Accessibility Info

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Accessibility Info

Willowbrook was first established as a campsite in the 1990s when the toilet block and events hall were constructed. At the time, accessibility was not considered in the construction. Since our taking over the site in 2019 we have taken steps to improve this however there is a lot of work still to do in the Willowbrook accessibility journey.

Recent changes to the business include fabrication of a temporary ramp which can be used for entry to various accommodation units as required, addition of grab bars to one of the toilets, installation of dimmer switch controlled lighting in pods, and a website upgrade to ensure compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. Future plans include construction of a new accessible toilet and shower building, a new footpath to allow easier access to accommodation units on site, permanent ramps for access to pods, and ensuring that future glamping units are as close as practicable to being universally accessible.

To assist guests with accessibility issues, we have created a comprehensive accessibility FAQ below which will hopefully answer most of the questions that most people may have. If not, please feel free to get in touch. We will always do our very best to accommodate the needs of those with accessibility issues so that they may enjoy to the fullest what we offer here at Willowbrook.

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Accessibility FAQs

Arrival & getting here
  • What is the site Eircode and how do I get here by public transport? - The Eircode is F45YE27. The nearest town is Ballaghaderreen (Bus Eireann bus no. 22) Ballaghaderreen is 5km from site. Taxi numbers are available on request. Please get in touch.
  • Is there on-site accessible parking? - We do not have specifically allocated accessible parking, however the site has lots of space and parking is rarely an issue.
  • Is the parking surface paved, gravel, grass, or mixed? Is it level or sloped? - Parking and driving surface is compacted gravel without any steep slopes
  • Is there a marked drop-off/pick-up point near reception or the main entrance? - The parking area is approx. 40m from Reception, however guests with mobility issues may park closer to reception if necessary.
  • What is the distance from the parking/drop-off area to reception and to each accommodation type (yurt, pod, pitch, etc.)? - Drop off for each unit can be right at the unit. The parking area for the Enchanted Forest Hideaway is approx. 40m from the unit. All other units have an adjacent parking space.
  • Is the road/drive around the park paved or unpaved? Are there potholes, steep gradients, or narrow sections? - The Road is an unpaved gravel road, there are no steep gradients or narrow sections however at certain times of the year there are potholes.
  • Are access roads and the approach lit at night? If so, which areas are illuminated? - The public roads are not lit, however there is street lighting on site around the entire camping and glamping area.
  • Is there level/step-free access from the road/parking to the main site entrance and reception? - Yes
Reception & booking / pre-arrival communications
  • Where is reception located and what are its opening hours? - Reception is signposted once you enter the site via the main entrance. Opening hours for reception are 8.30am – 8pm in summer, and by prior arrangement outside the summer months.
  • What is the width of the door into reception? Is it step-free? - 730mm wide, step free with a 70mm high metal draught excluder threshold
  • Is there a lowered section of the reception desk for wheelchair users? – Yes, the entire reception desk is low. 
  • What contact methods are available for pre-arrival and on-site help? Are any of these monitored 24/7? - Phone, SMS, email & WhatsApp. Phone is monitored 24/7.
  • Can guests request specific assistance in advance (e.g., help carrying luggage, setting up, provision of ramps, accessible parking)? – Yes, please feel free to get in touch ahead of your arrival and we will help in any way we can.
  • Is online booking accessible (compatible with screen readers / keyboard navigation)? - Yes
Arrival assistance, staff & orientation
  • Are staff experienced in assisting guests with disabilities? - Co-Owner Tuesday Whitfield is an experienced art therapist having spent 6 years working with adults with disabilities prior to taking over at Willowbrook.
  • Can staff meet guests at the car to assist with check-in and luggage? - Yes, however the parking area is not visible from reception so notification of arrival would need to be done by phone.
  • Are staff available to provide one-to-one assistance for transfers, getting in/out of vehicles or accommodation (if requested)? - Yes, please let us know if you need assistance.
  • Is there a quiet / low-stimulus place for guests who need time to settle on arrival? - We do not have a specific indoor area for this purpose, however there is generally at least one room on site not being used, so this may be an option. Outdoors at Willowbrook is generally a low-stimulus area.
Paths, surfaces & general site accessibility
  • Are paths between reception, accommodation, toilets/showers, communal areas and event spaces step-free? What are the door widths into these shared spaces?
    • Reception - No steps, 70mm threshold, 750mm wide door.
    • Toilets block -100mm step up to footpath, 120mm step into 730mm wide doors to toilets and showers.
    • Campers Kitchen - 90mm step up to 850mm wide door. 
