Physical Access & Comfort

Allerford Tea Room is situated in a traditional Exmoor listed building, full of character and history, but with some accessibility challenges that older properties can present. Although our premises are not entirely step free, we aim to make visiting as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

Our facilities and assistance include:

• Portable ramps available to assist wheelchair users with access to our indoor area

• A designated space that can accommodate a wheelchair indoors

• Assistance with doors, seating and carrying items when needed

• Clear walkways, which we keep free from unnecessary obstructions

• Assistance dogs welcome throughout our premises (as are pet dogs).

• Dementia-Friendly Support

As we are a small tea room, space can sometimes be limited, especially during busy periods.

If you use a wheelchair, mobility scooter or walking aid, we encourage you to contact us before visiting. We will happily explain the layout, discuss any access requirements and make suitable arrangements wherever possible.

Toilet Facilities

We have a gender-neutral outside customer toilet available. Access to the toilet involves a gravel path followed by an uneven pathway, which may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility.

As we are situated in an old Exmoor property, there are some physical limitations to our facilities. We believe it is important to be open about these so visitors can plan their visit with confidence.

Dementia-Friendly Support

We understand that visiting unfamiliar places can sometimes feel overwhelming for people living with dementia and those supporting them. At Allerford Tea Room & Gardens, we aim to provide a calm, patient and reassuring environment where everyone is treated with dignity and understanding.

Our team are happy to:

• Speak clearly, kindly and patiently

• Allow extra time for ordering, choosing food or making decisions

• Offer gentle reassurance and support if someone feels unsure, confused or anxious

• Avoid rushing or unnecessary correction

• Assist family members, friends and carers where appropriate

• Treat every guest with dignity and respect

We understand that a little patience and a friendly face can make an enormous difference.

Whether you are visiting independently, with family or alongside a carer, we will do our very best to make your visit relaxed and enjoyable.

Familiar Comfort Items Welcome

We understand that familiar belongings can bring reassurance and comfort, particularly for people living with dementia or experiencing sensory sensitivities. Visitors are very welcome to bring personal comfort items, and we are happy to serve drinks in a favourite cup where safe to do so.

We understand that comfort looks different to everyone.

Sensory-Friendly Considerations

We recognise that busy cafes, unfamiliar environments, background noise and lighting can sometimes be overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities. Although we cannot guarantee a completely quiet or sensory-free environment, we aim to make our tea room as comfortable as possible.

When practical, we try to:

• Keep background music at a comfortable level

• Avoid harsh lighting and strong artificial fragrances

• Avoid sudden loud noises where possible

• Offer quieter seating areas where available

• Allow visitors extra time and space when needed

Our tea room is generally a relaxed space, especially outside of peak lunch hours, which guests may find helpful. We also offer the option of two peaceful gardens when weather allows.

If you have particular sensory sensitivities, please get in touch before visiting and we will happily discuss how we may be able to help.

Understanding Hidden Disabilities

Not every disability is visible, and we recognise that some visitors may need additional understanding, flexibility or support.

Whether you are living with a hidden disability, chronic illness, autism, anxiety or another condition that affects your day-to-day life, we want you to feel comfortable visiting us.

We are happy to provide extra time, explain our menu, offer assistance with ordering or discuss quieter seating options where available.

You don’t need to disclose personal medical information to ask for help.

Sometimes it’s the smallest adjustments that make the biggest difference, and we are always happy to listen.

Easy-Read Menus Available

We understand that decorative fonts, patterned backgrounds and complicated layouts can make menus difficult for some people to read.

Alongside our usual menus, we offer a plain-text menu with a simpler, clearer layout, without decorative fonts or floral backgrounds.

These are available to anyone who would find them helpful, including visitors with visual difficulties, reading difficulties, cognitive impairments or those who simply prefer a less cluttered format.

Please just ask a member of our team.

Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement

We know that accessibility and inclusion are ongoing commitments, and there will always be opportunities to learn and improve.

As a small independent business operating from a traditional Exmoor listed building, we recognise that we may not be able to accommodate every requirement or remove every physical barrier.

However, we believe that listening, understanding and being willing to make reasonable adjustments where possible, are important parts of creating a genuinely welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.

We welcome constructive feedback and suggestions from our visitors, particularly those with a disability or additional access needs.

Our aim is simple: to make Allerford Tea Rooms & Gardens a place where everyone feels welcome, respected and valued. because a warm welcome should be for everyone!