Most of the main site is flat and easily accessible in good weather. Expect mud in wet weather. We provide trackway over the worst areas but in previous years people have had problems with some wheelchairs (particularly electric chairs) over the whole site. We do our best to keep everyone moving but do be aware that this is an open air event in a grassy field and we cannot guarantee the ground conditions. We keep an information board in the ACA and Accessibility Information Point with details of any particularly muddy areas as soon as we know about them.
The Enchanted Woods has areas of rougher ground amongst the trees, which may cause difficulties for some chairs and scooters even in good weather, and the path has a gravel surface, which can be difficult for wheelchair users to navigate. At night light levels are often fairly low as part of the art installations and the area can become quite crowded. Due to lack of vehicle access there are no accessible toilets in this area however there is one right next to the exit.
The Healing Area is in a meadow with long grass.
There are seats with backrests available around site and in the venues with live music.
We hope to be able to team up with a local charity to hire out mobility scooters onsite. Prebooking will be essential. Email accessibility@shambalafestival.org for more information.
If you use sticks or crutches consider how they will work in mud or soft ground, some people use special attachments to help with this.
Viewing Platforms and Areas
There are viewing platforms in the main venues. The platforms are stewarded during performance times and you and your guests will need an Accessibility wristband in order to gain access to the platform. You can apply for these wristbands using the accessibility application form.
Up to three friends can have accompanier wristbands to go onto the viewing platforms with you and your PA, if they are not too busy.
All other venues with live performances have viewing areas. Some also have signed access routes – further details are available at the ACA hub.
You can queue jump into venues using your accessibility wristband.
Sensory Spaces
There are two sensory spaces located in the main arena, in case you are feeling overstimulated and need a place to decompress. One is a small blackout space, whereas the other is a large, light, airy teepee. We have headphones, weighted blankets, fidget toys and sensory activities available for your use whilst there.
The sensory spaces are located in the Accessibility Information point, where you are also welcome to drop in for a cuppa and a chat.
Both spaces are run by our experienced, disabled led, Accessibility Team.