocado on toast and eggs benedict, this wide-ranging menu offers so many options. Make sure to save room for pudding!

Pizza lovers will enjoy La Favorita. Locals claim that this is home to the best pizza in Edinburgh – and for good reason! Its famous crisp thin log fired pizza are served in a large and spacious setting and are always tasty.

If its traditional Scottish food you’re after, we recommend Norn. Tucked away in Leith, this restaurant offers a creative dining experience with a difference! Using the best Scottish produce, you’ll be treated to fresh takes on the Scottish classics.

Why not try exploring the city to find your new favourite place? There’s a wide range of offerings to sample in the city!

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Getting around

For getting around Edinburgh, we recommend taking public transport. With such a busy city, finding parking spaces can be difficult. Throughout the area, you’ll find frequent trams and buses. As these have now been made accessible for mobility scooters, they’re the perfect way to navigate the city with ease.

Alternatively, why not discover more about the city while you travel. The Edinburgh bus tours offer this and so much more. There’s a reason they’re Scotland’s third most popular paid-for attraction! Once you’re on board, you’ll spend an hour being taken around all the monumental locations of Edinburgh’s history and culture. With three tours on offer, they’re the perfect way to see more of the city in a short time.

How to get there

As a major city, Edinburgh is accessible by all major forms of transport. If you are travelling by train, the nearest stop is in Edinburgh Waverley train station, located in the heart of the city. Edinburgh airport is also a short journey away from the centre.

If you’re travelling by car, there are around 90 Blue Badge spaces available in the centre of the city. These locations can be found on this map. Alternatively, there are 6 Blue Badge bays in the Edinburgh Castle NCP car park, which is conveniently located next to Edinburgh castle.

Valuable resources

For more information and updates on what there is to do in Edinburgh, take a look at our other recommendations for the city here. More information on the accessibility of all places recommended can be found through the provided links.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme, which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this, or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up-to-date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up-to-date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC). AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Holidays, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

Quingo Accessible Getaways: Bristol

You can get away and enjoy a fabulous break with ease at hundreds of places across the UK. At Quingo Scooters, we’re bringing our pick of the most accessible getaways in the UK, to help you plan your next trip.

We’ve got a fantastic getaway for you this time around, Bristol. Straddling the scenic River Avon in South-West England, Bristol is a favourite with travel enthusiasts, and here’s why.

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Exploring all the city offers

Bristol has it all – fascinating museums, stunning architecture, lush green spaces, plenty of shops and more. It’s also a great travel destination for accessibility, with attractions such as:

  • M Shed: Delve into Bristol’s rich past, by paying a visit to the M Shed museum! M Shed, which lies on the edge of Bristol’s iconic floating harbour, features exhibits telling the story of the people of Bristol, as well as outdoor industrial showcases which you can check out even when it’s closed! M Shed has level access, lifts to all floors, and is free to enter.
  • Royal West of England Academy: Bristol’s oldest art gallery, the Royal West of England Academy, on Queen’s Road, is worth checking out. It hosts 1,200 pieces of art, spanning from the 19th Century to the modern day. There’s level access across the building, and lifts to all upper floor galleries. An adult ticket costs £6.25.
  • Bristol Aquarium: Explore the mysterious depths of the ocean, by stopping by the Bristol Aquarium while you’re in the city. Situated on Anchor Road on the riverside, Bristol Aquarium is home to fascinating creatures such as sharks and tropical fish. It’s a completely accessible building and you can enter at a discounted ticket rate of just £13.
  • Bristol Cathedral: Bristol Cathedral is a must for culture enthusiasts. The building, which is on College Green not far from the Aquarium, hosts a treasure trove of religious sites for you to see, such as its glorious medieval stained glass windows. Free to enter, Bristol Cathedral is an accessible space, with ramps spaced throughout so you can get around at your leisure.
  • St George’s Bristol: If you like good music, St George’s Bristol is the attraction for you. Situated in the heart of the city on Great George Street, the venue hosts performances from talented musicians in a range of genres, from classical to folk and jazz. It’s an accessible building and has parking spaces for blue badge holders.

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Talking accessibility

There is plenty if information to help you plan your trip on the travelling to Bristol page of the Visit Bristol tourist website. If you’re looking for convenience, it’s best to travel by rail, as the train station, Bristol Temple Meads, is centrally located. You can also get there by car, as the city is based at the intersection of the M4 and M5 motorways.

It’ll also be easy for you to find somewhere to stay, with accessible hotels across Bristol. Check out the accessible accommodation page of Visit Bristol for a comprehensive list. We’d recommended you try the Mercure Bristol Brigstow Hotel, a four star hotel where rooms start from £65 per person, per night. Based on Welsh Black Road, this boutique hotel is completely accessible and provides gorgeous riverside views, making it the perfect place to appreciate everything Bristol has to offer.

