Alpamare Waterpark in Scarborough is a large indoor and outdoor waterpark designed to cater for a wide range of visitors, from families with young children to those looking for a more relaxing experience. With a warm indoor environment and heated outdoor pools, it offers year-round enjoyment. The attraction has clearly been designed with accessibility in mind, with most key areas being mobility friendly and easy to navigate.
The waterpark includes a 35-metre indoor wave pool, an outdoor garden pool and a heated infinity pool, all offering different experiences depending on whether you want something lively or more relaxed. There is also a dedicated children’s splash area with smaller slides, water jets and tipping buckets, making it suitable for younger visitors. For those seeking more thrill-based attractions, there are four large slides, although these are more limited from an accessibility perspective.
In terms of overall accessibility, the majority of the main facilities are located on the ground floor with step-free access throughout. The layout is straightforward, with wide walkways and plenty of space to move around comfortably. The reception area is level from the entrance and includes a lowered desk, making check-in easier for guests with limited mobility.
Parking is available in a large pay and display car park located close to the entrance. The route from the car park to the building is flat and easy to manage, which is helpful for wheelchair users and those who may struggle with uneven ground. Entry into the waterpark is step free, allowing for a smooth arrival experience.
The changing facilities are particularly well thought out. There is a dedicated accessible wet room with a built-in shower, shower seat and pull cord alarm, along with an accessible toilet. In addition, there are spacious family changing cubicles and a number of lowered lockers for easier access. Wheelchairs can be stored beneath these lockers, and the transition from the changing area to the poolside is level and smooth.
Access into the pools varies slightly depending on which one you are using. The wave pool includes steps, but there is also a ramp available to support wheelchair access into the water. The outdoor garden pool and infinity pool both have steps, but hoists are available to assist entry where needed. A pool wheelchair is also available, along with flotation aids such as vests and woggles to provide additional support in the water.
The main limitation comes with the larger slides, which are accessed via several flights of stairs. Some of these also require guests to carry inflatable rafts to the top, and there is currently no lift access to the slide tower. This means the slides are not mobility friendly and may not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility.
Accessible toilets are available throughout the venue, including within the reception area and changing facilities. These include level access and emergency pull cords. The on-site restaurant is also fully accessible, with level flooring and easy navigation between seating and service areas.
Carers are welcomed, and a carer can accompany a full paying guest free of charge. Proof of disability may be required, although the team are open to discussing individual circumstances if needed. Assistance dogs are typically permitted in public areas, though it is always best to confirm specific arrangements in advance.
Overall, Alpamare Waterpark offers a strong level of accessibility across most of its core facilities. While the larger slides are not suitable for all visitors, the pools, changing areas and general layout make it a good option for those looking for a mobility friendly water-based day out.
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