by Joe Winfield

NewsDecember 17, 20210 comments

Adventure Activities for Wheelchair Users

Adventure Activities for Wheelchair Users

Here at Calvert Trust Exmoor, we are dedicated to making outdoor adventure activities accessible to all. No matter your level of mobility, we strive to ensure that our activities are inclusive and adaptive – our great facilities and expert team make this possible.

While some activities might seem out of reach for individuals with mobility impairments, this should not be the case. There are numerous exhilarating activities that can be enjoyed by everyone – although some might not be for the faint of heart!

Find out what kind of wheelchair-friendly activities we offer on our accessible holidays here at Calvert Trust Exmoor.
 
 
 

Hiking & Bushcraft for Wheelchair Users

Going on a hiking trail is a wonderful way to enjoy the great outdoors, whether you journey through the woodland or along a coastal path.

Although initial images of traversing the natural world might lean towards inaccessible, there are plenty of wheelchair-friendly trails to enjoy – especially around North Devon, where the Calvert Trust is located!

Taking to woodland trails also lends itself perfectly to the chance to experience bushcraft activities and engage with the world around us in new ways.

Carriage and Horse Riding for Wheelchair Users

Horse riding is a unique activity that allows you to develop a connection with a gentle animal, which can be incredibly therapeutic.

Here at Calvert Trust Exmoor, we offer horse riding and carriage driving among our many activities! Our stable school aims to include everyone in the activity; we provide specialist equipment, such as hoists to help wheelchair users sit on the horse’s back.

If this is not possible, you can instead drive a horse-drawn carriage from your own wheelchair!

Please note that our horse riding activities are not available on weekend breaks, and weight restrictions will also apply.

Climbing and Abseiling for Wheelchair Users

Climbing and abseiling are renowned for their challenging attributes. However, the sport welcomes everyone and can be made accessible to all.

Venture to new heights as you ascend and descend our climbing and abseiling walls. It’s sure to prove a thrilling experience that is known to help individuals conquer fears and build confidence!

For those that want to have a go at climbing, wheelchair users are hoisted out of their chair and supported by a harness to the top of the wall. When taking part in abseiling, our specialist equipment helps wheelchair users descend down the wall in their wheelchair.

Canoeing & Sailing for Wheelchair Users

What about some watersports? Both canoeing and sailing offer a peaceful experience and relaxing day out as you bob along the water out in the fresh air.

Watersports at the Calvert Trust Exmoor centre are held at Wistlandpound Reservoir, the ideal spot for a safe and fun paddle! With adaptive seats, specialist hoists and an accessible pontoon, wheelchair users can get out on the water and enjoy the benefits of such a soothing and sensory experience.

Surfing for Wheelchair Users

Surfing has numerous benefits, including various physical and social advantages – plus, taking to the sands and the sea is loads of fun!

Here at Calvert Trust Exmoor, we work with groups like the Wave Project and Surf South West to deliver life-changing surf experiences. Our guests have the chance to travel to Croyde beach, one of the premier surf spots in the UK, and will have access to adaptive surfboards and beach wheelchairs.

Cycling for Wheelchair Users

No matter your level of mobility, cycling is a great way to get out and about in nature. Put the pedal to the metal and enjoy a burst of fresh air!

We have a fleet of specialist adapted bikes here at Calvert Trust Exmoor that are suitable for a range of abilities. Our wheelchair cycles have handles, saddles, and pedals at the back with a chair or wheelchair platform on the front, allowing wheelchair users ease of use.

Archery for Wheelchair Users

Archery has a range of benefits and can be a really empowering activity – it’s great fun for people of all ages. It is something that can be adapted easily as there are various bow sizes and types available.

Archery activities are ideal if you want to pursue developing hand-eye coordination and motor skills. Another great thing about the sport is that no matter the weather, you can always enjoy getting active and shooting arrows either indoors or outdoors.

We provide numerous bows and use an assortment of targets, so your sessions can be as challenging and entertaining as you wish!

Zip Lining for Wheelchair Users

If you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie and want to be immersed in an exciting experience, zip lining might just be for you! Zip lining can offer a fantastic sensory experience as you zip through the air, viewing the world at high-speed.

We use specially adapted harnesses accompanied by flexible, tailored supports to ensure everyone can have a go. Depending on the size of the group, you might have the opportunity to have several goes if you can’t get enough of the thrill!
 
 
 

Adventure Holidays for Wheelchair Users

Our great range of fun and sensory activities guarantee fun no matter the weather. We provide both standard and adaptive equipment and waterproofs to ensure everyone’s able to participate in the activities comfortably.

You can have a go at:

• Abseiling
• Archery
• Bushcraft
• Canoeing
• Challenge Course
• Climbing
• Crate Stack
• Cycling
• Giant Swing
• Horse and Carriage Riding
• Orienteering
• Sailing
• Surfing
• Zipwire

We aim to take every detail into consideration when curating our inclusive activities and sites, ensuring everyone has a fulfilling trip. Accommodation is also made accessible to all.

If you’re looking to venture out a bit further, we can also tailor your programme to include wheelchair-friendly exploration sessions with trips to attractions like our nearby beaches and Exmoor Zoo.

For more information on our residentials for wheelchair users in the UK, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team.