If you want to get out and explore the sites of Bristol, you’ll be able to do so, as the city provides various accessible travel options. Most buses have low floors, and you can ask the driver to put out a ramp, so you can board at your convenience. You can also take an accessible taxi around the city, and there’s a list of drivers you can contact on Bristol.gov.uk. You’re sure to have the time of your life if you visit Bristol on your next holiday, and make memories you’ll cherish forever!

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Attractions, Days Out, Holidays, Quingo Scooters

Quingo Accessible Getaways: Newcastle

A well-deserved holiday is never far away, and Quingo Scooters are on hand to help you plan it! There are so many unique spots around the UK, which you can visit easily as a mobility scooter, providing you with memories you’ll cherish for ever. It’s no easy task whittling these choices down, when looking for that next fabulous location to visit, so we’re revealing our top suggestions for accessible getaways!

You might want to wrap up warm, as this week we’re taking you up North! The region’s beating heart of Newcastle is a top getaway destination. It features a range of cultural attractions and it’s one of the UK’s most accessible cities, giving you so much to see and do.

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Welcome to Newcastle

Situated in scenic Tyneside, Newcastle is famous the world over for its friendly people, who are sure to welcome you to their city. Not only is the region home to breath-taking sites, such as the legendary ‘Angel of the North’ statue, it also features various accessible attractions, including:

  • Jesmond Dene Park: If you’re looking for an oasis of peace, Jesmond Dene Park is for you. Based just outside Newcastle city centre, Jesmond Dene Park features both native and exotic trees, as well as wildlife such as Kingfishers and Red Squirrels, and a café which serves tasty treats. Free to enter, the park is accessible, with accessible routes located throughout.
  • Discovery Museum: Delve into the history of Newcastle at the Discovery Museum. Opened in 1993 the Museum, which is located Blandford Square and is free to enter, houses maritime and science related attractions such as the iconic Sturbina steam ship – once the fastest on earth! All its floors have level access and there are lifts and accessible toilets across the site.
  • Theatre Royal: There’s no better place to catch a show than Newcastle’s Theatre Royal. The space, located on Grey Street, hosts everything from thrilling stage adaptions to fun musicals. You can find ticket prices on the what’s on page of the Theatre’s website and it’s really accessible with level access, lifts and accessible spaces in its stall, grand circle and upper circle seats.
  • Laing Art Gallery: For culture enthusiasts, the Laing Art Gallery is a must-see attraction. A few streets away from the Theatre Royal, it is free to visit, although there may be charges for some exhibits. Here you’ll discover British oil paintings, watercolours, ceramics, silver and glassware from across the ages. There is level access into the building and it has a lift up to the first floor.
  • Seven Stories: If you’re travelling with children, Seven Stories on Lime Street is well worth a visit. Billed as ‘the national centre for children’s books,’ this space brings iconic tales to life with readings, exhibitions and more. Ticket prices vary for adults and children of different ages, but these can be found here. Seven Stories has accessible parking, level access and lifts to all floors.

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Navigating Newcastle

It’s easy to travel to, and around Newcastle. The best way to reach the city is to catch a train to Newcastle Train Station, which is based at the centre of this scenic metropolis. When it comes to getting around, there’s no better way than the Tyneside and Wear Metro, which is a very affordable travel option. Its trains are fully accessible, with either lifts or ramps at all stations for ease of access.

Newcastle’s has a wide range of accessible hotels. Our top pick is the Royal Station Hotel on Neville Street, based near the train station. Known for its grand Victorian façade, the Hotel includes sumptuous period interiors, but modern, minimalist rooms, making for an interesting contrast. Accessible rooms in the Royal Station Hotel are available upon request and it also boasts a fantastic restaurant which has become popular for its elegant afternoon teas and delicious Sunday carvery’s.

The council of Newcastle are committed to promoting greater accessibility in their city. There are a variety of accessible parking bays dotted across Newcastle, which are open to blue badge holders, with a full list available at the parking in Newcastle section of the council’s website. Meanwhile, if you click here, you’ll find information on the public accessible toilets located across the city. With so much on offer, you’re sure to have a fabulous time if you choose Newcastle for your next getaway!

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Holidays, Quingo Scooters, Reviews

Where are Europe’s Five Most Accessible Cities?

Quingo Scooters encourages you to get out and see the world, from the comfort of your mobility scooter. Previously we’ve shared some great accessible getaways for you in different locations to try as a mobility scooter user. If you fancy going somewhere a little more continental, today we’re going to reveal the five most accessible cities in Europe.

Milan, Italy

The best European city for mobility scooters is Milan. The metropolis is not only an Italian fashion and cultural capital, but it won the City Access Award last year, showing that it’s made great strides to improve accessibility. Travelling to Milan is easy as Italy’s railways, as well as the city’s Linate and Malpensa airports are fully accessible. It boasts various accessible attractions, such as the Piazza del Duomo. This is near iconic sites such as Milan Cathedral and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping mall, where you can find shops from legendary Italian brands such as Prada as well as stylish bars and cafes.