    • Toilet at Campers Kitchen / Events Hall / Enchanted Forest Hideaway– 150mm step up to 900mm wide door.
    • Events Hall – 3 x 150mm steps up to 1500mm wide double door.
  • What are the path surfaces (paved, compacted gravel, grass, wooden decking)? - The majority of the site is compacted gravel with some concrete footpaths, and grass paths around the river/lake/landscaped areas.
  • Are any paths prone to flooding or mud? - Only the grass paths in extremely wet weather. This is generally not an issue in the camping and glamping area.
  • Are the grounds well-drained and safe in wet weather? - Yes, other than in the case of extreme weather events (generally predicted by weather warnings)
  • Are there benches or resting points along longer routes? - Yes, there are some benches and seated areas along the walk to and from the lake and river.
  • Is the site suitable for mobility scooters or powerchairs (turning radii, deck access)? - Yes, save for the steps mentioned above
Accommodation specifics (Yurts)
  • What is the internal clear door width of the unit’s entrance? - 750mm
  • Does the entrance have a step? If so, how high and is there a ramp? - 280mm step up to decking, ramp available on request
  • Is the threshold level or raised? If raised, what is the height? - 70mm raised threshold
  • What is the clear width of the internal doorways and hallways (cm)? - No Internal Doorways
  • What is the turning radius inside the unit (can a wheelchair make a 180° turn)? - No issue turning a wheelchair within a yurt.
  • Are beds at an accessible height? What is the bed height from floor to mattress top? - 550mm approx.
  • Can bed height be adjusted or can portable risers be provided? - Unfortunately not, beds are fixes in place.
  • Are there grab rails near the bed? - No.
  • Are floors level (no loose rugs/trip hazards)? - Floors are level. There are loose rugs, these can be removed on request if needed.
  • Are there lift/step-free access to raised decks or private outdoor areas? - No. Approx. 280mm step up to decking areas. A temporary ramp can be provided on request.
  • Does the unit have private toilet/shower facilities? - No. Shared Toilets/showers must be used.
  • If the unit doesn't have an accessible bathroom, is there a fully accessible WC/shower block nearby? - No. Toilets are not fully accessible – see ‘communal facilities’ and ‘Paths, surfaces & general site accessibility’ sections for more information on these.
  • Is there heating and is it controllable from bed? - Yes, heating controls are reachable from the double bed in each yurt.
  • Is the lighting adjustable in the unit (dimming, bedside lights)? - No. Lighting is on/off only.
  • Are plug sockets reachable from a seated position? - Yes
Accommodation specifics (Pod)
  • What is the internal clear door width of the unit’s entrance? - 900mm
  • Does the entrance have a step? If so, how high and is there a ramp? - 3 x 140mm steps, ramp available on request. The opening in the deck railing at the top of the steps is narrower than the front door at 680mm.
  • Is the threshold level or raised? If raised, what is the height? - Yes, 30mm
  • What is the clear width of the internal doorways and hallways? - one internal door opening with a curtain instead of a door – 1m wide.
  • What is the turning radius inside the unit (can a wheelchair make a 180° turn)? - No issue turning a wheelchair within a pod, though some furniture may need to be re-arranged.
  • Are beds at an accessible height? What is the bed height from floor to mattress top? – 700mm
  • Can bed height be adjusted or can portable risers be provided? - Unfortunately not, beds are fixes in place.
  • Are there grab rails near the bed? - No.
  • Are floors level (no loose rugs/trip hazards)? - Floors are level. There are loose rugs, these can be removed on request if needed.
  • Are there lift/step-free access to raised decks or private outdoor areas? - No. 3 steps Approx. 140mm up to decking areas. A portable ramp can be provided on request.
  • Does the unit have private toilet/shower facilities? - No. Shared Toilets/showers must be used.
  • If the unit doesn't have an accessible bathroom, is there a fully accessible WC/shower block nearby? - No. Toilets are not fully accessible – see ‘communal facilities’ section for more information on these.
  • Is there heating and is it controllable from bed? - Yes, however heating controls are not reachable from the bed
  • Is the lighting adjustable in the unit (dimming, bedside lights)? - Yes. Internal lights are on dimmer switches.
  • Are plug sockets reachable from a seated position? - Yes
Accommodation specifics (Enchanted Forest Hideaway)
  • What is the internal clear door width of the unit’s entrance? – 750mm
  • Does the entrance have a step? If so, how high (cm) and is there a ramp? 150mm step, ramp available on request.
  • Is the threshold level or raised? If raised, what is the height? - Yes, 30mm.
