For more than 40 years, the Lyneal Trust has been providing holidays for families who thought a canal break or countryside escape simply wasn’t possible. Run almost entirely by a dedicated team of around 60 volunteers, the charity specialises in fully accessible holidays for people with physical and hidden disabilities.

 

The Trust has a six-berth holiday boat, Shropshire Maid. The 70-foot vessel is fully accessible for wheelchair users and includes a ramp, hydraulic lift, and, importantly, a fully accessible wet room. The boat provides the opportunity for families with a disabled or vulnerable member to have a holiday they thought would never be possible.  

 

Following the widely publicised breach in the canal at Whitchurch, which has reduced canal traffic travelling towards Llangollen, this iconic route is expected to be much quieter this year. This presents a unique opportunity for families to enjoy the experience of navigating the 1,377-foot-long Chirk Tunnel and crossing the awe-inspiring Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which stands 126 feet high and stretches 1,007 feet in length.

Back on dry land, Wharf Cottage and its two additional accessible cottages provide step-free accommodation, spacious wet rooms and peaceful enclosed gardens. Thoughtful design ensures that hidden disabilities are considered just as carefully as physical ones, creating a calm and welcoming environment for all.  It has a fully fitted kitchen, dining area and a bright new garden room.  The aim is to provide a home from home experience for guests.

 

The Lyneal Trust recognises the needs of those with “hidden disabilities.” With this in mind, the boats, cottage, and bedrooms have been designed to accommodate these needs, including thoughtfully chosen colour schemes.

Visitors can also enhance their holiday experience by booking a day out on the Shropshire Lady.

 

The Wharf Cottages make it possible for families to holiday together. For example, if a family wishes to include a disabled parent but cannot normally accommodate them, the Lyneal Trust provides the facilities to make this possible.

 

For further information, visit: www.lyneal-trust.org.uk