Boras, Sweden

Sweden is a great country for mobility scooter users. In 2015 its government made lack of accessibility a new form of discrimination, and as a result great efforts have been made to make it much easier to get around. Sweden’s crown jewel is its second largest city, Boras. It has a range of “accessible hotels,” with an “accessible path of travel,” so it’ll be easy to find somewhere to stay. This lush city is known for its open green spaces like Ranmaparken, which includes paved paths, making it great for mobility scooter users. Various attractions in Boras, like its Textile Museum and City Theatre, are fully accessible, giving you plenty to see and do.

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Berlin, Germany

The German city of Berlin is the ideal getaway location for any mobility scooter user. It’s really easy to travel in Berlin as its buses, metro lines and taxis are all mobility scooter friendly. It also has wide pavements and both vocal and visual signals at road crossings. It’s hard to not find an accessible attraction in Berlin. All its top sites from Potsdam, the old Reichstag and Charlottenburg Palace, to Madame Tussauds and the Jewish Museum of Berlin, can be navigated easily with a mobility scooter.

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Barcelona, Spain

If you’re looking for blazing sun and fabulous artistic attractions, Barcelona is the place for you. This Spanish city’s metro stations are 80% accessible, while its buses are 100% accessible, so getting around won’t be a problem. We’d suggest that you take a shopping trip on the iconic Las Ramblas Street while in Barcelona, as it’s completely flat. In Barcelona, you can go to the front of the line as a mobility scooter user when seeing sites like the gorgeous Sagrada Familia church, which is also free to enter.

Manchester, UK

You don’t have to leave the UK for an accessible holiday as our very own Manchester is fantastic for anyone who uses a mobility scooter. The north-western hub has wide, smooth pavements making it easy to get around, while the majority of its bars and shops have step-free entrances. It also houses various mobility scooter-friendly attractions like Etihad Stadium and the Trafford Centre, while restaurants like El Gato Negro, which does Spanish Tapas, are some of the most accessible in the UK.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.

Holidays, Quingo Scooters, Tips and Advice

How Do I Find an Accessible Holiday?

Quingo Scooters understand that when thinking about your next holiday or weekend away, there are certain things to consider for you and your mobility scooter. You want somewhere that can cater for your needs, be accessible and most importantly be comfortable for a relaxing time away.

So how do you find a holiday or short break that you know has everything you’ll need? In this post we’ll be sharing some of the best sites out there that can guarantee to find you exactly what you have in mind, or that can give you some holiday inspiration. There are some great accessible holiday sites out there, dedicated finding you accessible accommodation.

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Accomable

Srin and Martryn run Accomable. They are well known in the accessible tourism arena so they understand better than anyone what makes good accessible accommodation. With holiday accommodation not just in the UK but from around the world, this site enables you to explore that little bit further. Accomable has over 500 properties in 40 countries – so you’re sure to find somewhere new to discover!

Tip: Don’t forget to submit your email address to get the latest news, updates and special holiday offers delivered directly to your inbox!

Handiscover

Handiscover is unique in that it has a unique rating system, grading accommodation depending on your level of mobility. This community-based holiday booking platform is great in that it not only lists hotels but also apartments, houses and B&B’s. It’s really easy to use and user friendly, and there definitely isn’t a lack of in-depth information on each property listing.

Tip: Some properties can be booked directly from the Handiscover site, for extra easiness!

Limitless Travel

Angus runs Limitless Travel, and he’s really passionate about finding stress-free places to stay. The site is fairly new, but has a nice design and is easy to use. On here you’ll not only find places to holiday, but also accessible attractions.

Tip: Limitless Travel enables you to focus on one city at a time – this unique feature gives you comprehensive coverage of each city before moving on to the next.

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Share your accessible holiday with Quingo!

If you want to share your mobility scooter accessible getaway, we’d be delighted to hear from you. You can email your stories, recommendations and pictures by filling out the contact form on our website and we’ll feature them on our blog.

About Quingo

The Quingo Scooter range features six models to suit your needs and budget. New models are now available from just £22/week on our new contract hire scheme which includes all servicing and maintenance, Insurance, Roadside Recovery, Call Outs and Consumables including Batteries and Tyres. For more information on this or the latest Quingo Scooter range, please visit our website. Alternatively, if you have any Service questions you can always contact us or call customer services on 01582 430 900.

Keep up to date with the latest mobility scooter advice, tips and interesting places to visit on the Quingo Scooter Users Blog. Connect with Quingo and keep up to date with all our latest news on Facebook and Twitter.

All Quingo Personal Mobility Vehicles are provided by Forever Active, the UK’s exclusive distributor. Forever Active is a trading name of Advantage Marketing Corporation Limited (AMC).  AMC Limited is an appointed representative of First Senior Insurance Services Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. First Senior Insurance Services FSA Register number is 308478.