  • What is the clear width of the internal doorways and hallways? - No Internal doorways
  • What is the turning radius inside the unit (can a wheelchair make a 180° turn)? - No issue turning a wheelchair within the unit.
  • Are beds at an accessible height? What is the bed height from floor to mattress top? – 500mm (downstairs lower bunks)
  • Can bed height be adjusted or can portable risers be provided? - Unfortunately not, beds are fixed in place.
  • Are there grab rails near the bed? - No.
  • Are floors level (no loose rugs/trip hazards)? - Floors are level.
  • Are there lift/step-free access to raised decks or private outdoor areas? - One step Approx. 150mm.
  • Does the unit have private toilet/shower facilities? - No. Shared Toilets/showers must be used.
  • If the unit doesn't have an accessible bathroom, is there a fully accessible WC/shower block nearby? - No. Toilets are not fully accessible – see ‘communal facilities’ section for more information on these.
  • Is there heating and is it controllable from bed? - Yes, however heating controls are not reachable from the bed.
  • Is the lighting adjustable in the unit (dimming, bedside lights)? - No. Lighting is on/off
  • Are plug sockets reachable from a seated position? - No.
Communal facilities (toilets, showers, kitchen, camp kitchen, event spaces)
  • Are there accessible toilets and showers on site? If yes: where are they located and how many? - No. Plans have been drawn up to construct an accessible toilet unit, however this will likely not be until 2028 or beyond. Measurements for existing toilets are above.
  • Are shower controls reachable from a seated position, and are there thermostatic controls to avoid scalding? - Yes, and yes.
  • Are communal kitchens/camp kitchens step-free and equipped with lowered worktops or accessible preparation areas? - Kitchen has a 90mm step up into it, and prep area is 940mm high.
  • Are communal doors wide enough for wheelchairs? – See door widths in Paths, surfaces & general site accessibility section above.
Events & birthday parties
  • Are event spaces and party areas step-free and is there a clear, accessible route to them? - There are 3 steps up to the events hall, however event staff are available to assist those with mobility issues entering the building.
  • For birthday parties and events, can the venue provide accessible seating and tables? - Yes
  • Is the event space connected to accessible toilet facilities? - No. There is a toilet nearby which is not fully accessible but has a 900mm wide door and grab rails.
  • Are PA systems used? Is there provision for assistive listening devices or captioning for talks/performances? - PA is used for events where required.
  • Is event catering able to provide allergy information and special diets? - Yes. Please get in touch prior to the event in question.
  • Can organisers reserve accessible parking and/or dedicated drop-off for event guests? - We do not have specific accessible parking areas, however we can arrange drop-off right to the door of the events hall.
Sensory & neurodiversity considerations
  • Are there quiet hours or low-noise zones? - There is a noise curfew on site from midnight to 8am each night. 90% of the site is away from the events and camping/glamping area and is generally speaking a low noise zone.
  • Are there areas with predictable lighting and minimal flashing lights? - Yes. Generally, there are very few flashing lights on site save for during concerts and other events.
  • Are there sensory-friendly rooms or the option to request a quieter unit away from play areas and events? - Accommodation units are generally sensory-friendly.
  • Are there low-stimulus routes around site to avoid crowds/noisy areas? – Yes.
  • Are there ear defenders, weighted blankets, or other sensory-friendly items available on request? - Yes. Please get in touch with any requests and we will do our best to accommodate.
Vision & reading accessibility
  • Are there high-contrast signs with large text around the site (reception, toilets, event spaces)? – Yes.
  • Is there braille or tactile signage on doors and in key areas (if not, are staff available to provide verbal guidance)? – No braille or tactile signage, but staff can provide verbal guidance.
  • Is the website booking/info content compatible with screen readers (alt text on images, headings, skip links)? – Yes.
Hearing accessibility
  • Are staff able to communicate using clear speech? Is written communication available (paper, whiteboard, text)? – Yes.
  • Are there visual alarm systems (strobes) for fire/emergency alerts in accommodation and communal facilities? - Yes - Smoke alarms, heat alarms and CO alarms have flashing lights.
  • Are hearing loop systems or assistive listening devices available for events/indoors? No.
Cognitive and learning disabilities / dementia
  • Is information provided in plain English and available in easy-read formats? Yes.
  • Are there clear wayfinding signs with both symbols and text? No. Signs are text only.
  • Are routes, layouts and procedures explained simply at check-in? – Yes.
Medical & health needs / allergies
  • Can the site store or refrigerate medication for guests on request? Yes.
