Wheeled Access Group brings accessible walks to Dartmoor

The Wheeled Access Group, a volunteer-led initiative, has been working to make Dartmoor more accessible for individuals using mobility scooters and wheelchairs. 

Formed in 2018, the group has played a key role in the Dartmoor Walking Festival, ensuring that people with limited mobility can enjoy the natural beauty of the moor.

The group’s origins date back to the 2018 Dartmoor Walking Festival, when Devon members of Disabled Ramblers suggested including walks specifically designed for mobility scooter users. 

This led to the creation of the Wheeled Access Group, which brings together local mobility scooter users, family members, and the team at Moorland Guides.

Dawn, a longstanding member and guide from Moorland Guides, explained that since its formation, the group has consistently provided 6-8 accessible walks at each Dartmoor Walking Festival. 

“To ensure the routes are accessible we work with land owners and managers on Dartmoor, including DNPA, the Woodland Trust, Natural England, South West Lakes and Forestry England,” Dawn said.

In its efforts to improve accessibility, the group has made several modifications to existing routes.

“Gates have been made easier to use, gates have replaced stiles. A new crossing of the leat has been put in place at Merrivale, rain gullies have been made less deep, accessible tables and benches installed, and paths widened,” Dawn said.

“All the improvements are small, we do not wish to change the character of Dartmoor but a small change can make an inaccessible path accessible.”

The Wheeled Access Group operates entirely on a voluntary basis, with no commercial status. 

“Everyone involved is a volunteer,” Dawn confirmed. 

The group meets twice a month to assess potential routes and evaluate whether improvements can be made to increase accessibility.

Looking ahead, the group will host six walks as part of the Dartmoor Outdoor Festival at the end of August, with additional walks open to the public throughout the year. 

Anyone interested in joining the walks is encouraged to email the group at accessiblewalks@outlook.com