  • Is there an accessible defibrillator (AED) on site? - No. Locations of nearby AEDs are posted in public spaces around site.
  • Is there a first aid kit on site? - Yes, there are multiple first aid kits throughout the site.
  • Can catering provide allergen information and accommodate serious allergies (gluten, nuts, dairy, etc.)? – Yes.
  • Are portable oxygen users and CPAP machine users accommodated (power access at pitch/unit)? – Yes.
  • Are there quiet spaces for administering medicines and a private place for carers? - The accommodation unit booked can be used for this purpose.
Service animals & pets
  • Are assistance animals (guide dogs, hearing dogs) welcome in accommodation and event spaces? – Yes.
  • Are there policies for service animals (free of charge, access to dining, toileting areas)? - Service dogs are free of charge and allowed into areas where ordinarily dogs are not (kitchen, toilet etc).
  • Is there a designated area for pet relief if required? - The unit booked by the guest can generally be used for this purpose.
Safety, emergency procedures & insurance
  • How will staff ensure the welfare of guests with mobility, sensory or cognitive impairments in an emergency? – These guests are to be prioritised when providing assistance in the case of an emergency.
  • Where are the nearest hospital / emergency services and what are typical ambulance response times in the area? - Nearest Hospital with an emergency department is Castlebar (45 minute’s drive approx.) Nearest ambulance depot is Loughglynn (5-minute drive approx.) Response times are not predictable as they depend on other emergencies in the area.
  • Are site paths and exits kept clear and well signed in case of an emergency? – Yes.
  • Do guests need special travel / cancellation insurance for accessible stays? - As with all guests, travel / cancellation insurance is advised.
Communication, website & booking accessibility
  • Is the accessibility information easy to find on the website (link in footer, accessible page name)? - Yes.
  • Is the Accessibility page written in simple language and structured with headings so screen readers can navigate? – Yes.
  • Is the website tested for WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) conformance? If not, are key elements optimised for screen readers and keyboard navigation? – Yes.
Equipment, hire & assistive services
  • Does the site provide (or can they arrange hire of) mobility aids: shower chairs, commode chairs, transfer benches, raised toilet seats? - No.
  • Can the site supply temporary ramps or threshold ramps for raised entrances? -Yes. Please request in advance of your arrival.
  • Is there on-site or local supplier info for wheelchair hire, hoist hire, or other specialised equipment? - No. It would be best to arrange any required equipment prior to arrival.
  • Can the site store and charge mobility batteries / scooters overnight? Are there accessible charging points? - Yes
Campsite & campervan specifics
  • Are there hardstanding / concrete pitches suitable for accessible campervans or vehicles with ramps? – Pitches are hardstands and suitable for ramps. Certain pitches have slight slopes so please get in touch before arrival and we can allocate a slope-free pitch.
  • Are electric hookup points at an accessible height? – Yes.
  • Are there dedicated disabled campervan pitches and are they level and spacious? - Pitches are not dedicated disabled, however Mootown pitches are the most level and spacious.
  • Can the site provide a pitch close to facilities for guests who need shorter distances? – Yes, please get in touch prior to booking and we can arrange this.
Pricing, policies & refunds
  • Are there any extra charges for accessible requests (e.g., provision of a ramp, extra help)? – No.
  • Is there a clear cancellation or modification policy for accessibility-related changes? – There is no specific policy for accessibility-related changes. The general cancellation policy applies and is clearly laid out in willowbrook Ts & Cs.
  • Is there a deposit policy and are exceptions possible for medical reasons? – Yes. Deposit or full payment must be made in order to secure a booking, and exceptions are not made for medical reasons.
Feedback, complaints & continuous improvement
  • How can guests provide feedback specifically about accessibility (form, dedicated email, phone)? - Please provide feedback by phone or email if possible.
  • Is there a published process for reviewing and responding to accessibility feedback? - No. This process is not formalised, but we will endeavour to respond to all feedback and where appropriate and possible, implement suggestions as soon as possible.
  • Does the site publish a plan for future accessibility improvements (e.g., dates / priorities)? - No official plan is published, however future planned improvements include a fully accessible toilet building, ramps to access glamping pods, and a ramp to access the events hall.
Items specific to families & carers
  • Are travel cots available? - Travel cots are available at no extra charge.
  •  Can carers stay at a discount or at no extra charge? - Yes. Professional carers may stay for free when assisting those with disabilities, this does not apply to persons providing care for a member of their own family – This must be advised in advance of booking.
  • Are baby changing facilities accessible and available near family units? - Generally, the unit booked by the guest is used for baby changing.